September is a good time to visit Yunnan as you would enjoy fewer visitors and less rain after the peak tourist and rainy months, making it suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
The Mid-Autumn Festival typically falls in mid to late September or the first week of October. During the festival, many areas in Yunnan celebrate with various traditions.
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Yunnan Weather in September
In September, the rainfall in Yunnan decreases but there are still more cloudy and rainy days, typically featuring light showers and followed by clear and sunny periods. The light rain wouldn’t affect your travel but the temperature may be cooler.
Occasional typhoon weather in September could bring rain and even storms, but it mostly affects areas around Xishuangbanna.
Yunnan also cools down slightly this month, with daily average temperatures between 17°C and 25°C (63–77°F) and a significant temperature variation from day to night.
- In central areas, such as Kunming and Dali, the average daytime temperature is about 22°C (72°F), which is typically comfortable and cool. At night, it could drop to about 13°C (55°F).
- In northern regions, Lijiang is cooler with temperatures ranging between 12°C and 22°C (54–72°F), especially at night. But temperatures near snow mountains could be lower. In Shangri-La, it may be a little cold, with temperatures ranging from 7°C to 17°C (45–63°F).
- In southern regions, such as Xishuangbanna, there are warmer temperatures ranging between 21°C and 29°C (70–84°F).
What to Wear in September Yunnan
In Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang, pick lightweight clothes, such as T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, and jackets, to cater to the changeable temperature of the day.
In Shangri-La, warm layers, such as hoodies, sweaters, and lightweight down jackets, are needed. In Xishuangbanna, wear normal summer clothes, such as T-shirts and dresses.
Top Places to Visit in September
September in Yunnan is best for capturing verdant summer scenery as well as early autumn sights, taking hiking tours, and immersing yourself in the Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations.
1. Kunming
Dongchuan Red Land in Kunming, with white rape flowersKunming experiences less rain than Dali and Lijiang in September, and it is warm on sunny days, making it pleasant to take a city tour and enjoy outdoor adventures, such as visiting the Stone Forest.
For food lovers, especially with kids, Kunming Old Street is perfect for savoring local snacks, such as rice noodle salad, deep-fried mushrooms, big sweet dumplings, and bubble tea.
Dongchuan Red Land also showcases a stunning palette-like sight in September, with white, green, and red hues, creating a picturesque sight that is perfect for photography.
During the Mid-Autumn Festival, you could visit a large lantern show with your family in Daguan Pavilion. Located on the west shore of Dian Lake, it is also ideal for admiring the full moon reflecting over the water.
2. Dali
The wheat fields in Xizhou, DaliDali in September features light morning rain and afternoon sunshine, and sometimes even has a sun shower. But the weather is cool and there aren’t many visitors, offering a great time to explore Dali.
At Er Lake, you could take a leisurely bike ride along the lakeside, which is especially enjoyable for a family with kids. Or you could enjoy some afternoon tea in the Santorini-style Dali Ideal Kingdom. It is best for couples and offers a bird’s-eye view of Erhai and vistas of Cang Mountain, making it perfect for photography.
The nights around the Mid-Autumn Festival are ideal for admiring the full moon over Er Lake and you would also see Bai people worshiping the moon and lighting river lanterns. The best moon-gazing spots are Caicun and Longkan Wharf on the west shore, as well as Wuhua Tower in Dali Old Town.
In late September, it is pleasant to admire light yellow paddy fields with a bright hue in Xizhou Town or visit Shaxi Ancient Town with its warm and historic atmosphere. You could also enjoy observing the local people’s lifestyles, especially at the morning markets.
Both Xizhou and Shaxi are filming locations for Meet Yourself. If you’re a hardcore fan of the drama, you could follow the 8-Day Meet Yourself Tour to check this experience off your list.
3. Lijiang
Lijiang Ancient TownIn September, although Lijiang experiences less rainfall than in July and August, you would still encounter light rain but this is usually followed by sunny or cloudy weather for a while. Therefore, even in such weather conditions, you could rest assured that outdoor activities are still possible.
You could visit Lijiang Old Town, which is still lively but not crowded after the summer vacation. There are a variety of local shops, which are ideal for big shoppers. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, you could also experience mooncake-making and admire Naxi ethnic performances.
With fewer visitors, you would encounter fewer lines for the cable cars while visiting Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Glacier Park is breathtaking and majestic when you reach the summit but there is little snow.
However, it is a vibrant time to admire sights that remind you of The Wizard of Oz in Spruce Meadow, tranquil blue water in Blue Moon Valley, and spectacular snow peaks in Yak Meadow (best for hiking).
For families with kids or teenage school groups seeking more cultural and practical experiences, Yuhu Village is perfect for learning about its history, Naxi ethnic culture, and farm life.
Although the water level would have receded somewhat due to the reduced rainfall, Tiger Leaping Gorge is still spectacular. The pleasant weather also makes it perfect for hiking and enjoying the sea of clouds.
Recommended tours:
4. Shangri-La
Songzanlin MonasteryShangri-La in September enjoys more sunny and dry days than other popular destinations in Yunnan, making outdoor activities and sightseeing more delightful.
Napa Lake is brimming with tranquil water after the peak rainy season. You could cycle around the lake and across the water highway (submerged by shallow water) while immersing yourself in the green grassland that interacts with the lake.
Shangri-La is also ideal for exploring Tibetan culture in Yunnan. You could witness the grandeur of Songzanlin Monastery and hang colorful flags (during a Weisang ceremony) there. While in Dukezong Ancient Town, you could dress in a Tibetan costume for photos or experience Thangka painting.
If you prefer hiking, it is also a great time to hike in Yubeng Village. As September offers more dry weather, you could still enjoy Yubeng’s vibrant summer sights.
5. Yuanyang Rice Terraces
Yuanyang Rice Terraces enjoy cool and dry weather in September, and the paddy fields turn golden, making it suitable for capturing spectacular autumn sights and hiking.
It is also ideal for photography. The golden fields appear peaceful with the morning sunlight, while at dusk, it is perfect for shooting the splendid sight along with a sunset and clouds.
If you prefer local ethnic culture, you could also explore Hani farming culture in the villages, experience rice harvesting, admire Hani ethnic costumes, and savor local food, such as chicken soup hot pot, braised paddy carp, and Hani bacon.
Crowds and Costs
Crowds: Compared to the crowded summer vacation and the following National Day holiday, September in Yunnan is less-touristy but it will experience more visitors during the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Costs: Travel expenses are relatively cheap throughout September, especially airfares and accommodation fees. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, they may increase slightly but would still remain affordable.