Chengdu Weather in May

Season: Spring 
Overview:
1. Chengdu’s weather in May is relatively cozy: daytime is mostly warm and occasionally a little hot, while nighttime remains comfortably cool, suitable for casual strolls after sunset. 
2. May brings moderate rainfall, with mostly light showers, but heavy downpours are not impossible here, requiring you to monitor the weather forecasts regularly. 
3. Due to the favorable climate, May is one of the best times to visit Chengdu, except for early May, when it coincides with the crowded May Day Holiday. 
 

Warm Temperatures

In general, Chengdu experiences a warmer and warmer climate in May, with daytime highs ranging from 26 to 32°C (79-90°F). By late in the month, Chengdu enters the beginning of summer, and days with temperatures over 30 degrees Celsius become quite frequent. On rare occasions, the highest temperature can reach 36 degrees Celsius (97 degrees Fahrenheit). 

The daily temperature variation is relatively small, typically ranging between 5-10°C (9-18°F), and nighttime lows are usually at 15-21°C (59-70°F). You are advised to wear a light jacket to stay comfortable. 

On rainy days, the weather is slightly cooler, with daytime highs of 21-27°C (70-81°F). Notably, rain is often accompanied by mist, which makes the apparent temperature even lower. 
 

A Bit Rainy

Chengdu’s climate is slightly rainy in May, with an average precipitation of 79 mm over 15 days. The rain is usually in the form of brief showers that don't last long and are usually light to moderate. Thus, your outdoor travel plans won’t be affected significantly. 

However, severe convective weather is possible, often bringing thunderstorms, short bursts of heavy rain, and strong winds. Don't worry: these downpours are usually localized and pass quickly. But be aware, they can cause slippery roads and puddles in low-lying areas. Remember to check the forecast ahead of time, and wear slip-resistant, waterproof shoes if rain is expected. 
 

Relatively Dry Weather

Although Chengdu is a humid city throughout the year, May is a relatively drier month, with an average humidity of 70%. Coupled with its pleasant temperatures, the comfortable air makes May one of the best times to visit Chengdu. 
 

Sunlight Hours and Daytime Hours

Sunrise Time: 6:01-6:19
Sunset Time: 19:41-20:00

Chengdu has plenty of daytime hours in May, up to 14 hours per day on average. The night comes as late as around 20:00. Therefore, visitors can enjoy a relaxed and fulfilling travel experience. Whether you enjoy checking off tourist attractions or prefer immersing yourself in local culture and customs, you can have a great time.

May is one of the sunniest months, with an average of 5-6 hours of sunshine each day. And the UV rays are quite strong, especially during the midday hours. Therefore, if you plan to explore the city, don’t forget to take necessary measures. 
 

Is May a Good Month to Visit Chengdu?

Definitely yes! May is one of the best times to visit Chengdu. 

Chengdu’s climate in May is comfortable and favorable for traveling: daytime hours are warm, while nights send cool breezes; the rain is not so much and the sunshine is abundant; the daylight hours are quite long. 

Besides, compared with many other months, most of May does not have a very high number of tourists. Hotel prices are relatively reasonable at the same time. 

Averages for Chengdu Weather in May

Temperature: 21°C / 70°F
High Temperature: 26°C / 79°F
Low Temperature: 17°C / 63°F
Humidity: 70%
Rainfall: 79 mm
Rainy Days: 15 days
Sunrise: 06:02 ~ 06:20
Sunset: 19:42 ~ 20:01
Air Quality in May
Average AQI:58
Chengdu Air Quality in May

What to Wear in Chengdu in May 2026

Upper Clothing: T-shirts are usually enough for urban areas in Chengdu. In the early morning and late evening, you might need a light jacket to stay comfortable. For a nearby one-day tour, like Mount Qingcheng and Dujiangyan Irrigation System, long-sleeved shirts plus windbreakers are more suitable. 
 
Bottom Clothing: It’s ok to wear shorts or light long pants. Women can also wear long dresses or skirts for an impressive outfit. 

Footwear: It’s essential to prepare comfortable sneakers. On rainy days, non-slip rain boots are quite practical. 

Accessories: 
Considering the frequent drizzles, always remember to carry rain gear during your journey: an umbrella for a city walk, and a raincoat for a light hiking tour. 
Don’t underestimate the UV rays, pack sunscreen, sunglasses and a sun hat. 
 

Travel Advice and Tips

1. The May Day holiday falls on the 1st-5th of May, which kicks off the domestic travel rush. During this period, attractions are overly crowded, train tickets are hard to buy, and hotel prices are skyrocketing. You are highly recommended to avoid these days or make related reservations at least one month in advance. 

2. Even in this shoulder season, must-visit attractions like Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Dujiangyan Irrigation System, and Sanxingdui Museum are always full of tourists, especially on weekends. It’s best to book tickets in advance and visit them on weekdays. 

3. Some midday may make you feel not very comfortable because of the heat and intense sunshine. With many indoor shops to visit and Sichuan opera performances to admire, Jinli Street and Wide and Narrow Street serve as interesting destinations for this period.

7-Day Chengdu Weather Forecast

CityWeather

What is the temperature in Chengdu in May?

High/Low Temperatures of Chengdu in May
Temperatures Graph of Chengdu in May
Air Quality of Chengdu in May
Chengdu AQI Graph in May

Historical Chengdu Weather in May

May  Temperature  Sunrise / Sunset Humi-
dity
(%)
High  Low
1 28.7°C / 83.7°F 17.3°C / 63.1°F 06:20 / 19:42 49
2 30.4°C / 86.7°F 20.2°C / 68.4°F 06:19 / 19:43 47
3 27.8°C / 82°F 20.2°C / 68.4°F 06:18 / 19:43 61
4 26°C / 78.8°F 20.5°C / 68.9°F 06:17 / 19:44 74
5 22.9°C / 73.2°F 19.2°C / 66.6°F 06:17 / 19:45 92
6 25.6°C / 78.1°F 16.9°C / 62.4°F 06:16 / 19:45 73
7 27.4°C / 81.3°F 17.5°C / 63.5°F 06:15 / 19:46 64
8 23.4°C / 74.1°F 17.4°C / 63.3°F 06:14 / 19:47 63
9 23.5°C / 74.3°F 16.2°C / 61.2°F 06:13 / 19:47 60
10 27.6°C / 81.7°F 17°C / 62.6°F 06:13 / 19:48 60
11 26.3°C / 79.3°F 18.4°C / 65.1°F 06:12 / 19:49 65
12 22.3°C / 72.1°F 19.3°C / 66.7°F 06:11 / 19:49 77
13 25.7°C / 78.3°F 18.6°C / 65.5°F 06:10 / 19:50 73
14 25.2°C / 77.4°F 18.1°C / 64.6°F 06:10 / 19:51 72
15 23°C / 73.4°F 18.7°C / 65.7°F 06:09 / 19:51 80
16 26°C / 78.8°F 18°C / 64.4°F 06:09 / 19:52 72
17 23°C / 73.4°F 17.1°C / 62.8°F 06:08 / 19:53 83
18 23.6°C / 74.5°F 17°C / 62.6°F 06:07 / 19:53 85
19 23.3°C / 73.9°F 17.7°C / 63.9°F 06:07 / 19:54 72
20 22°C / 71.6°F 17.5°C / 63.5°F 06:06 / 19:54 87
21 24.2°C / 75.6°F 15.2°C / 59.4°F 06:06 / 19:55 80
22 23.6°C / 74.5°F 18.5°C / 65.3°F 06:05 / 19:56 78
23 26.7°C / 80.1°F 19°C / 66.2°F 06:05 / 19:56 79
24 29.7°C / 85.5°F 19.1°C / 66.4°F 06:04 / 19:57 72
25 28.1°C / 82.6°F 21.5°C / 70.7°F 06:04 / 19:58 69
26 24.6°C / 76.3°F 18.6°C / 65.5°F 06:04 / 19:58 83
27 24.8°C / 76.6°F 19.6°C / 67.3°F 06:03 / 19:59 85
28 30.3°C / 86.5°F 18.6°C / 65.5°F 06:03 / 19:59 74
29 29.1°C / 84.4°F 22°C / 71.6°F 06:02 / 20:00 77
30 27.6°C / 81.7°F 21.7°C / 71.1°F 06:02 / 20:00 79
31 26°C / 78.8°F 22.2°C / 72°F 06:02 / 20:01 84
- Last updated on Jan. 19, 2026 by Rachel Hou -