Here's a weather update in 2025 from 24th Oct - 2nd Nov. Including how it looks in Hangzhou, Suzhou, Shanghai.
🌡️: 15-20 degrees celsius
👚🧣: Layering weather. You'd definitely need sleeeves but not super thick outer layers yet, especially when the sun is out. Just wear what you would wear in air conditioned malls
🌳💐: Generally this area you don't see the yellowing of trees as much until nearing winter. Even then it's not alot. For shanghai, the pink grass is in season. It's also still a great season to visit nature for beautiful blooms.
Notes on how the elements made the same temperature feel different:
• Hangzhou felt colder due to a general lack of sunlight and a lot of wind, so all of us wore 2 layers (Not enough if both layers are thin). Some days made me feel like I should've brought my fingerless gloves.
• In Shanghai, the sun was out most days so it was comfortable to wear just a long sleeve cardigan. (my sister who has higher tolerance wore a thin long sleeve off the shoulder top with a hole in the back)
• The Suzhou we went to was rainy, so felt like an in between where 2 thinner layers would be more comfortable.
... Read moreTraveling through Hangzhou, Suzhou, and Shanghai in late October offers a fascinating weather experience that varies subtly but notably across the cities. From my own experience visiting these areas, the days feel comfortably cool, with temperatures ranging between 15-20°C, but it is the combination of wind, rain, and sunshine that truly shapes how you should dress.
Hangzhou tends to feel chilled during this time, mainly due to the persistent wind and overcast sky. Layering is essential here; thicker or multiple layers help combat the crisp air, especially in the early mornings and evenings. I found that fingerless gloves were surprisingly useful on windier days, allowing for warmth without sacrificing finger dexterity—great for navigating cameras or phones while sightseeing.
Meanwhile, Shanghai basks in more consistent sunlight during these days, making it more forgiving in a single long-sleeve or thin cardigan. The pleasant sun makes outdoor strolls along the Bund or visits to the pink grass fields feel inviting and warm. The pink grass, a seasonal highlight, adds a delicate beauty to the urban landscape, enriching the autumn experience.
Suzhou’s rainy spells create a different weather mood. The moisture in the air calls for lighter layers but waterproof elements like a compact umbrella or a water-resistant jacket. The rain softens the city ambience and often enhances the colors of the garden landscapes Suzhou is famous for.
For those planning visits in 2025 around this time, my advice is to keep flexibility in your wardrobe. Mixing breathable layers with windbreakers and waterproof gear ensures comfort across varying conditions. Also, exploring local parks and gardens remains highly rewarding; the flora doesn't yellow drastically until winter, retaining much of the area's autumn beauty. This weather pattern invites outdoor exploration without the extremities of summer heat or winter cold.
In sum, late October is a delightful transitional month in these cities, where nature and weather combine to offer a pleasant mix of cool air, blooming landscapes, and varied attire opportunities. Whether wandering through Hangzhou’s historical sites, Suzhou’s waterways, or Shanghai’s vibrant streets, embracing layered clothing and staying prepared for weather changes will make your experience all the more enjoyable.