Xi’an Weather in May: Temperature, Clothing Guide & Travel Tips
“Go to Shanghai to see China’s history of nearly 100 years, go to Beijing to see China’s history of more than 500 years, go to Xi ‘an to see China’s history of more than 1,000 years.” Travelers from all over the world travel to Xi’an to learn about its history and culture since it was the capital of thirteen different dynasties in Chinese history and is home to the site of the Terracotta Army. The best time to visit Xi’an is around May, when the weather is pleasant.
Those who are planning a trip to Xian in May are wondering if it will be hot in May. Does it rain a lot in Xian in May? What am I supposed to wear? In this article, we explain Xi’an Weather in May, including the average climate, temperature, and rainfall.
Xi’an Weather & Temperature in May
There are two traditional Chinese solar terms in May: Beginning of Summer and Lesser fullness. The Beginning of Summer usually falls around May 5 or 6. Lesser fullness will be around May 20 or 21, when the temperatures continued to rise and rainfall increase.
Hence, May in Xi’an is the last month of the spring season. The temperature rises rapidly this month, making the local weather a little hot. The average high temperature in May fluctuates at 27 °C (80.6 °F), climbing up to 30 °C (86 °F) occasionally. With an average humidity of 64%, Xi’an weather in May has nearly 59 mm (2.3 inches) of rainfall. On the 15 hours long day, there are 6.7 hours of sunshine, which gives tourists more time to explore the charming ancient city.
On the whole, the weather in Xi’an in May is cool in the morning and night, but it could be very hot when the sunshine is strong at noon. However, due to the cold rain, the unusually low temperatures might occur in Xi’an weather in May.
Averages of Xian Weather & Climate in May
The highest temperature in Xi ‘an in May is 39℃ (in 2000), and the lowest temperature in Xi ‘an in May is 4℃ (in 1951).
Maximum temperature | 30℃ |
Minimum temperature | 12℃ |
Average temperature | 21℃ |
Precipitation | 59mm |
Relative humidity | 64% |
Precipitation days | 10 days |
Xian Weather in April in History
Year | Monthly maximum temperature | Monthly Minimum temperature | Sunny Days | Rainy Days |
May 2022 | 31 ℃ | 10℃ | 9 | 5 |
May 2021 | 30 ℃ | 9℃ | 7 | 5 |
May 2020 | 28 ℃ | 9℃ | 9 | 6 |
May 2019 | 28℃ | 9℃ | 4 | 7 |
May 2018 | 30 ℃ | 13℃ | 1 | 23 |
May 2017 | 31 ℃ | 10℃ | 10 | 7 |
May 2016 | 29 ℃ | 10℃ | 10 | 6 |
May 2015 | 27 ℃ | 12℃ | 9 | 7 |
May 2014 | 26 ℃ | 10℃ | 8 | 6 |
May 2013 | 36 ℃ | 13℃ | 7 | 10 |
May 2012 | 29 ℃ | 14℃ | 3 | 8 |
May 2011 | 27 ℃ | 9℃ | 8 | 8 |
What to Wear in Xi’an in May
In view of the scorching Xi’an weather in May in the daytime, short sleeves and dresses would be suitable clothes to wear in Xi’an in May. If you go out in the early morning or night, you’d better wear a denim jacket with a pair of sweatpants. In case of rainy days, pack some thicker clothes, such as windbreakers, thin sweaters, and hoodies.
In addition, remember to bring sunglasses and sunscreen cream for UV protection.
What to Do and See in Xi’an in May

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As summer approaches, let’s make a trip to explore the natural beauty and hisorical charm of Xi’an in the last month of spring. So what are the best places to visit in Xi’an in May?
Plan a classic Xian trip with a discovery of the archaeological pits of Terracotta Army and a wealth of Buddhist Treasures in Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. For active travelers or those traveling with kids, cycle along the old Xian city Wall. If you are Chinese lovers, learn Chinese calligraphy from a local master.
Originally an imperial garden during the Tang Dynasty (618–907), Qujiang Pool Heritage Park is today a well-liked picturesque location due to its rich history and natural beauty. With a large area of water, visitors can enjoy boat sightseeing in this heritage park. Take a stroll along the lake after dinner and take a break in a pavilion where you may see locals performing the Qinqiang – a local opera.
Taste local foods in Muslim Quarter at night. Shop’s light plaques make it easier to find the snacks you would like, such as Honey Cold Zongzi (Glutinous Rice Dumpling), Pepper Soup with Beef Balls, Mutton, and Bread Pieces in Soup, and Biangbiang Noodles.
If you’re an outdoor adventure lover, you can include Mount Huashan in your itinerary if travel to Xi’an in May. The world’s most dangerous peak, Mount Huashan, is well-known for its exhilarating, winding, and steep hiking routes. Among explorers, Plank Road and Hawk’s Turn are highly regarded equipment. If you climb at night, you can see the dreamlike sunrise and a sea of clouds the next morning.
√Recommended China Xian Tours:
- 2 Days Xian Small Group Tour(with Tang Dynasty Dance Show)
- 3 Days Xian City Tour with Mt.Huashan
- Best Xian Day Tour
Tips for Traveling Xi’an in May
- During the May Day holiday from May 1 to 5 in China, people havefive days off and many of them usually travel around. So you’re not advised to plan Xi’an tours in this period due to the huge crowds at the popular tourist attractions.
- If you go outduring the day time in Xian in May, it is recommended to bring sunscreen and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from ultraviolet rays.
- Drinks and food are more expensive on Huashan Mountain, so you are advised to pack some snacks and water.