China in December 2025: Your Winter Travel Guide From Ice to Sea

China is a vast destination with diverse beauties to suit all tastes. For a pure white winter, head to the north for tranquil snow towns and an exciting skiing experience. If you are looking for a spring-like place to escape the winter chill, then the south is a good choice for your China trip. Read this guide to find out more about traveling in China in December.

China's Weather in December

Southern China

Cities in southern China, such as Sanya, Hong Kong, and Dali, have mild and pleasant weather in December. Temperatures range from 15 to 25℃ with humid but warm air, making it ideal for sightseeing and coastal activities.

Dali

Western China

December in destinations like Xinjiang, Tibet, and Qinghai, the weather is dry and cold with a wide range of the temperatures from -8 to 10℃ between day and night. Sunny skies are common, creating perfect conditions for exploring vast landscapes and open-air scenery.

Northern China

Northern China in December is fully into winter, bringing cold and dry weather. Cities like Harbin experience average temperatures below freezing, while Beijing and Shenyang see plenty of sunny days with dry air and strong UV rays. With warm clothing, you can fully enjoy the snowy landscapes and winter festivals across the north.

Eastern China

Eastern China in December, including places like Shanghai and Nanjing, experiences cold and dry weather. Average daytime temperatures range from 2 to 11°C, dropping further in the evenings. With little rainfall, it's an ideal time for city walks and cultural sightseeing.

Best Places to Travel in December

Beijing

Beijing in December may feel cold, but visiting its historic sites at this time offers uniquely stunning beauty. The Forbidden City's crimson walls, dusted with snow, as if time stands still where rich history and pure nature blend into a tranquil painting.

This is also an ideal time to explore attractions that are often difficult to book during peak season. You'll have a better chance of securing tickets and can enjoy a more relaxed and crowd-free experience.

Temple of Heaven

Harbin

If you have a deep desire for snow and want to go to the world of ice and snow to have fun, then Harbin in China can satisfy you. It is covered with snow and the whole city is snow-white. And the cultural intermingling of centuries ago makes the city full of exotic flavors able to be a double surprise for both the eyes and the tastebuds.

Generally, the preparations of the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival begin in late December, you may have the chance to see the park taking shape.

Dali

If you have already traveled to many famous and prosperous cities in China, then Dali will bring you a different travel experience. The wind and snow by the Erhai Sea, the romantic encounters on the streets of Lijiang, and the magnificent glaciers of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain are all worth traveling to experience. You will surely be impressed by this city full of cozy and laid-back atmosphere.

What's more, winter is the season with the clearest air and highest visibility in high-altitude regions, making December with greater chance of seeing snow-capped peaks bathed in golden sunlight.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong in December is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures around 15–20℃, you can comfortably stroll along Victoria Harbour, ride the Peak Tram for sweeping city views, or wander through night markets without the summer humidity. December is also a festive season in Hong Kong. Streets and shopping malls sparkle with Christmas lights and decorations, while seasonal events and sales create a lively holiday atmosphere.

Sanya

While most parts of China are still experiencing a cold winter, Sanya is still sunny and the natural scenery is meandering. You can lie on the beach and enjoy a lazy time, or jump into the sea to feel a variety of exciting water activities.

What to Do in December

Savor the Seasonal Cuisine

December is the perfect time to taste China's comforting seasonal foods. Warm up from the inside out with Chinese hot pot, which is a social dining experience essential for cold weather. Don't miss steaming plates of dumplings (jiaozi), a northern staple for generating energy and warmth. Street food like roasted sweet potatoes and sugar-coated haws (bingtanghulu) offer delicious, on-the-go treats. Embracing these flavors is a key part of the authentic December travel experience in China, making your journey both tasty and memorable.

Experience a Winter of Contrasts

One of the unique things about traveling to China in December is that you can experience the magic of ice and snow and the romance of seaside in a single trip.

In Harbin, December transforms the city into a snow kingdom. The iconic Saint Sophia Cathedral, topped with a green dome, looks like something out of a fairy tale when blanketed in snow. Beyond the stunning architecture, Harbin offers endless winter activities in the vast snow valleys: skiing, sledding, snow tubing, snowmobiling, and more.

In Sanya's Wuzhizhou Island, the seawater stays crystal clear even in winter, earning it the nickname "Jelly Sea." You can circle the island by electric car, enjoy the sea breeze, or rent a boat for fishing at sunrise, sunbathing at noon, and watching sunsets over the ocean, it will be a perfect tropical escape from the cold.

Sophia's Church

Witness Seasonal Spectacle of Wildlife

December is a surprisingly good time to witness seasonal behaviors in the animal kingdom. In Kunming (Yunnan), thousands of spirited black-headed gulls migrate to Dianchi Lake and Cuihu Park, creating lively winter scenes which is perfect for birdwatching and photography.

Meanwhile, in Sichuan province, the Chengdu Research Base takes on a special magic. Our beloved giant pandas become even more playful when it snows. Watching them roll around in the snow or climb trees against a frosty backdrop is a rare and delightful experience.

Events & Festivals

Winter Solstice

The Winter Solstice (Dongzhi Festival) is one of the 24 traditional Chinese solar terms, marks the shortest day and longest night of the year, and the coldest weather of winter begins. Eating together is the main thing of this day. In northern China, families gather to eat hot dumplings in a traditional belief that can ward off coldness. On the streets, you'll see shops advertising fresh dumplings for the festival. In the south, customs vary, people may eat Tangyuan (Glutinous rice balls) or enjoy warming dishes like mutton soup, symbolizing the warmth and happiness of family.

New Year's Eve

December 31st every year is a lively day around the world, and China is no exception. On New Year's Eve, everyone meets their friends or spends the night with their families. At midnight, city squares fill with crowds counting down together, releasing balloons, and making wished as the clock strikes twelve. Indoors, many families watch New Year's Eve shows on TV, sharing greetings and festive food. Whether in bustling squares or at home with family, New Year's Eve in China is a warm and joyful transition into the year ahead.

Crowds & Costs

December in China is off-peak for travel, and you can enjoy a more relaxed and detailed visit at a lower cost. With fewer crowds, you'll find cheaper hotels and tickets. Best of all, you can explore attractions in easy-pace and take photos without bustling crowds in the background.

China Travel Tips in December

Pack for Comfort with Layers

China's winter weather varies from north to south, and the key to comfort is packing smart layers. Include thermal underwear, a warm mid-layer like a wool sweater, and a waterproof windproof outer shell, which allows you easily adjust to temperature changes between regions, outdoors and heated indoors.

Book Early for Peak Events

While December is off-season in China, domestic travel can increase during Christmas and New Year holidays. Be sure to book flights and hotels well in advance if your trip covers these days.

Slow Down Your Pace

December is the prime time for snow and ice sports. You must pay attention to safety when playing sports or recreation, and try to make sure that there are professional coaches on hand to guide you and prevent accidents.

Let Your December Holiday Beyond the Snow

Whether you want to feel the charm of ancient and modern times in Beijing, enjoy the sunny beaches in Sanya, or experience pure life in Dali, China in December will not disappoint you. Leave us your interests via [email protected] and explore China with Odynovo.