High elevation, uneven land from south to north and complex mountains of this region gives Lijiang multifarious climates. It has three different climatic zones, ranging from subtropical in the southeast, to warm temperatures in the center, and cold temperatures in the northwest. In addition, the characteristics of vertical climate in some highlands can also be seen in Lijiang. For example, Jade Dragon Mountain with its higher altitude, has five different climatic zones, from warm temperate to alpine.
Lijiang has a clear annual distinction between the wet and dry seasons. The wet season spans May to October, with plenty of rainfall. From November to April belongs to the dry season. Additionally, because of its high average elevation, Lijiang has abundant sunshine all year round, favored with fresh air and charming natural scenery. Of course, don't forget to protect yourself from the strong radiation from the sun.
Without too much change from spring to winter, the weather of Lijiang allows visitors to get there at any time. However, considering the fairly wide variation in day-and-night temperature in spring and winter, summer and autumn are the most favorable seasons for coming here. Except for summer, when T-shirts and trousers are enough, it's advisable to take some warm clothes in the other three seasons.
Detailed information about the Average, Maximum and Minimum Temperatures and the rainfall in Lijiang.
| Average Data | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | June |
| Average High ( | 59/63 | 64/68 | 72/75 | 77/81 | 78/80 | 77/80 |
| Average High ( | 15/17 | 18/20 | 22/24 | 25/27 | 26/29 | 25/28 |
| Average Low ( | 37/41 | 41/45 | 46/52 | 52/57 | 59/63 | 61/64 |
| Average Low ( | 3/5 | 5/7 | 8/11 | 11/14 | 15/17 | 16/18 |
| Rain (in) | 0.2/0.4 | 0.1/0.3 | 0.4/0.6 | 1.0/1.2 | 3.7/3.9 | 7.1/7.3 |
| Rain (mm) | 4/9 | 2/7 | 10/15 | 25/30 | 93/98 | 180/185 |
| Average Data | July | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
| Average High ( | 79/84 | 81/86 | 73/78 | 70/73 | 63/68 | 59/63 |
| Average High ( | 26/29 | 27/30 | 23/26 | 21/23 | 17/20 | 15/17 |
| Average Low ( | 63/68 | 63/66 | 59/63 | 54/57 | 45/52 | 37/43 |
| Average Low ( | 17/20 | 17/19 | 15/17 | 12/14 | 7/11 | 3/6 |
| Rain (in) | 8.2/8.4 | 6.9/7.1 | 6.0/6.2 | 3.0/3.2 | 0.7/0.9 | 0.2/0.4 |
| Rain (mm) | 208/213 | 175/180 | 150/155 | 75/80 | 17/22 | 4/9 |
Travelers' Voices on Lijiang Climate
1.
Jun. 23,2009 11:56 Reply
Mr.Alex(Malaysa) said:
We'll be going on 4 July for a week.
Will we be able to watch the show "Impression Lijiang" on Jade Dragon Mountain?
It seems that June is not that cold, can someone tell me if weather in July will be the same?
Jun. 23,2009 23:11
Ms.Clare replied:
In July, the temperature is about 30-37C. Quite warmer. It may be rainy sometime. Suggest you take a coat, for it will be a little cold when it rains or you visit some mountainous areas. The show is going on every day: one in the mornign around 10-11pm, one in the afternoon, around 1-2pm
Jun. 24,2009 09:37
Mr.Alex(Malaysia) replied:
thanks... this is really great information
2.
Jun. 22,2009 19:45 Reply
Mr.Li(Hkg) said:
I'm going to Lijiang the end of June. Will there be alots of rain during this time?
Jun. 22,2009 21:24
Ms.Evelyn(China) replied:
The rainy season has come to Lijiang at the end of June. Rain often happens. Although it's hot, it's still a little cool on rainy days. You should prepare a long-sleeve light coat.
3.
Jun. 3,2009 23:32 Reply
Mr.Joompol(Thailand) said:
I would like to lijiang and shagri-la mid oct. how about the climate on that month
its riany and very cool ?
Jun. 6,2009 01:47
Ms.Evelyn(China) replied:
The rainy season of Lijiang is from June to October, especially in July and August. In October, if it rains, you may feel a little cold. The weather is very fine in the other months.
4.
May. 20,2009 19:28 Reply
Ms.Lee(usa) said:
We are going to watch the show "Impression Lijiang" on Jade Dragon Mountain on June 6, 2009. Is it necessary to wear down jacket at that time? Someone said it does. I saw the clip of the show on utube, everyone was in summer clothes. Does anyone know the weather in June where the performance is?
May. 20,2009 20:42
Mr.Shan replied:
There is no need to have down jacket. A windproof jacket and a hat is enough.
Jun. 3,2009 19:57
Mr.Najjar(Jordan) replied:
Hi, i will arrive LiJiang today June 4th, shall report you a live weather situation.
Regards
5.
May. 24,2009 12:14 Reply
Ms.L(Swe) said:
I'm going to Lijiang and Tiger Leaping Gorge trek next week, how much shall I expect that it will rain and how often? What kind of clothing will I need?
Thanks..
May. 24,2009 22:55
Ms.Sophie replied:
It is reported that there is seldom suddent rain but not heavy, so take it easy! Well, take your summer cloths and a windproof jacket is okey~ The temperature is about 25C degrees!
6.
May. 21,2009 19:42 Reply
Ms.Audrey(hong ong) said:
We are going in 1st week August, what woudl your best advise be regarding the weather and sorts of clothes to wear? Also then goign to Shangri-la.
May. 21,2009 22:51
Mr.Shan replied:
August is the rainy season there. The rain may come suddenly, but just a little at most of the time. Take your summer cloth and a waterproof jacket or thin sweater are okey~
7.
Jan. 8,2009 03:00 Reply
Mr.Teeradej(thailand) said:
I would like to Lijiang at 5-10 Feb'09
How the weather there?
Jan. 8,2009 21:38
Ms.Wong replied:
It will be a little bit cold there at the time. If there is no snow, it will be warm. During the daytime, the temperature is about 10 degrees, colder in early morning and night. Temperature difference between the day and night reaches ten degrees. So, take both sun block and warm clothes with you. Check out the weather on line before leaving!
May. 7,2009 06:33
Mr.Richard Lee(Singapore) replied:
Cold. Its winter time !
8.
Jan. 14,2009 08:59 Reply
Mrs.li(ireland) said:
Anyone has been to Lijiang in April? Warm enough to swimming?
May. 7,2009 06:32
Mr.Richard Lee(Singapore) replied:
May is better for swimming. But April is warm enough though.
9.
Feb. 5,2009 18:59 Reply
Mr.Clinton(Australia) said:
Stayed Lijiang 6 nites mid Jan. Temp early tens to mid teens. U need warm clothes for Lijiang & esp. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain unless you are young & active e.g. parka. Coming into Spring over there. No rain.
10.
Jan. 30,2009 22:11 Reply
Ms.Penny(USA) said:
We would like to visit Lijiang and hike Tiger Leaping Gorge. Is it too rainy in June to hike in the gorge?