
Season: Winter

In Short: Jinan is in severe winter in January, the coldest month of the year with frigid temperatures below 0℃ and one or two snowfalls to be expected. As the
Spring Festival may fall in late January, it’s the festive month to experience traditional Chinese culture and customs.
How Cold is Jinan in January?

Average Temperature: -3℃ - 7℃ (27 - 45℉)

Recorded Highest Temperature: 13℃ (55 Degrees Fahrenheit)

Recorded Lowest Temperature: -12℃ (10℉)
As the coldest month of the year, Jinan weather in January 2026 sees freezing lows on most days, with around three days dropping below -10 Degrees Celsius (14℉). Highs are mostly below 10°C (50℉), never exceeding 13°C (55℉). Lows range from -3°C (27℉) to 1°C (34℉) at the beginning of the month, with a significant drop in temperature in mid-to-late January, often accompanied by chilly winds. As a result, the sensitive temperature can be around 5°C (41℉) lower.
Does it Snow in Jinan in January?

Average Precipitation: 3mm

Humidity: 26 - 77%
It’s very likely to snow. Jinan climate in January typically experiences one or two snowfalls. January is one of the months with the least precipitation in Jinan, typically less than 5mm. This month sees snow showers or light snowfalls. Snow accumulation is shallow and short-lived, typically melting after one or two days. The humidity is not high mostly, though slightly higher before and after snowfalls or on cloudy days, still within comfortable ranges.
Daylight Hour & Sunshine Hour

Sunrise time: 07:14 – 07:23

Sunset time: 17:06 – 17:36
January in Jinan has shorter days and longer nights, with an average day length of only about 9 hours. The average daily sunshine duration is less than 6 hours, from approximately 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with dusk gradually setting in after 4:00 PM. Most days are sunny, with clear skies and minimal fog. The sunlight is transparent, soft and bright. Even on occasional cloudy days, the sunlight won’t be blocked out.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Jinan in January
Pros: a festival month with attractive snow views
Jinan, known as the “City of Springs”, boasts captivating snowscapes. Ancient buildings with red walls are covered in white snow, giving the bald winter vibrant colors. The springs, gushing amidst the snow, emit white water steam, making them even more enchanting than during the rainy season.
With the Lunar New Year approaching in late January and February, people hold various temple fairs and lantern fairs in spring parks to celebrate it and even the trees along the streets are adorned with red lanterns, allowing tourists to experience local customs and the lively festival atmosphere of the city! Furthermore, if avoiding public holidays, accommodation and dining are more affordable, and the scenic spots are less crowded.
Cons: Unbearable Coldness
Travelers hesitate because of the under freezing temperatures. Even on sunny days, the biting cold wind steals the warmth of the sun, making it hard to withstand the frigid weather even when bundled up. Snowfall can easily lead to traffic congestion and icy roads which turns outdoor sightseeing into a chore. Although the spring water remains super clear, the classic boat tours may be suspended due to low water levels. Furthermore, the withered flowers and trees diminish the overall beauty.
What to Wear in Jinan in January?

Clothes: A thick and long down coat is a must for the bone-chilling weather. Thermal underwear and sweaters are necessary for inner layers. Wind-proof bottoms are better.

Shoes: Waterproof snow boots are the best.

Others: a warm hat, a scarf and a pair of gloves are essential. Some travelers may get their hands frostbitten.
What to See in Jinan in January?
Springs in Water Steam Perfect for a Winter City Break
Titled “the city of a thousand springs” Jinan boasts more than 1,000 natural springs. The
Baotu Spring is the most famous and amazing one. The water temperature always remains around 18℃ so the water steam is formed when the water vapor comes across the cold air, thus mist on the water surface can always be seen which has more charm although the spring water isn’t at its most abundant time.
Temple Fair and Lantern Fair in Daming Lake, Wulongtan Park
If you are after the traditional Chinese customs and culture, January is a good choice. Before the Spring Festival,
Daming Lake would hold the temple fair with festival markets for citizens to do shopping for the coming family reunion day, as well as lantern fairs. You can find every famous local snack there and the traditional handicrafts like paper cutting, sugar figures and dough figures, shadow puppets which are on the Chinese intangible cultural heritage list. Other spring parks like Wulongtan and Baotu Spring are also decked out with colorful lanterns.
Travel Tips
1. Try to avoid the Spring Festival Holiday and New Year Day Holiday even if the festival atmosphere is the best as throngs of domestic tourists will arrive in the city for travel during the public holiday.
2. On snowy days, remember to brush off snowflakes on your clothes before entering warm indoor places to keep them dry.
- Last updated on Nov. 28, 2025 by Gabby Li -