January is Shanghai’s coldest month, with average temperatures ranging from 2–8°C (36–46°F). Compared to December, January is slightly colder and has more rainy days average of 5–6 days, with a rainfall of 1.6 inches/41 mm.
The weather was usually cloudy and rather cold, but recent winters have been mild. You can tell that from 2026, which followed the 2025 warm-winter pattern, with daytime highs often above 6°C (43°F), and there were 10 rainy days with all light rain.
Is January a Good Time to Visit Shanghai?
January may not be the best time to visit Shanghai, but it's still a nice month.
As the coldest month of Shanghai, it’s not bitterly cold, but it does feel damp and chilly, especially on overcast days.
Compared to the bustling Christmas and New Year celebrations in December and the lively Chinese Spring Festival in February, January is much quieter and offers a more affordable journey.
And if you want a true off-season experience without the holiday rush in 2027, aim for early to mid-January (January 1–20), as late January may coincide with the Chinese Spring Festival travel rush (February 5–11, 2027).
What to See and Do in Shanghai in January
Experience New Year's Day Tradition: Height Climbing
If you have a habit of getting up early to exercise and aren't afraid of the morning chill, feel free to join locals in the Chinese custom of climbing to a high place for good luck in the new year on January 1st.
You can book your spot in advance for the Oriental Pearl Tower run, where you can run up to the 30th floor in 18 minutes and shout New Year's greetings to the whole of Shanghai.
It's okay if you don't want to participate in large events. Just head to the Shanghai Tower’s observation deck for a leisurely stroll, and take in the panoramic view of Shanghai in the new year.
Stay Warm for Indoor Cultural Attractions
Most of Shanghai’s top sights are indoors and heated.
If you are interested in Chinese aesthetics and history, the Shanghai Museum (East Campus) could be an excellent choice, where you can easily spend hours exploring bronzes, sculptures, and ancient paintings without feeling the cold.
For guests with Buddhist beliefs, the Jade Buddha Temple offers a tranquil spiritual retreat amidst the chanting and the sounds of wooden fish drums, and the temple’s enclosed halls are quite comfortable.
Stroll for New Year Sales in Shopping Malls
As the Chinese New Year approaches, shopping malls in Shanghai decorate according to the zodiac animal of the year, and locals flock to buy New Year's gifts and decorations.
This means you may find great sales and promotions, especially in mid-January. Just head over to the nearest large shopping mall, such as Xintiandi, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, and IFC Mall in Pudong.
Even if you don’t buy anything, the festive window displays and red-gold decorations are a visual treat.
Warm Up by Enjoying Local Specialties
Shanghainese cuisine has plenty of cold-weather comfort dishes.
For a local breakfast, try savory soy milk with fried dough sticks. And don’t miss a bowl of glutinous rice wine soup (jiu niang yuanzi), which tastes sweet, warm, and slightly alcoholic, perfect for a chilly morning.
And you could not miss the xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) at Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant (南翔馒头店). Its crab roe soup dumplings (蟹粉小笼包), dipped in ginger and vinegar, are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, fragrant yet not greasy, leaving you feeling warm and cozy.
What to Pack and Wear in Shanghai in January
January’s cold, damp weather calls for a focus on indoor activities and daytime outings. Evenings can be uncomfortably chilly, so plan to wrap up outdoor sightseeing by 5 PM.
Layering is your best strategy, normally a thermal base with a fleece or a thick sweater, plus a windproof coat or a down jacket to keep yourself warm. Choose water-resistant boots with thick socks on cold, rainy days.
Don’t forget to bring a sturdy umbrella and a waterproof shell to layer over your coat. And a medium-sized backpack could also be useful, since most indoor spaces are heated, and you will want to hold your extra layers.
Visiting Shanghai in January with China Highlights
Most travelers come in spring or autumn, ignoring January also offers something they miss: true off-season peace, more affordable costs, and a rare chance to see the city at its most local.
The cold? Manageable with the right layers and a smart itinerary. Let China Highlights craft a winter escape that balances cozy indoor treasures with unforgettable daylight adventures.
Start planning your January trip now. We'll show you a side of Shanghai few tourists ever see. Or you can see more Shanghai tours.