Kunming, capital of Yunnan province in southwestern China, sits at 1,890 metres (6,200 feet) above sea level. The city’s subtropical highland climate (Koppen Cwb) gives it the nickname “City of Eternal Spring” with mild temperatures year-round, low humidity, and about 2,200 hours of sunshine annually. Unlike much of China, Kunming has no real winter or summer extremes: January lows average 3C (37F) while July highs reach just 24C (75F). The trade-off is a distinct wet season from June through September when the southwest monsoon delivers 80% of the annual 1,000mm (39 inches) of rainfall. For more detail, see our best time to visit Kunming.
Kunming Weather by Month: Monthly Breakdown
January
Average temperatures: 3 to 15C (37 to 59F). Rainfall: 16mm. Sunshine: 6 hours per day. Cool and dry, occasional frost at night. Daytime is comfortable for sightseeing with clear skies. For more detail, see our things to do in Kunming.
February
Average temperatures: 5 to 17C (41 to 63F). Rainfall: 18mm. Sunshine: 6 hours per day. Slightly warmer, still dry. Good month for outdoor activities and the Stone Forest. For more detail, see our Kunming events and festivals.
March
Average temperatures: 8 to 21C (46 to 70F). Rainfall: 27mm. Sunshine: 7 hours per day. Spring arrives with warming days. Blossoms appear across parks. Rain increases slightly. For more detail, see our Kunming neighborhoods guide.
April
Average temperatures: 12 to 24C (54 to 75F). Rainfall: 45mm. Sunshine: 7 hours per day. Pleasant temperatures. Occasional afternoon showers begin. Peak of the dry-season tourism. For more detail, see our where to stay in Kunming.
May
Average temperatures: 16 to 26C (61 to 79F). Rainfall: 97mm. Sunshine: 6 hours per day. Warmest month before the monsoon. Rainfall ramps up significantly by late May. For more detail, see our Kunming travel tips.
June
Average temperatures: 17 to 24C (63 to 75F). Rainfall: 182mm. Sunshine: 4 hours per day. Monsoon starts. Frequent rain, mostly afternoon downpours. Humidity rises to 75%.
July
Average temperatures: 17 to 24C (63 to 75F). Rainfall: 204mm. Sunshine: 4 hours per day. Wettest month. Daily rain is typical but rarely all-day. Temperatures stay mild.
August
Average temperatures: 16 to 24C (61 to 75F). Rainfall: 198mm. Sunshine: 4 hours per day. Similar to July. Heavy rain but temperatures remain comfortable.
September
Average temperatures: 15 to 23C (59 to 73F). Rainfall: 125mm. Sunshine: 4 hours per day. Monsoon begins to taper. Less rain by late September. Humidity drops.
October
Average temperatures: 12 to 21C (54 to 70F). Rainfall: 79mm. Sunshine: 5 hours per day. Autumn brings drier air and clear skies. One of the best months to visit.
November
Average temperatures: 7 to 18C (45 to 64F). Rainfall: 38mm. Sunshine: 6 hours per day. Cool and dry. Nights are chilly but days are sunny and comfortable.
December
Average temperatures: 3 to 15C (37 to 59F). Rainfall: 17mm. Sunshine: 6 hours per day. Coolest month. Dry with clear skies. Light jacket needed for evenings.
Kunming Weather by Month: What to Pack
- November to March: Pack layers. A light jacket or fleece for daytime, a warmer coat for evenings when temperatures drop to 3 to 7C (37 to 45F). No heavy winter gear needed.
- April to May: Light clothing with a rain jacket. Temperatures are warm (12 to 26C) but afternoon showers increase in May.
- June to September: Rain gear is essential. An umbrella and waterproof shoes. Temperatures stay mild so light layers work. Quick-dry fabrics recommended.
- October: Similar to spring. Light jacket for evenings, comfortable walking shoes for exploring.
