May is a great time to travel. Spring is in full swing, and the slight heat of early summer has not yet arrived. Most parts of the country welcome the most comfortable weather: mild temperatures, moderate rain, gentle breezes, and perfect sunshine. Whether you want to feel the poetry of the water towns south of the Yangtze River or experience the folk customs in the southwest borderlands, nature shows its most charming colors in May.
If you are planning a trip, the following cities will give you an unforgettable experience.
Hangzhou: The Poetic Picture of a Jiangnan Water Town
May in Hangzhou perfectly captures the phrase “always beautiful, whether lightly or heavily made up.”
Top attractions: West Lake is the soul of Hangzhou. This season, walking along the Su Causeway or Bai Causeway, you can see weeping willows on both banks and sparkling lake water. Besides West Lake, the quiet Lingyin Temple and the green Xixi Wetland are also worth exploring.
Unique experiences: When you visit Hangzhou, you must not miss authentic Jiangnan food. Order West Lake vinegar fish and beggar’s chicken to taste classic Hangzhou dishes. In the afternoon, you can head to Longjing Village. Among the green tea gardens, enjoy a cup of fragrant Longjing tea and experience the slow-paced life of the locals.
Guilin: A Natural Wonder of Mountains and Rivers
“Guilin’s scenery is the best in the world.” May brings the high-water season to Guilin. The rivers are full, and the mountains on both sides are green, making it the best time to visit.
Top attractions: The Li River and Yangshuo are the core of a Guilin trip. You can take a cruise or bamboo raft through the unique karst landscape. It feels like stepping into a giant ink painting.
Unique experiences: On West Street in Yangshuo, you can feel a unique mix of Chinese and Western cultures. At night, watch the stunning live performance of “Impression Sanjie Liu.” For food, an authentic bowl of Guilin rice noodles with rich broth and plenty of toppings will definitely wake up your taste buds.
Lijiang: Slow Times at the Foot of Snow Mountains
For those who want to escape city noise, Lijiang in May offers a perfect safe haven. The sky is blue, the sun is shining, and the weather is very pleasant.
Top attractions: Lijiang Old Town (Dayan Old Town) keeps its simple wooden buildings and stone roads. Not far away, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is still covered in snow. This sharply contrasts with the green trees and wildflowers at the bottom of the mountain.
Unique experiences: Walking through the old town, you can learn about the Dongba culture of the Naxi people. In the evening, find a folk bar by the water and listen to a smooth guitar song. At dinner, a hot cured pork rib hotpot and fresh wild mushrooms will drive away the slight chill of the night.
Practical Travel Tips
To make your May trip go smoothly, here is some useful advice:
Clothing guide: Most cities are warm during the day in May, but the temperature drops in the morning and evening. We suggest dressing in layers. You can wear short sleeves, shirts, or light dresses during the day. When you go out in the morning or evening, make sure to bring a windproof jacket or cardigan. If you go to high-altitude areas like Lijiang, you also need a thicker jacket or light down coat.
Transportation: May includes the May Day holiday and is a busy time for travel. Whether you take the high-speed train or fly, we recommend planning and booking half a month in advance. Inside the cities, public transport in Hangzhou and Guilin is excellent. Taking a taxi, subway, or bus is very easy. In Lijiang, walking is the best way to see the old town. To get to the snow mountain, you can book a licensed charter car or tourist bus.
Travel prep: UV rays get stronger in May, so please bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat when you go out. Also, southern cities might get showers. Carrying a folding umbrella for both sun and rain will keep you ready for anything.
Keep this guide, pick your favorite destination, and set off to enjoy a beautiful May.