Shanghai Weather in December
China · Humid Subtropical climate · Data averaged from 2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31 (5 years)
December in Shanghai sees average temperatures ranging from a low of 2.6°C (36.7°F) to a high of 10.6°C (51.1°F), with a mean of 6.3°C (43.3°F). Compared to the annual average of 17.2°C (63.0°F), this month is 10.9°C cooler than the yearly norm. Precipitation averages 22.1mm, making it approximately 99.0mm drier than the monthly average of 122.0mm. This is the driest month of the year, with just 22.1mm of precipitation. The city receives an average of 7.0 hours of sunshine per day during December, with relative humidity averaging 72.7%. Wind speeds reach an average maximum of 16.4 km/h. Snowfall averages 0.3cm during December, which can affect travel plans and outdoor activities. For travelers, this month offers a temperature experience in Shanghai, with drier-than-average conditions compared to the rest of the year.
Shanghai taught me that 'shoulder season' is everything here. I arrived in early June thinking it was safe — landed straight into plum rain season, three solid weeks of 28°C and 95% humidity. Pack quick-dry everything June mid-July. The real sweet spots are April-May (20°C, low rain) and October (22°C, clear skies). Skip August — typhoon season plus 33°C plus 85% humidity is brutal. Winters (December-February) are damp and cold in a way the thermometer doesn't capture; 4°C feels like -2°C with the wet chill. Bring a down jacket.
December vs Adjacent Months
| Metric | November | December | January |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mean Temp | 14.1°C (57.4°F) | 6.3°C (43.3°F) | 5.5°C (41.9°F) |
| Rainfall | 78.2mm | 22.1mm | 69.6mm |
| Sunshine | 6.9 hrs | 7.0 hrs | 6.1 hrs |
| Humidity | 76.4% | 72.7% | 76.1% |
| Wind | 18.2 km/h | 16.4 km/h | 18.4 km/h |
| Rainy Days | 10.2 | 7.4 | 11.4 |
| Snowfall | 0.0 cm | 0.3 cm | 0.3 cm |
Seasonal Context
December falls in Winter in the Northern Hemisphere. Winter is the coolest season with the shortest daylight hours. For travelers visiting Shanghai in December, the data indicates mixed conditions based on the combination of temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average temperature in Shanghai in December?
The average temperature in Shanghai during December ranges from 2.6°C (36.7°F) to 10.6°C (51.1°F), with a mean of 6.3°C (43.3°F).
How much does it rain in Shanghai in December?
Shanghai receives an average of 22.1mm of precipitation in December, spread across approximately 7.4 rainy days. This is the driest month of the year.
What should I pack for Shanghai in December?
Based on December weather data, pack warm layers, a medium jacket, and waterproof outerwear.
Is December a good time to visit Shanghai?
December is a cooler month, suitable for travelers who prefer mild weather and fewer crowds. Pack warm layers and enjoy indoor attractions.
Other Months for Shanghai
Cities with Similar December Climate (Humid Subtropical)
Data Source: Open-Meteo historical archive (2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31). Daily measurements aggregated into monthly climate normals. Coordinates: 31.23°, 121.47°. Timezone: Asia/Shanghai. Last updated: 2026-07-30.