Datong Weather

Located in the northern inland of China and far from the ocean regulation, Datong has a temperate continental monsoon climate. Distinct four seasons, big day-night temperature difference and frequently blowing wind are the most prominent features. Datong also experiences severe cold winter, however, it doesn’t have extremely scorching weather in summer. The overall climate is arid, as there is not much precipitation. Besides, Datong gets ample sunshine, and blue skies dotted with white clouds can often be seen. 
Datong sees a large temperature difference in a year. July is the hottest month, when the temperature during the day remains at 25 - 30 degrees Celsius (77 - 86 degrees Fahrenheit), while in January, the coldest month, the high temperature is often below -10℃ (14℉), and extreme low temperatures can reach below -20℃ (-4℉). Under the impact of dry climate, the weather is cold but not sticky in winter, hot but not stuffy in summer. 

A big day-night temperature difference exists all year round, even in hot summer. The daily difference maintains at around 10 - 15℃ (18 - 27℉) and reaches above 20℃ (36℉) in two transition periods of early spring and early autumn, when the temperature fluctuates dramatically. 
 There is not a lot of precipitation in Datong throughout the year, the total amount of which is about 400 - 500 mm (16 - 20 in). Most rainfall occurs in July to September in the form of short-term showers or thunderstorms. However, the short duration makes it hard to increase the humidity significantly.

 Does it snow in Datong?
Yes, it’s absolutely certain, although the total snowfall is not high. The snow season extends over a long period: the first snow often appears as early as mid-October, and it’s still possible to see snowfall in March, even early April. It sometimes snows heavily and forms a thick cover, and sometimes takes place in the form of light snow and melts quickly, which all depends on the temperature at that time. From the experience, heavy snows are more likely to occur in January, the coldest month.
 With plenty of sunny days and less cloud cover, Datong enjoys rich sunshine, even in winter. The annual average sunlight duration is 2,700 - 2,800 hours. UV index reaches its highest in May to August. 
 There are a lot of windy days in winter and spring, with the most in March to April, followed by November to December. Windy conditions affect the climate of Datong a lot. On the one hand, it lowers the perceived temperature; on the other, dusty weather makes the air poor, posing a threat to outdoor sightseeing.
 May to June and September to October are the best times for a Datong trip. The climate remains steady without strong winds or floating dust. Mild temperatures and plenty of sunny days serve as the best conditions to visit popular outdoor attractions in the city, like Mt. Hengshan, Hanging Monastery, and Yungang Grottoes. Charming natural views, such as various spring flowers and autumn leaves, can also be seen at these historical scenic areas. Besides, there are not so many tourists in the two periods, except during the public holidays of May Day, Dragon Boat Festival, National Day, and Mid-Autumn Day, offering visitors a better travel experience.

 
Average Temperature: -7 ~ 24℃ (19.4 – 75.2℉)
Precipitation: 75 mm (3 in)

Changeable temperature is the most prominent feature of spring. The weather warms up on the whole, but can cool down suddenly with cold air invasion. The temperature difference between day and night is also large, maintaining at around 18℃ (32.4℉). There is not much precipitation, and about 17 days within the three months are rainy, resulting in a dry climate. However, snowfall is possible in early this season. You can always feel the blowing wind, and huge winds sometimes come to visit, incurring floating dust weather. At the end of the season, the climate gradually turns stably warm.
 Just entering Spring, warm clothes are still needed, including bottoming shirt, sweater, and thick jacket and thick jeans. If you are afraid of cold, pack long johns in your suitcase. Later, remove the inner layer and replace the sweater with thin hoodie; but prepare a windbreaker for cold evening and windy days. Sweatpants work well in April. By May, long-sleeve T-shirt and jeans with trench coat are enough. As for shoes, sneakers are advised. Just pack socks of differet thickness for changing temperatures.

The protective mask is a necessity for travelers visiting Datong in spring to deal with dusty conditions and pollen at some spots with blooming flowers. In the face of the dry climate, moisturizing cream and lipstick are useful.
 1. To appreciate spring scenery, you can go to Huayan Monastery and Shanhua Temple for blooming apricot blossoms and lilacs in April to May.
2. Arrange outdoor destinations at 10 am - 3 pm when the wind is relatively weak.
3. Check the weather forecast 1 day before departure again, and avoid going to high-altitude attractions if there is a strong wind or sandstorm warning.
 Average Temperature: 12 - 29℃ (53.6 – 84.2℉)
Precipitation: 293 mm (11.5 in)

It’s not very hot in Datong in summer. The temperature remains 22 - 30℃ (71.6 - 86℉) during the day; only in the hottest July do high temperatures exceed 30℃ (86℉), but not for more than 5 consecutive days. Even on these days, coming to the shade, you can immediately feel a refreshing coolness. With the dry air, people rarely feel sticky. At night, the temperature drops to 15 - 18℃ (59 - 64℉). When going back to the hotel, you don’t even need to use air conditioning, just open the window for cool breeze to blow in. 

It’s the rainy season of Datong. There are a total of 38 days in the three months seeing some rain, and the latter two months boast more. The precipitation accounts for 60% of the annual value. It usually rains heavily in a short period, accompanied by thunderstorms, strong winds, and hail.
 Summer clothes including T-shirt, shorts, and light pants are all suitable for a summer trip in Datong. Skirts and summer dresses are also good choices for women. Sandals or casual shoes can keep your feet comfortable. Meanwhile, prepare a sun protection jacket to resist the sun at noon and relatively low temperatures in the early morning and evening, particularly on rainy days. Sunglasses and rain gear should also be carried during outings. 
 1. If you cannot stand the heat, choose chain hotels with air conditioning rather than homestays, which are often not equipped with that. You can confirm with the staff in advance for peace of mind.
2. Be prepared to meet some crowds at main attractions, as it’s a popular summer destination during the summer vacation in China. You can set off early to avoid the peak tourists. Besides, don’t forget to make a reservation for popular Mt. Hengshan and Yungang Grottoes in advance.
 Average Temperature: -2 ~ 23℃ (28.4 – 73.4℉)
Precipitation: 106 mm (4.2 in)

Autumn is considered the most comfortable season of the year with clear sky and pleasing climate, but it’s short and cools down quickly. The high temperature remains 22 - 28℃ (71.6 - 82.4℉) in September, but declines quickly to 15 - 19℃ (59 - 66.2℉) by the middle of October. Day-night difference enlarges gradually, and cold nights with a low temperature of below 0℃ (32℉) begin to appear as time goes by. There is not much precipitation; sunny days dominate this season. However, when the cold air passes, people are likely to meet the first snow in October, but it usually is not heavily and melts quickly. 
 In the first half: T-shirt with light pants during the day, and add a trench coat after nightfall. 
In the second half: Wearing layers is important. T-shirt with denim shirt is a good match when going out in the sun, while in the early morning and evening, it’s not an exaggeration to add a fleece windbreaker or thin downcoat. Sweatpants and jeans can be chosen for the bottom. 
Shoes: Either casual shoes or sneakers are OK.
 1. Other than historical sites, you can admire autumn scenery on the way to Hanging Monastery and on the wall of Datong Ancient City.
2. If time permits, try to avoid October 1 - 7, the National Day holiday of China, when Datong welcomes a short travel peak period.
 Average Temperature: -18 ~ 6℃ (-0.4 ~ 42.8℉)
Precipitation: 30 mm (1.2 in)

Winter is long and chilly in Datong, with a high temperature of -10 ~ -5℃ (14 - 23℉) in the daytime. Continuously blowing wind further lowers the perceived temperature, making people frigid. The low temperature remains below -10℃ (14℉) all the time. In the coldest January, it drops below -20℃ (-4℉). When going out, it’s really challenging to expose your skin to the air. But to deal with extremely low temperatures, all indoor spots are equipped with a heating system, which starts to work as early as mid-October. 

It doesn’t belong to a season with rich precipitation. Around 10 days are snowy. Most of the snow is light; when cold air hits, heavy snowfall occurs, forming a thick cover that exists for several days. Hazy conditions often appear, 5 - 6 days per month on average.
 Tourists need to pack warm and windproof winter clothes, which are easy to put on and take off, considering the temperature difference between indoors and outdoors.
Up: thermal shirt and sweater or hoodie as the inner layer, downcoat as the outer
Bottom: long johns, winter pants
Shoes: non-slip snow boots, warm socks
Accessories: Winter hat, gloves, and a scarf are essential, particularly when you visit attractions at high altitudes where the wind can be strong.
 1. Visiting Datong in winter of 2025, you need to confirm the opening time of your destinations first, as some spots, like Datong Museum, adopt low-season timetable.
2. Reduce outdoor activities on strong windy or extremely cold days. You can alternate indoor and open sites within a day.
3. Make full use of the day for sightseeing. There is no nightlife in Datong this season, and almost no people can be seen outside after 9 pm because of the cold weather.
4. You are completely away from the troubles of peak season, that is, crowded tourists, and you can fully enjoy the journey at ease.