Harbin Weather

Famed as the 'Ice City', Harbin has four distinct seasons with long cold winters and short cool summers. The snow season can last as long as half a year. Harbin weather in January is the coldest with the lowest temperature dropping to -38C (-36F), while it is just 20C (68F) on average in summer.

Best Time to Visit Harbin
The distinctive climate makes Harbin a good travel destination that can be visited at any time, especially from July to September and from December to January, when it always receives tens of thousands of tourists as a summer resort and wonderland of ice and snow.

Located in the most northeasterly region of China and influenced by continental climate conditions, Harbin is the city with the highest altitude and lowest temperature in China. The average annual temperature is only 3.6 C (38 F).

With little rainfall, the local temperature in spring (March-May) is changeable from month to month. Spring is also the windiest season of the year, accompanied by occasional sandstorms. Visitors have to wear sweaters and cotton-padded jackets, drink enough water and eat more fruit. Lip balm, hand cream and other moistening skin cream are also necessary.

The weather of Harbin's summer, from June to August, is not as hot as the other cities of inland China, with plenty of rainfall. It is the rainiest season of the year, but with little storm. The highest temperature is just 23 C (73 F) on average, which occurs in July. Thus, it is an ideal place to escape the summer heat. Bring both summer clothes like shorts and skirts, a light overcoat for the morning and evening and an umbrella. The annual Local Summer Music Concert reflects 'Oriental Paris' unique charm.

During the transition from summer to winter, autumn (September to October) in that city has little rainfall and a fluctuating temperature. Meanwhile, the temperature differs a lot between day and night. Long-sleeve T-shirts, long pants and a jacket will be enough to cope with the weather of September, but an additional sweater will be needed in middle and late October.

This city in winter (November to February) is the coldest city of China, yet it is also an ideal winter resort. Wool sweater, trousers, hat, scarf and gloves, down coats and cotton boots become must for a winter trip to that city. Take cold medicine as well for the big temperature difference indoor and outdoor. The beautiful and startling snowy scenery will satisfy your desire without doubt. There are many ski resorts there, including Yabuli International Ski Resort, Moon Bay Ski Resort and Erlongshan Ski Resort. The annual Ice and Snow Festival can't be missed particularly.