Beijing weather is characterized by its clear distinction of four seasons - short windy spring, long hot summer, cool pleasant autumn and long chilly winter. The hottest time is July and August, with the highest temperature over 40 C (104 F). The coldest month is January, with its lowest temperature at -20 C (-4 F). Considering the frequent sandstorms in spring, September and October with pleasant weather are the best time to visit Beijing. Brief introduction to the four seasons in Beijing  will help you have a better understanding about the climate and practical tips for traveling in different time of the year.

Introduction to Beijing Climate
Beautiful Beijing presents distinctive four seasons - a windy and dry spring, a hot and rainy summer, a short but pleasant autumn and a long chilly winter. The hottest month is July and the coldest is January. September and October with their pleasant and cool weather are considered the best time for visiting Beijing.

Spring in Beijing comes in early April and lasts till the end of May. To visit Beijing in spring, you need to bring lightweight clothing such as long-sleeved shirts or T-shirts, plus one or two jackets and sweaters. Generally, the spring in Beijing is warm, windy and dry. The temperature rises in spring, but there is a sharp difference in temperature between the day and the night. Do wear warm clothes when enjoying outdoor nightlife. Strong wind occurs sometimes with terrible floating dust and sandstorms. Please remember to prepare glasses, masks and scarves.

Summer in Beijing is from early June to mid-September. It is very hot with abundant rainfall. The hot summer calls for cool clothes as the temperature in July and August ranges between 30 C (86 F) and 40 C (104 F). Short and heavy rainstorms frequently happen without warning in the afternoon of sunny days. Sometimes even weather forecasters can predict a shower only one or two hours ahead. Remember to pack a raincoat or umbrella, and you should prepare for traffic jam caused by heavy rain.

The short but beautiful autumn from mid-September to the end of October is the golden season for travel Beijing. Autumn in Beijing is cool and comfortable, with mild temperature and plenty of sunshine. You can witness the distinctive autumn spectacles in Beijing. The flaming maple scene on the Fragrant Hills and the Badaling Great Wall could be impressive and delightful. Long-sleeved shirts and thin coats are enough for autumn. From late October, the temperature drops sharply, so don't forget to bring warm clothes at that time.

Beijing has a cold, dry and long winter from early November to the next March. The nearly five months' winter is very cold although sunny days prevail. The average temperature in December, January and February would be lower than 0 C (32 F). Be sure to bring winter clothes, including wool sweaters and thick down coats. A winter journey to Beijing may be a shock to visitors from tropical countries. Enjoying the snow scene on the Western Hills or skating in Shichahai will drive out the chills. Chinese Spring Festival usually falls on January or February. Although Beijing is frozen at that time, traveling in the city at that time would be memorable as you can experience the interesting Chinese folk customs on the biggest traditional festival.