Hunan Climate & Weather

BriefingHunan is located in the region of continental subtropical seasonal humid climate. It has four distinct seasons, abundant sun, long frostless periods and abundant rain. The total number of annual sunshine hours is between 1300 and 1800. The annual average temperature is between16℃-18℃. The frostless period is as long as 260-310 days. Annual rainfall is between 1200-1700 mm, which is favorable for the growth of agricultural crops and green plants.

The north generally experiences more extreme weather conditions, both in summer and in winter than the south. In winter, occasional waves of cold front forms a high-pressure zone centered over Mongolia that sweeps southward, damaging tea bushes and fruit trees in northern Hunan. The average minimum temperature in December and January is 6 ℃. Summer is usually long and humid, and temperatures are slightly higher in the north. The average maximum temperature in July and August is 30 ℃.

Tips for Hunan Weather
• Best season to visit Hunan
The best time to travel in Hunan is in spring and autumn, especially from April to June. Spring in Hunan is short and rainy season, and the weather changes a lot in this season. Summer is long and extremely hot in Hunan. The average temperature is higher than 28ºC. Hunan is very dry and cool in autumn. The average temperature seems to be 16 ºC-19℃. In winter, it is a little cold in Hunan. The average temperature of the coldest month January may be 4 ºC-7℃.

• Clothes for travelling
Spring is warm in Hunan; tourists can put on T-shirt and thin coat. However, a thicker coat is also needed as the weather changes a lot in spring. While enjoying your Hunan Tours in summer, you just need to take your T-shirt because it is extremely hot there. Hunan seems to be a little cold in winter, travelers had better bring your sweater and thick coats, or down jacket.

• Avoid Peak Holidays
It is not a good idea to travel in China during Chinese holidays when huge numbers of Chinese people are travelling around. The busiest three national holidays in China are Chinese Spring Festival (usually in late Jan or early Feb.), International Labor Day (May 01 to 03) and National Day (Oct 01-07). Spring Festival is an especially crowded time to travel. The advantage of being in China at this time is that you will get the opportunity to experience "first hand" the significance of these celebrations in Chinese culture.

• Other Tips
Mountain scenic area like Zhangjiajie, has large temperature difference; visitors need to prepare enough clothes to cold-proof and take good care of your body.

The weather is changeful in summer, bring rain gear or buy disposable rain cape before enjoying your interesting Hunan Tours.