China's size means every season has its best destinations — there's no single "right" time, only the right plan for you.
Spring and autumn (March-May, September-November) are the golden window: Beijing, Xi'an, Hangzhou and Guilin shine, and the whole country is pleasant — except for the May Day and National Day crowds.
Summer (June-August): cool off in Yunnan, Guizhou, Qinghai or Changbai Mountain; hit the beach at Qingdao, Xiamen or Sanya; and the south's karst scenery is fullest during the rainy season.
Winter (December-February): the Harbin Ice Festival, Changbai Mountain skiing, and Sanya's off-season island warmth. The north is dry and cold; the south is damp; indoors you'll find heating or air conditioning almost everywhere.
Festival note: during Spring Festival (Jan-Feb) the whole country migrates — transport and hotels peak — but the festive atmosphere is unbeatable. Avoiding the Golden Weeks (May 1, Oct 1) saves money and stress.
