Shaoxing Weather in January

January feels cold and damp

Shaoxing's winter is chilly, with daytime highs around 9°C and nights near 1°C. Rain falls on several days, and the damp air can make the cold feel sharper. Expect grey skies and short daylight, rather than crisp winter sunshine.

The weather suits a slow visit to Lu Xun Native Place, where you can duck into former homes and museums between strolls. Try Shaoxing yellow wine with a warm meal, too. Save long walks along the canals or a boat ride at East Lake for a brighter, calmer spell; cold rain makes both less appealing.

Holidays and crowds

Chinese New Year sometimes falls in January, but its date changes each year. If it does, expect more domestic travellers around the holiday and possible changes to opening hours. Otherwise, January is low season compared with October, Shaoxing's best-known month for comfortable sightseeing. Crowds and prices are generally lower than in autumn.

If you hate crowds, January can be a good time to explore the old streets outside the holiday rush.

Make the most of a quiet visit

The damp weather is a good excuse to spend time inside the Shaoxing Museum or at the former residence of Lu Xun, then take a short wander through the lanes nearby when the rain eases. You'll get a better feel for the city's canal-side life without trying to fit in a full day outdoors.

For an easy local stop, head to Cangqiao Straight Street for a bowl of warm noodles or a taste of yellow wine. Check which Lu Xun Native Place sites are open before you go, especially around the New Year holiday.