Introduction to Xian Climate
Situated in the southern part of the Guan Zhong Plain in Shaanxi province, with the Qinling Mountains to the south and the Weihe River to the north, Xian has a continental monsoon climate with four distinct seasons. It is hot and wet in summer, dry and seldom snowy in winter and is prone to extended spells of rain in spring and autumn.

The temperature during spring from March to April increases rapidly, but is prone to fluctuation. The average temperature in March is 8 C (46 F), rising to 14 C (57 F) in April and 19 C (66 F) in May. You have to take sweaters and thick coat in early spring, and long-sleeved shirts or T-shirts with thin jackets in middle spring. However, summer clothes such as short-sleeved shirts will do if in late spring. Gentle breezes and warm sunshine make it a good time of year for outdoor activities and traveling like climbing Lishan Mountain or enjoying oriental cherry at Green Dragon Temple.

Summer in Xian, May to August, becomes both hot and humid. Xian is one of the major 'stove' cities of the whole country with the hottest month of the year being July when the average temperature being 26 C (79 F) and the maximum temperature often above 40 C (104 F). The oppressive heat can be difficult to bear, but this is tempered by the fact that it is also the rainy season - this time of year has 8 to 11 rainy days monthly. Indoor scenic spots like Museum of Qin Terracotta Warriors and Horses or Shaanxi History Museum are good choices at this time.

Xian also experiences a fair amount of precipitation during autumn, September to October. The early autumn period is cool and can be overcast, but late autumn is usually fine. Long-sleeved shirts, sweater and thin coat are appropriate. Xian City Wall International Marathon is held in early November annually since the year 1993.

Winter in Xian is from November to February, when is dry and cold with a little snow. The coldest month is January, with an average temperature of 0 C (32 F). Remember to bring sweaters, down coats and drink enough water to protect your throat. There is a lantern fair held on Xian City Wall around the Lantern Festival usually in middle January or February.