China in February 2026: Where to Go, Activities & Tips

Is February a good time to visit China? Where should I go? Any special activities to experience? ... Here is the ultimate guide telling you how to explore China in February. You will find all of the answers to the above questions after reading.

China's Weather in February

In short, it is COLD. You may have heard that the Chinese Spring Festival often falls in February, but it doesn't mean spring has arrived. Actually, most cities in China are still in winter. Average temperatures across China in February typically range from -10°C in the north to around 10°C in the south (this can vary by region).

As you travel from northern to southern China, you will find that while the temperature may rise, the cold simply takes on a different form. Northern China is dry and often freezing, with temperatures regularly plunging below zero. In contrast, southern China brings a wet chill. The high humidity and rain can make the cold feel like it seeps right into your bones.

So, does that mean February is not a good time to visit China? Not at all.

The cold might make exploring a bit more challenging, but it also brings unique sights. Harbin, the Ice City, will amaze you with its world-famous Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival. Huangshan Mountain turn into magical worlds coated in rime. All are well worth braving the cold weather.

Crowds & Costs

Generally, winter is the off-season for tourism in China, which means fewer crowds and the chance to enjoy discounted rates on accommodations and tours.

However, things change dramatically during the Chinese Spring Festival. In 2026, the holiday falls between February 16 and February 23, and travel peaks in the days before and after this period. Expect a massive travel rush: tickets for transportation between cities will be difficult to secure, popular tourist sites will be packed with domestic travelers, and prices for flights and hotels will rise.

If you are planning to travel in China during Chinese New Year, be sure to book your transportation and accommodation as early as possible. Also, keep in mind that Harbin remains extremely popular throughout February, so early reservations are a must if it’s on your itinerary.

Best Places to Travel in February

Beijing

Beijing offers some different experiences in February. With fewer tourists, winter adds more serenity to iconic landmarks like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall. If lucky enough, a light dusting of snow will create postcard-perfect scenes. Lakes such as Kunming Lake at the Summer Palace and Houhai transform into natural ice-skating rinks, offering a classic Beijing winter experience.

Beyond the sights, the city's rich food culture becomes especially comforting in the cold: hot pot, lamb skewers, and traditional snacks warm both body and soul. Don't miss food havens like Guijie Street, Wangfujing Snack Street, Nanluoguxiang, and Guanganmen Food Street for a delicious taste of local life.

Northeastern China

Northeastern China offers some of the most rewarding winter travel experiences in the country.

In Changbai Mountain, you can ski through snow-covered forests, soak in natural hot springs, and marvel at the Heavenly Lake, frozen solid and framed by snow-capped peaks. In Jilin, a walk along the Songhua River reveals dreamlike scenes of rime-covered trees. February is also the best time to catch the world-famous Harbin Ice and Snow Festival, hit the slopes at Yabuli Ski Resort, or explore China's fairytale-like Snow Town (Xuexiang).

Winter Boat Tour in Changbai Mountain

Xi'an

The February travel in Xi'an unveils a captivating blend of historical grandeur, gastronomic delight, and vibrant festivities. You can explore the Terracotta Warriors and marvel at the intricate details of thousands of life-sized soldiers. A leisurely bike ride on the ancient City Wall offers breathtaking views of the skyline.

If you are in Xi'an during the Spring Festival, remember to tick off the light show here. Thousands of lanterns and lights will illuminate this ancient city. Moreover, indulge yourself in this gastronomic paradise filled with tantalizing aromas of Yangrou Paomo, Biang Biang noodles, Roujiamo, and more.

Huangshan Mountain

If you have ever seen a traditional Chinese painting, you may find Huangshan Mountain is like a painting in reality. February is the perfect time to witness the mountain's iconic granite peaks dusted with snow, pine trees frosted in white, and the breathtaking "sea of clouds" phenomenon.

For photographers, hikers, or anyone seeking a peaceful, scenic retreat, just come and see. It will be a truly magical mountain experience. Anyway, be sure to dress warmly for the high-altitude chill!

Sea of Cloud in Mount Huangshan

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is much warmer than most other cities in February. And compared to Hong Kong's peak season from October to December, there will be fewer crowds.

Take a ferry ride across Victoria Harbour for unbeatable skyline views, or head up to Victoria Peak for a panoramic sweep of the city and its surrounding islands. Discover the serenity of Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery on Lantau Island, or escape to hiking trails in the Dragon’s Back and Sai Kung areas for fresh sea breezes and coastal vistas. Shoppers can lose themselves in the vibrant markets of Mong Kok, while food lovers can sample everything from street snacks at Temple Street Night Market to Michelin-starred dim sum.

Note: Setting Hong Kong as the final stop on your China trip, so that you can take the advantage of the 240-hour visa-free transit policy.

Events & Festivals

Chinese New Year: Spring Festival & Lantern Festival

During the Spring Festival, every corner of China comes alive with mouth-watering festive foods, resonating firecrackers, and bright lanterns and couplets. This celebration commences on the first day of the Chinese lunar calendar and ends with the Lantern Festival on the 15th day. The Chinese New Year typically falls between late January and mid-February. Well, in 2026, the Chinese New Year's Eve is February 16th, and the Spring Festival will last from February 17th to March 3rd.

You can learn paper cutting and Chinese calligraphy; watch fireworks, shadow puppetry, and sugar-figurine blowing; and taste festive food like dumplings, Spring Rolls, Tang Yuan, Nian Gao, and longevity noodles; watch the exhilarating Yingge Dance (dance to the hero's song) in Chaoshan.

Coming to the end of the holiday, the Lantern Festival, you can participate in lantern-making. Whether in bustling cities, like Xi'an, Beijing, Hong Kong, Chengdu, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, or in ancient towns like Lijiang Old Town and Pingyao Ancient City, you will have enriching experiences.

The Lantern of Chinese New Year

Harbin Ice Festival

The world-renowned Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival displays surreal ice sculptures at the Harbin Ice and Snow World. It also hosts over 100 activities, including ice sculpture competitions, the snow sculpture art expo, and ice lantern shows. So, you can see plenty of amazing ice artworks. Beyond admiring them, some massive blocks even allow you to go inside to explore.

According to the official information, it is likely to be open at the end of December in 2025 and will last till mid- or late February in 2026. If you are interested in taking a China winter tour, this just can't be missed!

China Travel Tips in February

Prepare for the Winter Chill of North

Pack warm clothing, including thermal underwear, heavy coats, scarves, hats, and gloves. In Harbin and Jilin, heavy-duty winter gear, snow boots, as well as hand and foot warmers are necessary, and a pair of ski goggles is also recommended.

Plan in Advance

During the Spring Festival, hotels, airfare, vehicles, and attraction tickets can be lacking due to the increased demand, so please plan your itinerary and everything in advance.

Mind Your Health in the Cold & Dry Air

February in China can be very dry, particularly in the northern regions. Pack essentials like lip balm and moisturizer, and remember to stay hydrated (even if you don’t feel thirsty in the cold). Bringing a thermos travel mug is a great idea so you can enjoy warm water throughout the day.

Traveling to China in February? Check out These Great Itineraries

Marvelous China From Hong Kong to Beijing - 12 Days. Start in Hong Kong, with its sparkling skyline and bustling alleyways; delight in the scenic Li River cruise amidst towering karst peaks in Guilin; explore the impressive Terracotta Army and lively Muslim Street in Xi'an; and end in awe of the imposing Great Wall and Forbidden City in Beijing.

Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai - 8 Days. Immerse in the imperial grandeur of the Forbidden City and climb the iconic Great Wall in Beijing; proceed to Xi'an on a high-speed train to witness the renowned Terracotta Army; and admire the delicate Yu Garden for a heartwarming finale of your golden triangle sightseeing in Shanghai.

Highlights of China with Pandas - 12 Days. Marvel at the charming Shanghai, where ancient architecture coexists with skyscrapers; journey to Chengdu for the lovely Giant Pandas; board a high-speed train to Xi'an to admire the globally celebrated Terracotta Army; and conclude in Beijing's Forbidden City and Great Wall.