Guangzhou Weather in December

December weather

Guangzhou feels mild in December, with warm afternoons and noticeably cooler evenings. The average high is 22°C and the low is 10°C. It's one of the best months on our comfort scale, rated 10/10. Rain is light, so you can spend long stretches exploring without planning your day around showers.

That makes it a good month for the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, Shamian Island and walks along the Pearl River. The cooler air also makes a day in Yuexiu Park more comfortable than in sticky summer weather. Just bring a layer, because the river breeze can feel chilly after dark, so an evening cruise may be less pleasant than you'd hope.

What to do

December isn't a major public-holiday month in China, and Christmas isn't a day off. Still, malls such as Taikoo Hui often put up Christmas decorations, so central Guangzhou has a festive feel. For a local winter meal, try claypot rice. It arrives sizzling, with crisp rice at the bottom.

Travelling with kids? Pair a visit to the Guangdong Science Center with an easy afternoon around Haizhu Lake.

Crowds and costs

December sits inside Guangzhou's comfortable November-to-February window, which is the best stretch of the year to visit. November and January are nearly as good, though both are wetter than December. It can be busier than the hot, rainy summer months, especially around Christmas shopping areas, but it's generally not as hectic as China's big national holiday periods. Room prices may be firmer than in the low season, though quieter dates can still feel relaxed.

If you hate crowds, go to Shamian Island on a weekday. For an easy evening, ride the APM line to Canton Tower station and enjoy the tower's river views without a long outdoor walk. If your visit overlaps the Guangzhou Marathon, which is held in December, check local road notices, since routes can be affected.