Chongqing Weather in August

Chongqing Street Scene in August

Season: Summer 
Overview: 
1. The weather in Chongqing in August is extremely hot – so hot that you will feel uncomfortable after being outside for even half an hour at midday. In contrast, mountainous areas offer significantly cooler temperatures and fresh air. 

2. August in Chongqing sees a bit more frequent showers and occasional heavy downpours, which help to cool down the temperature. 

3. August coincides with the summer holiday in China, so expect overcrowded attractions and soaring travel costs. 
 August in Chongqing is exceptionally hot. Daytime temperatures typically range from 35 to 40°C (95-104°F), and when the hot waves strike, the maximum temperature can rise to 42°C (108°F). Moreover, high-temperature weather tends to last for consecutive days, intensifying the heat further. Combined with the humid air, the perceived temperature can feel overwhelming. It’s exhausting and uncomfortable to spend even half an hour outdoors during the midday sun. Nighttime temperatures remain high, typically ranging from 26 to 33 degrees Celsius (79-91 degrees Fahrenheit). Luckily, moderate rain can help a great deal in cooling down the temperatures. Sometimes, the perceived temperature drops to around 26°C (79°F) on rainy days. 

If you cannot stand the heat in the urban areas, why not change the environment? Chongqing’s surrounding mountainous regions offer more pleasant temperatures. In Fairy Mountain of Wulong Karst National Geology Park, daytime temperatures often stay around 20°C (68°F), while its nearby town experiences daytime highs around 30°C (86°F). 
 August rainfall in Chongqing is a bit frequent and abundant, with an average precipitation of 134 mm over 7 days, ranging from misty drizzle to heavy but brief downpours. Some drizzles do not even require an umbrella, while heavy thunderstorms may significantly impact your travel plans, usually lasting for about 20-40 minutes. 

It’s worth noting that Chongqing experiences a higher probability of rainfall during August nights. Usually, it’s characterized by long-term heavy downpours, rarely impacting your travel plans, but lowering the temperatures. On rare occasions, rain may persist for almost the whole day, bringing cool feelings and easing the discomfort. 

Hot Night in Hongya Cave

Green and Cool Mountain Areas

Chongqing remains at a high humidity level throughout August, about 70%. Humid air amplifies the heat and makes visitors feel muggy and sticky. Visitors are not advised to do outdoor activities in the hot city center for too long, especially during 12:00-14:00. Only on rainy days does the stifling heat finally ease. 

Additionally, mountainous areas provide a relatively comfortable environment. Although the humidity rate is also quite high in this area, the air doesn’t feel oppressive or sticky due to the relatively cooler temperatures. Taking a stroll under lush trees, you'll feel refreshed and comfortable.
 Monthly Sunshine Hours: ~175 hours monthly

August is the sunniest month of the year in Chongqing, with an average of 6 hours of sunshine per day. Abundant sunshine intensifies the heat, but also reduces fog and improves visibility. Therefore, it’s a good idea to visit the observation deck at Chaotianmen Dock during daylight hours to witness the spectacular confluence of the Yangtze River and Jialing River. The two distinct rivers merge yet remain clearly separated. 

The average UV index reaches 12 this month, pretty strong. Exposure to the sunlight at midday hours can cause sunburn in a short time. Thus, if you arrange outdoor activities between 11 and 16:00, make sure to fully protect your skin from the sun.

Confluence of Two Rivers on Clear Days

Packing List for Chongqing Trip in August 2026

Upper Clothing: A breathable long-sleeved or short-sleeved shirt paired with a trench coat is a perfect outfit for your daily outing. Because the day-night temperature differences are significant, you may need to take off the trench coat during the sunny and hot noon. However, in case of sudden temperature drops, you are also recommended to prepare a fleece-lined hoodie and a windproof jacket, especially in early April, which are also necessary for trips to mountainous areas.

Bottom Clothing: It’s ok to wear jeans and sweatpants. Girls can wear a long dress with stockings, stylish and comfortable. 

Footwear: It’s highly recommended to wear non-slip and comfortable sneakers, as there are many steps to walk on in Chongqing. 

Accessories: 
Sun-protective items: sunscreen, sunglasses and a sun hat. 
Rain gear: a raincoat or an umbrella. 
 Chongqing experiences a hot and humid climate in August, and you are highly recommended to follow this route for a better travel experience. 

August sightseeing in Chongqing should begin very early per day, when it’s cooler and less crowded. Recommended spots are Liziba Light Rail Station, Raffles City and Yangtze River Cableway. After that, visit the Three Gorges Museum and People’s Assembly Hall, which are located near and air-conditioned. Alternatively, you can go to a traditional tea house to enjoy a local cultural performance, like face-changing shows. When night falls, why not take a river cruise to enjoy a stunning night view from the water? You don’t have to wait in long photo queues and benefit from cooler river winds. 

Arrange another whole day in the mountain area. For heat relief, it’s advisable to travel to Wulong Karst National Geology Park and stay overnight. The weather is pleasant, and sunsets are often purple, which are exceptionally stunning. 

Stunning Natural View in Wulong District

Chongqing 8D Cityscape Night View

1. August is the summer vacation in China. During this month, the number of tourists is extremely high, hotels book out quickly, and attraction queues are long. Coupled with the hot weather, August is not a good time to visit Chongqing. If you are only available this month, book accommodations and hotels early, and try to avoid weekends and get up early per day during your trips to avoid the most crowded periods. 

2. As the climate of Chongqing in August changes quickly, it’s highly advised to check the weather forecast repeatedly as your travel date approaches and throughout your trip. 

3. The Yangtze River Cableway will close when a heavy thunderstorm occurs. If you are about to encounter poor weather conditions, it’s best to cancel it and adjust your travel plans. 

What is the temperature in Chongqing in August?