Shaoxing Weather in October

Mild days by the canals

October is the best time to visit Shaoxing, and it's easy to see why. Afternoons are mild and evenings cool down nicely. The air can still feel damp, and it rains on a handful of days, but most of the time you'll find the weather good for wandering the old town's canals, bridges and lanes.

September runs hotter and wetter, and November turns cooler, so October sits in the sweet spot. It also gives you room to balance long walks with slower stops for Shaoxing yellow wine. If a shower catches you beside a canal, duck into the former home of Lu Xun and wait it out there.

Golden Week crowds

China's National Day holiday brings a big rush in early October, so plan around it if you can. Streets get busy, waits near Lu Xun Native Place stretch out, and hotel prices climb. Once the holiday ends, the city quiets down, and October stays a popular month to visit.

If crowds wear you out, aim for the days after the holiday rather than the days during it. The old town is much easier to enjoy then, although weekends still draw plenty of domestic visitors.

Boats and rainy afternoons

October is a good month for a wupeng boat ride. These traditional boats, with their black awnings, glide through Shaoxing's waterways at an easy pace. On a dry day, East Lake is another great pick. Its narrow waterway and steep rock walls make a memorable outing without a long hike.

Travelling with kids? Start with a boat ride along the canals, then keep Lu Xun Native Place as your indoor backup if the rain arrives. For a local bite, try stinky tofu from a stall in the old town. The sharp smell is part of the fun.