Pudong Weather in December

December weather

Pudong feels properly wintry in December. Days reach about 11°C, while nights can drop to 3°C. Rain is modest, but damp air and cloud can make the cold feel sharper than the numbers suggest. You'll get around five hours of sun a day, so bright spells are possible.

It's a good month for indoor sights and short outdoor walks between them. Visit the Shanghai Tower observation deck or explore the shops and restaurants around Lujiazui when the riverside feels chilly. The Bund-facing paths are still worth a stroll on a clear afternoon, but long outdoor outings can get uncomfortable. With only about ten hours of daylight, plan your sightseeing around the shorter winter days.

Events and crowds

Christmas isn't a traditional Chinese holiday, but malls around Lujiazui often put up festive decorations. You may spot seasonal displays at Super Brand Mall, though exact events change each year. New Year brings celebrations around Shanghai, but the busiest action may be across the river rather than in Pudong.

If you hate crowds, December is generally calmer than October, one of the best months to visit. Hotels and attractions can also feel less pressured than in peak autumn. Expect more visitors around Christmas and New Year, and possible price rises on popular dates.

Make the most of it

Travelling with kids? Shanghai Disneyland's seasonal decorations can make a cold day feel special, but check the park's calendar before you go.

For a practical warm-up, duck into the connected Lujiazui malls after a walk by the river. You can also take Metro Line 2 to Lujiazui station, then reach the Shanghai Tower and nearby malls without a long outdoor trek. December is drier than November, but rain still falls on several days, so keep an indoor stop in mind if the river clouds over.