Travel China in November is one of the best ways to experience the country at its most comfortable and affordable. The autumn leaves have mostly transitioned into early winter scenes, the major crowds of October’s Golden Week have dispersed, and prices for travel—flights and accommodations—drop across the board. Whether you are visiting China in November to see the Great Wall of China in November, cruise the Li River in Guilin, or stroll the lantern-lit streets of Chengdu, this month offers a rare balance of savings, comfort, and cultural depth. For many travelers, it is considered the best time to visit China in November because the combination of mild weather, reduced costs, and cultural festivals is hard to beat.
November falls within a shoulder season between peak travel months and the low winter season. This is ideal for many travelers. For example, cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an are cooler yet not yet freezing, but cities in Southern China—Guilin, Guangzhou, and Hainan—still enjoy comfortable warmth.
Culturally, there are some interesting things happening in November. For example, Guangzhou is hosting an International Food Festival, Hangzhou has all sorts of tea-related gatherings, and other cities across the country are transformed into discount carnivals during the Double Eleven shopping festival.
Another motive for traveling to China in November is avoiding the overwhelming crowds which characterize summer and early autumn tourism. World-renowned attractions such as the Forbidden City, the Terracotta Army, and the sandstone pillars of Zhangjiajie can be enjoyed in a more leisurely manner. For budget travelers, costs for flights and accommodations are lower than peak travel periods in September–October.
November average temperatures in Beijing run between 0–10°C. Mornings and evenings can be quite cold while daytime temperatures enable great sightseeing opportunities in beautiful clear skies and crisp air.
Visiting the Great Wall of China in November is a standout experience: often the slopes of the wall in November are painted red and yellow from the remaining autumn leaves, making sightseeing one of the most scenic times of year. Another spectacular visit would be the Summer Palace, as this is a time of year when the lakes are partially frozen and provide mirror reflections of the traditional pavilions. The hutong neighborhoods also come alive with fewer crowds, cozy teahouses, and warm winter snacks such as candied hawthorn skewers.
The weather in Shanghai is usually mild with temperatures between 10–18°C. The weather is damp and usually pleasant for walking.
Walking along the Bund, with its historic colonial architecture and the strikingly modern skyline of Pudong, is a favorite way to get a feel for the city. Taking an evening Huangpu River cruise offers a different perspective of the brightly lit city. Yuyuan Garden and the bazaar around it are also nice to walk around in the cooler air, and food is plentiful—ranging from xiaolongbao soup dumplings to skewered street snacks.
In November you will find fewer crowds at Shanghai Disneyland, making it a great time for families.
If you’re headed to southern areas like Guilin, Yangshuo, Guangzhou, and Hainan, November is a great month to go since it will be warmish with average temperatures between 15–25°C, making it one of the best months for outdoor adventures.
In Guilin, it’s worth the trip just to cruise the Li River through the karst mountains, bamboo groves, and misty peaks. From Yangdi to Xingping, a bamboo raft offers a quieter and more intimate experience. You can explore cycling routes around the countryside in Yangshuo with rice fields and farming villages.
The International Food Festival in Guangzhou in November is a delight for foodies, offering dim sum, roast goose, and local desserts such as double-skin milk. Hainan, especially Sanya, is still warm enough for swimming, snorkeling, and lounging on the beach.
Zhangjiajie’s November weather averages on the more comfortable spectrum of 5–15°C, cool and often misty, which gives the sandstone pillars a magical appearance. This is a good time to enjoy the Bailong Elevator, walking across the world’s longest glass bridge, and hiking in Wulingyuan Scenic Area without the summer’s intense heat.
Chengdu in Sichuan Province shares similar temperatures (8–17°C). The highlight here is the Chengdu Panda Base to see the pandas munching on bamboo in the cool fall air. And what better way to end the day than with a spicy Sichuan hotpot to warm up.
For the more adventurous traveler, Tibet in November is still accessible. Lhasa‘s daytime temperatures are between 10–15°C, with colder nights. The skies are often incredibly clear, providing photo opportunities of the Potala Palace and the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.
While some more remote routes may close for snow, the main sites such as city temples and monasteries remain open and welcoming.
Packing needs vary by region. Northern China requires a warm coat, thermal layers, scarves, and gloves. Central cities like Xi’an and Chengdu are fine with layered sweaters and mid-weight jackets. Southern cities like Guilin and Guangzhou need lighter jackets, while Hainan travelers will pack summer clothes and swimsuits.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring places like the Great Wall or Zhangjiajie. In the south, pack a small umbrella for occasional showers.
In late autumn, the Great Wall is both less crowded and beautifully scenic. Mutianyu is the most popular section, with restored watchtowers and fall colors. Hiking enthusiasts can try Jinshanling or Simatai for rugged, adventurous stretches.
Xi’an is a great November destination. The Terracotta Army, discovered in 1974, remains one of the world’s greatest archaeological finds. Walking among thousands of life-sized warriors is unforgettable. The ancient city wall is also a highlight, with bike rentals available to ride along its 14 kilometers.
Zhangjiajie’s sandstone pillars inspired the floating mountains in Avatar. November’s mist and cooler air make the landscape ethereal. Visitors can ride the Bailong Elevator, cross the glass bridge, or hike Tianmen Mountain to Heaven’s Gate rock arch.
The Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is unmissable in November. Scenic stops include Elephant Trunk Hill, Nine Horses Fresco Hill, and Xingping, featured on the 20 Yuan note. In Yangshuo, popular activities include countryside cycling, bamboo rafting, rock climbing, and cooking classes.
November is a great time for Chengdu. The Panda Research Base is best visited in the morning when pandas are most active. Jinli and Kuanzhai Alley offer local snacks and culture, while hotpot dinners warm up chilly evenings. Day trips to Leshan Giant Buddha or Mount Emei are easy add-ons.
In November, Lhasa has fewer tourists and clearer skies. The Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street are at their most peaceful. Monasteries like Sera and Drepung are open, adding to the spiritual atmosphere.
Hangzhou’s West Lake glows with fall colors. Suzhou’s classical gardens are serene and quiet. Harbin cools in preparation for the Ice and Snow Festival. Chongqing is perfect for food lovers—enjoy spicy hotpot by the riverside.
Travel China in November offers an ideal mix of weather, lower costs, and cultural activities. From walking the Great Wall and cycling Yangshuo’s rice paddies to sipping tea in Chengdu after seeing pandas, this is one of the best months to explore China. Whether you focus on history, food, or landscapes, November provides comfort, fewer crowds, and excellent value.
Detailed travel guides, itineraries, travel tips - for exploring some of the best places in China. If you are planning your first trip to China, or heading back, the blog covers everything from the must-dos and undiscovered locations, to cultural customs and the best months to visit.
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