Chengdu, the heart of Sichuan Province, is famous for its spicy Sichuan cuisine, adorable giant pandas, and laid-back tea culture, Chengdu is a destination worth exploring any time of the year. But when is the best time to visit? That depends on what you're looking for! Here's a detailed breakdown of the best time to explore Chengdu, whether you're after pleasant weather, fewer crowds, or lower prices.
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When is the best time to visit Chengdu?
The best time to visit Chengdu is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer mild temperatures, pleasant weather, and the perfect conditions to explore the city’s rich culture, famous Sichuan cuisine, and adorable giant pandas.
- ✅Spring (March - May): With temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C, this season brings blooming flowers and clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
- ✅Autumn (September - November): Cool and dry weather (15°C - 25°C) makes exploring temples, tea houses, and scenic mountain spots more enjoyable.
Best time to visit Chengdu by season
Before you start planning your Chengdu adventure, let’s talk about the weather and temperature in Chengdu—because trust me, it plays a big role in your experience!
Spring (March - May): Flowers & perfect weather
Spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit Chengdu. The city awakens from winter with blooming cherry blossoms and warmer temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). The air is fresh, and the parks are filled with vibrant colours, making it the perfect time for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.
🌸 What to wear: Light layers, as mornings and evenings can be cool.
🏞️ Best things to do:
- Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding while the pandas are most active.
- Stroll through People's Park and sip a cup of tea at a local teahouse.
- Admire cherry blossoms at Qinglong Lake or Xindu Guihu Park.
💡 Tip: March and April have the best weather. May starts getting humid, so prepare for occasional rain showers.
Summer (June - August): Hot, humid & spicy
Summer in Chengdu can be challenging due to high humidity and temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Frequent rain showers provide relief, but the heat can be intense, making it a great time to enjoy indoor attractions and cool mountain getaways.
☀️ What to wear: Light, breathable clothing, and always carry an umbrella for both rain and sun protection.
🔥 Best things to do:
- Visit Jinli Ancient Street in the evening to enjoy the vibrant night scene.
- Escape the heat at Qingcheng Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Escape the heat by visiting Jiuzhaigou Valley, a stunning nature reserve with breathtaking waterfalls and lakes.
🎊 Events & Festivals:
- Dragon Boat Festival (June): Watch boat races and try traditional zongzi (sticky rice dumplings).
- Chengdu Craft Beer Festival (June - August): A lively event with craft beer and live music.
💡 Tip: Avoid sightseeing at midday—plan indoor activities like visiting the Sichuan Opera for a cool break.
Autumn (September - November): Cool, crisp & scenic
Autumn is arguably the best time to visit Chengdu. The heat of summer fades, and temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it perfect for exploring both the city and its scenic surroundings
🍂 What to wear: A light jacket or sweater, as evenings can be chilly.
🏯 Best things to do:
- Hike at Leshan Giant Buddha for stunning views with comfortable weather.
- Wander through Wuhou Temple and Jinsha Site Museum for a cultural experience.
- Visit Huanglongxi Ancient Town, a picturesque riverside town near Chengdu.
- Enjoy a hotpot in a riverside restaurant while the crisp air enhances the experience.
🎊 Events & Festivals:
- Mid-Autumn Festival (September/October): Eat mooncakes and enjoy lantern displays.
💡 Tip: The National Day holiday in early October brings huge crowds. Plan your visit either before or after for a better experience.
Winter (December - February): Chilly but cosy
Winter in Chengdu is not as harsh as northern China, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 12°C (36°F to 54°F). However, the humidity can make it feel colder than it actually is. While it rarely snows in the city, nearby mountains offer a winter wonderland.
❄️ What to wear: A warm coat, gloves, and scarves to stay cosy.
🏮 Best things to do:
- Visit the Leshan Giant Buddha in the winter mist for a mystical experience.
- Enjoy Xiling Snow Mountain, the best place near Chengdu for skiing and snow activities.
- Visit Mount Emei, one of China’s four sacred Buddhist mountains, where you might see snow-covered temples.
🎊 Events & Festivals:
- Chinese New Year (January/February): A time of fireworks, family feasts, and temple fairs.
- Chengdu Lantern Festival (February): Beautiful light displays and cultural performances.
💡 Tip: Winter is off-peak, so it’s a great time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices.
- Round-trip
- One way
- direct cheapest
SIN10:404h 50mNonstopTFU15:30Singapore - Chengdu|Sat, Mar 22|Singapore AirlinesTFU18:155h 15mNonstopSIN23:30Chengdu - Singapore|Wed, Mar 26|Singapore AirlinesS$ 955S$ 1,0509% OFF9% OFFS$ 1,050S$ 955 - SIN10:404h 50mNonstopTFU15:30Singapore - Chengdu|Sat, Mar 22|Singapore AirlinesTFU18:254h 50mNonstopSIN23:15Chengdu - Singapore|Sun, Mar 30|Singapore AirlinesS$ 671S$ 1,05036% OFF36% OFFS$ 1,050S$ 671
SIN1:00 PM3h 5mNonstopCTU2:00 PMSingapore - Chengdu|Sat, Mar 29|Singapore Airlines
CTU1:00 PM3h 5mNonstopSIN2:00 PMChengdu - Singapore|Sat, Mar 29|Singapore AirlinesFind More FlightsFind More Flights
Crossed out prices are calculated based on the average price of the corresponding route on Trip.com.
Best time to visit Chengdu: Month-by-month guide
If you're planning a trip to Chengdu, the weather, tourist crowds, and local events can all impact your experience. Whether you prefer the mild and comfortable seasons of spring and autumn, the lively festival periods, or the quieter off-peak months, we've got you covered.
Check out the month-by-month guide below to see temperature ranges, rainfall levels, and travel insights to help you choose the best time for your Chengdu adventure!
| Month | Temperature Range (°C/°F) | Rainfall Levels (mm/inches) | Traveller Insights |
| January | 3-10°C / 37-50°F | 10 mm / 0.4 inches | Cold but manageable. Ideal for hotpots and fewer tourists. |
| February | 5-12°C / 41-54°F | 12 mm / 0.5 inches | Mild winter. Chinese New Year brings festivities and crowds. |
| March | 9-18°C / 48-64°F | 20 mm / 0.8 inches | Spring starts. Great time to see pandas and blooming flowers. |
| April | 13-23°C / 55-73°F | 40 mm / 1.6 inches | Warm and comfortable. Perfect for outdoor sightseeing. |
| May | 17-26°C / 63-79°F | 80 mm / 3.1 inches | Peak season. Expect more tourists. Lush greenery everywhere. |
| June | 21-30°C / 70-86°F | 110 mm / 4.3 inches | Start of summer. Hot and humid, but still manageable. |
| July | 24-33°C / 75-91°F | 200 mm / 7.9 inches | Very hot with frequent rain showers. Best for indoor activities. |
| August | 24-33°C / 75-91°F | 220 mm / 8.7 inches | Similar to July. Pack light clothes and an umbrella. |
| September | 20-28°C / 68-82°F | 120 mm / 4.7 inches | Comfortable autumn weather. Great for exploring parks. |
| October | 15-24°C / 59-75°F | 60 mm / 2.4 inches | National Day holiday increases travel activity. Lovely scenery. |
| November | 10-18°C / 50-64°F | 20 mm / 0.8 inches | Fewer crowds. Great time for cultural sites. |
| December | 5-12°C / 41-54°F | 10 mm / 0.4 inches | Cold but festive. Perfect for winter delicacies. |
Peak season, shoulder season & off-peak season to visit Chengdu
Peak season to visit Chengdu
💥Peak season: March to May, July & August
These months attract the most visitors thanks to comfortable weather and various festivals. And when students have their summer vacation, although the weather is hot, Chengdu is still popular.
- Crowds & Costs: Expect higher prices for flights and hotels, with popular attractions like the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding and Kuanzhai Alley, packed with tourists.
- Pros: Ideal weather for sightseeing, stunning seasonal scenery, and lively cultural events.
- Cons: Higher travel costs, crowded attractions, and the need for advance bookings.
Tip: Book flights and hotels early. Visit attractions in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds.
Shoulder season to visit Chengdu
🔥Shoulder season: December to February
Winter in Chengdu is mild compared to northern China, making it a great time for travellers who prefer fewer crowds.
- Crowds & Costs: Moderate prices for flights and hotels. Tourists are fewer, except during Chinese New Year.
- Pros: Enjoy hotpot and local delicacies in cold weather. Less crowded attractions mean a more relaxed experience.
- Cons: Occasional drizzles and foggy days can make outdoor sightseeing less appealing.
Tip: Bring warm clothing and try the famous Sichuan hotpot to beat the chill.
Off-peak season to visit Chengdu
😊Off-peak season: September to November
Chengdu experiences a cool autumn, but during this period, the students are at school, so Chengdu is not as busy as usual. But be sure to avoid October 1-7, which is the golden week in China.
- Crowds & Costs: Lower prices for flights and hotels, except during the school holiday peak.
- Pros: A budget-friendly time to visit, perfect for foodies who want to indulge in Sichuan cuisine.
- Cons: The heat and humidity can be intense, and occasional heavy rains may disrupt plans.
Tip: Avoid Chinese National Day holiday (October 1-7).
Recommended hotels in Chengdu
5 star
Outstanding4095 Reviews
Luomashi Commercial Area Chengdu|1.12km from downtown
I recently stayed at Dorsett Chengdu, and it was an exceptional experience from start to finish. The hotel is centrally located, making it convenient for exploring Chengdu’s top attractions, including Kuanzhai Alley and Tianfu Square. The nearby metro station was a huge plus for getting around the city with ease.
The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, going above and beyond to ensure our stay was comfortable. Check-in and check-out were smooth, and the concierge team was always available to offer recommendations and assistance. Their warm hospitality added a personal touch that made us feel welcome.
The room was spacious, modern, and impeccably clean, with a comfortable bed, a large desk for working, and a well-equipped bathroom with high-quality toiletries. I especially appreciated the thoughtful details, such as complimentary bottled water, slippers, and a selection of teas. The floor-to-ceiling windows provided stunning views of the city skyline, which was a highlight of our stay.
The hotel’s breakfast buffet was excellent, offering a wide variety of options to cater to both Western and Chinese tastes. From freshly made dim sum and noodles to classic pastries and fresh fruits, everything was delicious and of high quality. The dining area was spacious, and the service staff were attentive and efficient.
Dorsett Chengdu also offers fantastic facilities, including a well-maintained gym and a relaxing lounge area. Although I didn’t have time to visit the spa, it looked inviting, and I’d love to try it on my next visit. Another standout feature was the complimentary smartphone provided in the room, which came with internet access and was incredibly helpful for navigating the city.
Overall, Dorsett Chengdu exceeded my expectations in every way. It offers exceptional value for money, combining luxurious comfort with top-notch service and an unbeatable location. I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Chengdu and will definitely stay here again on my next trip!FromSGD 53
Outstanding1374 Reviews
West China Hospital and Sichuan Provincial Stadium Commercial Area Chengdu|2.85km from downtown
The reception staff were extremely helpful and kind. The gym was very clean and organize. Equipped with all necessary equipment and it was 24/7. There is a nice sauna room in the mens bathroom next to the swimming pool. The swimming pool closed at 10/11. The chlorine in the water was too much and it left a very strong chemical residue in the air that it burned my eyes because of lack of ventilation in the pool area.
The room was squeaky clean. Amazing. The washing machine and tumble dryer were new and worked great. The bath and shower drained properly which was good for a change. The air conditioner made the room nice and cold. As for the room the only critique I have is that the wifi was very bad that I couldn't do my work on my laptop because of the slowness of the wifi. Over all I would definitely recommend this hotel.FromSGD 116
Outstanding6232 Reviews
Chunxi Road Commercial Area Chengdu|1.17km from downtown
I recently had the pleasure of staying at the Crowne Plaza Chengdu, and overall, it was a very satisfying experience. From the moment I arrived, the staff made me feel welcome with their warm and professional service. Check-in was smooth and efficient, and I was promptly shown to my room.
The room itself was spacious, well-appointed, and offered all the amenities you'd expect from a hotel of this caliber. The bed was extremely comfortable, ensuring a good night's sleep after a day of exploring Chengdu. The bathroom was clean and modern, with a great shower that had strong water pressure—a small detail that makes a big difference.
One of the standout features of Crowne Plaza Chengdu is its excellent location. It’s situated right in the heart of the city, making it easy to access popular attractions, shopping centers, and restaurants. This convenience made my stay even more enjoyable, as I could easily walk or take a short ride to wherever I needed to go.
The hotel's dining options were also impressive. The breakfast buffet offered a wide variety of both Western and Chinese dishes, ensuring that there was something for everyone. The quality of the food was high, and I particularly enjoyed the fresh pastries and local specialties.
The facilities at Crowne Plaza Chengdu are top-notch. The fitness center was well-equipped, and the indoor pool was a great place to relax after a long day. I also appreciated the business center, which made it easy to catch up on work when needed.
While the hotel is slightly older, it is well-maintained, and the charm of the classic design adds to the overall experience.
In summary, Crowne Plaza Chengdu exceeded my expectations in terms of service, comfort, and convenience. It’s a great choice for both business and leisure travelers, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone visiting Chengdu.FromSGD 113
Outstanding5857 Reviews
Downtown Culture Area Chengdu|0.84km from downtown
This Ritz-Carlton hotel is in an excellent location for families. The Taikoo Li and IFS shopping area is only a few minutes away by metro or Didi. The Chengdu Panda Reserve Base is a very reasonable distance (30 minutes drive).
The facilities are very nice. The lobby has a great view from the 25th floor. The cafe there also has good coffee and food. The room was very comfortable and clean, with an excellent coat closet. The bathroom is one of the best-equipped we have seen. It has a fully-equipped Toto bidet (automatic opening lid, washing, drying, warming), a convenient hair-dryer outlet inside the drawer, a nice tub and shower. We had the twin room (which was really full-size beds) that was plenty of room for us and our son. Each bed already came with 4 pillows each.
All the hotel staff demonstrated excellent service. Especially Lucia Shang at the front desk reception. She was very helpful and answered all of my questions (in English).
I would recommend this hotel to anyone looking for a central location and well-equipped facilities.FromSGD 158
Outstanding6830 Reviews
Yulin Life Plaza and Tongzilin Commercial Area Chengdu|4.31km from downtown
We had the suite including the package for high tea and breakfast in the executive lounge, which we found absolutely worth the price
Nice and helpful staff, at the front desk as well as shoe cleaning, in room dining, room cleaners....
Very good customer experience.
The room was exceptionally clean and also looked after by the staff a few times during the day.
Also the pool area was very clean and enjoyable, we just missed a steam room and a sauna.FromSGD 90
Business travel
Outstanding11938 Reviews
Chunxi Road Commercial Area Chengdu|0.86km from downtown
Located in the central business district of the city, close to Chunxi Road, a time-honored street, Chengdu Xinliang Hotel is within touching distance of the fashionable shopping landmark – IFS (International Financial Centre) and Taikoo Li, and within walking distance of Tianfu Square – the traffic hub of the city center. It serves as a great base for exploring Chengdu because of its perfect location. The hotel’s design is inspired by the Ba-Shu culture featured in leisurely life, incorporating elegant modern styles to create an oasis in the middle of a prosperous city. The warm personalized service makes you feel perfectly at home and enables you to enjoy all the comforts of lifeFromSGD 32
Outstanding19314 Reviews
Luomashi Commercial Area Chengdu|1.44km from downtown
English below 👇
The service was very good. Help me super fast in the night and with my special wishes. Very kind. The food was also very good. A lot of options were available. The room quality was extraordinary. Also the elevators were super quick and not too crowded. The highlight of the hotel is the robot who is bringing you the food if you order it. Overall I can only recommend it. Greetings from Germany :)FromSGD 40
Excellent2392 Reviews
Chunxi Road Commercial Area Chengdu|1.08km from downtown
Location is great, walking distance to Taikooli, Chunxi Road, IFS and many others shopping and night market area. Room is great, compact, clean and tidy. 4 bottles of water and two soft drink for free. Amenities are great. They also have self-laundry facility for guest to use. Definitely worth the price!FromSGD 46
Outstanding7239 Reviews
West China Hospital and Sichuan Provincial Stadium Commercial Area Chengdu|2.25km from downtown
Perfect stay for visiting Chengdu.
Rooms are big, comfortable, big shower and very clean. Chinese breakfast is fabulous! And every day, from 15 to 21, you have 2 snacks included.
Strategic position for move with metro. Hotel is close to Sichuan Gymnasium stop Line 3.
At the front desk there are amazing people that help you in every request you make.
If we come back in Chengdu, we will book there again.
Thanks!FromSGD 68
Outstanding6525 Reviews
Chunxi Road Commercial Area Chengdu|1.32km from downtown
This is a decent budget hotel with clean room & bathroom to sleep after all day out visiting/shopping. Front desk is informative. If your back facing the hotel, on your left walk straight down on the main road for 10-12 mins until you see to landmark of Panda crawling backside on the top of IFS, Chengdu. Cross the road if go IFS; dont cross the road if you want to shop at Chunxi Street. Taiko Li is behind IFS or Silver Building. The streets are bustling with people, shops/merchandise, buildings with wonderful neon lightings that surely worth your social media posts.
Opposite Panda landmark is the 24hrs shuttle bus stop that goes to Tianfu Airport, vice versa at RMB15 one way. Alternatively if you have heavy luggages you can take a 1 hr cab ride to Tianfu via highway around RMB210. Plan 3 hours ahead your flight if you plan to shop in duty free.
There are convenient store on your left, boutique and fruit store on right. There is a local tour shop at the hotel lobby. Any day trip arrangements to Panda Research Center, Sanxingdui Museum, Leshan, Jiuzhaigao, Er Mei Shan, Pingle Ancient Town/Tiantai Mountain, etc are available, reasonably priced, accommodating and friendly to foreign tourists.
Suggestion: Extra portable heater to be available as the heater can blow and reach bed area only ya; the corner room is big and spacious. Bathroom and sofa area were cold at night.FromSGD 30
Breakfast
Outstanding4806 Reviews
Chunxi Road Commercial Area Chengdu|0.7km from downtown
Excellent service from the reception counter. Because we don't really know how to operate the local app then have to keep bathing the staffs but they are very patience. Like the room setting. It's super clean. And I like the concept of robots going around to deliver things. It made food ordering very easy too. Will come againFromSGD 58
Outstanding1615 Reviews
Shijicheng New Exhibition Commercial Area Chengdu|9.44km from downtown
Amazing! We chose this hotel for its prime location and promising facilities, amenities and views. Our room was clean and very spacious for a family of 3. We enjoyed the swimming pool and the hot tub - there’s even a sauna here. Having a washing machine and drier in the room made it convenient for us to wash and dry our wet clothes from swimming. Our stay here was worth every penny. Highly recommended. We will definitely stay here again on our next visit to Chengdu.FromSGD 75
Outstanding1973 Reviews
Chengdu University of TCM/Kuanzhai Alley Nearby Area Chengdu|0.59km from downtown
One of the wrost for the Foreigner is this hotel staff a bit rude and only a few staff this hotel quite reasonable. The day I checked out, I request hotel to help me for Taxi, staff at reception was can't arrange for me, I was nearly at 25 minutes at hotel. Finally I had requested a guest from hotel, the gentleman was very kind and help me to book taxi, during book a free taxi was passed to hotel, we all call taxi stopped. Otherwise I will missed the My flight. Luckily that Taxi driver too, very kind, understand my situation, he drives first, take me airport on before my check-in times closed. Will never come this hotel.
First and last for this kind of staff, un helpful staff at reception. Did really sorry for this hotel. There two to 3 staff are quite ok. But not excellent like Nostalgia Hotel. Compare with Nostalgia hotel, this orange hotel Black in white in customer service.
Think about if I delay in reception another 25 minutes I will lost my Flight TKT to Shanghai.
So i don't recommend any foreigners stay this hotel.FromSGD 40
Outstanding546 Reviews
Luodai Ancient Town and Surrounding Area Chengdu|24.75km from downtown
The location of the hotel is very good, just at the entrance of the scenic spot. The environment is quiet in the bustle, which is very suitable for vacation. I booked the Yunshu Room with a bathtub. The room is spacious and bright, and disposable bathtub bags are also provided. Although it is not bad to have a medicine pack. There are many places to eat near the hotel, and Qiaojie Beef Restaurant is worth recommending. When I was tired from walking at night, I went to the foot massage parlor diagonally across the street from the hotel for a foot massage chair and a pedicure. It was very popular. The hotel's hygiene and service were very good. The breakfast environment was good. Although the breakfast variety and variety were limited, I ignored it. Overall, it was quite good. Well, the hotel is located in the scenic area. It is very convenient for walking, shopping and enjoying the scenery.FromSGD 41
Outstanding817 Reviews
North Railway Station Area Chengdu|7.56km from downtown
We went on a self-driving tour to western Sichuan and departed from Chengdu on the first night. After reading the reviews online, we booked this hotel in advance. The price was not expensive, parking was free, and the room was very clean. When we returned to Chengdu, we still chose this hotel. The service was very enthusiastic. We returned to the hotel very late that night. Knowing that our companions had altitude sickness, they sent hot water to the room and also kindly informed us that the pharmacy next to the hotel was open 24 hours a day. The environment was okay. Thumbs up 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻FromSGD 23
Best time to visit Chengdu for different travellers
👉For panda lovers visiting Chengdu
Best time to visit: March to May, September to November
Why? Cooler temperatures and active pandas make these months the best time to visit the research base.
👉For food lovers visiting Chengdu
Best time to visit: Anytime!
Why? Chengdu’s famous street food, hotpot, and snacks can be enjoyed year-round, but winter is best for spicy hotpot.
👉For nature enthusiasts visiting Chengdu
Best time to visit: Spring & Autumn
Why? Perfect for visiting Mount Qingcheng, Jiuzhaigou (a bit further away), and Leshan Giant Buddha without extreme weather.
👉For budget travellers visiting Chengdu
Best time to visit: December to February
Why? Hotels and flights are cheapest but be prepared for chilly weather in winter. And remember to avoid Chinese New Year.
👉For family travellers visiting Chengdu
Best time to visit: September and October
Why? During this period of time, Chengdu offers mild weather and great outdoor activities for kids.
Explore Dujiangyan Scenic Spot for SGD14.83! 🌳🏞️ #5ARated #WaterProjects
🎭 SHUYANFU Dinner Show in Chengdu! Only SGD 92.29! 🎉
Shufeng yayun Sichuan Opera House, Chengdu. Only SGD 22.06! 🎭
💓One-day tour in Chengdu
Volunteer with pandas in Chengdu for SGD82.13! 🐼❤️ #ChengduPandaTour
Explore the mystery of ancient Shu culture in Chengdu! Only SGD 21.48! 🎉
🌟 Private Tour in Chengdu! See Pandas & Buddha! Only SGD98.97!
Travel tips for your Chengdu trip
- Booking: Reserve Chengdu hotels and panda base tickets in advance during peak seasons.
- Getting around: Use the metro to avoid traffic, and don’t miss the local teahouses for a true Chengdu experience.
- Connectuivity: Remember to get a local China eSIM to get connected seamlessly.
- Food: Be prepared for numbing Sichuan peppercorn in local dishes!
- Pandas: Visit early in the morning to see them at their most active.
No matter when you visit Chengdu, you’ll find incredible food, rich culture, and a city that embraces a slow and enjoyable pace of life!