Guilin Weather in January: Damp and Cold
In recent years, January has often been the coldest month in Guilin. When cold air arrives, it is usually accompanied by rain and a sharp drop in temperature. Once the cold air passes, temperatures can rise quickly again, and this fluctuation makes it easy for people to catch a cold.
Although Guilin is located in southern China and generally has higher temperatures than the north, the damp conditions can make it feel much colder than in northern regions.
| Time Range | Average Highest and Lowest Temperature | Rainfall | Major Weather Condition |
|---|---|---|---|
| First 10 Days | 8℃ (46°F)/14℃ (57°F) | 10 mm | Sunny |
| Middle 10 Days | 5℃ (41°F)/11℃ (52°F) | 30 mm | Sunny and Windy |
| Last 11 Days | 5℃ (41°F)/11℃ (52°F) | 20 mm | Cloudy and Rainy |
Guilin Weather Conditions in January
In January Guilin typically experiences around 10 rainy days, along with about 18 cloudy days and only 3 sunny days. It is deep winter now.
Is January a Good Time to Visit Guilin
Yes, January can still be a good time to visit Guilin. Tourist attractions are much less crowded, offering a more peaceful and tranquil experience. Hotel prices are also quite low—except during the Chinese New Year period.
The Chinese New Year typically falls between late January and mid-February, so it’s important to check whether your travel dates coincide with the holiday. During this time, large crowds can significantly affect the overall experience.
If you plan to visit Guilin in January, the most important thing is to keep warm, as the damp cold can feel quite penetrating.
What to Wear in Guilin in January
When traveling to Guilin in January, the key is to stay warm, windproof, and protected from rain. Thermal underwear, sweaters, long johns, wool pants, down jackets, waterproof outdoor jackets, insulated shoes, gloves, and scarves are all recommended—essentially, wear whatever keeps you as warm as possible.
Because the damp cold can easily penetrate clothing, it can feel colder than expected. To truly warm up, it’s helpful to take opportunities to move around—such as a quick jog or some light jumping—to get your body heat up.
What to Do in Guilin in January
January in Guilin can be quite damp and cold, but there are still warm and enjoyable options for sightseeing. If you plan to spend time outdoors, it’s a good idea to stay warm by doing some light activities, such as Jogging or gentle exercise.
Longsheng Hot Spring
January is the coldest month in Guilin, and the mountainous areas of Longsheng County are even colder. It's not unusual to see frost-covered or frozen trees in these regions.
Because of this, enjoying a hot spring bath is an excellent option. The hot springs typically range from 40°C to 50°C, with some points reaching up to 60°C. The water contains various beneficial minerals, such as strontium (Sr), lithium (Li), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and sulfur (S). In recent years, some pools have also incorporated traditional Chinese herbs, making the experience even more popular and relaxing for visitors.
Two Rivers and Four Lakes Night Cruise
The “Two Rivers and Four Lakes” in Guilin refers to the Li River and Peach Blossom River, along with Shan Lake, Gui Lake, Mulong Lake, and Rong Lake.
A night cruise along this scenic water system typically lasts around 90 minutes. Along the way, your boat passes beneath a series of beautifully illuminated bridges and the iconic Sun and Moon Twin Towers, all glowing with colorful lights.
Although January can be quite cold, the cabins on the cruise boats are heated, ensuring a warm and comfortable experience throughout the journey.
Jiuxian Village
Jiuxian Village is an ancient village with a history of over 1,400 years and is especially worth visiting in January. With far fewer tourists, you can fully immerse yourself in its quiet, authentic atmosphere.
The village is home to 44 well-preserved houses that are at least 150 years old. Some once belonged to wealthy merchants and government officials, offering visitors a glimpse into traditional Chinese architecture and everyday life in the past.
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