January is generally not considered an ideal time to visit Nanjing due to the cold and sometimes foggy weather. The average temperature in January ranges from 2 to 8 degrees Celsius (36 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit), with occasional drops below freezing. While the city’s numerous historical and cultural attractions remain open, the cold and damp conditions may make it less enjoyable to explore them thoroughly.
Weather In Nanjing During January
Average Temperature:
- High: 6.6°C (43.9°F)
- Low: -0.6°C (30.9°F)
Precipitation:
- Average rainfall: 31 mm (1.2 in)
- Average snowfall: 4 mm (0.2 in)
Humidity:
- Average relative humidity: 70%
Wind:
- Average wind speed: 2.4 m/s (5.4 mph)
Sunshine:
- Average daily sunshine hours: 4.9
Climate:
- January in Nanjing is generally cold and dry with occasional rain and snow.
- The city experiences a humid subtropical climate, which means it has hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters.
Tips:
- Pack warm clothing, including a coat, hat, and gloves.
- Be prepared for rain or snow.
- Consider bringing an umbrella or raincoat.
- Bring layers of clothing to adjust to temperature fluctuations.
- Check the weather forecast before traveling as it can vary day-to-day.
Things To Do In Nanjing In January
Events and Celebrations Unique to January in Nanjing:
1. Yu Hua Tai Temple Fair (豫华台庙会):
- Held on January 1st-7th at Yu Hua Tai Park.
- Features traditional Chinese temple fair activities such as lion dances, acrobatics, and folk performances.
2. Daming Temple Lantern Festival (大明寺灯会):
- Takes place during the Chinese New Year period (late January or early February).
- The temple is adorned with thousands of colorful lanterns, creating a festive atmosphere.
3. Xuanwu Lake Ice and Snow Carnival (玄武湖冰雪嘉年华):
- Usually held in late January to early February.
- Offers ice skating, sledding, snow sculpture displays, and other winter-themed activities.
4. Nanjing Lantern Festival (南京灯会):
- Although not exclusive to January, it typically begins in late December and continues through February.
- A grand display of lanterns, depicting various themes and stories, is held in Nanjing’s parks and streets.
Other Attractions to Visit in January:
- Nanjing Museum: Showcases a vast collection of Chinese artifacts, including the famous “Lady Bian” jade suit.
- Purple Mountain Observatory: Offers panoramic views of the city and houses a collection of astronomical instruments.
- Presidential Palace: The former residence of the Republic of China’s president, providing a glimpse into Nanjing’s political history.
- Xuanwu Lake: A picturesque lake in the city center, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride.
- Confucius Temple and Qinhuai River: Explore the historical and cultural heritage of Nanjing by visiting the Confucius Temple and taking a boat tour along the Qinhuai River.
Tourism In Nanjing, China During January
During the month of January, tourism in Nanjing is relatively subdued compared to other times of the year due to the cold weather. However, there are still a number of attractions that remain open and popular for visitors.
One of the most popular attractions in Nanjing during January is the Nanjing Museum. This museum houses a vast collection of Chinese art and artifacts, and is a great place to learn about the city’s rich history and culture. Another popular attraction is the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum. This mausoleum is the resting place of Sun Yat-sen, the founder of the Republic of China, and is a popular tourist destination for those interested in Chinese history.
In addition to these attractions, there are a number of other things to see and do in Nanjing during January. Visitors can explore the city’s many historical sites, such as the Ming Dynasty City Wall and the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall. They can also enjoy the city’s many parks and gardens, such as Xuanwu Lake Park and Purple Mountain.
Overall, tourism in Nanjing during January is a great way to experience the city’s rich history and culture without the crowds.