Year-round weather and climate in Shanghai, China
Average temperatures in Shanghai run from an average low of 2°C36°F in January up to an average high of 33°C91°F in August. December is the driest month at 4 rainy days; July the wettest at 19. Here is the annual climate data, so you know what you are packing for.
Good to know
- Population
- 24.9M
- Currency
- CNY
- Language
- Chinese
- Time zone
- Shanghai
Best time to visit
The most pleasant weather falls in September, October, and November, offering a perfect balance of comfortable temperatures and clear skies.
Rain character
Tropical Downpours: Expect intense bursts of rain during wetter months. Pack quick-drying footwear and a compact umbrella.
Day-to-night swing
Evening Chill: Temperatures drop by a noticeable 9°C16°F when the sun goes down. A light sweater or jacket is usually all you need for evening plans.
Seasonality Profile
Humid Subtropical: Sweltering, wet summers accompanied by mild, drier winters.
Evening vibe
Cozy Indoor Culture: Evenings are generally crisp, damp, or sweltering. Nightlife centers around indoor venues.
Sightseeing stamina
Summer Heat Fatigue: Midday heat in August is intense. Pack high-SPF sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
Average temperatures, sunshine, and rainfall
Average monthly weather in Shanghai, based on recent historical data. Essential insights on temperature swings, expected rainfall, and daily sunshine.
Bars span the average daily low to high. Dec is typically driest at 4 days (22mm); Jul the wettest at 19 days (303mm).
| Month | Average high | Average low | Sunshine hours | Rainy days | Total rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 10°C / 50°F | 2°C / 35°F | 6h | 8 | 70mm |
| Feb | 11°C / 52°F | 3°C / 38°F | 6h | 11 | 77mm |
| Mar | 16°C / 61°F | 7°C / 45°F | 7h | 11 | 99mm |
| Apr | 20°C / 69°F | 11°C / 52°F | 7h | 11 | 105mm |
| May | 25°C / 78°F | 16°C / 62°F | 8h | 11 | 115mm |
| Jun | 29°C / 83°F | 21°C / 70°F | 7h | 17 | 250mm |
| Jul | 32°C / 89°F | 26°C / 78°F | 8h | 19 | 303mm |
| Aug | 33°C / 92°F | 26°C / 79°F | 10h | 13 | 134mm |
| Sep | 28°C / 83°F | 22°C / 71°F | 8h | 13 | 191mm |
| Oct | 23°C / 73°F | 16°C / 60°F | 7h | 8 | 66mm |
| Nov | 18°C / 65°F | 11°C / 51°F | 7h | 8 | 78mm |
| Dec | 11°C / 51°F | 3°C / 37°F | 7h | 4 | 22mm |
Weather data by Open-Meteo.com (opens in a new tab)
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the sunniest time of year to visit Shanghai?
The most sunshine in Shanghai comes around August, averaging 10 hours a month. If you're heading there then, pack your sunglasses and sunscreen.
What clothes should I pack for Shanghai?
Your packing list depends entirely on when you travel. Temperatures in Shanghai swing from an average low of 2°C36°F in January up to 33°C91°F in August. The Packola app builds a tailored packing list for you based on the live weather forecast for your exact travel dates.
Do I need to pack an umbrella for Shanghai?
Shanghai gets rain on about 134 days out of the year. The wettest month is July. If you're traveling during the rainy season, you'll definitely want to pack an umbrella and a light rain jacket.
Pack smarter.
Averages get you close, but the week you travel is what matters. Get the live forecast, a smart packing list, and discover the best local spots and activities in Shanghai with Packola.
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