Lanzhou Weather in January

Season: winter
In short: cold, sunny, dry, short daytime, possible floating dust weather
 Average Temperature: about -10 ~ 2 degrees Celsius (14 – 35.6 degrees Fahrenheit) 

During the sunny daytime, the high temperature remains at 8 – 9℃ (46.4 – 48.2℉), while after sunset, it can drop to -11℃ (12.2 ℉). The lowest recorded value in the urban area in 2025 was -16℃ (3.2℉), and in surrounding counties, it was as low as -24 ~ -18℃ (-11.2 ~ -0.4℉). In order to resist the cold weather in January, indoor places in Lanzhou are all equipped with heating, where the temperature can reach about 20℃ (68℉).

Not like other northern cities with strong winds, such as Beijing, Lanzhou has gentle winds mostly in January. Under the sunshine, it feels a little warmer than the weather forecast suggests. 
It sees low precipitation, averagely only 1 mm (0.04 in) from about 2 snowy days. Besides, the snowfall varies in terrain. Intermittent light snow or sleet is more common in downtown areas, forming no thick snow cover. The humidity in January thus remains at only 54%. In its mountains, the snow accumulation can reach 7.4 - 11.5 mm (0.29 - 0.45 in). 
 The sun often rises after 8:00 am and sets before 6:30 pm, which means that tourists planning to visit Lanzhou in January 2026 will have only about 10 hours of daylight each day. So you are advised to get up early and arrange a tight schedule.

Abundant sunshine is another climatic characteristic of Lanzhou in January. It bathes in sunshine for about 6 hours every day, while the UV index is a bit high.
 The air quality remains good on the whole, but occasional strong cold air can trigger 1 - 2 days of floating dust weather. 
 Considering the temperature difference between indoors and outdoors, travelers need to adjust their clothes promptly in case of catching a cold.

When staying indoors: It’s enough to wear a sweater with a blouse or thermal shirt for people with different temperature perceptions. For the bottom, long johns plus winter pants or fleece jeans are a good match. 

When going outside: Add a downcoat. If you don’t want to wear long johns inside, be sure to choose a long downcoat, which can prevent your legs and knees from getting cold. Hats and scarves can protect the skin from drying out, in addition to keeping warm.

Shoes: Thick sneakers or a normal pair with thick socks are advised. Boots will also be OK. 
 1. Visiting Lanzhou in January, you can see that the Yellow River is not yellow, but clear blue, caused by decreased silt in the river. Specifically, due to rare rainfall, the water flow slows down, causing sediment to settle at the bottom of the river instead of mixing with the water. 

2. If you want to experience the sheepskin rafting on the Yellow River, confirm if it is open in advance, as it’s the low tourist season when some tourist facilities are closed. However, popular attractions such as Zhongshan Bridge, Sculpture of the Mother Yellow River, Waterwheel Garden, Bingling Temple, Gansu Provincial Museum etc., will be open normally. 

3. It’s wise to cover your face with a thermal mask or scarf when rafting on the Yellow River as it can be a little windy.

4. It is recommended to schedule the visit to White Pagoda Park on a sunny afternoon when the temperature is at its highest, because it’s located on the mountain where temperature is lower.

5. If feeling cold after a long-time outdoor tour, go to visit indoor Gansu Provincial Museum to take a breather.

6. Pack moisturizing cream and lipstick for the dry weather. It’s also advised to drink plenty of water. If possible, prepare or buy a simple humidifier for your room, especially for those living in a humid area for a long time.

7. In floating dust weather, remember to wear an effective mask or change the schedule and stay indoors.