Visiting China in March

Visiting China in March is great timing, the weather is slowly starting to warm up, and spring is at the start. The weather is pleasant, and it’s a wonderful time to explore both the cultural and natural attractions without the summer crowds.

Northern China is still chill, so we suggest visiting Southern destinations in China, like  Zhangjiajie and Yunnan. 

Read here what is the best time to visit China.

Weather in China in March

The weather in China in March is mild to cool. Northern cities like Beijing and Shanghai have temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F), while southern cities like Guangzhou and Guilin enjoy slightly warmer temperatures between 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Flowers begin to bloom, adding beauty to parks and gardens.

The average temperatures for some of the bigger cities in China in March are:

Chengdu: The average high temperature during the day is around 16°C (61°F), and the average low temperature at night is about 8°C (46°F). Overall, the average temperature for the month is approximately 12°C (54°F)​ 

Xi’an: The average high temperature is around 14°C (57°F), while the average low temperature is approximately 4°C (39°F). The overall average temperature for the month is about 8°C (46°F).​ 

Here are the weather conditions of Zhangjiajie and Yunnan for March. 

The Weather in Zhangjiajie in March

Temperature: The weather is generally mild, with daytime temperatures being comfortable for outdoor activities. It can be cooler in the mornings and evenings, so wearing layers is advisable.

The daily high temperatures typically range from 15°C to 17°C (59°F to 63°F), while the daily low temperatures range from 6°C to 7°C (43°F to 45°F). The average overall temperature is about 11°C (52°F)​ 

Precipitation: March in Zhangjiajie sees an increase in rainfall compared to the winter months. Expect occasional rain showers, so it’s a good idea to carry an umbrella or a raincoat.

Humidity: The humidity levels start to rise in March, making the air feel slightly damp, especially on rainy days.

Fog: Zhangjiajie is known for its misty mountains, and March can be foggy, particularly in the early morning. This fog can add a mystical quality to the landscape but may also reduce visibility.

Sunshine: There are sunny days in March, but the sky can be overcast on some days due to the increased moisture and occasional rain.

Weather in Yunnan in March

Temperature: The weather in Yunnan during March is generally mild and comfortable, making it a good time for outdoor activities. The temperatures are pleasant during the day but can be cool in the mornings and evenings.

The average high temperature in Kunming is around 22°C (72°F), while the average low is about 10°C (50°F). 

Precipitation: March is part of the dry season in Yunnan, so there is relatively little rainfall. However, occasional light rain showers can still occur.

Humidity: Humidity levels are generally low, making the air feel dry and comfortable.

Sunshine: Yunnan enjoys plenty of sunshine in March, with clear skies and bright days being common. This is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.

Wind: In higher altitude areas like Lijiang and Shangri-La, it can be breezy, especially in the evenings.

What to do in China in March

Visit Zhangjiajie

Visiting Zhangjiajie in March can amaze you with the stunning and unique landscapes beginning to wake up after the cold winter. It is located in China’s Hunan Province and this beautiful area offers plenty of natural wonders and adventures for visitors.

Zhangjiajie offers a blend of natural beauty and adventure, making it a must-visit destination for travelers. Whether you’re hiking through the national park or walking across the glass bridge, Zhangjiajie promises an unforgettable journey.

What to visit?

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Avatar Hallelujah Mountain: This famous peak inspired the floating mountains in the movie “Avatar.”

Tianzi Mountain: Known for its panoramic views and misty peaks.

Golden Whip Stream: A peaceful trail along a clear stream, perfect for a scenic hike.

Tianmen Mountain

This natural archway is a significant attraction to Tianmen Cave: Also known as Heaven’s Gate.

Glass Skywalk: A thrilling walkway with a glass floor offering stunning views of the cliffs below.

Tianmen Mountain Cableway: One of the world’s longest cable car rides, providing spectacular views.

Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon

Glass Bridge: The world’s longest and highest glass bridge, with breathtaking views of the canyon below.

Hiking Trails: Explore the natural beauty of the canyon, including waterfalls and lush vegetation.

Baofeng Lake

Enjoy a boat ride on this serene lake surrounded by towering peaks and lush greenery.

Yellow Dragon Cave

An extensive karst cave system with impressive formations and underground rivers. Guided tours are available.

Transportation to Zhangjiajie

AIRPORT

Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport connects the city with major Chinese cities. Zhāngjiājiè Héhuā Jīchǎng is 6km southwest of Zhangjiajie City and about 36km south of Wulingyuan. 

Taxis and shuttle buses are available.

A taxi from the airport costs about ¥30 to Zhangjiajie city and ¥160 to Wulingyuan. To reach the airport from the city, take local bus 4 (¥2, 5.30 am to 8.30 pm) from outside the Tianmen Mountain Cable Car; the journey takes around 30 minutes.

BUS

Buses leave from Central Bus Station, right beside Zhangjiajie train station, to destinations including the following: 

• Changsha from ¥120- USD 16.92
• Fenghuang from ¥80, USD 11.28
• Furong from ¥30 USD4.23

A few buses also run direct from Wulingyuan Bus Station, allowing you to bypass Zhangjiajie city. 

TRAIN 

The train station is right beside Central Bus Station. 

Destination includes the following: 

• Beijing Hard/soft sleeper for ¥370/581- USD 52.18/81.93
• Changsha Hard seats from ¥55 to ¥84, USD 7.76/11.85
• Huaihua Hard seat from  ¥38, USD 5.36
• Jishou Hard seat from ¥20, USD 2.82
• Yichang Hard seat/sleeper ¥44/101- USD 6.20/ 14.24

TRANSPORTATION TO/FROM THE PARK

Shuttle buses travel every 10 minutes from Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station to the three park entrances

• Wulingyuan( ¥13, one hour), 
• Forest Park, Sēnlín Gōngyuán; ¥12, 50 minutes),
• Tianzi Shan ( ¥12, one hour, less frequent). 

Buses also run between the entrance points (¥10, 30 minutes), allowing you to bypass Zhangjiajie city if need be. Buy tickets on board the bus. Once inside the park, all buses are free with your park ticket, and run from 7 am to roughly 8 pm or whenever the last visitors leave. A taxi from the city to Wulingyuan costs around ¥160 and to the Forest Park entrance costs around ¥120.

Explore Yunnan

Yunnan is the most diverse province in China, renowned for its rich cultural mix and stunning landscapes. This unique combination of beautiful sights and various ethnic groups has made Yunnan a popular destination for China’s growing domestic tourism.

Yunnan is home to more than half of China’s minority groups, offering a fascinating glimpse into the country’s diverse population. Visitors can experience a wide array of cultures, traditions, and lifestyles, making Yunnan a vibrant and colorful region to explore.

The landscapes in Yunnan are equally diverse and breathtaking:

• Southern Yunnan: Features dense jungles cut through by the Mekong River.
• Southeastern Yunnan: Known for its mesmerizing rice terraces, offering soul-recharging sunset views.
• Northern Yunnan: As you move towards Tibet, you’ll encounter majestic snowcapped mountains.

What to visit in Yunnan in March

The Stone Forest

The Stone Forest Scenic Area is a stunning natural wonder located in Shilin Yi Autonomous County. Known for its dramatic limestone formations, the Stone Forest is a popular destination for both tour groups and independent travelers.

The Stone Forest is a must-see destination, offering breathtaking natural scenery and unique cultural experiences. Whether you spend the day within the park or exploring the surrounding area, it’s a journey well worth the effort.

Visitor Information

• Entrance Fee: ¥130 for adults, ¥65 for children
• Opening Hours: Sunrise to sunset

Exploring the Park

To appreciate the beauty of the Stone Forest fully, you’ll need to spend most of the day exploring its outlying pathways. The main scenic area can get crowded, so venturing into the less visited parts of the park can provide a more peaceful experience. Although March is shoulder season, it doesn’t have so many visitors. 

Transportation

Four daily buses depart from Kunming’s East Station to the Stone Forest Scenic Area (¥34, 1½ hours, at 9 am, 10:30 am, 12 pm, and 5:30 pm). Buses and minibusses return to Kunming hourly until 6 pm. From the Stone Forest Bus Station to the park entrance (3km), electric carts are available for ¥25 each way.

There are so many attractions and destinations to visit in Yunnan, here are some of them that you can visit in March:

• Kunming- The capital city of Yunnan, Kunming is known as the “Spring City” for its mild climate. Key attractions include the Stone Forest, Dianchi Lake, and the historic Yuantong Temple.
• Meili Snow Mountain– Known as one of the most sacred mountains in Tibetan Buddhism, Meili Snow Mountain offers stunning views, especially at sunrise. It is a popular destination for trekkers and those seeking spiritual experiences.
• Lijiang Ancient Town- A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lijiang Old Town is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant local culture.
• Dali Ancient Town – Surrounded by mountains and the beautiful Erhai Lake, Dali Ancient Town is famous for its traditional Bai architecture, vibrant markets, and cultural sites such as the Three Pagodas.
• Yuanyang Rice Terraces- Known for their stunning beauty, the Yuanyang Rice Terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These terraced fields are especially breathtaking during sunrise and sunset, and in the spring when they are filled with water.

Final Words

Visiting China in March can bring you many happy memories. Going on an adventure in shoulder season is the best experience that you can have, because the weather is mild not too cold, and there is so much less crowd compared with high season in summer. 

Remember to pack appropriately for varying temperatures, plan your itinerary to include both popular and off-the-beaten-path destinations, and embrace the rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty that China has to offer.