Hangzhou has a humid subtropical climate (Köppen Cfa) with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid with frequent thunderstorms, while winters are cool and damp with occasional light snow. The city receives about 1,450mm of rain annually, most of it during the plum rain season (meiyu) from June through early July. Late summer brings typhoon activity, though Hangzhou’s inland position on the Qiantang River means systems typically arrive weakened after making landfall further south. Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons, with mild temperatures, lower humidity, and clear skies that make West Lake especially photogenic. Hangzhou
Hangzhou Weather by Month
Hangzhou’s monthly climate follows a clear seasonal pattern. January is the coldest month at 5°C (41°F) average, while July peaks at 29°C (84°F). The monsoon-driven rainfall pattern means June alone can dump 220mm while December sees just 50mm. Humidity rarely drops below 70%, making all seasons feel more intense than the thermometer suggests. Here is the full monthly breakdown with temperatures, rainfall, humidity, and sunshine data. best time to visit Hangzhou Hangzhou travel tips
| Month | Avg High (°C/°F) | Avg Low (°C/°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rain Days | Humidity (%) | Sun (hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 8 / 46 | 2 / 36 | 75 | 12 | 75 | 105 |
| February | 10 / 50 | 4 / 39 | 85 | 12 | 74 | 100 |
| March | 14 / 57 | 7 / 45 | 125 | 15 | 75 | 115 |
| April | 21 / 70 | 13 / 55 | 125 | 14 | 74 | 130 |
| May | 26 / 79 | 18 / 64 | 155 | 14 | 75 | 155 |
| June | 29 / 84 | 22 / 72 | 220 | 15 | 80 | 135 |
| July | 33 / 91 | 26 / 79 | 155 | 12 | 78 | 210 |
| August | 32 / 90 | 25 / 77 | 160 | 13 | 79 | 200 |
| September | 28 / 82 | 21 / 70 | 150 | 12 | 79 | 140 |
| October | 23 / 73 | 15 / 59 | 80 | 10 | 76 | 150 |
| November | 17 / 63 | 9 / 48 | 60 | 9 | 74 | 135 |
| December | 11 / 52 | 4 / 39 | 50 | 9 | 73 | 135 |
Hangzhou Weather by Season
Spring (March to May)
Spring warms rapidly from March’s 14°C (57°F) to May’s 26°C (79°F). Rainfall increases through the season, with April and May each averaging 125-155mm across 14 rain days. Humidity holds steady around 74-75%. This is the season for Longjing tea harvesting (late March to early April), plum blossoms in February-March, and cherry blossoms at Taiziwan Park in late March. Pack layers and a light rain jacket. The temperature swing between day and night can be 8-10°C in March, narrowing by May. things to do in Hangzhou Hangzhou events and festivals
Summer (June to August)
Summer in Hangzhou is hot, wet, and extremely humid. June brings the plum rain season (meiyu), with 220mm of rainfall across 15 rain days and humidity hitting 80%. The rain is persistent drizzle rather than short downpours, and mold can be a problem in hotel rooms without good ventilation. By July and August, temperatures peak at 33°C (91°F) with humidity around 78-79%, producing a heat index that often exceeds 40°C (104°F). Afternoon thunderstorms are common. August and September can see typhoon remnants that bring heavy rain and wind, though direct hits are rare. If visiting in summer, plan outdoor activities for early morning (before 10am) and carry an umbrella at all times. best neighborhoods in Hangzhou
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is Hangzhou’s finest season. September still carries summer warmth at 28°C (82°F) but humidity begins to drop. October is nearly perfect: 23°C (73°F) highs, 15°C (59°F) lows, only 80mm of rain across 10 days, and 150 hours of sunshine. The autumn foliage around West Lake peaks in mid-November, with maple and ginkgo trees turning brilliant shades of red and gold. November cools to 17°C (63°F) with just 60mm of rain. This is the ideal window for walking the West Lake causeways, hiking in the tea hills, and outdoor dining. Book accommodation well in advance for October, especially around the Golden Week holiday (October 1-7). where to stay in Hangzhou
Winter (December to February)
Winter is cold and damp rather than freezing. January averages 5°C (41°F) with highs of 8°C (46°F) and lows of 2°C (36°F). Snow is rare (1-2 light dustings per year), but the combination of temperatures just above freezing and 75% humidity makes the cold feel penetrating. December and January are the driest months at 50-75mm. Hotel prices drop 40-60% from autumn peaks, and West Lake takes on a misty, monochrome quality that has inspired Chinese poets for centuries. The “Broken Bridge in Melting Snow” is one of the Ten Scenes of West Lake, best viewed after a rare snowfall. Pack thermal underwear, a warm coat, and waterproof shoes.
