Pros of Visiting Beijing in March:
-
Pleasant Weather: March marks the transition from winter to spring in Beijing, with gradually warming temperatures and fewer extreme weather conditions. The average temperature ranges between 3°C (37°F) and 13°C (55°F), making it ideal for outdoor exploration and sightseeing.
-
Fewer Crowds: Compared to the peak tourist season in summer and fall, March offers a relatively quieter and less crowded experience. This means you can avoid long lines at popular attractions and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
-
Blossoming Flowers: Springtime is when various flowers begin to bloom in Beijing, adding a vibrant and colorful touch to the city’s parks and gardens. You can witness the beauty of cherry blossoms, tulips, magnolias, and many other floral displays.
-
Cultural Festivals: March often coincides with several traditional Chinese festivals. One notable event is the Lantern Festival, which takes place on the 15th day of the first lunar month. During this festival, streets and temples are illuminated with colorful lanterns, and various cultural performances and activities are held throughout the city.
-
Affordable Prices: Traveling during the shoulder season can often lead to more affordable prices for flights, accommodation, and tours. You may find better deals and discounts compared to the peak tourist season.
Cons of Visiting Beijing in March:
-
Unstable Weather: While March generally brings milder temperatures, the weather can still be unpredictable. It’s not uncommon to experience sudden changes, including rain, wind, or even occasional snowfall. Be prepared for variable weather conditions and pack clothing accordingly.
-
Air Pollution: Beijing’s air quality can vary significantly throughout the year, and March is no exception. The city experiences periods of high air pollution due to various factors, including vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and unfavorable weather patterns. It’s advisable to monitor air quality reports and take necessary precautions if pollution levels are elevated.
-
Limited Outdoor Activities: Some outdoor attractions and activities may be closed or have limited hours of operation during the off-season. For example, some parks and gardens might be undergoing maintenance or renovation work. It’s a good idea to research and confirm the availability of specific attractions before your visit.
-
Shorter Daylight Hours: March has shorter daylight hours compared to the summer months. This means you’ll have less time for outdoor exploration, especially if you’re planning to visit multiple attractions in a single day.
-
Cultural Differences: As with any international travel, it’s essential to be mindful of cultural differences and customs. Language barriers can also be a challenge, especially if you don’t speak Mandarin Chinese. Make sure to do your research and familiarize yourself with basic Chinese phrases and customs to enhance your travel experience.
Weather In Beijing During March
The weather in Beijing, China during March is generally mild and dry. Here are some key characteristics of Beijing’s weather in March:
Temperature:
- Average high temperature: 10-15°C (50-59°F)
- Average low temperature: 1-5°C (34-41°F)
- Daily average temperature: 6-10°C (43-50°F)
Precipitation:
- Average monthly precipitation: 10-20 mm (0.4-0.8 inches)
- Number of rainy days: 3-5 days
Humidity:
- Average relative humidity: 40-50%
Wind:
- Average wind speed: 10-15 km/h (6-9 mph)
- Prevailing wind direction: northwest
Sunshine:
- Average daily sunshine hours: 6-7 hours
Overall: March in Beijing is a transitional month between the cold and dry winter and the warm and humid summer. The weather is generally pleasant, with mild temperatures and low humidity. However, occasional cold fronts can bring sudden drops in temperature, so it’s advisable to pack layers of clothing to accommodate changing weather conditions.
Things To Do In Beijing In March
- Beijing International Film Festival: This annual event typically takes place in March and showcases a variety of films from around the world.
- Shichahai Ice Lantern Festival: This winter festival features large-scale ice sculptures and colorful ice lanterns around Shichahai Lake.
- Chaoyang Flowers Viewing Festival: This annual event is usually held in March or April and celebrates various flowers in bloom with exhibits, parades, and performances.
- Temple Fairs: Various Buddhist and Taoist temples in Beijing host temple fairs in March or April, offering an opportunity to experience Chinese traditional culture, food, and entertainment.
- Kite Festivals: Kite festivals are common in Beijing in spring, with beautiful and intricate kites flown at parks and open spaces.
- Plum Blossom Appreciation Festival: Plum blossoms typically bloom from late February to early March in Beijing. The Fragrant Hills and Yuyuantan Park are popular destinations to enjoy these beautiful flowers.
- Beijing Art Week: This event usually takes place in March and showcases contemporary art exhibitions, performances, and artistic events throughout the city.
- Cherry Blossom Viewing Festival: While cherry blossoms are more commonly associated with Japan, there are a few spots in Beijing to catch these delicate blooms in late March or early April, such as the Yuyuantan Park.
Tourism In Beijing, China During March
- Weather: March is a great time to visit Beijing, as the weather is generally mild and sunny. Average temperatures range from 34°F to 50°F, with highs sometimes reaching into the 60s. However, the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to pack layers.
- Crowds: March is a shoulder season in Beijing, which means that there are fewer tourists than during the peak season (May-October). This makes it a great time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds. However, some popular attractions may still be busy, so it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance.
- Things to do: There are plenty of things to do in Beijing in March. Some of the most popular attractions include:
- The Forbidden City: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see for any visitor to Beijing. It was the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties, and it’s home to some of the most impressive architecture in China.
- The Great Wall of China: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Great Wall is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. There are several sections of the wall that are open to visitors, and it’s a great way to experience China’s rich history.
- Tiananmen Square: This vast square is the heart of Beijing. It’s home to the Tiananmen Monument, the Great Hall of the People, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong.
- The Summer Palace: This beautiful palace was built in the 18th century as a summer retreat for the imperial family. It’s located on the shores of Kunming Lake, and it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
- Food: Beijing is known for its delicious cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include Peking duck, Zhajiangmian (noodles with minced pork sauce), and hot pot. There are also plenty of international restaurants to choose from.
- Nightlife: Beijing has a vibrant nightlife scene. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include Sanlitun, Wudaokou, and Houhai.
Overall, March is a great time to visit Beijing. The weather is mild, the crowds are smaller, and there are plenty of things to do.
