Great Wall of China Weather in December

Season: Winter
In short: The climate at the Great Wall in December is cold and dry, accompanied by biting winds and occasional snowfall.
 Average temperature: -9℃ to 3℃ (16℉ to 37℉)
Highest temperature: 14℃ (57℉)
Lowest temperature: -16℃ (3℉)

December marks the onset of winter at the Great Wall, bringing a significant drop in temperatures. The average daily minimum temperature hovers around -9℃ (16℉), while the average daily maximum stays at approximately 3℃ (37℉). On sunny days with ample sunlight, the temperatures can climb to around 5℃ (41℉), offering a faint sense of warmth. On overcast or windy days, however, temperatures often plummet below freezing. In extreme cases, the lowest temperature may dip to roughly -16℃ (3℉) at night. Fortunately, December typically sees more than 20 sunny days, providing favorable windows for visits.

The Great Wall covered with snow in December

 Average precipitation: 17 mm
Humidity: 49%, indicating very dry conditions

On average, it rains only one day at the Great Wall in December, and some years it doesn't rain at all.
 December usually brings two snowfalls to the Great Wall, typically one in the first half and another in the second half of the month. 
 Sunrise time: 07:16 - 07:36
Sunset time: 16:50 - 16:59

December boasts the shortest daylight hours of the year at the Great Wall, with less than 9 hours of daylight per day. Therefore, if you plan to visit the Great Wall in December 2025, it is recommended to arrange your itinerary in advance and ensure you finish the tour before sunset at around 17:00. The average daily sunshine duration this month is 5.5 hours, with gentle sunlight and relatively low ultraviolet radiation. As such, it is suggested to visit the Great Wall between 11:00 and 15:00, during which the warm sunlight will help alleviate the harsh cold.
 1. December falls in the off-peak tourism season. The number of visitors to the Great Wall is relatively small, eliminating the need to wait in long queues. This allows you to appreciate the Great Wall’s beauty at a more leisurely pace.
2. There is a chance to witness distinctive snow scenery. Cloaked in snow, the Great Wall resembles a white dragon meandering through the mountains, evoking a sense of tranquility and grandeur.

The Great Wall on a cloudy day in December

The Great Wall on a sunny day in December

1. The intense cold air and biting winds can cause discomfort to visitors during their tour.
2. The natural landscape surrounding the Great Wall becomes rather monotonous in winter, as vegetation withers away.
3. Snow and ice may accumulate on the Great Wall in winter, making the paths slippery and increasing both the difficulty and risk of walking. Visitors must exercise extra caution while moving around.
 Tops: Thermal base layer + sweater + long down jacket

Bottoms: Thermal pants + windproof hiking pants

Shoes: Thermal hiking shoes

Others: Windproof hat, scarf, gloves, mask, hot water, heat packs, lip balm, goggles
 1. In December, there may be 1 day of heavy fog in the Great Wall area, with low visibility and aggravated air pollution. Check the weather in advance and try not to visit the Great Wall on such days.

2. If you wish to visit the Great Wall blanketed in heavy snow, be sure to check the weather forecast beforehand. Opting for a sunny day following snowfall will yield the optimal viewing experience.
 Read more: 
Badaling Great Wall Weather
Mutianyu Great Wall Weather