Beijing Winter - Weather, Clothing & Tour Tips

In general, the Beijing winter season starts from late November and lasts till early March. This is the coldest time of the year and the air is very dry. But you may have a chance to admire amazing snow covered landscapes. 
 Beijing winter weather is chilly, with the average high temperature of 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit) and the average low of -9°C (16°F). In the past three years, the lowest temperature of Beijing in winter once dropped to as low as -19 °C (-2.2°F). Moreover, in winter, Beijing usually experiences northwest winds, which will make you feel even colder. 

The coldest month is January, when the daytime temperature is no more than 5°C (41°F) on most days and even below 0°C (32°F) on some days. The good news is that most indoor places are equipped with air conditioners or other heating facilities, providing a warm refuge from the cold weather. 
 Beijing does snow in winter. Generally speaking, the first snowfall in Beijing winter may come in late November or early December. The main snow season is from December to February, while snowy days are concentrated in December and January. By March, the likelihood of snowfall is not so big as temperatures rise. 

Great Wall in Snow

In winter, sunny days actually dominate in Beijing. On average, Beijing has low precipitation in about 13 days in total during this season, which is mainly snowfall. Both light and heavy snow are possible. On days with heavy snow, your trip to the Great Wall, located in the suburbs of Beijing, may take you more time because of the closure of the expressway or slippery road. So be sure to check the weather forecast and arrange transportation in advance if you have related plans, especially in December and January.
 Scenic spots would be less crowded in winter due to the chilly climate, apart from during the winter holiday and public holidays like the Chinese New Year Holiday. Thus, you will certainly have a much better travel experience: you can have a quiet and leisurely trip even in well-known attractions like the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Temple of Heaven. 

Moreover, travel expenses are greatly reduced in winter because of the fewer tourists. There are savings to be made on flights, hotels, and tickets for scenic spots. Besides, most time in winter, it would be much easier for visitors to book accommodation and transportation.
  Pros: First, the weather is usually sunny in winter, making all attractions beautiful under the bright sunshine; second, you can enjoy a quiet trip at lower costs for less crowds like mentioned above; and third, there are many seasonal activities and experiences in winter, such as the snow-covered city and attractions, ice-skating and skiing.  Cons: Beijing is extremely cold in winter, especially in January. Besides, there is a possibility that your trip may be influenced by heavy snow.