Best Places to Visit in China in Winter

1. Harbin

Harbin transforms into a magical ice kingdom during the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival (January-February), where glittering ice castles, towering snow sculptures, and illuminated lantern displays create a breathtaking winter paradise. This world-famous festival makes Harbin one of China’s best winter destinations, perfect for families, photographers, and adventure seekers alike.

Beyond the festival, explore the charming Russian-style Central Street, warm up with hearty northeastern cuisine, and admire the Saint Sophia Cathedral dusted in snow. For winter sports enthusiasts, the nearby Yabuli Ski Resort—China’s premier ski destination—offers thrilling slopes and cozy alpine lodges. Whether you’re sliding down ice slides, watching brave ice swimmers in the Songhua River, or taking a romantic sleigh ride, Harbin delivers an unforgettable winter escape.

Don’t miss: 5 Days Harbin Winter Tour of Yabuli Ski Resort & Ice Snow Festival
Temperature in Each Winter Month (Night to Day):
– December: -21℃ – (-9℃)
– January: -23℃ – (-14℃)
– February: -20℃ – (-10℃)
Winter Rainfall: 10-20mm (mostly snow)

2. Tibet

Tibet in winter offers a serene and deeply spiritual experience, far from the crowds of peak season. With clear blue skies, snow-capped mountains, and crisp air, winter is an ideal time to explore Lhasa and its surroundings. Iconic sites like the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street are less crowded, allowing for more meaningful moments and close-up encounters with local pilgrims.

Despite the cold, Tibet winter travel is surprisingly comfortable in the sun-filled days of the high plateau. You’ll witness vibrant monastic life, enjoy views of the Himalayas, and explore peaceful valleys wrapped in silence. For travelers seeking authenticity, culture, and raw natural beauty, winter is one of the best times to visit Tibet.

Don’t miss: 4 Days Lhasa Tibet City Tour: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple
Temperature in Each Winter Month (Night to Day):
– December: -6℃ – 10℃
– January: -7℃ – 8℃
– February: -4℃ – 10℃
Winter Rainfall: 5-15mm (extremely dry, mostly snow in high-altitude areas)

3. Beijing

As the crowds thin and snow begins to fall, Beijing offers a refreshing and intimate travel experience. Crisp air and occasional snow transform landmarks like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City into postcard-perfect scenes, ideal for photography and peaceful exploration. With fewer tourists, you can enjoy iconic sites like the Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace at your own pace.

Warm up with local dishes like hotpot or roast duck, and stroll through historic hutongs with a steaming cup of soy milk in hand. For travelers seeking history, seasonal charm, and authentic cultural experiences, winter is one of the best times to visit Beijing.

Don’t miss: 4 Days Beijing Private Tour: Explore All Major Sights
Temperature in Each Winter Month (Night to Day):
– December: -5℃ – 3℃
– January: -8℃ – 1℃
– February: -5℃ – 3℃
Winter Rainfall: 10-25mm (occasional light snow, especially in January-February)

4. Xian

Winter reveals a quieter, more reflective side of Xian, where ancient history meets seasonal charm. With fewer tourists and cool, dry weather, it’s a good time to visit the Terracotta Warriors and Big Wild Goose Pagoda, stroll along the ancient city wall, and admire centuries-old architecture without the usual crowds. A dusting of snow over the old city adds a quiet beauty to this former imperial capital.

Warm up with steaming bowls of yangrou paomo or biangbiang noodles in the bustling Muslim Quarter, and dive into the city’s rich cultural heritage through its temples, museums, and traditional markets. For travelers seeking authentic history, flavorful food, and a slower pace, winter is one of the best times to visit Xi’an.

Don’t miss: Xian Terracotta Warriors Day Tour, Top Attractions & Local Foods
Temperature in Each Winter Month (Night to Day):
– December: -2℃ – 7℃
– January: -3℃ – 5℃
– February: -1℃ – 9℃
Winter Rainfall: 15-30mm (occasional light snow/rain mix)