While much of the world swelters in summer heat, a number of cities in China maintain naturally cool temperatures. No humming air conditioners, just mountain breezes and just-right warmth. From the "Cool Capital of China" to plateau retreats, from the grasslands at 50 degrees north to the Yellow Sea coastline — these places welcome you with their natural air conditioning.
The following 10 destinations are waiting to offer you a refreshing summer getaway.
- Guiyang — "China's Cool Capital"
1. Climate
• Average summer temperature: just 22.3°C
• Forest coverage exceeds 55%
• Air quality remains excellent for over 99% of the year
• Surrounded by a 374-kilometer green belt, dotted with numerous parks and nature reserves
2. Experiences
• Stroll through Qianling Mountain Park or Aha Lake for scenic views
• Explore the ancient streets of Qingyan Old Town and the karst caves of Tianhe Lake
• Try outdoor adventures like stream tracing, camping, and rock climbing
• Enjoy the city's cafe culture — over 3,000 cafes and 1,200 craft beer bars
• Summer average temperature: 22.3°C
- Qingdao — Sea Breezes and Beer
1. Climate
• Summer temperatures significantly cooler than inland areas
• July average temperature: around 26°C
• Long coastline with refreshing sea breezes throughout summer
2. Experiences
• Walk along the S-curve coastline of Qinyu Road, watching waves crash against red reefs
• Enjoy panoramic views of red roofs, green trees, blue sea, and sky from Signal Hill Park
• Hike the Laoshan North Nine Waters trail — with 90% vegetation coverage, it feels 5-6°C cooler
• Taste fresh seafood and local Tsingtao beer — Qingdao is world-famous for its beer culture
- Kunming — The "Spring City's" 22°C Summer
1. Climate
• Average annual temperature of 15°C
• Summer average: 22°C
• Known as a city where "air conditioning is unnecessary"
2. Experiences
• Admire the lotus flowers at Daguan Park by Dianchi Lake
• Watch pavilions reflect in the water at Cuihu Park
• Jog or cycle along the 108-kilometer Dianchi Lake Greenway
• Visit Dounan Flower Market — Asia's largest flower market
• Summer average temperature: 22°C
- Liupanshui — "China's Cool Capital"
1. Climate
• Average summer temperature: just 19°C
• 62% forest coverage
• High concentrations of negative oxygen ions
• First city in China named after its climate
2. Experiences
• Watch sunrise over Wumeng Grassland
• Visit the purple flower sea of Dajiucaiping
• Explore the ancient charm of Shuicheng Old Town
• Try stream tracing at Beipan River for a refreshing experience
- Dalian — A Northern Coastal "Cool City"
1. Climate
• Average summer temperatures: 24-26°C
• Long coastlines with refreshing sea breezes
• Named one of the top ten "laid-back" summer destinations
2. Experiences
• Feed seagulls at Asia's largest square, Xinghai Square
• Stroll along the coastal road for fresh breezes
• Enjoy panoramic sunset views from Lianhua Mountain Observation Deck
• Marvel at the unique sea-eroded rock formations at Jinshitan
- Harbin — Cool Even in Summer
1. Climate
• Average summer temperature: around 22°C
• Plane trees cast shade throughout the city
• Evening breezes from the Songhua River bring natural coolness
2. Experiences
• Stroll down Central Street, lined with European-style architecture
• Enjoy the breeze by the Songhua River
• Visit the Dream Ice and Snow World — indoor constant temperature with ice sculptures and long ice slides
• Experience "mid-summer winter" with year-round ice and snow attractions
- Datong — A Cool City Rich in Culture and Nature
1. Climate
• Average summer temperature: around 21°C
• Even during peak heat, temperatures stay around 25°C
• Comfortable day-night temperature differences
• No oppressive summer heat
2. Experiences
• Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Yungang Grottoes
• Visit the Hanging Temple at the foot of Mount Heng
• Take evening walks on the ancient city wall as temperatures drop
• Enjoy the lake breeze at Wenyang Lake
- Hulunbuir — Grassland Cool at 50° North
1. Climate
• Summer daytime temperatures: around 25°C
• Nighttime temperatures drop to 15°C
• Located at 50 degrees north latitude
2. Experiences
• Experience the Naadam Festival with traditional Mongolian games
• Try ATV riding, grass sledding, and horse riding
• Explore the Morin Dawa River and Erguna Wetlands
• Camp under the stars on the vast grasslands
- Xining — "World Cool City"
1. Climate
• Average summer temperature: 17-19°C
• Known as the "World Cool City"
• Mosquitoes are rarely a problem
• Day-night temperature differences require a light jacket
2. Experiences
• Visit Qinghai Lake — China's largest inland saltwater lake
• Explore Chaka Salt Lake — the "Mirror of the Sky"
• Drive through the Menyuan Flower Sea
• Relax at Xining Wildlife Park and Huangshui River Wetland Park
- Chengde — Imperial Garden Coolness
1. Climate
• Average summer temperature: around 22°C
• Natural "air conditioning" from three valleys
• Cool breezes flow into the lake area year-round
2. Experiences
• Explore the Chengde Mountain Resort — a UNESCO World Heritage site
• Boat on the lake to enjoy the imperial garden scenery
• Drive to Bashang Grassland and Saihanba Forest Park
• Stargaze in the clear night skies away from city lights
- Travel Tips
1. Best time to visit
• June to September is the ideal summer escape window
• July and August offer the most comfortable temperatures
• Some destinations, like Harbin and Datong, are pleasant well into early autumn
2. What to pack
• Bring a light jacket — plateau and northern regions see significant day-night temperature drops
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat are essential for high-altitude destinations
• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring gardens, mountains, and ancient towns
3. Getting around
• All 10 cities are connected by high-speed rail or domestic flights
• Local public transport is reliable and affordable
• Didi (ride-hailing) is available in all cities
4. Payments
• WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in all destinations
• Mobile payment coverage is comparable to major cities
• Carry some cash as backup for smaller vendors
5. Extended stays
• Many destinations offer long-stay "slow travel" options
• Great for week-long or month-long summer retreats
• Consider booking accommodations in advance for popular destinations
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