This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
The climate of China is extremely diverse due to its vast size and varied topography. Broadly, China can be divided into four main climate types: tropical in the south, subtropical in the southeast, temperate in the central and northern regions, and arid in the northwest. The country experiences a wide range of temperatures, from hot and humid summers in the south to cold and dry winters in the north. Precipitation patterns vary, with the south and east receiving abundant rainfall, while the northwest is much drier.
The Köppen climate classification system, developed by climatologist Wladimir Köppen in the early 20th century, is a widely used method for classifying the world’s climates based on temperature, precipitation, and vegetation patterns. In China, this system helps us understand the diverse range of climates found across this vast country. Let’s explore how China’s climates are classified according to the Köppen system.
The map below shows Koppen climate types of China.
Group A: Tropical Climates
China’s southernmost regions, including parts of Hainan Island and the southern coast, fall into the Group A category of the Köppen system. These areas are characterized by high temperatures year-round, with average temperatures above 18°C (64.4°F) every month. Rainfall is abundant, often exceeding 60mm (2.36 inches) per month even in the driest months.
Group C: Temperate Climates
Much of central and northern China, including areas around Beijing and the North China Plain, fall into the Group C category of the Köppen system. These regions experience four distinct seasons, with warm to hot summers and cold winters. Average temperatures in the warmest month range from 10°C to 22°C (50°F to 71.6°F), while in the coldest month, temperatures can drop below -3°C (26.6°F).
Group D: Cold Climates
The high-altitude regions of western China, including parts of Tibet and Xinjiang, fall into the Group D category of the Köppen system. These areas experience cold temperatures year-round, with average temperatures below 10°C (50°F) every month. Winters are particularly harsh, with temperatures often dropping below -38°C (-36.4°F).
Group B: Dry Climates
The arid regions of northwestern China, including parts of Xinjiang and Inner Mongolia, fall into the Group B category of the Köppen system. These areas experience very little precipitation year-round, with most of it falling during the summer months. Summers are hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), while winters are cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing.
