When summer arrives, much of the world turns like a giant furnace, and China is no exception. Many regions have been hit by persistent high temperatures, with some areas seeing mercury soar to 39 - 41℃ (102 -106℉). Most areas have high humidity, making the weather muggy. Cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an are also generally experiencing high temperatures. Unsurprisingly, “escaping the heat” has shot to the top of travelers’ priorities when planning trips, with online searches for the term surging nearly 200% from previous periods.
 

Thanks to their cool climate and stunning landscapes, places like Tibet and Xinjiang have emerged as top picks for summer retreats.
 

Xinjiang’s vast territory and diverse terrain encompass mountains, forests, grasslands, and lakes. Summer here enjoys mild temperatures, averaging 18 - 25℃ (64 - 77℉), neither too hot nor too cold, making it a hit for cool summer vacations.
 

Best Attractions: Heavenly Lake, Kanas Nature Reserve, Sayram Lake, Bayanbulak Grassland
 

Kanas Nature Reserve, Xinjiang

Tibet’s high altitude makes summer temperatures pleasant, ranging from 10 to 25℃ (50 to 77℉). Its unique natural environment and crisp air make it perfect for relaxation. Everywhere you look, forests, grasslands, snow-capped peaks, rivers, unique Tibetan style architecture, and grazing livestock paint a serene and pastoral picture.
 

Best Attractions: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Sera Monastery, Yarlung Tsangpo River, Mount Everest, Barkhor Street, Mt. Namcha Barwa
 

Potala Palace, Tibet

Summer in Inner Mongolia sees temperatures between 18 and 30℃ (64 - 86℉), with an average of 24℃ (75℉) - a welcome break from the heat. No sweltering mugginess here, just refreshing coolness. Hulunbuir boasts over 3,000 winding rivers, Arxan’s forests cover 90% of the land, and Ulanqab’s vast grasslands stretch endlessly. Each spot is as charming as a painting, ideal for escaping the heat and finding peace.
 

Best Attractions: Hulunbuir Prairie, Xilamuren Grassland, Gegentala Grassland, Xilingol Grassland, Dazhao Temple
 

Hulunbuir Prairie, Inner Mongolia

Yunnan is China’s only province without a harsh summer, with summer temperatures averaging 19 - 24℃ (66 - 75℉). It truly lives up to the saying, “Entering Yunnan is like stepping into spring.” In July and August, Shangri-La stays even cooler, with temperatures between 13℃ and 19℃ (55 - 66℉). Its scenery is a riot of color: blue lakes, blooming flowers, and meadows dotted with yaks.
 

Best Attractions: Dianchi Lake, Lugu Lake, Dali Ancient City, Lijiang Old Town, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Erhai Lake, Tiger Leaping Gorge
 

Sunlight Gilding the Meili Snow Mountains

Temperature in Jiuzhaigou in summer stays at 15 - 25℃ (59 - 77℉), making it a cool, vibrant, and colorful travel destination. Ample water, alpine lakes, waterfalls, and primeval forests combine a breathtaking, fairy-tale-like landscape.
 

Best Attractions: Five-Flower Lake, Double-Dragon Lake, Mirror Lake, Peacock River, Five-Colored Pond
 

The Waterfalls in Jiuzhaigou

The Five-Colored Pond in Jiuzhaigou

Nestled in the eastern Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, Guizhou sits at an average altitude of 1,100 meters - right in the “most comfortable range for humans.” Midsummer temperatures average just 23℃ (73℉), and 80% forest coverage acts like a “green sunshade.” Karst caves, canyons, and waterfalls are everywhere; water vapor evaporation takes away heat, acting as a natural “cooling system.”
 

Best Attractions: Huangguoshu Waterfall, Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village, Zhenyuan Ancient Town
 

Gannan, a hidden gem nestled on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, is renowned for its pristine natural scenery, simple folk customs and unique geographical features. July and August are its most magical months: grasslands turn lush green, wildflowers burst into bloom, and the landscape seems like a living painting. With temperatures between 10℃ and 25℃ (50 - 77℉), it’s the warmest period of the year and the best time to explore.
 

Best Attractions: Labrang Monastery, Sangke Grassland
 

Summer temperatures at Changbai Mountain average around 22℃ (72℉). The area is a “natural oxygen bar” with over 90% forest coverage and high negative ion levels, earning it fame as a summer resort. Tianchi Lake’s clear waters blend with mountain mists, while the 1,400-meter (4,600-foot) alpine garden bursts with colorful flowers in the cool air, making summer beauty at its finest.
 

Best Attractions: Tianchi (Heavenly Lake), Changbai Waterfall
 

Changbai Mountain, Changchun

Besides, although cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, and Chengdu are experiencing high temperatures, there are still relatively cool places to escape the heat. The Summer Palace in Beijing, Taiping National Forest Park in Xi'an, the Bund in Shanghai at night and Dujiangyan Irrigation System in Chengdu are all good choices. 
 

1. The temperature difference between day and night in the above summer resorts is relatively large. Please prepare a thick coat for backup.
 

2. Set off early and try to avoid outdoor activities during the midday.
 

3. Summer is also a rainy season in China. It is recommended to check the weather forecast in advance and avoid going out in the heavily rainy days. 
 

4. When engaging in water activities such as rafting and snorkeling, take safety precautions.