Why You Should Avoid Traveling to China in July and August

Traveling to China can be an incredible experience, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. However, timing your visit is crucial to ensure a pleasant trip. For international tourists, planning a trip to China in July and August might not be the best idea. Here’s why:

1. The Scorching Heat

One of the primary reasons to avoid China during July and August is the intense heat. The summer months in China can be extremely hot, especially in regions such as East China and South China.

East China

Cities like Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Nanjing experience sweltering temperatures that can easily soar above 35°C (95°F). The combination of high temperatures and humidity makes outdoor activities uncomfortable and exhausting. The heat can be particularly harsh on those not accustomed to such climates, potentially leading to heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

Shanghai, a bustling metropolis known for its modern skyline and vibrant culture, becomes a challenge to navigate during these hot months. The city's famous landmarks, such as the Bund and Yu Garden, lose some of their appeal when you're constantly seeking refuge from the oppressive heat. Similarly, Hangzhou, with its picturesque West Lake and tea plantations, can be difficult to enjoy fully when the temperatures soar.

South China

In South China, cities like Guangzhou and Shenzhen also face intense heat and high humidity during these months. The oppressive weather conditions make exploring these bustling metropolises a challenge. Additionally, the risk of sudden rainstorms and typhoons is higher during the summer, which can disrupt travel plans and cause delays.

Guangzhou, known for its Cantonese cuisine and historic sites, can be particularly stifling. The high humidity levels make it feel even hotter than the actual temperature, turning a simple stroll through the city into a sweat-drenched ordeal. Shenzhen, a city famous for its rapid development and theme parks, also suffers from similar weather conditions, making outdoor activities less enjoyable.

The Impact on Travel

The extreme weather conditions can significantly impact your travel experience. Sightseeing becomes a daunting task under the blazing sun, and the stifling heat can drain your energy quickly. Historical sites, parks, and other outdoor attractions lose their charm when you are constantly seeking shade or air-conditioned relief.

Outdoor activities, such as visiting the Great Wall of China, become strenuous and less enjoyable. The heat can make climbing the steps of this ancient wonder a taxing experience. Similarly, exploring the gardens and palaces of Beijing or the ancient water towns near Shanghai can be less appealing when temperatures are soaring.

2. The Tourist Crowds

Another compelling reason to avoid traveling to China in July and August is the influx of domestic tourists. These months coincide with the summer school holidays in China, a time when millions of Chinese families take vacations.

The Summer Holiday Rush

Chinese students typically have their longest break during July and August. This period is a prime opportunity for families to travel together, resulting in a massive surge in domestic tourism. Popular tourist destinations, such as the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Army, become inundated with visitors.

This influx of tourists means that attractions are crowded, and the overall travel experience can be significantly compromised. For instance, the Forbidden City in Beijing, a UNESCO World Heritage site, becomes packed with tourists, making it difficult to appreciate its grandeur fully. The same goes for the Terracotta Army in Xi'an, where long queues and crowded viewing areas can detract from the awe-inspiring sight of thousands of ancient soldiers.

Overcrowded Tourist Spots

The high volume of tourists leads to overcrowded attractions, long queues, and a generally chaotic atmosphere. Famous landmarks and scenic spots can feel more like crowded marketplaces than serene places of interest. The sheer number of people can detract from the enjoyment and appreciation of these historical and cultural sites.

Even natural attractions, such as the Yellow Mountains or Jiuzhaigou Valley, become crowded with tourists. The serene beauty of these places is harder to appreciate when you are jostling with large crowds to get a good view or take a photograph. National parks and scenic areas can be overwhelmed with visitors, leading to a diminished travel experience.

The Strain on Facilities

The heavy tourist traffic also puts a strain on local facilities and services. Hotels, restaurants, and transportation systems are often stretched to their limits. Securing accommodation can be difficult and expensive, and moving around cities or between destinations becomes a time-consuming ordeal.

Public transportation systems, such as trains and buses, become overcrowded, and the increased demand can lead to higher prices and limited availability. Restaurants and eateries are often filled to capacity, making it challenging to find a place to sit and enjoy a meal. The overall convenience and comfort of travel are compromised during these peak months.

Alternative Travel Destinations

If you are set on visiting China during July and August, consider exploring regions that offer a respite from the heat and crowds. Northwest China is an excellent choice for summer travel, with its cooler temperatures and breathtaking landscapes.

Qinghai Lake

Located in Qinghai Province, Qinghai Lake is the largest saltwater lake in China. During the summer, the weather around the lake is refreshingly cool, providing a perfect escape from the heat. The area is known for its stunning natural beauty, with turquoise waters, verdant grasslands, and blooming rapeseed flowers. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, cycling, and bird-watching in this tranquil environment.

Qinghai Lake is not only a natural wonder but also a cultural gem. The surrounding areas are home to Tibetan communities, offering a glimpse into their unique way of life. The annual Qinghai Lake International Cycling Race, held in July, is another attraction, drawing cyclists and spectators from around the world.

Xinjiang

Xinjiang, the largest province in China, boasts a diverse array of natural wonders. The region’s vast deserts, towering mountains, and lush valleys offer a unique travel experience. In summer, places like the Kanas Lake and the Tianshan Mountains remain pleasantly cool. The rich cultural heritage of Xinjiang, with its mix of Uyghur, Kazakh, and other ethnic groups, adds an extra layer of fascination to any visit.

Kanas Lake, with its pristine waters and stunning alpine scenery, is often compared to Switzerland. The area offers excellent opportunities for hiking, boating, and simply enjoying the natural beauty. The Tianshan Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provide breathtaking landscapes and a cool retreat from the summer heat.

Inner Mongolia

Inner Mongolia is another fantastic summer destination. Known for its expansive grasslands, rolling sand dunes, and vibrant nomadic culture, it provides a refreshing contrast to the crowded cities of East and South China. The climate here during summer is mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities like horseback riding, camping, and exploring the region’s natural parks and reserves.

The Hulunbuir Grassland, often referred to as the most beautiful grassland in China, offers stunning vistas and a chance to experience the traditional Mongolian way of life. Visitors can stay in yurts, enjoy local cuisine, and participate in cultural activities such as horse racing and wrestling. The Gobi Desert, with its vast sand dunes and unique landscapes, is another highlight of Inner Mongolia.

While China is a captivating country with much to offer, visiting during July and August can present significant challenges due to the extreme heat and crowded tourist spots. To make the most of your trip, consider traveling during the cooler months or exploring less frequented areas in Northwest China. By choosing destinations like Qinghai Lake, Xinjiang, and Inner Mongolia, you can enjoy a more comfortable and enriching travel experience.

Planning your visit to China with these considerations in mind will ensure that you have an enjoyable and memorable adventure, free from the discomforts and inconveniences of peak summer travel. Whether you're marveling at the natural beauty of Qinghai Lake, exploring the diverse landscapes of Xinjiang, or immersing yourself in the nomadic culture of Inner Mongolia, a well-timed trip to China will leave you with unforgettable memories.