Kunming Weather in December

December days

December is Kunming's dry, bright winter. Afternoons reach about 16°C, but mornings and evenings can feel chilly, with lows around 4°C. Rain is rare, and you'll often get plenty of sun for walking around the city.

It's a good month for the Yunnan Nationalities Village or a stroll beside Dianchi Lake. The short days mean you'll have less daylight for longer outings, so don't leave a full day's sightseeing until late. November is warmer, while January is just as cool and a little wetter.

Gulls and winter sights

Red-billed gulls return to Kunming for winter, gathering at Green Lake and around Dianchi Lake. Watching them skim the water makes a lovely break between visits to Yuantong Temple and the city's old streets.

If you hate crowds, December is usually calmer than Kunming's busier months, February to May and November. You're also likely to find accommodation better value than in those peak periods, though prices vary. Christmas isn't a major local holiday, and the Lunar New Year usually falls later, so December doesn't bring the same holiday rush.

A handy local tip

Travelling with kids? Green Lake is an easy place to spot the gulls without committing to a long trip outside the city. Go when you can linger, rather than squeezing it between other sights.

For a different winter outing, take the metro to Dounan Flower Market, one of Asia's largest flower markets. December's dry weather suits browsing its stalls, but the market is busiest in the evening. For a quieter visit, go earlier and leave time to wander. Kunming's elevation can make the cool air feel sharp after sunset, so keep your evening plans close to the metro.