Hangzhou Weather in January

January weather

January is a fair time to visit Hangzhou, scoring 5.4 out of 10, and the cold is the main reason it doesn't score higher. Days reach about 9°C, while nights can drop to 0°C. Rain falls on around 10 days, and grey skies are common, so the air often feels colder than the thermometer says. Compared with February, which is wetter, January is drier, though it's a little cooler than December. If you want better weather, October is the month to aim for.

The weather suits slow walks through the old streets and tea houses, with breaks indoors at the China National Tea Museum. West Lake is still worth seeing, though rain and low cloud can hide its famous views. On wet, windy days, skip the long lakeside walks, since the paths get cold and slippery.

Winter days out

Lingyin Temple is a good stop on a chilly morning. Its halls and wooded setting make a welcome break from the lakeside. When you're ready for something warm, try Hangzhou's local Pian'erchuan noodles, a bowl of pickled greens and pork, served in a small restaurant near Hefang Street.

If you love quiet walks, January's calm West Lake paths may suit you better than October's busy season.

Crowds and timing

January is quieter than October, Hangzhou's best-known peak month, so you're more likely to find room at popular sights and get lower hotel rates. The New Year's Day holiday can bring extra visitors, though. Chinese New Year sometimes falls in January, and when it does, expect busy transport and higher prices around the holiday.

For a practical cold-weather stop, visit the China National Tea Museum in Longjing Village, then warm up with a cup of local Longjing tea. The museum's indoor exhibits are useful when rain interrupts your West Lake plans.