Shanghai Weather in July

🇨🇳 China

31°C

High

25°C

Low

Rain Days

10h

Sunshine

70%

Humidity

Asia › 🇨🇳 China › Shanghai

Updated: March 2026

Is July a Good Time to Visit Shanghai?

4/10

Fair

July is a fair time to visit Shanghai (4/10). With 10 daily sunshine hours and only 14 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it the sunniest month of the year in Shanghai. July suits travellers visiting for indoor culture, food, and architecture rather than outdoor activities. Pack accordingly for 14 potential rain days. June offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Shanghai's popular sites are busiest between 10am and 3pm regardless of season. Arriving at opening time or after 4pm makes a significant difference to the experience. Planning tips: most accommodation categories have availability, and last-minute deals are common. The quieter streets and shorter queues can make this a genuinely enjoyable time to visit for the right type of traveller. Budget-conscious visitors will find the best value of the year in this period.

vs June:27°C avg high

Based on 30-year climate normals (1991 to 2020), July in Shanghai averages 31°C by day and 25°C overnight, a range that places it firmly in the warmer tier of the annual calendar. The month records approximately 10 sunshine hours per day and 160mm of total rainfall across 14 wet days, giving it a sunshine-to-rain ratio that is broadly workable for most itineraries.

31°C

Avg High

25°C

Avg Low

14 days

Rain Days

10h

Sunshine

70%

Humidity

Temperature in Shanghai in July

The 6°C day-night temperature range is typical for continental climates: a light jacket in the morning that you shed by midday and need again after sunset. Humidity averages 70%, which is comfortable for most visitors. On warmer days, lighter fabrics help with the mild stickiness in the afternoon. UV index averages 9 this month, classed as high to very high. SPF 30+ sunscreen, a brim hat, and sunglasses are not optional between 10am and 4pm. Wind averages 18 km/h, light enough to be refreshing on warm days but noticeable in open coastal areas or elevated viewpoints. In Fahrenheit: 88°F average high, 77°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).

Temperature in July

Monthly Precipitation (mm)

What to Wear in Shanghai in July

Morning25°CBefore the day warms up

Afternoon31°CPeak daytime temperature

Evening28°CAfter sunset cools down

Packing for Shanghai in July means dressing for 31°C days and 25°C evenings. A lightweight linen or cotton shirt with loose-fit trousers or a sundress handles the 31°C daytime heat. Evening temperatures settle at 25°C, a modest 6°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. For footwear, breathable walking sandals work for casual exploration, but closed-toe trainers are better for uneven surfaces in the historic centre. With 14 rain days expected, a compact travel umbrella is worth the bag space. A waterproof jacket is better than an umbrella if you plan full-day outdoor routes. For temple and religious site visits, carry a lightweight scarf or sarong to cover shoulders and knees, required at most major sites across the region.

💡

Local tip: Temple and religious site visits require covered shoulders and knees in most of Shanghai's heritage areas. A lightweight scarf or sarong weighs almost nothing and solves the problem instantly.

Events in Shanghai in July

July has no major festivals or public holidays in Shanghai, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.

What to Pack for Shanghai in July

Based on 31°C average highs and 14 rainy days

Lightweight breathable clothing
Linen or bamboo shirts for the hottest hours
Sun hat with a wide brim
UV-protective sunglasses
Hydration bottle (at least 1 litre)
Quick-dry travel towel
Anti-chafe balm for long walking days
Moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics for active days
Compact folding umbrella
Waterproof outer layer or packable rain jacket
Quick-dry clothing that recovers fast after a shower
SPF 30+ sunscreen
Comfortable walking shoes (a second pair lets the first air out overnight)
Universal travel adapter
Small day pack for city exploration
Reusable water bottle

Best Activities in Shanghai in July

Early morning walk through Shanghai's historic market districtBest before 9amTemperatures are still manageable at 27°C before the midday heat builds
Open-air rooftop dining at sunsetFrom 6pm onwardsThe 31°C daytime heat drops noticeably after sunset, making al fresco dining comfortable
Waterfront promenade or harbour walkEarly morning or after 5pmSea breezes cut through the humidity, making coastal routes the most pleasant in heat
Guided cycling tour of the old quarterFirst tour of the day (7-9am)The low-traffic window before tourist crowds and the cooler morning air make this the prime riding slot
Spend a morning in the national or city art museumOpens at 10am; arrive earlyWith 14 rain days expected, having a full-day indoor plan is practical insurance
Cooking class focused on regional cuisineHalf-day sessions run 10am-1pm or 3-6pmIndoor activity that fills a rainy half-day with genuine cultural content
Visit covered historical sites: cathedral, palace, or bazaarAny time; most crowded middayRoofed monuments and covered markets provide exploration without weather exposure
Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningJuly brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
Seek out chilled local specialities: cold-brew tea, ice desserts, or chilled seafood at street-level stallsAny time; most atmospheric in evening marketsHot-weather street food culture peaks in July, with vendors setting up specifically for warm evenings

Why is Shanghai warm in July?

Shanghai's July heat is driven by the Asian summer monsoon system, as the low-pressure cell that forms over the heated landmass draws warm, humid air from the oceans. The result is temperatures averaging 31°C with high moisture in the air. Overnight temperatures remain elevated at 25°C, as clouds and humidity prevent the earth from radiating heat away after sunset. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).

Sunshine Hours

The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.

UV Index

A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate -- wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High -- hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High -- limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme -- seek shade between 10am-4pm.

Rain Days

A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.

Humidity

Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry -- skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable -- ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky -- light, breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy -- heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions: Shanghai in July

In July, Shanghai experiences average highs of 31°C (88°F) and lows of 25°C (77°F). Expect around 14 rainy days and 10 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 70%. The 6°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an overshirt or cardigan handles the cooler evenings. UV index averages 9, so sun protection is advisable on clear days.

Shanghai typically sees 14 rainy days in July, with total precipitation of around 160mm. Rain is moderate and manageable. Showers tend to pass quickly, and a light rain layer or foldable umbrella is sufficient protection for most days. For context, the driest month in Shanghai typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than July.

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing (linen or cotton), a wide-brim sun hat, SPF 50+ sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle for Shanghai in July. The 31°C daytime heat demands sun protection during midday hours, typically 11am to 4pm. A compact travel umbrella is also worth packing, as 14 rainy days means afternoon showers are a real possibility. Quick-dry synthetic fabrics are preferable to cotton in 70% humidity.

July is a reasonable time to visit Shanghai. Expect 14 rainy days, so pack a light rain layer for flexibility. Average temperatures of 31°C make outdoor exploration comfortable during the dry periods. With 10 daily sunshine hours, there are reliable windows of good weather to plan outdoor activities around, even if the month is not the driest on the calendar.

The average high temperature in Shanghai in July is 31°C (88°F), and the average low is 25°C (77°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 28°C (82°F). The day-to-night range of 6°C is moderate, meaning a single light jacket covers most situations. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.

The best month to visit Shanghai is generally May. May offers the most sunshine at 9 hours per day and only 10 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 24°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around May gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.

July is shoulder or low season in Shanghai, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 10 sunshine hours and 14 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.

In July, Shanghai suits a range of activities thanks to warm temperatures of 31°C. Mix of indoor and outdoor activities works well given the moderate chance of rain. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. With 10 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.

July ranks 1st sunniest of the year in Shanghai, with an average 10 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are October, December, and November. July is the hottest month (31°C avg high); January is the coolest (8°C). From here, temperatures fall 0°C into August. Compared to last month (June: 27°C high, 15 rain days), July is warmer and drier. July is among the top three sunniest months to visit Shanghai.

Year-Round Climate

Month	High	Low	Rain Days	Sun	Details
January	8°C	1°C	8	6h	View
February	10°C	3°C	9	6h	View
March	14°C	7°C	11	7h	View
April	19°C	12°C	10	8h	View
May	24°C	17°C	10	9h	View
June	27°C	21°C	15	8h	View
July	31°C	25°C	14	10h	View
August	31°C	25°C	16	10h	View
September	27°C	21°C	11	9h	View
October	22°C	16°C	6	8h	View
November	17°C	10°C	7	7h	View
December	11°C	4°C	6	7h	View

Other Months in Shanghai

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Plan Your Trip to Shanghai

Best Time to Visit Shanghai

Data Sources for Shanghai

Shanghai on Wikipedia Open-Meteo Climate API NOAA National Centers UK Met Office WMO GeoNames

Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.