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Shanghai Weather

With a pleasant northern subtropical maritime monsoon climate, Shanghai enjoys four distinct seasons, generous sunshine and abundant rainfall. Its spring and autumn are relatively short compared with summer and winter. The average annual temperature is 16°C. The city is frost-free for up to 230 days a year, and receives an average annual rainfall of 1,200 mm.

Tips for Travelers

Shanghai winter temperatures can drop below zero (Celsius) from late January to mid-February and views may be gray and misty. Spring brings warmth from April to mid-May. Autumn is from late September to mid-November, which can be very cool.

In summer the hot and humid weather makes outdoor conditions uncomfortable, with temperatures sometimes reaching 40°C (104°F) in July and August, and lasting up to 10 days. Highest rainfall is between May and September which accounts for 70% of the annual rainfall. There are many rainy days between the middle of June and the middle of July and heavy rain and thunderstorms can be expected from late August to mid-September.

In short, silk long johns and down jackets are needed in winter, an ice block for each armpit in summer and an umbrella wouldn't go astray in either of these seasons.

Best Time to Travel

Spring and autumn are the best seasons to travel to Shanghai.Between March and May Shanghai is warm and comfortable for spring outings, the trees are green and flowers bursting into bloom. Long-sleeved T-shirts, a thin overcoat and sweater will be enough. Autumn (September to November) is another good time to visit, perfect to enjoy the annual crab season against the golden backdrop of autumn colors.

When to Visit the Skyscrapers in Shanghai or Water Towns near Shanghai

The most popular tourist attractions of Shanghai include the skyscrapers in Shanghai, such as the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai Tower and World Financial Center and the water towns near Shanghai, such as Tongli, Wuzhen and Nanxun.

The clearer the weather is, the more beautiful view you can see on these skyscrapers, so at least try to avoid visiting these giant buildings during a cloudy day.

The water towns near Shanghai are worth to see in almost all seasons and weather, because the water town culture and view are changeable with the weather. Lots of water town fans visit these water towns more than one time to fully enjoy the charm of the water towns.

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