Table of Contents
- 1. Yunnan - A Summer Retreat to Mild Climate and Ethnic Charm
- 2. Guilin - Lush Karst Landscapes and Li River Cruise
- 3. Tibet: Summer Pilgrimage to the Roof of the World
- 4. Guizhou: Exploring Cool Karst Caves and Minority Cultures
- 5. Chengdu and neighboring areas: Pandas and Mountain Retreats
- 6. Zhangjiajie: Avatar-Inspired Mountains Adventures
- 7. Huangshan: Majestic Peaks and Picturesque Ancient Villages
- 8. Jiuzhaigou: Peaks, Waterfalls, and Colorful Lakes
- 9. Qinghai Lake: Cycling Around China's Largest Lake
- 10. Hulunbuir Grassland: Vast Prairie and Horseback Riding
- 11. Gansu & the Silk Road: Desert Oases and Ancient Treasures
- 12. Summer Cultural Tours in Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai
Where to go in China in summer?
China is a vast country. There is so much here to offer to the travelers. Even during the scorching summer days, we can still find some great destinations in this country for a fun vacation. Here below are the top five picks for your summer escape in China.
Step into adventure as you approaching Tibet’s or Yunnan’s legendary landscapes, escaping the summer hit for a trip peppered with ethnic experiences. Explore the vast wildernesses of the Silk Road with stark desert panoramas and lush grasslands. Summit China’s most beautiful mountains before/after having fun with the water in the lakes, waterfalls, or sea beaches. Our handpicked best summer destinations in china are Insta ready with unforgettable moments and remarkable views.
Best Places to Travel in China During Summer
Yunnan - A Summer Retreat to Mild Climate and Ethnic Charm
Located in the Southwest China, Yunnan province has most of its part sitting on Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, which makes it a wonderful travel destination for summer, and all year round. In many places of this province, it is cool in summer, and warm in winter. So its capital city Kunming got its nickname as the “City of External Spring”. However, we do recommend you to go further to the northwest of province, where some lovely small towns with different characters can be found. Dali, Lijiang and Shangri-la are featured with the stunning landscape and ethnic cultures.
The good thing is that you don’t have to stay at the downtown of these cities during Yunnan travel, but at a smaller village to enjoy the tranquility and slowed paced lifestyle of locals.
- In Dali, a major habitat for ethnic Bai people, 1000 years old they established their own country in the region. It is a perfect idea in summer to have an excursion to Erhai Lake, visit a typical batik workshop of Bai people or hike on the Cang Mountain. It is also worth a visit to adjacent Weishan and Shaxi old town.
- Lijiang is absolutely a gem hidden at the foot of snow-capped mountains, making it another best places to travel to China in summer. You will not only witness the splendid natural scenery here, but also experience the well preserved culture and tradition of ethnic Naxi people.
- Shangrila is a great substitute for those who failed to visit Tibet as it is a region resided by Tibetans, Naxi, Lisu, Yi and other minority groups. Right here you can visit the largest Tibetan lamasery of Yunnan – Songzanlin Monastery. What is more, the breathtaking scenery at Pudacuo National Park awaits you to explore in summertime.
>> Recommended China Yunnan tours for summer
Guilin - Lush Karst Landscapes and Li River Cruise
- A waterfall climb at Gudong Scenic Spot
- Try the bamboo rafting down the Yulong River
- Hike or bike in the picturesque countryside of Yangshuo in the early morning. Probably just to look for a hotel with a pool for swimming in the middle of nowhere is not a bad idea at all.
About 90km northwest of Guilin, Longji Rice Terraces is another highlight of Guilin and offer nice summer travel ideas. You can stay at an ethnic minority village for a couple of nights. There are two sections here: Pingan Scenic Spot and Dazhai Scenic Spot. The former is the residence of ethnic Zhuang people, while the latter is the habitat for Yao people. Both places are good for photography. Besides the spectacular view of rice terraces, some active travelers can try some hiking routes along the farmers’ paths on the mountain.
>> Recommended Guilin tours for summer fun:Tibet: Summer Pilgrimage to the Roof of the World
Tibet's average summer temperature ranges from 10-25℃, making it one of the best places to visit in China during the summer. Moreover, the oxygen levels are highest in Tibet during this time, so even first-time visitors will experience relatively mild altitude sickness.
What to see and explore? The vegetation is at its most lush, the grasslands turn green, and the lakes are azure blue. Furthermore, summer is the peak pilgrimage season in Tibet, allowing you to immerse yourself in Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Explore beyond Lhasa's Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street, venture to Everest Base Camp, and admire Yamdrok Lake along the way.
For adventure enthusiasts, summer is also the best time for trekking in Tibet.
Recommended Tibet tours for summer adventure:
Guizhou: Exploring Cool Karst Caves and Minority Cultures
Guizhou is one of China's most popular summer resorts. While most of China experiences sweltering heat, Guizhou enjoys a cool and pleasant summer with an average temperature of approximately 18–26°C. Popular tourist cities like Guiyang, Anshun, and Qianxinan have temperatures around 23°C. With a forest coverage rate as high as 63.3%, Guizhou offers fresh air throughout your trip.
Top things to do in Guizhou in Summer:
- Admire Huangguoshu Waterfall with maximum water volume in summer
- Explore Karst landforms and caves, such as the Dragon Palace with underground wonders
- Hike around Xiaoqikong with boat tour to view the waterfalls
- Visit Xijiang Miao Village
- Summit Fanjingshan Mountain
>> Recommended Guizhou tours:
Chengdu and neighboring areas: Pandas and Mountain Retreats
As a 2300-year-old city, Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan province and a gateway to the neighboring scenic areas. There are 3 UNESCO World Heritage sites around the city: Dujiangyan Irrigation Project – Mt. Qingcheng, Mt. Emei & Leshan Giant Buddha, Jiuzhaigou - Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Areas. They are all the perfect destinations for summer escape. Don’t forget to visit the research base of giant panda breeding in the north of the city if you are a panda fan.
If you are a little more adventurous, you may also consider extending your Chengdu tours to the wild west of Sichuan province, like Mt. Siguniang, Jiaju Tibetan village of Danba County, Yading of Daocheng County. These places are located in a relatively high altitude with a comfortable temperature in summer.
Top Mountain Destinations China in Summer
Zhangjiajie: Avatar-Inspired Mountains Adventures
Imagine that the towering peaks and stone columns of the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park are covered by lush green trees, with mist swirling around, resembling the "floating mountains" from the movie "Avatar". Therefore, Zhangjiajie offers not only a cool escape from the heat but also unparalleled mountain scenery. With average mountain temperatures between 20°C and 28°C, hiking along the Golden Whip Stream or Tianmen Mountain, passing streams and waterfalls, and perhaps even encountering wild monkeys, will be incredibly pleasant.
Furthermore, from July to October, Zhangjiajie hosts music festivals, beer festivals, wingsuit flying competition and other events, ensuring visitors have an exciting summer trip.
Top things to do in Zhangjiajie in summer:
- Ride the Bailong Elevator/Cable Car for panoramic views of Zhangjiajie's magnificent peaks
- Hike through the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon and cross the world's highest and longest glass bridge
- Be amazed by Tianmen Cave
- Take a boat trip on Baofeng Lake; Explore the cool Huanglong Cave
- More summer outdoor and water activities: such as rock climbing and canyoning
Recommended Zhangjiajie tours:
Huangshan: Majestic Peaks and Picturesque Ancient Villages
- You will enjoy the breathtaking sceneries at a comfortable temperature as it is always around 17-18°C on the mountain in summer.
- It is also a perfect place for photographers to capture some unique images. Appreciating the sunrise and sunset here becomes a good reason for the visitors to come and enjoy a special moment.
Not far from the Yellow Mountain, a few small villages like Hongcun, Xidi and Lucun are quite impressive, and worth a stay for a couple of nights. All these places are filled with a mesmerizing vibe as the time ceases to flow here. The locals lead a peaceful and slow paced life without much disturbance from outside world. Here is a perfect destination to experience the traditional lifestyle of Chinese people.
China's Best Natural Destinations in China for Lakes & Grasslands
Jiuzhaigou: Peaks, Waterfalls, and Colorful Lakes
Qinghai Lake: Cycling Around China's Largest Lake
One of the most famous and beautiful lakes in China, Qinghai Lake is an excellent choice for escaping the summer heat and experiencing the highland landscape. The average temperature in July and August is approximately 10–22°C. Under the azure sky, a thousand acres of golden flower fields bloom along the blue lake, providing an absolutely stunning photography opportunity. Therefore, cycling around Qinghai Lake during summer is also one of the most classic cycling routes in China.
Whether it's cycling around the lake, hiking, or road trip, spot migratory birds, Przewalski's gazelles, and the migration of salmon. Nearby, the Erlangjian Scenic Area, Chaka Salt Lake, and the Qilian Mountain Grassland also offer a dreamy nature escape.
Hulunbuir Grassland: Vast Prairie and Horseback Riding
Escape from the scorching heat of the cities and travel to China's most beautiful grassland - with an average summer temperature of only 22℃, accompanied by pleasant breezes. From June to August, the grass and water of Hulunbuir Grassland are at their most lush, and the grassland is as green as a carpet. And vast fields of rapeseed flowers and various wildflowers also bloom, creating a breathtaking panorama that offers countless photographic opportunities.
This is also the best time to experience Inner Mongolia's culture and traditions. Stay in tents and ride horses, attend the Nadam Fair and enjoy Mongolian music and dance, taste authentic local cuisine. You can also visit the Enhe Russian Ethnic Village.
Gansu & the Silk Road: Desert Oases and Ancient Treasures
Less known to the outside world, Gansu can be a low profile destination in China. But it will never let you down in terms of natural wonders, historical relics and colorful cultures. During the sweltering summer days, quite a few places of interest await you to discover and explore from southeast to northwest of the province.
If you are interested in Tibetan culture, Gannan (South of Gansu) is definitely a good option. Labrang Tibetan Lamasery at Xiahe county is one of the six major temples of the Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism. You can also go to the Sangke Grassland to see the traditional lifestyle of Tibetan herders’ family.
If you prefer to see the natural scenery, then Ganjia Grassland is another option. For those who want to go off the beaten path, they can drive overland to Langmu Tibetan Temple and cross the border with Sichuan province and reach Jiuzhaigou.
If heading for the northwest of Gansu province, you can visit Zhangye, together with other cities like Jiayuguan, Dunhuang and Wuwei in one trip. A long time ago, these places used to be the outposts on the Silk Road with a glorious past. In summer, you can freely enjoy the excursions to the historic sites along the way without harsh heat you could experience in eastern parts of China.
>> Recommended China Silk Road Tours with Gansu
10-day Silk Road & Badain Jaran Desert Tour
Essence of Gansu Tour: Zhangye Jiayuguan Dunhuang
Summer Cultural Tours in Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai
Although China's Golden Triangle cities are hot in summer, there are many world-class museums and historical buildings where you can stay indoor and explore the ancient capitals and urban energy. Besides, the rich nightlife, including night views, night markets, night cruises, night shows, and bars, can enhance your summer trip in China.
Get inspired by the ideas for summer holiday:
- Museums: The Forbidden City, Terracotta Army, Shanghai Museum
- Landmark buildings: Shanghai Tower, Oriental Pearl Tower, Tian'anmen Square, Big Wild Goose Pagoda
- Water-fun activities: Boating in the Summer Palace, Water Cube Water Park, Huanghao City Water Great Wall
- Night activities/shows: Xi'an Daming Night City, Shanghai Acrobatics, Night Cruise on the Huangpu River
Water Towns: Serene Canals and Ancient Architecture
If you are seeking the most beautiful places in China to enjoy the enchanting summer nights, China's water towns, such as Wuzhen, Xitang and Zhouzhuang, are light up with red lanterns.
Take a hand-operated boat to navigate between ancient bridges and waterways, admire the traditional ancient dwellings from the Ming and Qing dynasties, enjoy tea and delicious food.
Keep reading:
- China Summer Travel Guide: Weather, Top Destinations & Travel Tips
- Best Places to Visit in China during Autumn