Zhengzhou Weather in December

December weather

December feels properly wintry in Zhengzhou. Days reach about 8°C, but nights can drop to -3°C, so the cold is sharper after sunset. Rain is scarce, with just 2 rainy days on average, and you'll often get some sun. Still, daylight is short, so outdoor visits feel best in the middle of the day.

The November-to-December chill is a big change: November's highs are around 15°C. Save longer walks for sunny hours, and don't count on a comfortable afternoon at the Yellow River Scenic Area. Its open riverbank can feel especially cold and exposed.

What to do

The Henan Museum works well for a chilly day, with its displays of ancient bronzes and other finds from the province. You can also visit Erqi Memorial Tower in the city centre, then warm up with a bowl of hu la tang, a peppery breakfast soup popular in Henan.

Dongzhi, the winter solstice, falls in December on a date that changes each year. It's a family occasion, and dumplings are a familiar northern Chinese food for the day. There isn't a major fixed December festival that draws visitors to Zhengzhou.

Crowds and local tips

December is winter low season, so it's generally quieter than the best months of March to April and October. Prices are often lower than in those popular periods, though exact deals vary. If you hate crowds, this is a calmer time to visit the city's main sights.

Travelling with kids? Visit the Henan Museum during the coldest part of the day, then try hu la tang nearby. It's warming, filling and a very local way to break up sightseeing. For the Shaolin Temple near Dengfeng, keep the short daylight hours in mind; the outdoor setting is less pleasant in winter cold.