Weather, the Best Time to Visit Hubei

Overview

Hubei Province is located in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River, north of Dongting Lake. It has a subtropical monsoon climate with four distinct seasons, with cold winters, hot summers, warm springs and refresh autumns. Rain and heat coincide, with uneven distribution over time and space.

The province has an average annual temperature of 16.7°C. January is the coldest month, with most areas averaging 3–5°C, while July is the hottest, with averages ranging from 26 to 29.5°C. The average annual precipitation is 1,200.7 mm, decreasing from south to north. Rainfall is markedly seasonal, abundant in summer and scarce in winter, with about 63% falling between May and September. The average annual sunshine duration ranges from 1,050 to 2,075 hours, increasing from south to north. The frost-free period averages 220 to 310 days per year.

The Best Time and Seasons to Visit Hubei

Hubei's summers are hot and humid, with average temperatures in July ranging from 27 to 29°C. In the Jianghan Plain, temperatures can exceed 40°C, earning it the nickname of "furnace". The province receives an average annual rainfall of 800–1,600 mm. Due to its varied terrain, areas such as southern Shennongjia are among the rainiest, while the Jianghan Plain often experiences flooding in years with prolonged plum rain seasons.

Therefore, the best time to visit Hubei is during spring and autumn. Of course, if you wish to enjoy water activities like rafting, the summer—when water levels are abundant—is also a great choice.

However, due to the unique geographical terrain giving rise to a diverse range of climatic patterns, the best travel time may in different areas differ accordingly.

Hubei Weather in Four Seasons

Spring (March to May)

Gentle rains moisten the land, and a breeze carries a hint of warmth, that spring is quietly approaching. The land of Jingchu sheds the stillness of winter and dons the splendid colors of spring. With a single night's spring wind, slumbering blossoms awaken, and graceful Hubei bursts into a riot of blooms, painting Jingchu in vivid hues. From the falling cherry blossoms like pink snow in Wuhan's East Lake, to the miles of golden seas of rapeseed flowers in the Agricultural Valley; from the subtle fragrance of red plum blossoms beneath the ancient city walls of Jingzhou, to the glowing peach blossoms of Yichang, wandering through these floral seas, bathed in the spring breeze, one carefully tucks away these flowers, these scenes, these emotions into memory, where they will never fade.

Summer (June to August)

As summer arrives, even the breeze brushing by takes on a layer of humid heat. Walking through the streets of Wuhan, you can instantly feel waves of scorching air that soak you in sweat within minutes, truly experiencing the passion of this "furnace" city. Yet in this province of a thousand lakes, there is never a shortage of ways to escape the heat and find cool retreats. Here you'll find Shennongjia, the vast forest dubbed the "green lung of Central China"; the Wudang Mountain where the scorching summer turns into a clear autumn; the cool western Hubei towns, rich in selenium and ideal for health retreats; and the Dabie Mountains, long regarded by Wuhan locals as their backyard summer haven.

Autumn (September to November)

When the first breath of autumn sweeps across Jingchu, it comes unhurried, carrying a touch of northern coolness mingled with the remnants of summer restlessness, drifting gently over the banks of the Yangtze, painting a vivid, colorful autumn. The plants are the first to sense the brush of time. Leaves shift from green to yellow, then blaze into red. Golden ginkgo, fiery maple, and romantic pink muhly grass silently narrate poems of the changing seasons. In the Three Gorges Tribe, after an autumn rain, the landscape sheds its summer exuberance and reveals an understated fall. Amid the misty clouds, everything appears spotless, dreamlike, and ethereal—a quiet, tranquil autumn.

Winter (December to February)

As autumn's footsteps gradually fade, the land of Jingchu quietly welcomes a new season. Winter arrives in Hubei with its own unique poetry and romance. Here, winter combines the delicate charm of the Jiangnan water towns with the grandeur of northern landscapes. In the mountains, rime and icicles, seas of clouds, snow and frost are breathtaking. Looking along forest paths, branches are adorned with crystal-clear ice, shrouded in mist, with frost clinging thickly to every limb. Climbing Yellow Crane Tower and gazing far across the endless Yangtze River, with its vast, hazy waters, stirs a surge of heroic feeling. Though the river in winter lacks the riot of blossoms of spring, it possesses a desolate, majestic beauty all its own.

Hubei Weather by Month/Year Round

If you can freely choose when to travel to Hubei, it is recommended to select the most suitable month based on your interests and preferences. If you don't have the flexibility to choose, it is advisable to understand the advantages and disadvantages of traveling to Hubei in each month. According to them, you can be better prepared in advance.

View your month: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December

January: is January a Good Time to Visit?

Speaking of January in Hubei, it is neither the land of ice stretching for thousands of miles in the north, nor a desolate scene with no trace of people in the mountains. Snow falls on Shennong Peak, draping the endless mountain ranges in silver, winding like a long river across the sky. Pines and cypresses wear coats of frost, resembling countless silver swallows in flight. Wudang Mountain, mystical and graceful, has red walls and tiled roofs dusted with white frost, like a palace of jade in the heavens. The rime on the Golden Summit looks like fine silver needles, adorning the forest.

In January, Hubei's average temperature ranges from 1.6°C to 8.7°C, with lows around -9°C and highs up to 23°C. The average monthly rainfall is about 19.47 mm, with an average humidity of 54.88%. The weather is mainly sunny or cloudy, sometimes bringing rain or snow, with occasional haze, not suitable for travel.

January is low tourist season in Hubei, meaning fewer visitors, more flexible itineraries, and lower travel costs. However, some attractions may close due to weather, making it more suitable for experiencing Hubei's custom and culture, so careful planning is advisable.

What to Wear/Bring in January

Hubei in January is cold, so it's important to wear warm clothing such as down jackets, woolen coats, and face masks. You might also consider bringing a beanie, scarf, and gloves, and carrying a thermos for hot water. Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended for mountain excursions, and sunglasses are advisable for snow activities to prevent snow blindness. As rainfall can be unpredictable, it's best to carry an umbrella or raincoat just in case. Sunshine can be quite strong, so you may also want to bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and lip balm to protect against dry or chapped skin.

February: is February a Good Time to Visit?

Heaven and earth are renewed, all things come back to life, spring arrives quietly with light, graceful steps. Trumpet trees, tulips, and kapok trees exude a subtle fragrance, ushering in the first hints of spring. Flower buds swell, ready to bloom, brimming with vitality. As the Spring Festival approaches, the festive atmosphere grows stronger. Bright red lanterns sway along Hubei's streets, while cheerful red "Fu" characters symbolizing good fortune highlight the joyous smiles of the people.

In February, Hubei's average temperature ranges from 3.4°C to 11.4°C, with lows around -4°C and highs up to 24°C. The average monthly rainfall is about 16.36 mm, with an average humidity of 58.97%. The weather is mainly cloudy or overcast, partly sunny, sometimes bringing rain or snow, with occasional haze, not suitable for travel.

February is low tourist season in Hubei, meaning fewer visitors, more flexible itineraries, and lower travel costs. However, some attractions may close due to weather, making it more suitable for experiencing Hubei's custom and culture, especially during the Spring Festival, so careful planning is advisable.

What to Wear/Bring in February

Hubei in February is cold, so it's important to wear warm clothing such as down jackets, woolen coats, and face masks. You might also consider bringing a beanie, scarf, and gloves, and carrying a thermos for hot water. Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended for mountain excursions, and sunglasses are advisable for snow activities to prevent snow blindness. As rainfall can be unpredictable, it's best to carry an umbrella or raincoat just in case. Sunshine can be quite strong, so you may also want to bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and lip balm to protect against dry or chapped skin.

March: is March a Good Time to Visit?

In March, the land of Jingchu bursts with life, when grasses grow, orioles sing, and flowers bloom in profusion. At Wuhan University, Luojia Hill is a riot of color as cherry blossoms fall like rain, warm breezes stirring the intoxicating breath of spring. By night, lanterns illuminate the cherry trees, their blossoms casting shadows that dance alongside ancient buildings. In Danjiangkou, vast peach orchards come into a radiant painting following the spring, every glance revealing boundless springtime charm. Meanwhile in Jingmen, thousands of rapeseed flowers bloom without reservation, spreading golden hues and delicate fragrance across the countryside.

In March, Hubei's average temperature ranges from 8.3°C to 17.4°C, with lows around -2°C and highs up to 30°C. The average monthly rainfall is about 33.79 mm, with an average humidity of 58.76%. The weather is mainly cloudy or rainy, partly sunny, occasional bringing haze or snow, with frequent wind, suitable for travel.

March is common tourist season in Hubei, meaning fewer visitors, more flexible itineraries, and lower travel costs. Some attractions are gradually operated during this time, with many spring outing activities, making it the best time to visit Hubei.

What to Wear/Bring in March

Hubei in March is cool and windy, so it's important to wear warm clothing such as down jackets, windbreakers, and face masks. You might also consider bringing a beanie, scarf, and gloves, and carrying a thermos for hot water. Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended for mountain excursions, and sunglasses are advisable for snow activities to prevent snow blindness. As rainfall can be unpredictable, it's best to carry an umbrella or raincoat just in case. Sunshine can be quite strong, so you may also want to bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and lip balm to protect against dry or chapped skin.

April: is April a Good Time to Visit?

Spring is in full bloom, April at its finest. Warm breezes caress the land, and Hubei reveals its boundless gentle charm. Forests stretch lush and green, branches heavy with blossoms, releasing rich fragrance under the nurturing spring rain. Families venture out to enjoy the season; children's laughter, framed by the vibrant scenery, shines brighter than vast seas of flowers. In Longjing tea villages, tender shoots emerge on tea bushes, terraces cascade down the hillsides. Rows of fresh green wrap around the mountains like flowing skirts. Villagers move busily through the fields, baskets at their waists, picking the first spring tea, embracing the season, sowing hope.

In April, Hubei's average temperature ranges from 12.9°C to 22.8°C, with lows around 1°C and highs up to 36°C. The average monthly rainfall is about 44.25 mm, with an average humidity of 62.82%. The weather is mainly cloudy or rainy, partly sunny, occasional bringing some haze, with frequent wind, suitable for travel.

April is high tourist season in Hubei, meaning more visitors, more limited itineraries, and higher travel costs. Most of attractions are fully operated by the Qingming Festival, with many spring outing activities, making it the best time to visit Hubei.

What to Wear/Bring in April

Hubei in April is pleasant and windy, so it's important to wear comfortable and windproof clothing such as windbreakers, sweaters, and face masks. You might also consider bringing a beanie, scarf, and gloves, and carrying a thermos for hot water. Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended for mountain excursions. As rainfall can be unpredictable, it's best to carry an umbrella or raincoat just in case. Sunshine can be quite strong, so you may also want to bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and lip balm to protect against dry or chapped skin.

May: is May a Good Time to Visit?

In May, Hubei is bathed in bright sunshine and filled with the scent of blooming flowers, an ideal time to travel. Beauty graces every season, and scenery delights at every turn. On Guifeng Mountain, a hundred thousand acres of rhododendrons burst into bloom above the clouds, forming the most stunning red ribbon in the sky. Meanwhile, in the ancient city of Jingzhou, the enchanting Warring States costume photography season draws young beauty from all over the country. Dressed in traditional attire, every glance back or graceful gesture becomes a striking moment worthy of lighting up social media feeds.

In April, Hubei's average temperature ranges from 17.6°C to 27.4°C, with lows around 9°C and highs up to 36°C. The average monthly rainfall is about 57.67 mm, with an average humidity of 63.23%. The weather is mainly cloudy or rainy, partly sunny, with frequent wind, good for travel.

April is peak tourist season in Hubei, meaning more visitors, more limited itineraries, and higher travel costs. Abundant spring outing activities are launched since the arrival of May Day holiday, making it the best time to visit Hubei.

What to Wear/Bring in May

Hubei in April is warm and windy, so it's advisable to wear comfortable and windproof clothing such as thin windbreakers, sport shirts, and masks. You might also consider bringing a thermos for hot water. Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended while mountaineering. As rainfall can be frequent, it's best to carry an umbrella or raincoat just in case. Sunshine can be quite strong, so you may also want to bring a sun hat and sunscreen to protect your skin.

June: is June a Good Time to Visit?

In June, parks are adorned with blooming lotus flowers, their delicate fragrance filling the air and adding a unique splash of color to early summer. Locals and tourists alike step into this beautiful scene, immersing themselves in a vibrant summer feast. Strolling by the lotus ponds, you see dewdrops glistening on the pink petals, pure and flawless, ready to fall. Bathed in the refreshing lotus scent, far from the hustle and bustle, hearts are soothed and spirits cleansed.

In June, Hubei's average temperature ranges from 21.3°C to 30.0°C, with lows around 14°C and highs up to 38°C. The average monthly rainfall is about 81.66 mm, with an average humidity of 71.14%. The weather is mainly cloudy or rainy, partly sunny, good for travel.

June is common tourist season in Hubei, meaning more visitors, more limited itineraries, and higher travel costs. Abundant activities are launched, while frequent rainfall may affect the itinerary. If you can plan your itinerary reasonably, it is the best time to visit Hubei.

What to Wear/Bring in June

Hubei in June is warm, so it's advisable to wear comfortable clothing such as thin jackets, sport shirts, and sweatershirts. Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended for mountain excursions. As rainfall can be frequent, it's best to carry an umbrella or raincoat just in case. Sunshine can be quite strong, so you may also want to bring a sun hat and sunscreen to protect your skin. It's also suggested to take mosquito prevention measures against mosquitoes.

July: is July a Good Time to Visit?

In July, Hubei earns its reputation as a "furnace", with the summer heat in full force. Amid the scorching days, people long to find a cool retreat to relax both body and mind. Nestled in the deep forests of southwestern Hubei, Enshi is just such a summer haven gifted by nature. The mysterious 30th parallel north runs through this land, where strange peaks rise, gorges stretch deep, and mists swirl, veiling the thousand-year-old customs of the Tujia and Miao ethnic groups.

In July, Hubei's average temperature ranges from 23.5°C to 31.7°C, with lows around 17°C and highs up to 38°C. The average monthly rainfall is about 101.81 mm, with an average humidity of 78.8%. The weather is mainly cloudy or rainy, partly sunny, with frequent wind, not good for travel.

July is peak tourist season in Hubei, meaning more visitors, more limited itineraries, and higher travel costs especially during the summer holiday. Abundant activities are launched, while frequent rainfall may affect the itinerary. If you can plan your itinerary reasonably or avoid the crowds, it is not a bad time to visit Hubei.

What to Wear/Bring in July

Hubei in July is hot and moist, so it's advisable to wear breathable clothing such as shirts and T-shirts. Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended for mountain excursions. As rainfall can be frequent, it's best to carry an umbrella or raincoat just in case. Sunshine can be quite strong, so you may also want to bring a sun hat and sunscreen to protect your skin. It's also suggested to take mosquito prevention measures against mosquitoes.

August: is August a Good Time to Visit?

In August, Hubei is intensely hot. Yet hidden between the Yangtze and Han rivers lies a pristine forest, where the temperature hovers around a refreshing 20°C. Strolling along the mountain paths, you are surrounded by lush, vibrant greenery. The natural canopy shields visitors from the scorching sun. Breathing in the fresh, moist air, each inhale and exhale soothes away anxiety. Here, you can embrace nature at leisure, forget life's trivial worries, release inner stress, and return to a state of pure simplicity.

In August, Hubei's average temperature ranges from 23.4°C to 31.9°C, with lows around 17°C and highs up to 39°C. The average monthly rainfall is about 69.19 mm, with an average humidity of 73.9%. The weather is cloudy, rainy, sunny, or overcast, with frequent wind, not good for travel.

August is peak tourist season in Hubei, meaning more visitors, more limited itineraries, and higher travel costs especially in the summer holiday. Abundant activities are launched, while frequent rainfall may affect the itinerary. If you can plan your itinerary reasonably or avoid the crowds, it is not a bad time to visit Hubei.

What to Wear/Bring in August

Hubei in August is hot and moist, so it's advisable to wear breathable clothing such as shirts and T-shirts. Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended for mountain excursions. As rainfall can be frequent, it's best to carry an umbrella or raincoat just in case. Sunshine can be quite strong, so you may also want to bring a sun hat and sunscreen to protect your skin. It's also suggested to take mosquito prevention measures against mosquitoes.

September: is September a Good Time to Visit?

In September, as the rains recede, the Three Gorges take on the beauty of an ink painting, poetic and picturesque. At Three Gorges Tribe, emerald waters flow tranquilly under a light mist, faint flute melodies drift through the air, and a small boat emerges from the verdant haze, cutting through the fog. The higher the mountains, the denser the forests; the narrower the streams, the clearer the water. Leisurely walking along the creekside plank path, you find crystal-clear water, graceful hills, secluded valleys, and rushing waterfalls. Gentle notes of a zither occasionally float by, blending perfectly with the green mountains, clear streams, and idyllic fields.

In September, Hubei's average temperature ranges from 19.2°C to 27.4°C, with lows around 10°C and highs up to 36°C. The average monthly rainfall is about 32.68 mm, with an average humidity of 68.62%. The weather is mostly cloudy or sunny, partly rainy, suitable for travel.

September is common tourist season in Hubei, meaning more visitors, more limited itineraries, and higher travel costs. Abundant activities are launched, so if you can plan your itinerary reasonably or avoid the crowds, it is a good time to visit Hubei.

What to Wear/Bring in September

Hubei in September is hot and moist, so it's advisable to wear breathable clothing such as shirts and T-shirts, with a jacket to guard against the cold nights. Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended for mountain excursions. As rainfall can be unpredictable, it's best to carry an umbrella or raincoat just in case. Sunshine can be quite strong, so you may also want to bring a sun hat and sunscreen to protect your skin. It's also suggested to take mosquito prevention measures against mosquitoes.

October: is October a Good Time to Visit?

In golden October, the land of Jing-Chu quietly dons its colorful attire, ushering in the most brilliant season of the year. Step into the embrace of Jing Mountains and Chu waters for a romantic rendezvous with autumn, and experience the unique charm and beauty of a Hubei fall. In Shennongjia, elevations unlock nature's vibrant "palette" one after another, mountains blanketed in fiery red leaves and forests awash with layers of color. Crimson, yellow, and green foliage stretches and blazes across the mountains, dazzling under the sunlight. It transforms Shennongjia into a poetic, enchanting wonderland, alive with endless delight.

In October, Hubei's average temperature ranges from 14.6°C to 22.7°C, with lows around 5°C and highs up to 34°C. The average monthly rainfall is about 33.65 mm, with an average humidity of 58.52%. The weather is mostly cloudy or sunny, partly rainy, with occasional haze, best for travel.

October is peak tourist season in Hubei, meaning more visitors, more limited itineraries, and higher travel costs especially during the National Day holiday. Abundant activities are launched, so if you can accept the high cost or avoid the crowds, it is the best time to visit Hubei.

What to Wear/Bring in October

Hubei in October is pleasant, so it's advisable to wear comfortable clothing such as shirts and jackets. Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended for mountain excursions. As rainfall can be unpredictable, it's best to carry an umbrella or raincoat just in case. Sunshine can be quite strong, so you may also want to bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and lip balm to protect against dry or chapped skin.

November: is November a Good Time to Visit?

In November, late autumn quietly arrives. The skies over Jingchu are high and clear, the clouds light and scattered, with layers of green and gold painting the land into nature's most vivid masterpiece. On the Mulan Grassland, deep autumn brings golden fields, herds of cattle and horses, and colorful seas of cosmos flowers swaying in the breeze. Step into Longzhong, where mountains embrace on three sides, forests grow lush and varied in color, and gentle streams flow. It feels as if you've wandered into a hidden paradise, far removed from the world.

In November, Hubei's average temperature ranges from 9.1°C to 16.2°C, with lows around -3°C and highs up to 27°C. The average monthly rainfall is about 17.65 mm, with an average humidity of 59.59%. The weather is mostly sunny or cloudy, partly rainy, with occasional haze and snowfall, good for travel.

November is low tourist season in Hubei, meaning fewer visitors, more flexible itineraries, and lower travel costs. Abundant activities are launched, making it the best time to visit Hubei.

What to Wear/Bring in November

Hubei in November is cool, so it's important to wear warm clothing such as sweaters and jackets. You might also consider bringing a thermos for hot water. Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended for mountain excursions. As rainfall can be unpredictable, it's best to carry an umbrella or raincoat just in case. Sunshine can be quite strong, so you may also want to bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and lip balm to protect against dry or chapped skin.

December: is December a Good Time to Visit?

In December, after a winter rain, the reed marshes along Hankou Jiangtan welcome their most beautiful season. Bathed in the warm winter sun, the reeds burst into feathery bloom. A gentle breeze sets them swaying, their drifting tufts like falling snow, dancing with poetic grace. Crowds of locals and visitors wander through, snapping photos and lingering, reluctant to leave. On Wudang Mountain, when blessed by a heavy snowfall, the entire range seems draped in a pristine white velvet. Ancient architecture and natural scenery complement each other perfectly, creating a breathtaking winter tableau.

In December, Hubei's average temperature ranges from 3.4°C to 10.8°C, with lows around -4°C and highs up to 22°C. The average monthly rainfall is about 6.82 mm, with an average humidity of 52.16%. The weather is mainly sunny or cloudy, sometimes bringing rain or snow, with occasional haze, not suitable for travel.

December is low tourist season in Hubei, meaning fewer visitors, more flexible itineraries, and lower travel costs. However, some attractions may close due to weather, making it more suitable for experiencing Hubei's custom and culture, so careful planning is advisable.

What to Wear/Bring in December

Hubei in December is cold, so it's important to wear warm clothing such as down jackets, woolen coats, and face masks. You might also consider bringing a beanie, scarf, and gloves, and carrying a thermos for hot water. Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended for mountain excursions, and sunglasses are advisable for snow activities to prevent snow blindness. As rainfall can be unpredictable, it's best to carry an umbrella or raincoat just in case. Sunshine can be quite strong, so you may also want to bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and lip balm to protect against dry or chapped skin.