Yunnan in September offers an ideal travel climate. With average temps of 15 – 25℃ and less heat and crowds, it’s perfect for exploring. There’s a slight day – night temp difference, and some areas may have occasional showers as the rainy season ends. Know regional weather variations and follow our practical tips for a great trip.
Core Weather Characteristics in Yunnan in September
Temperature: Comfortable Range with Noticeable Day-Night Difference
Yunnan features a terrain that slopes from northwest to southeast, with a huge elevation difference, resulting in a distinct three-dimensional temperature distribution in September. However, the temperatures are generally within a range that feels comfortable for the human body. Central Yunnan (including Kunming, Yuxi, and Anning), as the provincial capital and surrounding core areas, has an average temperature between 18℃ and 24℃ in September. The daytime sun is gentle, and a short-sleeve shirt paired with a thin jacket is sufficient. At night, the temperature drops to 15℃ to 18℃; if you plan to go out at night or attend a bonfire party, you need to add a long-sleeve garment appropriately.
Northwest Yunnan (Lijiang, Shangri-La, Diqing, etc.) has a high altitude, and September already has the coolness of early autumn, with an average temperature between 12℃ and 20℃. Especially in Shangri-La, the temperature may drop below 10℃ in the early morning and evening, and slight frost may even occur. When visiting attractions such as Tiger Leaping Gorge and Pudacuo National Park, thick jackets and thin sweaters are essential items. Southern Yunnan (Xishuangbanna, Pu’er, Lincang, etc.) is located in the tropical zone and maintains a warm climate in September, with an average temperature between 22℃ and 30℃. It feels slightly hot at noon but much cooler than midsummer, presenting a stuffy yet humid sensation.
Precipitation: Late Rainy Season, Showers Do Not Disturb Travel
Yunnan’s rainy season usually lasts from May to October. September is the end of the rainy season, with less precipitation compared to July and August. It is characterized by “frequent showers, short duration, and strong regionality”. Most rainfall occurs from evening to night, and the days are mainly sunny with scattered clouds, which has little impact on daytime itineraries. For example, Kunming has an average of about 12 rainy days in September, with a daily rainfall of 10 to 20 millimeters. After the rain, the air becomes fresher, and colorful clouds often appear in the sky, which is also the origin of Yunnan’s name (Yunnan means “south of the clouds”).
It should be noted that short-term heavy rains may occur in the mountainous areas of northwest Yunnan (such as the route from Lijiang to Shangri-La), occasionally accompanied by thunder and lightning, but they usually do not last more than one hour. The tropical areas in southern Yunnan may be affected by the outer periphery of typhoons, bringing heavy rains, but the frequency is low. Generally speaking, the precipitation in September will not disrupt travel plans; on the contrary, it can cool down the hot areas and add a sense of elegance to mountain scenic spots. For example, after rain, Lugu Lake is shrouded in mist, like a fairyland on earth.
Sunshine and Humidity: Sufficient Sunshine, Moderate Humidity
Yunnan is located on the low-latitude plateau. When it is sunny in September, the sunshine is sufficient, and the UV intensity is moderate, which is weaker than that in midsummer. However, sun protection measures are still necessary, especially when visiting outdoor attractions such as Lijiang Ancient Town and Dali Erhai Lake. Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential. The average humidity in the province in September is between 60% and 75%. The humidity in central and northwest Yunnan is pleasant, without stuffy and sticky feelings. The humidity in southern Yunnan is slightly higher, about 70% to 80%, but it will temporarily decrease after showers, bringing a refreshing sensation.
Detailed Regional Weather
Core Area of Central Yunnan: Kunming, Dali – Golden Season with Spring-like Weather
Kunming is known as the “Spring City”, and the weather in September fully demonstrates this advantage. The daytime temperature is maintained between 20℃ and 23℃. It is extremely comfortable to stroll around Cuihu Park to appreciate lotus flowers or climb Xishan to overlook Dianchi Lake. The night temperature is about 16℃; when wandering around Nanqiang Street to taste special snacks, a thin denim jacket is sufficient. The weather in Dali in September is similar to that in Kunming, with an average temperature of 17℃ to 24℃. The gentle breeze by Erhai Lake is accompanied by fine weather, making it an excellent experience whether you are cycling around the lake or climbing Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas. It should be noted that there are occasional showers in the mountainous areas of Dali, so it is recommended to carry a lightweight umbrella.
Secret Land of Northwest Yunnan: Lijiang, Shangri-La – Pure Land with Early Autumn Coolness
The average temperature in Lijiang in September is 14℃ to 22℃. The Ganhaizi Meadow at the foot of Yulong Snow Mountain is still green, and the snow on the mountain top is whiter against the blue sky. A long-sleeve T-shirt is enough when walking around Lijiang Ancient Town during the day. If you plan to visit Yulong Snow Mountain, you need to rent a down jacket or bring a thick down vest; the temperature on the mountain top is often below 5℃. Shangri-La has entered early autumn in September. The leaves in Pudacuo National Park gradually turn yellow, with an average temperature of 10℃ to 18℃. There will be thin mist on Shudu Lake in the morning. It is recommended to wear a sweater with a windproof jacket and bring a warm scarf. The rainfall in this area is mostly at night, so daytime visits are basically not affected.
Yulong Snow Mountain
Tropical Area of Southern Yunnan: Xishuangbanna, Pu’er – Warm and Humid Oasis
The average temperature in Xishuangbanna in September is 23℃ to 29℃. It feels slightly hot at noon but much more comfortable than the high temperature in July. The rainfall here is mostly afternoon showers. After the rain, the weather turns cool, which is suitable for visiting the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden of the Chinese Academy of Sciences or enjoying ethnic song and dance performances in Manting Park. The dressing is mainly short-sleeves, shorts, and you can bring a thin long-sleeve to cope with the indoor air conditioning. The average temperature in Pu’er in September is slightly lower than that in Xishuangbanna, about 22℃ to 28℃. The tea gardens are greener after rain, which is a good time to experience tea picking and tasting. The high humidity requires attention to the breathability of clothes.
Karst Area of Southeast Yunnan: Wenshan, Honghe – Wonderful Scenery Accompanied by Fine Weather
The average temperature in Puzhehei, Wenshan in September is 19℃ to 25℃. Although the lotus has passed its full bloom period, the withered lotus and karst peaks set off each other, presenting a unique charm. There is less rainfall at this time, so it is suitable for taking a bamboo raft tour on the lake during the day. The night temperature is cool, and you can experience rural homestays. The Yuanyang Terraced Fields in Honghe are in the irrigation period in September. The sunlight shimmers on the terraced fields, with an average temperature of 18℃ to 24℃. The temperature difference between morning and evening in the mountainous areas is slightly large, so you need to bring a jacket. The fine weather provides favorable conditions for shooting the sunrise and sunset of the terraced fields.
Terraced Fields
Practical Suggestions for Traveling to Yunnan in September
Dressing Guide: Adjust According to Regions and Weather
Central and Southeast Yunnan: During the day, mainly wear short-sleeves, long pants or midi skirts, paired with a thin jacket or sun protection clothing. Change into long-sleeves and long pants at night; tourists with weak constitutions can add a thin sweater. Northwest Yunnan: It is recommended to wear “layered clothing” throughout the day. Wear a long-sleeve T-shirt or thin sweater inside, paired with a windproof jacket or down jacket (essential for Yulong Snow Mountain and Shangri-La). Wear thick jeans or casual pants on the lower body, which is convenient to add or remove clothes according to the temperature. Southern Yunnan: Mainly wear short-sleeves, shorts, and short skirts. Bring a thin long-sleeve to cope with indoor air conditioning and showers. Choosing breathable and sweat-absorbent cotton and linen clothes is more comfortable.
Essential Equipment: Cope with Sun, Rain and Various Scenarios
Rain gear: Carry a lightweight folding umbrella or disposable raincoat. It is recommended to choose a windproof and waterproof umbrella in the mountainous areas of northwest Yunnan to avoid getting wet by showers. Sun protection products: Sunscreen (SPF50+, PA+++ or above), sun hat, sunglasses, sun protection mask. The plateau in Yunnan has sufficient sunlight, so sun protection is necessary even on cloudy days. Other supplies: Comfortable walking shoes (essential for visiting ancient towns and climbing mountains), moisturizing skin care products (the plateau air is dry), commonly used medicines (cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, mosquito repellent; mosquito repellent is a priority in southern Yunnan), power bank (ensure mobile phone battery during long outdoor visits).
Itinerary Planning: Avoid Crowds and Comply with Weather Characteristics
Time arrangement: Prioritize outdoor attractions during the day, such as cycling around Erhai Lake, climbing snow-capped mountains, and shooting terraced fields. In the evening to night, arrange indoor or light outdoor activities such as wandering through ancient towns, tasting food, and watching ethnic performances to avoid possible showers. Route selection: If you prefer a warm climate, you can choose the southern Yunnan route (Xishuangbanna – Pu’er – Lincang). If you want to experience the coolness of early autumn and the scenery of snow-capped mountains, the northwest Yunnan route (Lijiang – Shangri-La – Dali) is more suitable. Family trips or leisure trips recommend the central Yunnan route (Kunming – Yuxi – Anning), with a comfortable itinerary without rushing.
Attraction reservation: Although September is not the peak season, it is still recommended to book tickets for popular attractions such as Yulong Snow Mountain and Pudacuo National Park 1-3 days in advance to avoid being unable to enter after arrival. Bicycles for the ecological corridor around Dali Erhai Lake can also be booked online in advance to save on-site waiting time.
Yunnan in September boasts the gentleness of the Spring City, the grandeur of snow-capped mountains, the vitality of tropical rainforests, and the magnificence of terraced fields. The diverse landforms and comfortable weather together outline a perfect travel picture. Whether you want to explore the secret land of northwest Yunnan in depth or enjoy the tropical customs of southern Yunnan, understanding the local weather characteristics and making full preparations can make your journey more comfortable. If you are confused about itinerary planning or hope to have a more intimate local experience, China Dragon Travel will be your ideal choice. With years of experience in Yunnan tourism, China Dragon Travel is familiar with the weather and scenic spot characteristics of various places. It can customize personalized itineraries for you, provide professional tour guides, comfortable vehicles, and high-quality accommodation, and take care of your travel throughout the journey, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery of Yunnan in September without worries.
