Summary
June marks the beginning of summer in China, where daytime temperatures can feel very warm due to pop-up showers resulting in increased humidity. Although June is slightly cooler and less humid than both July and August, travelers should still carry a handkerchief to wipe their brow, especially between thunderstorms. The month is known for beautiful flora as it ranks among the top three wettest months in China.
For those highly sensitive to heat and humidity, visiting China in June may not be the best choice. The weather can feel overwhelming in bustling cities, particularly when air quality suffers due to pollution. If hot and humid conditions are challenging for you, it may be wise to postpone your trip until fall. Fortunately, air-conditioned spaces are available, providing relief from the heat.
Typhoon Season in Hong Kong
Typhoon season generally begins in May and lasts until the end of October; however, most typhoons affecting Hong Kong typically occur during July, August, and September. Nonetheless, an early typhoon can happen in June as well.
It is essential to stay informed about significant weather systems, as your travel plans may be impacted even if the storm does not make landfall.
China Weather in June
(Average high / low June temperatures and humidity across China)
- Beijing: 87 F (30.5 C) / 67 F (19.4 C) with 61 percent humidity
- Harbin: 80 F (26.7 C) / 61 F (16.1 C) with 62 percent humidity
- Xi’An: 89 F (31.7 C) / 67 F (19.4 C) with 59 percent humidity
- Shanghai: 83 F (28.3 C) / 71 F (21.7 C) with 79 percent humidity
- Guanzhou: 87 F (30.5 C) / 74 F (23.3 C) with 74 percent humidity
- Guilin: 87 F (30.5 C) / 74 F (23.3 C) with 82 percent humidity
(Average rainfall for June in China)
- Beijing: 1.5 inches (38 mm) / average of 10 rainy days
- Harbin: 3.9 inches (99 mm) / average of 13.5 rainy days
- Xi’An: 0.9 inches (23 mm) / average of 9 rainy days
- Shanghai: 3.7 inches (94 mm) / average of 13 rainy days
- Guanzhou: 7.5 inches (190 mm) / average of 18 wet days
- Guilin: 9.9 inches (251 mm) / average of 17.5 wet days
In general, northern locations in China like Beijing and Harbin will experience slightly drier weather compared to central areas where humidity escalates in June. The weather in Southern China will be notably hot and humid.
Guilin, renowned for its lush scenery, will also see increased rainfall and humidity.
What to Pack
Packing for June can be a bit challenging. As summer begins, expect hot afternoons and cooler evenings, especially in higher altitudes. If your travels take you to the humid regions of China, be prepared for fully functioning air conditioning. For those who may be sensitive to air conditioning, a light sweater might be necessary.
Given that June is one of China’s wettest months, being prepared for rain is essential.
- Bring comfortable, quick-drying footwear.
- Pack light base layers, including shorts and short-sleeved shirts. China’s casual culture means you are unlikely to appear overdressed. Sleeveless tops and shorts are appropriate for both men and women, although more conservative attire is necessary in Muslim regions like Xinjiang and when visiting Tibetan temples.
- If you do not have rain gear, consider purchasing it from local stores with ease.
- For those with respiratory concerns, packing a quality mask for days of heavy air pollution in cities is advisable. While rain may improve air quality, being prepared remains prudent. Masks are readily available for purchase, but be mindful that their quality may vary when bought from street vendors.
June Events in China
Despite June being a bustling month for tourism in China, there are few festivals that may disrupt your journey.
- Dragon Boat Festival: Usually occurring near the summer solstice and based on the lunisolar calendar, this festival is celebrated widely across China. While the Dragon Boat Festival is recognized as a public holiday, it does not lead to extensive travel like other holidays such as the Chinese New Year or National Day. Thus, travelers need not worry excessively about overcrowded places or overwhelmed transportation systems, allowing you to fully enjoy the festival’s unique spectacle.
June Travel Tips
- June offers an excellent opportunity to explore destinations celebrated for their natural beauty and blooming flowers, such as Hangzhou, Yunnan Province, the Yellow Mountains, and Guilin. Additionally, early June sees many schools still in session, presenting a chance to sidestep the peak summer tourism season.
- Stay prepared for sudden showers! It’s advisable to keep your umbrella handy, as realizing you left it back at your accommodations while visiting iconic spots like Tiananmen Square could be inconvenient.
While many travelers consider fall as the ideal time to explore China, summer presents its own unique attractions and experiences!
