Shanghai Weather in January
China · Humid Subtropical climate · Data averaged from 2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31 (5 years)
January in Shanghai sees average temperatures ranging from a low of 1.6°C (34.9°F) to a high of 9.8°C (49.6°F), with a mean of 5.5°C (41.9°F). Compared to the annual average of 17.2°C (63.0°F), this month is 11.7°C cooler than the yearly norm. This is the coldest month of the year, with average lows of 1.6°C (34.9°F). Precipitation averages 69.6mm, making it approximately 52.0mm drier than the monthly average of 122.0mm. The city receives an average of 6.1 hours of sunshine per day during January, with relative humidity averaging 76.1%. Wind speeds reach an average maximum of 18.4 km/h. Snowfall averages 0.3cm during January, which can affect travel plans and outdoor activities. For travelers, this month offers a coldest month of the year 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.
January vs Adjacent Months
| Metric | December | January | February |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mean Temp | 6.3°C (43.3°F) | 5.5°C (41.9°F) | 7.0°C (44.6°F) |
| Rainfall | 22.1mm | 69.6mm | 76.1mm |
| Sunshine | 7.0 hrs | 6.1 hrs | 5.5 hrs |
| Humidity | 72.7% | 76.1% | 78.1% |
| Wind | 16.4 km/h | 18.4 km/h | 19.1 km/h |
| Rainy Days | 7.4 | 11.4 | 13.0 |
| Snowfall | 0.3 cm | 0.3 cm | 0.7 cm |
Seasonal Context
January falls in Winter in the Northern Hemisphere. Winter is the coolest season with the shortest daylight hours. For travelers visiting Shanghai in January, 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 January?
The average temperature in Shanghai during January ranges from 1.6°C (34.9°F) to 9.8°C (49.6°F), with a mean of 5.5°C (41.9°F).
How much does it rain in Shanghai in January?
Shanghai receives an average of 69.6mm of precipitation in January, spread across approximately 11.4 rainy days.
What should I pack for Shanghai in January?
Based on January weather data, pack warm layers, a medium jacket, and waterproof outerwear.
Is January a good time to visit Shanghai?
January 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 January 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.