Best China Cities to Visit in December

December in China offers a unique travel experience with cooler weather and fewer crowds. Here are some of the best cities to explore during this month:

1. Beijing: December in Beijing is cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. However, this is also the best time to visit the Great Wall without the usual tourist crowds. The Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven are less crowded, allowing for a more serene experience. Don't miss the ice skating on Kunming Lake in Summer Palace.

2. Shanghai: Shanghai enjoys milder winter temperatures compared to northern cities. December is a great time to visit the Yu Garden, stroll along The Bund, and explore the Shanghai Museum. The city's festive lights and decorations add a special charm to its skyline. Christmas markets in areas like Xintiandi and Nanjing Road offer unique shopping experiences.

3. Xi’an: Known for its historical significance, Xi’an is a great destination in December. The cooler weather makes exploring the Terracotta Army and City Wall more comfortable. Muslim Quarter is vibrant with its street food offerings, perfect for warming up with local delicacies.

4. Chengdu: Chengdu is known for its pandas and spicy Sichuan cuisine. December's cooler weather is ideal for visiting the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Enjoy a relaxing time at a traditional teahouse and try some hotpot to fend off the chill.

5. Harbin: If you're a fan of winter activities, Harbin is the place to be. December marks the beginning of the Harbin Ice Festival, where you can see incredible ice sculptures and partake in winter sports. The city transforms into a winter wonderland with its famous ice lantern tour and snow sculpture art expos.

6. Guilin: For a warmer option, Guilin offers a milder winter climate. December is an excellent time to take a river cruise on the Li River and admire the stunning karst landscapes. The cooler weather also makes hiking the Longji Rice Terraces more pleasant.

Here’s a table summarizing the highlights of each city:

City	Highlights	Weather
Beijing	Great Wall, Forbidden City, ice skating	Cold, below freezing
Shanghai	Yu Garden, The Bund, Christmas markets	Mild
Xi’an	Terracotta Army, City Wall, Muslim Quarter	Cool
Chengdu	Giant Panda Breeding Center, hotpot	Cool, damp
Harbin	Ice Festival, ice sculptures, snow activities	Very cold
Guilin	Li River cruise, Longji Rice Terraces	Mild

Each city offers its own unique winter charm and activities. Whether you’re interested in historical sites, winter festivals, or just escaping the cold, China has something to offer every traveler in December.