Discover

Beijing

The imposing city of Beijing is home to some of the most recognisable sights in Asia and offers the gateway to a country that was closed off to the outside world for many years. The behemothic Tiananaman Square is the spiritual centre of the city and is surrounded by some of China’s most iconic sights. The nearby Forbidden City dazzles visitors with its sheer size and the breathtakingly beautiful buildings, whilst narrow backstreets known as hutongs house intriguing insights into everyday life in one of the world’s largest cities.

In addition to the historic centre, Beijing’s verdant Olympic Park is a testament to the country’s modern vision, with the Bird’s Nest Stadium and vast landscaped gardens providing an oasis of calm away from the bustle of the city. Further afield, the Great Wall of China is less than two hours away from downtown Beijing and offers visitors the chance to marvel at one of the world’s most staggering architectural feats.

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What you’ll love most about Beijing

  • Embark on a journey to the iconic Great Wall of China, marvelling at its ancient fortifications and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside
  • Explore the historic Forbidden City, home to the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties, and immerse yourself in China’s imperial past amidst its grand halls and pavilions
  • Visit the Temple of Heaven, an architectural masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site, where emperors once prayed for good harvests and divine favour
  • Wander through the beautiful gardens and pavilions of the Summer Palace, a tranquil retreat that served as a summer residence for the Qing emperors
  • Experience the grandeur of Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, surrounded by important landmarks like the Monument to the People’s Heroes and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong
  • Take a rickshaw ride through Beijing’s traditional hutongs, narrow alleyways lined with courtyard homes, and discover the city’s ancient districts and local way of life

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 2℃
  • 4℃
  • 11℃
  • 20℃
  • 26℃
  • 30℃
  • 31℃
  • 30℃
  • 26℃
  • 19℃
  • 10℃
  • 3℃
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 9
  • 14
  • 12
  • 7
  • 6
  • 5
  • 2

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

Beijing begins the year in deep winter. Skies are often crisp and blue, but the air is cold and dry. Expect freezing temperatures - sometimes dipping below -5°C - and a quiet serenity around landmarks like the Great Wall and Summer Palace, which are blissfully uncrowded under a light dusting of snow.

February

Still cold, but festivities add warmth. February often brings Chinese New Year, when red lanterns adorn hutongs and firecrackers echo through alleyways. Ice skating on frozen lakes like Houhai is a cherished seasonal pastime.

March

By March, signs of spring emerge. Days become milder, parks like Beihai and Jingshan begin to bloom, and outdoor markets stir back to life. It’s a great time to explore Beijing’s imperial gardens before peak tourist season.

April

Spring is in full swing. Blossoms burst across the city, with Yuyuantan Park becoming a favourite spot for cherry blossom viewing. Daytime highs often reach the high teens (°C) and up to 20°C, making this one of the most pleasant months for outdoor exploration.

May

Warm and lively, May is prime sightseeing season. With plenty of sunshine and highs around 25-26°C, it’s perfect for walking tours through the Forbidden City or a hike along the wilder, less-restored stretches of the Great Wall like Jiankou or Gubeikou.

June

Temperatures begin to climb as summer sets in. While tourist numbers increase, early mornings still offer peaceful visits to sites like the Temple of Heaven. Dragon Boat Festival, which sometimes falls in June, brings sticky rice dumplings (zongzi) and festive boat races to local lakes.

July

Hot and humid, with peak temperatures often exceeding 31°C. Despite the heat, summer evenings buzz with life - night markets, rooftop bars, and outdoor performances are in full swing. Escape the heat in the shaded imperial gardens or explore the air-conditioned museums.

August

Similar to July in warmth and humidity. Thunderstorms occasionally roll through, offering welcome relief. Locals flock to parks and lakes; paddle boating at Beihai Park or walking the willow-lined banks of Kunming Lake at the Summer Palace is a typical pastime.

September

Cooler evenings return, and air quality tends to improve. September is a golden month for visiting - ideal for photography, hiking the Great Wall, and wandering Beijing’s historic hutongs. Mid-Autumn Festival, when it falls in this month, brings mooncakes and lantern displays.

October

A highlight of the Beijing calendar. The city is ablaze with autumn colour, and the air is crisp and clear. Highs hover around 20°C. Avoid the first week - China’s National Day holiday - when travel peaks. Afterward, it’s an excellent time for both culture and nature.

November

Chillier winds arrive, and foliage in the city's parks deepens to rich reds and golds. November is a quieter time to visit, especially for museum lovers or those wanting to explore Beijing’s café scene and art districts like 798 without the crowds.

December

Winter returns. Though temperatures often drop below 0°C, the dry cold is manageable - especially when paired with a warming meal of Beijing duck or a bubbling hotpot. Tourist sites are peaceful, and the city feels festive toward the end of the month with light displays and seasonal markets.

Our Ratings

  • Most Recommended
  • Recommended
  • Highly Recommended
  • Not Recommended

Where to book


Encounters Travel is a UK based adventure tour operator with a wide selection of cultural and adventurous tours around the world, all designed to help you get the most out of the country you’re visiting. They range from small group tours to shoestring, overland, family, escorted and tailor-made holidays.

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Explore is a global adventure travel company with 40 years’ experience in providing exciting and authentic travel experiences. With over 350 trips in around 100 countries, Explore’s expertly crafted itineraries combined with award-winning tour leaders, small group sizes and a commitment to responsible travel ensure unforgettable travel experiences in extraordinary destinations.

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