Sichuan Weather in October

1. Sichuan’s weather in October shows the traces of autumn, with cool temperatures. Northwestern Plateau is much colder than other regions due to its high altitude. 

2. In terms of rainfall, Sichuan Basin in the east is in the dry season, receiving less rainfall than the rest of the areas, but still experiences humid air. 

3. October is one of the best times to visit Sichuan. Apart from nice weather, the stunning fall foliage view in the Northwestern Plateau attracts countless visitors. But try to avoid visiting this place in early October, when it is the Chinese National Day Holiday, crowded everywhere. 

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Chengdu Weather in October
Jiuzhaigou Weather in October

Early Autumn View in Jiuzhaigou

Eastern Sichuan’s climate in October becomes cooler and cooler. For instance, Chengdu experiences the daily highs of 20-25°C (68-77°F). By late month, the daytime highs are often no more than 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit). Overcast and rainy days are much cooler, with the highest temperature only about 14 degrees Celsius (57 degrees Fahrenheit). 

Besides, there is a considerable day-night temperature difference here, averaging around 8-10°C (46-50°F). In the early morning and evenings, the weather usually hovers between 12 and 17°C (54-63°F). Therefore, it’s highly recommended to wear a light jacket before going out in the early morning, as the perceived temperature may be only 15°C (59°F) during this time. 
 

It’s also worth noting that the weather in October changes rapidly, with sudden drops or rises in temperature possible.
 

Eastern Sichuan receives a small amount of rainfall in October. Take the example of Chengdu: the average precipitation is 35 mm from 13 rainy days. The rain in this area during October is usually brief. Thus, it won’t significantly influence your outdoor travel plans. 

But because of its basin terrain and endless cloudy days, Eastern Sichuan’s climate is still quite humid in October, with an average humidity level of about 81 %. 
 

In October, this region experiences a limited sunlight period, around 3-4 hours per day. Moreover, layered clouds further weaken the ultraviolet rays, so you'll feel comfortable outdoors. If you are sensitive to UV rays, wearing a peaked cap is enough. 

Northwestern Plateau features significant elevation rises, resulting in considerable temperature variations. For example, the temperature at the entrance to Jiuzhaigou Valley National Park is 3-5°C (37-41°F) higher than the primeval forest area. But overall, the temperature in this area is quite cool, with day time temperatures hovering between 15 and 19°C (59-66°F) in Jiuzhaigou. During midday, especially when the sunlight falls on you, you may feel somewhat warm, with the extreme high temperature once reaching about 26°C (79°F). 
 

However, in the early morning and late afternoon, the weather is so chilly that many visitors would wear a down coat to stay warm. In Jiuzhaigou, the lowest temperature sometimes drops to 8°C (46°F), and you may even spot piled snow due to the arrival of cold air. 

Autumn View in Jiuzhaigou

The climate of Northwestern Sichuan in October is a little rainy: Jiuzhaigou sees an average precipitation of 60 mm accumulating from 17 days. It is mostly in the form of light showers, often followed by fog. 
 

Yes, it’s possible to witness snowfall in this area. For instance, Jiuzhaigou usually welcomes its first snowfall from mid-October to early November. But it doesn’t stay long. Only in the deep area of the primeval forest, you may see trees and mountains blanketed in snow, presenting a spectacular snowy landscape. 
 

Considering the rainy weather in this region, the average humidity level is around 73 %. 
 

The sunlight hours in October are around 6 hours per day on average. In the light of the high altitude and thin air, the sunshine can be really harsh: The ultraviolet radiation intensity in the plateau region is three to five times that of Sichuan Basin. Therefore, it’s essential to take sun protection into consideration. 
 

Thanks to its geographical advantages, the Southwestern Valley of Sichuan enjoys a mild temperature and moderate rainfall in October. For example, Panzhihua experiences daily high temperatures usually ranging from 15-22°C (59-72°F), and witnesses an average precipitation of 147 mm from 13 rainy days. 
 

Upper Clothing: In the low-altitude area, a long-sleeved shirt or a light hoodie inside and a windbreaker outside are usually suitable for your daily outing. If you want to explore the highland area, it’s best to try this outfit: a wool sweater, a down coat and a windbreaker. Alternatively, a 3-in-1 jacket is also a nice option. 
 

Bottom Clothing: It’s usually enough to wear thick jeans or sweatpants in the Chengdu urban area. But if you are going to mountainous regions, don’t forget to layer thermal underwear plus waterproof hiking pants. 
 

Footwear: A pair of comfortable sneakers goes with any clothes, and non-slippery hiking shoes are helpful to keep safe during your hike on high lands. 
 

Accessories: 

Sun-protective Items: sunscreen, sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat for sunny days on the plateau areas. 

Rain gear: A raincoat is more flexible for your outdoor activities. 
 

1. October is the prime time to admire the colorful forests of Jiuzhaigou National Park. As time passes, the hues of the trees deepen progressively. By the end of the month, the foliage transforms entirely into shades of gold and red, reaching its peak viewing period.

2. Early October coincides with the Chinese National Day holiday, one of the longest public holidays. During this period, attractions are overly crowded, tickets for popular sites are sold out in a flash, and hotel prices are skyrocketing. For a more comfortable travel experience, you are highly recommended to avoid this peak season; if cannot, plan it at least one month ahead. 

3. In October, the daytime hours gradually shorten from 12h to 11h. Short daylight hours mean you should make wise travel plans. But even though the dark falls, you won’t get bored, especially in Chengdu. You may visit Jinli Street, Wide and Narrow Alley, or Chunxi Road to appreciate an authentic Sichuan Opera and taste Chengdu Hot Pot. 

4. On rainy days in Northwestern Plateau, you can focus on viewing waterfalls and misty landscapes rather than lakes, such as Nuorilang Waterfall and primeval forests in Jiuzhaigou, as rainfall may affect the clarity of the lake, reducing its scenic appeal. In terms of the Sichuan Basin, it’s also a nice choice to visit Sanxingdui Museum and Jinsha Site Museum if the weather is not pleasant.