With low-season prices, quietness at the sights, and a wide variety of activities to enjoy from north to south, traveling in China in December offers great Christmas and New Year holiday experiences for you and your family.
China's northern and central areas can usually provide you with a snowy Christmas, while Yunnan and Sanya in the south have warm tropical weather. Don't be surprised if I say that Lhasa in Tibet is also a good choice for a comparatively warm holiday. Lhasa is called the 'sunlight city': its daytime highs of around 8°C in December feel much warmer.
The following 9 top places have been hand-picked for the upcoming 2023 festive season. They are all family-friendly, providing fun for both adults and kids.
Have a snowy Christmas in:
- Harbin: Ice and Snow Festival, skiing, hot springs...
- Mt. Changbaishan: snow, skiing, frozen Heavenly Lake
- Inner Mongolia: reindeer, nomadic life, BBQ in the snowy forest...
- Chengdu: hot pots, snacks, pandas, glacial valleys...
- Beijing: skiing, hot springs, the Great Wall...
- Northern Xinjiang: snow skiing, minority culture, vast landscapes...
Have a warm Christmas in:
- Yunnan: clear skies, diverse landscapes, minority culture...
- Sanya: sunny beaches, resorts with pools, sea foods...
- Lhasa: sunshine, Potala Palace, plateau scenery....
1. Harbin - A World of Ice and Snow
When winter comes, Harbin is decorated with awesome ice and snow art. "Ice City" Harbin definitely has all the elements of a great winter holiday.
The Songhua River, flowing through Harbin City is frozen for over 6 months of the year! In early December, ice pickers begin to collect huge ice blocks for the annual Harbin Ice and Snow Festival. Cheerful winter activities — ice sledding, hovercraft rides, snowmobiles, buggies, etc. — are set up on the frozen river for both adults and children, which no one can resist.
Walking on Central Street, you may find artists are carving smaller ice blocks into masterpieces. A taste of Madie'er ice cream is a must-do in winter.
Want a huge sculpture preview experience? Though the Harbin Ice Festival officially opens on January 5, colorfully lit, life-size ice carvings, huge snowy designs, and gorgeous snow sculptures are already viewable during the Xmas period. Be the first to see the finished sculptures!
All-inclusive Yabuli Ski Resortis just 3 hours by car from Harbin. Feel the happiness and excitement of speeding through the snow when stepping off the top of the slope into the snowy wonderland of Yabuli Ski Resort.
- 1-Day Ice and Snow Fairyland Tour
- 5-Day Harbin and China Snow Town Tour
- 6-Day Harbin Ice Festival and Yabuli Club Med Tour
- 7-Day Harbin, China Snow Town, and Changbai Mountain Tour
2. Mt. Changbaishan - Snow, Skiing, Frozen Heavenly Lake
Changbaishan (长白山) means "Forever-White Mountain", and its top is covered with snow all the year round. It is located Located in Jilin Province at the border of China and North Korea.At 42° north (the perfect latitude for ice and snow, similar to Switzerland), Changbaishan is considered a ski paradise and one of the best areas to enjoy snow scenery in China.
In Changbaishan, besides the exciting skiing activities, the fairytale snow theme parks, the frozen Heavely Lake, the tallest volcanic waterfall, and the relaxing hot springs, you can also try rafting on a hot spring river at the foot of Changbai Mountain when the air temperature is -30°C (-22°F). Be the coolest one in your WeChat Moments!
Changbaishan is the only place in China offering raft rides on a hot spring river with gorgeous rime on both sides (and then only when the weather is fine in the morning). The water temperature is kept between 6 and 8°C (43–46°F) in winter, and it never freezes. Don't be afraid of getting wet. The water will freeze immediately after falling on the rubber boat!
3. Inner Mongolia - Feed the Reindeer and Experience Nomadic Life
Inner Mongolia is not just highly visited for its beautiful grassland vistas. It is also a popular winter destination known for its boundless ice and snow scenery and primitive nomadic culture.
Traveling to Inner Mongolia in winter will no doubt refresh your senses and provide a beautiful contrast to hectic city life.
- Experience horse riding, snowmobile riding, and ice fishing in the vast snow prairies.
- Visit the last reindeer herder's tribe in China and get close to reindeers like Santa's.
- Visit the last remaining six families in China's coldest village, feel their enthusiasm for their harsh lives, and find out how they combat the extreme cold.
- Sleep on a traditional heated brick bed and work with local people to experience authentic Mongolian daily life.
4. Chengdu - a Mix of Ice and Fire
If you're seeking for a holiday that combines sightseeing and a skiing experience, fine food and giant pandas, then Chengdu is highly recommended for you.
You can taste real Sichuan food and learn how to cook authentic Sichuan cuisine in Chengdu. You can also enjoy the fun of skiing in beautiful Bipenggou National Park (3½ hours away by car), and soak in a natural mineral hot spring in a snowy wonderland.
On the way from Chengdu to Bipenggou, don't miss encountering the adorable giant pandas in Dujiangyan Panda Base, where a Panda Keeper Program is currently available. Booking in advance is required.
5. Beijing - Great Wall, Skiing, Hot Springs...
The special silence of winter with fewer tourists in Beijing will make your visits to historical sites much more peaceful and profound. The Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Summer Palace remain unmissable.
If you happen to see snowy weather (some snow always falls in December), you will appreciate the capital's graceful snow scenery, especially the awesome Great Wall starkly outlined on white ridges, and white snow on the golden glazed tiles and red wall backdrop of the Forbidden City.
Skiing is one of the most popular activities for families when traveling to Beijing in December. By December all Beijing's ski resorts are open. See Beijing's Top 10 Ski Resorts and Best Places to See Snow in Beijing >>>
Gubei Water Town (1 hour from Nanshan Ski Resort or 2 hours from Beijing) should not missed if you dream of spectacular night views of the Great Wall, are curious about traditional Beijingese folk customs, and like to enjoy hot tubs in winter.
All our Beijing tours can be customized to make the most of winter!
- 5-Day Beijing Family Tour
- 4-Day Beijing Private Tour: Explore Beijing with an Emperor's Tour
- 4-Day Beijing Private Tour to Visit the Great Wall at Night
- 6-Day Beijing Winter Tour with Skiing in a 2022 Olympic Winter Games Venue
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Amazing Great Wall tour with Helen
We did the great wall tour from Jiankou to Mutianyu with Helen.The tour was very well organized from the begining until the end.The treckking through the great wall was amazing and challenging. Helen took very good care of us and took as many stops as we needed to rest, drink water,have a snack or take pictures. She also explained us many things about the great wall and helped us with all our questions. After the long walk Helen took us to a local restaurant where the food was delicious! She managed everything perfectly so could have all the food ready when we got to the restaurant. Very recommended experience! more
May 2023,
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Amazing First Time to Beijing with China Highlights
Tom, my private tour guide was there when I landed and accompanied me all the way through to sending me off at the airport after check-in at the end of my trip. Zhao the driver, who also did all the driving during my trip, was calm, confident and knowledgeable in taking us around. Both Tom and Zhao were punctual too. The Great Wall of China Hike I wanted to do started in a very remote, unrestored part of the wall. This would not had been possible without Tom problem solving many issues we had on the way up and I could not have done this on my own a a foreigner. It was well worth the effort and probably the highlight of my trip.The remainder of the tour around Tiananmen Square, Forbidden Kingdom and The Temple of Heaven was paired with a detailed commentary by Tom of which I learnt a lot. more
May 2023,
Munsie
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Beijing - city of surprises
A fantastic guide was waiting for us - Jack, who told all the stories with passion and commitment. He also fulfilled those wishes that were not in the plan. I highly recommend visiting Beijing with this guide. more
May 2023,
Joanna i Piotr Kuzebscy
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Liu Yuan was a superb guide and a lot…
Liu Yuan was a superb guide and a lot of fun to spend time with during my first visit to Beijing. It was a wonderful intensive three days. more
May 2023,
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Great weather and a good trip out with Lily!
Many thanks to my guide Lily for customising the trip to make it as efficient and enjoyable as possible. She arranged to start an hour earlier to beat the crowd and I got to enjoy the Great Wall before the crowd streamed in and while the weather was cool. I requested to switch the next attraction to visit from Temple of Heaven to Ming Tomb and she not only accommodated the prompt request, but made all the necessary arrangements even before the trip coordinator managed to reply! Kudos! Our driver was jovial and friendly, always on top of traffic conditions and took detours to beat slow moving traffic. Hassle free day and I wouldn’t have been able to cover the two attractions so easily and comfortably without them! more
May 2023,
Meibao
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This was our first time traveling to Beijing
This was our first time traveling to China, so we really wanted to experience some of the major historical sights of Beijing together with a tour guide. Our itinerary was very carefully planned out according to our interests and tailored to our needs. First, we went camping on the Great Wall and hiked from Jiankou to Mutianyu, and the next day we got an in-depth tour of the Forbidden City as well as a tour of the Temple of Heaven and a taiji experience in the gardens. Our tour guide, Ivy, was truly wonderful in preparing and organizing our personalized itinerary. She is very friendly and knowledgeable, and she was always able and willing to answer all of our questions. Ivy provided us with a truly amazing first visit to China and I would warmly recommend China Highlights for everyone who wishes to travel to China and I would especially recommend Ivy as a tour guide for your trips! more
May 2023,
Annalina Wheeler
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Tom is the BEST tour guide EVER!
Just had the most AMAZING tour with Tom. He was beyond knowledgeable, so generous with his time and made me feel so at ease which was super important as I am travelling by myself. Thank you Tom for the best day-you have totally made my China trip a fabulous experience, one I will never forget! more
May 2023,
SHARRYN HINCHLIFFFE
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Superb service and wonderful time in Beijing
Superb service from Jack who were with us for 4 wonderful days in Beijing. Jack was clearly knowledgeable about the history and able to deliver insight information to us about places. He was also kind and accommodating to my mother who has bad knees. Both China Highlights and Jack were flexible about the itinerary to ensure that we enjoy the best of Beijing. We'll definitely use China Highlights' services again for our next trip to China. more
May 2023,
Chani
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Amazing Trip
First time booking a trip with China Highlights and was fortunate to have Sunny as my private tour guide. We went to the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall, then arrived and walked around Gubei Water Town, and then visited the Simatai portion of the Great Wall at night. Was a very enjoyable trip as we were able to see a night time drone show in the sky, ride a private boat through the canals of the Gubei Water Town, and eat a delicious lunch at a local restaurant along the way. Sunny is super knowledgeable when it comes to the history of the Great Wall and took the time to explain various interesting facts and stories which made the trip very meaningful. The driver we had was also a very nice man who was always on time and eager to help. Was an unforgettable experience and would highly recommend Sunny and China Highlights :) more
May 2023,
Allen C
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Tour to the great wall from the airport
My guide Tom was ver kind and knowlegable, he explained everything to me about the great wall and even went out of his way to help me the next day at Bejings downtown! amazing service!!! thank you so much Tom! more
May 2023,
Fer Villasefior
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Great tour, fantastic guide!
This tour was fantastic! I loved hearing about the history of the Forbidden City and admiring the views at the Great Wall. William was a fantastic tour guide. We were a group of families with several young children, and he was very accommodating and flexible with timing and arrangements. I totally recommend this tour and William as a guide! more
May 2023,
Ryan Corless
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Four excellent sightseeing days in Beijing
We had wonderful four days in Beijing. The entire trip was tailored exactly to our wishes. From experiencing local food, to exploring the major sites of the city up to hiking the great wall of China. Additionally, we had two amazing guides Ina and Fan taking care of all the tickets and coordination required. Also, they could not only tell us everything about the sights we visited and give us an insight to local customs and traditions, but they did so in perfect German. The chauffeur service from Mr Chang was also excellent, getting us from A to B without any hazzle. The past couple of days were one of the most carefree trips we have had so far. more
May 2023,
Katha
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Great tour from William
Great tour organized by China highlights, our tour guide was William - his knowledge was impressive, his English was great and he was always on time. We did the four day tour including the wall and forbidden city - would definitely recommend to anyone looking for an English tour guide. more
Apr 2023,
Lawrence
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Beijing 2 day private tour
The tour itself was great, private driver to and from, my guide Ivy was great English speaking guide. She was very knowledgeable and passionate about her country. Was a great time exploring the Great Wall of china and then my second day did a city tour (forbidden city, hutong tour, summer palace). Felt extremely safe, and was confident having an English guide. Thank you china highlights. (Provide them what you want and they’ll make it happen). Prices are reasonable as I looked at a few places but for private tour, my own schedule, and confidence of getting around safely you can’t go wrong. more
Apr 2023,
Mark
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Very enjoyable
Everything was to the vest standard, the history all very well explained by the Tour Guide in Beijing, Ivy. Really enjoyed it, and appreciated the time. more
Apr 2023,
Jonathan
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Amazing Beijing Experience
I had an amazing time in Beijing and glad Tom was my tour guide. He went above and beyond and I’m truly grateful. Tom did all that he could to ensure my stay in Beijing for two days was pleasant and thanks to him, I say that it was. The driver was also nice and courteous, I called him Jon. The company is blessed to have a good tour guide like Tom on their team so if you are planning to come down to Beijing, make sure you ask for Tom. Thank you Christy and Kimmy for replying all my emails with questions that I had. more
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Great experience
We had a great experience with China Highlights and Roger was highly efficient and helpful planning our itinerary exactly how we needed. more
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Excellent service and tour guide!!
Excellent service and communication from the travel agent Roger Li and amazing tour and experience of Great Wall of China from our tour guide Amber. Highly recommended! more
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Evangelos Athanasopoulos
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Maggie was such a tremendous help for…
Maggie was such a tremendous help for our recent Beijing trip. Very prompt and helpful in helping us plan and adjust/amend to our requests. more
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6. Northern Xinjiang - a Fairytale World
The snow scenery in northern Xinjiang is definitely worth exploring.
Kanas's winter is like a Chinese ink painting. Villages are scattered in the boundless snowscape, the morning mist rises from the streams, the crystal-clear rime hangs on the birch trees... (How to Plan a Trip to Kanas)
In Hemu Village, you will enter into a fairytale scene. The cabins deep in the snowy forest glow with warm orange light and their pointed roofs are covered with thick white snow.
One factor to note is that all flights from Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou must stop first in Urumqi after a 4–5-hour journey. Two nights are suggested in Urumqi to take in its exotic Muslim folk culture. From Urumqi to Kanas, it takes less than 1½ hours. A comparatively long journey to Northern Xinjiang will reward your family with an awesome other-worldly experience.
7. Yunnan — Be Spoiled with Sunshine
With clear skies prevailing above Erhai Lake in Dali, warm winter sunshine in the ancient town of Lijiang, the pristine and holy land of Shangri-La, and exotic tropical rainforest in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan has become a top destination for China expats, especially family groups.
Would you like an adventure? Take a 2–3-day hike through Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world. December is one of the best months to hike it, when you can enjoy the natural pure green color of the Jinsha River, and have remarkable views from the steep 28 Bends. Our 3-Day Tiger Leaping Gorge and Stone Village Hiking Tour will ensure you the best experience of adventurous hiking in Lijiang.
- 9-Day Yunnan Family Tour
- 8-Day Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La Tour
- 7-Day Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang Winter Tour
- 6-Day Xishuangbanna and Pu'er Tour
8. Sanya — Sunshine, Beaches, and Ocean Fun
Sanya is the warmest city in China in December with an average high of 27°C (81°F).
The long coastline, glorious sunshine, romantic islands, and golden shores make Sanya a favorite winter destination for travelers. Some even say that its beautiful beaches make it the "Hawaii of China".
There, you can leave your winter coat behind and snorkel in the sparkling blue ocean. Try some exciting watersports, like banana boats, water scooters, and sailing.
Sanya has about seven bays with coveted beaches to choose from. Yalong Bay is the most recommended one for couples and families as it has the most beautiful beaches, cleaner seas, and high-standard hotels. The Hilton Sanya Yalong Bay Resort & Spa has outstanding facilities for children. The Earthly Paradise Bird's Nest Resort, though far from the beach, brings you an incredible rainforest experience. Alternatively, get away from the crowds at Park Hyatt Sanya Sunny Bay Resort with its own private beach, and enjoy peaceful relaxation. Want an all-inclusive experience? Then, choose Club Med at Sanya Bay. (Sanya Travel Guide: How to Select Your Beach and Hotel)
9. Lhasa - Sunshine, Potala Palace, Plateau Scenery...
Compared with other seasons, Lhasa in December is more laid back.
Pilgrims come in from near and far. Local people sit basking in the warm midday sunshine or enjoying a cup of yak butter tea and chatting in a teahouse. With no crowds, probably you will find you are the only tourist in some places. Only when you are traveling in Lhasa in winter can you can experience the most authentic life there.
Although Tibet transportation is usually costly, in December you may find unprecedented discounts on airfares — up to 80% off. While all entrance tickets are at low season rates, some sights are even free for entry!
Fall in love with the "sunlight city" — take our 5-Day Tibet Winter Tour. Other popular Tibet tours for inspiration:
- 7-Day Tibet Tour by Train from Xining
- 8-Day Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Tour
- 8-Day Tibet Tour including Tsedang, Shigatse, and Lhasa
China in December — December Travel FAQs
To enjoy the coming Xmas and New Year holiday, and to use up your remaining vacation days, you might be struggling to decide on a December tour in China and have the following questions. Take some time to find out the FAQ answers for China travel in December before moving forward.
1. Is China worth traveling in December?
Although the weather is cold in most of China, you will find you actually have more seasonal China travel choices in December, particularly sceneries and experiences that can only be enjoyed in winter.
- It is time for you to go beyond indoor skiing. China's ski resorts will be in full swing, and Harbin's snow and ice activities fill the frozen north with joy.
- Or think about this: While your friends are wrapped up at home, you could be putting on your bikini/shorts and bathing by a sunny beach in Sanya.
- You might have already visited Beijing, but winter is different: Imagine an empty Forbidden City with snow-capped yellow roofs!
- When everyone else is hesitant to visit Lhasa in winter, you could be bathing in the warm midday sunshine and chatting with a local Tibetan. No crowds mean more time to explore the Potala Palace.
Whether you are looking for a warm escape or unique winter activities, China offers a range of choices to satisfy you, and so, it is definitely worth going traveling in China in December.
2. Is December a good time to travel to China?
December is definitely a good time to travel in China: it is an off-peak month in most parts of China when you can avoid crowds and enjoy cost-efficient travel.
Airlines and hotels are ready to offer big discounts for winter travel. Without any public holidays in Chinese mainland, crowds can rarely be seen in popular scenic spots. You could take advantage of this and have a relaxing Christmas holiday or a year-end retreat in December.
3. What's the weather like in December in China?
December is extremely cold in northern and western parts of China with continuous sub-zero temperatures, but it's warm indoors. When people in these areas are immersed in snow and winter fun, in tropical areas like Sanya or Xishuangbanna in the south, the weather finally cools down with a pleasant average high temperature of around 24°C (75°F).
There might be light snow in central and eastern China and more in high mountain areas of southern China, but it can be unbearably cold there with the more humid weather. There is no central heating in these areas at all! But don't worry, air-con means it is still warm in hotels, restaurants, cafés, tourist centers, etc.
More on China Weather in December >>>