Why go
A winter trip to Heilongjiang has little in common with one to Hainan, and the Tibetan Plateau adds altitude to the decision. Summer monsoon rain affects much of the country, while the northwest is far drier. These contrasts help decide when to visit and what to carry for a route across several regions.
The full story
China stretches from subarctic conditions in the far north to tropical conditions along its southern edge. Height creates another climate: the Tibetan Plateau and high mountains can remain much colder than nearby lowlands. Northern winters are generally colder and drier; southern coastal and lowland areas stay milder. A route from Harbin through Beijing to Hainan therefore crosses distinct winter conditions even before any mountain excursion is added. The summer monsoon carries moist air inland and concentrates much of the year's rain in warmer months. Guangdong, Guangxi and Hainan are much wetter than the deserts and basins of the northwest. Sunshine also varies: parts of Sichuan and Chongqing can be cloudier than the north and the Tibetan Plateau. For a multi-region journey, compare the dates for each stop. Keep rain protection handy for wetter summer legs, and prepare separately for northern winter cold or high-altitude exposure.