Weather: December in Beijing is the middle of winter. It is very chilly and dry. During the day, temperatures rise just above freezing. Overnight, temperatures are mostly below zero. Average low and high temperatures are -6 °C (21 °F) and 4 °C (39 °F), respectively.
It hardly rains in Beijing during December. It may snow, but measurable snow will only fall on 1 or 2 days, on average. Due to the low temperatures, the snow will not usually melt quickly and could remain for several days in the mountain area around the Great Wall.
What to Wear/Bring for a December Beijing Trip
Clothing: Dress for dry winter conditions. It is best to dress in layers, so bring thermal underwear, sweaters, and a heavy coat or jacket. A warm hat, gloves, scarf and boots are needed for the colder days. If you visit the Great Wall, you will need to dress like an Eskimo, as it is freezing due to its elevation and exposure. As it is very dry, remember to bring lotion and moisturizers to protect your skin.
Tips for Visiting Beijing In December
the Great Wall in DecemberDuring the cold days, indoor attractions such as the Capital Museum and (some parts of) the Forbidden City offer pleasant views for visitors combined with warm conditions.
The Great Wall sees few visitors during this time of year but the scenery is amazing, with snowy mountains.
December in Beijing is a good time for those who love skiing and skating. Some ski resorts are not too far from the city (the closest is only about an hour's drive away). See Beijing's top 10 ski resorts.
December does not see many tourists, so good discounts on hotels and flights can usually be found.
Enjoy a Private Tour in Beijing
Have a look at our sample itineraries for some ideas:
- 1-Day Beijing Highlights Tour - Visit the Forbidden City and the Great Wall at your own pace.
- 4-Day Emperor's Tour of Beijing - This 4-day tour is designed to be flexible, without missing the must-sees.
- See more Beijing tours.
Our tours are all customizable. You can send us your interests and preferences, and we will be glad to tailor-make a tour for you.