Hangzhou Weather in September

September weather

Hangzhou stays warm in September, but it's less fierce than August. Expect afternoons near 29°C, sticky air and showers on many days. Rain can interrupt a walk, though it rarely means you're stuck indoors all day.

The West Lake paths and boat rides still work well between showers. You can also visit Lingyin Temple, where shaded grounds offer a break from the heat. Save long walks on exposed hills for cooler parts of the day, and don't count on a dry afternoon for a full hike.

Events and crowds

The Mid-Autumn Festival sometimes falls in September. If it does, locals gather to share mooncakes and enjoy the full moon. West Lake is a popular place for an evening stroll, so expect more people around the waterfront.

If you hate crowds, avoid the festival dates and weekends around them. Summer school holidays are over, so September is generally calmer than August. October brings drier, cooler weather and is Hangzhou's best month overall, so it tends to draw more visitors. Prices can rise during festival travel, but September is usually a better-value choice than October.

September in Hangzhou: local tips

Travelling with kids? A boat ride on West Lake gives you a pleasant break from walking, but showers can make the day less predictable.

For a local stop, try Longjing tea near the tea fields west of West Lake. The village of Longjing is known for its green tea, and the setting makes a slower, rainy spell feel worthwhile. If you're visiting Lingyin Temple, combine it with nearby Feilai Feng, a hill covered in old Buddhist carvings. Check the sky before setting off between the two; wet paths can be slippery.