Sichuan Weather in August

Sichuan’s weather in August is generally hot, humid, and rainy, especially in eastern Sichuan Basin. Luckily, it gets a bit cooler by late month. Northwestern Plateau, located over 2,000 meters (6500 feet) above sea level, enjoys a much cooler and fresher climate. August is also the peak travel season, as many visitors travel during the summer holiday. 

Lush Jiuzhaigou in August

August in Sichuan Basin remains quite hot. For example, Chengdu experiences daily high temperatures hovering between 30°C and 35°C (86-95°F). In some years, the highest temperature can even reach up to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Celsius). The hottest period of the day usually falls between 13:00 and 16:00, when the perceived temperature can be 3-5°C (37-41°F) higher than the forecast indicates. Fortunately, by late August, daily highs drop to around 28°C (82°F), making the weather slightly more comfortable. 
 

Despite extreme heat during mid-day, early mornings and late afternoons usually keep around 23-25°C (73-77°F), which are the best times of the whole day to engage in outdoor activities. For instance, in Chengdu, you can take a stroll around Jinli Street or Wide and Narrow Alley, enjoy local snacks, and experience its unique traditions such as ear cleaning or Sichuan opera - both part of its rich intangible cultural heritages. 

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Chengdu Weather in August
Jiuzhaigou Weather in August

Local Snacks in Chengdu

Bronze Mask in Sanxingdui Museum

August in Sichuan Basin is characterized by many cloudy and rainy days, occasionally accompanied by heavy downpours and fog. The average precipitation is about 201 mm over 16 days.

In some years, you may not even experience a full day of sunshine throughout the month. So many cloudy and rainy days lead to very high humidity levels, around 80%. Combined with high temperatures, it can make the air muggy and oppressive. Therefore, it’s best to avoid outdoor activities around noon to prevent heat exhaustion. For your reference, you may visit Sanxingdui Museum or Chengdu Museum to learn about local culture and history. 
 

Due to the basin terrain and frequent overcast days in August, Chengdu and surrounding areas experience relatively weaker UV levels compared with most Chinese cities, with the UV levels about 4-6. However, it’s still necessary to apply sunscreen, otherwise you might get sunburn. 
 

Although in hot summer, its high elevation keeps the climate bearable. During mid-days, when the sun peaks its high, the temperature stays around 28°C to 31°C (82-88°F). Only in rare years, the high temperature may reach 36°C (97°F). 
 

On cloudy or rainy days, temperatures drop noticeably, especially toward the end of the month. In the early morning, it can feel as low as 8°C (46°F), particularly near the pristine forests in Jiuzhaigou. 
 

Because of the large temperature difference between day and night, or between sunny and rainy days, packing a light down jacket or windproof shell is highly recommended.

Mount Siguniang

Rainfall in August is frequent but usually short-lived. Jiuzhaigou receives about 102 mm of rain over 16 days. The rain often enhances the park’s mystical beauty - misty forests and shimmering lakes create a dreamlike scene. However, trails and steps may become slippery, so walk carefully and wear proper hiking shoes.
 

Although Northwestern Plateau experiences frequent rainy days in August, the UV rays are pretty intense because of its high altitude. Don’t forget to take sun-protective cautions. 
 

Southwestern Sichuan also experiences a hot climate in August. In Panzhihua, the highs often reach around 30-33 degrees Celsius (86-91 degrees Fahrenheit). Besides, it also undergoes rainy season, with average precipitation of 339 mm over 13 days. On a rainy day, the perceived temperature can drop to around 25°C (77°F). 
 

Light, breathable cotton or linen T-shirts for most places in Sichuan. 

A thin long-sleeved shirt or sun-protective jacket for mornings, evenings, or air-conditioned indoor spaces and also for sun-protective purpose. 

A windbreaker in case of sudden temperature drop in northwestern plateau. 
 

Lightweight pants, hiking trousers, or knee-length shorts.

Avoid tight jeans, as they retain heat and moisture.
 

Comfortable sneakers or breathable hiking shoes.

Beautiful and cozy sandals for urban sightseeing.

Shoe covers for rainy days. 
 

Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen with SPF 50+ for UV protection.

Umbrella or foldable raincoat.

Insect repellent, especially for humid areas.
 

1. Chengdu Giant Panda Base has been a Sichuan’s star attraction all the time. In August, it’s advisable to visit it in the early morning when the weather is cooler and pandas are more likely to be active outdoors. You might even catch them eating bamboos and playing with each other. 

2. The weather of Chengdu this month is hot and humid, so surrounding mountain areas with lower temperatures are preferred by countless visitors. For instance, Mount Qingcheng experiences the highest temperature generally no more than 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). Moreover, dense trees provide refreshing shade during your hiking. 

3. August falls in Chinese summer holiday, so expect crowded attractions and surging travel costs. It’s really hard to book the tickets for some popular attraction, such as Sanxingdui Museum. So remember to plan your visit and book tickets early. If you want to have a relatively peaceful experience, try to postpone your trip to September.