Shanghai Climate and Dress Guide
I. Climate Characteristics
Shanghai has a subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by four distinct seasons that are mild and humid. Winters are short and lack piercingly bitter cold, while summers are humid but high temperatures are tempered by the shade of numerous parks and cooling breezes from the rivers. Spring and autumn offer clear and balanced weather, making the city ideal for year-round urban strolls and outdoor exploration.
II. Seasonal Temperature Range
| Season | Time Range | Average Temperature | Extreme Temperature Range | Perceived Temperature | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Spring |
Mar – May |
10℃～22℃ (50°F – 72°F) |
2℃～28℃ (36°F – 82°F) |
Humid and mild, with alternating periods of rain and sunshine. |
||
|
Summer |
Jun -Sep |
26℃～33℃ (79°F – 91°F) |
22℃～40℃ (72°F – 104°F) |
Predominantly hot and humid; cooler in the shade. |
||
|
Autumn |
Oct – Nov |
17℃～24℃ (63°F – 75°F) |
7℃～30℃ (45°F – 86°F) |
Dry and pleasant, with increasing temperature differences between day and night. |
||
|
Winter |
Dec – Feb |
4℃～10℃ (39°F – 50°F) |
-2℃～15℃ (28°F – 59°F) |
Damp and cold, with significant temperature differences between indoors and outdoors. |
||
III. Essential Clothing Tips for Each Season
Spring (Rainy and Windy Periods):
Modular dressing: packable waterproof jacket + breathable temperature-regulating inner layer (to cope with changeable weather), flat shoes with good grip (to prevent slipping on wet tile surfaces after rain).
Tip for visitors: People with nasal sensitivities should wear lightweight, anti-pollen masks (to reduce the impact of airborne fluff).
Summer (Prolonged Hot and Humid Weathe):
Cooling and sun protection combo: wide-brimmed sun hat + quick-drying, breathable short-sleeved shirt (to protect against UV rays and sweat), perforated woven shoes (to enhance foot ventilation).
Tip for visitors:
People who sweat easily should carry a portable absorbent towel (to keep skin dry and comfortable).
Autumn (Season of Rapid Weather Changes Between Sunny and Rainy):
Light layering principle: windproof fleece jacket + detachable sleeves (to adapt to sudden temperature drops), non-slip Oxford-soled ankle boots (to provide stable footing on slippery surfaces with fallen leaves).
Tip for visitors:
People with dry skin should carry moisturizing spray (to prevent dryness caused by the autumn wind).
Winter (Prolonged Damp and Cold Conditions):
Sealed warmth strategy: high-necked wool inner layer + windproof down jacket (to lock in body heat), waterproof, fleece-lined ankle boots (to prevent rain and snow penetration and protect ankles from the cold).
Tip for visitors:
People with poor peripheral circulation should wear touchscreen gloves (for warmth and convenient use of mobile phones).
