The average annual temperature in Nanjing is about 15C (60F) and the time from mid-June to July is the rain period. Known as one of the three hottest cities in China, Nanjing's scorching summer period is to be avoided. The average ground temperature can reach 35C (95F) and the extreme highest point could reach 40C (104F) sometimes. The city's location at the lower river valley of the Yangtze River make thing worse as nearby mountains hold the hot air in. The government has launched a tree planting campaign throughout the city hoping to ease the sweltering situation.

The short and comfortable autumn time from October to mid-November is the best travel period for the city. Unlike other southern cities in China, in December, it sometimes snows in the city. If fortunately, (may not be fortunate for some people), you will have an opportunity to appreciate the enthralling white snow world of Nanjing. In the coldest month - January, the temperature could be as low as -7C (19F).

Festivals

Jinling Lanterns Fair

It was said that the first lantern fair was held in this region in the reign of Hong Wu in the Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644), when Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang ordered a spring lantern fair to be held to celebrate both the coming new year and prosperity of the country. This tradition was passed down from generation to generation and reached its height in the Ming and Qing periods. Each year from the first day of the lunar January the lantern fair celebration is held in the area surrounding Fuzimiao.
Period: 1st, Jan - 15th, Jan depending on lunar calendar

Nanjing Int'l Plum Festival (Plum Hill)

In the early spring between February and March, Nanjing International Plum Festival opens as the first ceremonial tourist event of the year. The meeting place is chosen on Plum Hill. Reputed as the First Plum Hill under Heaven, it is one of the eight plum appreciation sights having the most variety, longest history and being the largest in the country. Because the traditional Chinese Lunar New Year always falls in this period, spectacular celebrations of blossom appreciation, show performances, cultural exhibitions and bazaar shopping are be held.
Period: Feb. - Mar. (the one in 2005 began on Feb. 10th and ended on Mar. 15th)

Cherry Blossom Festival
In late March, Xuanwu Park becomes a sea of cherry blossom and photography lovers and tourists throng to see the charming scenery.

Yuhuashi (Rain Flower Pebbles) Art Festival
Yuhuashi, a kind of rain-flower pattern agate, is a very popular tourist souvenir. Each year in September, an art and cultural festival is held in Yuhuatai (Rain Flower Terrace) Scenic Area. Exhibition of precious agate stones and performances will be presented.
Period: September

Autumn is a blossom season in Nanjing when parks and gardens will hold flower festivals. For example, from September to November, a 300-meter long road in the Lingu Park will become a charming flower street with scented flowers along its length. Maples on Mount Qixia are amazing.