The four seasons in Beijing, a northern city, are demarcated with a long hot summer, long chilly winter, and shorter spring and autumn. The hottest month is July and the coldest is January. Considering the frequent sandstorms in spring, September and October with their pleasant weather are considered the best visiting times.

To visit Beijing in spring or autumn, bring lightweight clothing such as long-sleeved shirts or T-shirts, plus one or two jackets and sweaters. The temperature in summer ranges between 30 and 39 centigrade, calling for summer clothes.

A winter journey to Beijing may be a shock to visitors from tropical countries. Enjoying the snow scene on West Hill, skating in Beihai Park, followed by a steaming hotpot with mutton slices will drive out the chills. Be sure to bring winter clothes, including wool sweaters and down coats.

Spring is rainy season in Beijing, with some rain in summer and between summer and autumn. Rainstorms may happen without warning in the afternoon of sunny days. Sometimes even weather forecasters can predict a shower only one or two hours ahead. Heavy rain may block traffic; inconveniencing everyone. Remember to pack a raincoat or umbrella.

Beautiful Beijing presents different features for its clear distinction of four seasons. To have a better understanding about the characteristics of different seasons will bring tourists different fresh feeling by enjoying the special tour of four seasons.

Beijing stages both international and domestic folk activities. The most remarkable ones are the Temple Fairs during Chinese Lunar New Year when people perform traditional national art forms such as the dragon dance, lion dance, acrobatics and martial art.