May · China
Best time to visit Nanjing in May Weather, crowds & prices
Weather in Nanjing in May
Average temperature 21°C, 83 mm of rain, about 23 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 71% humidity — based on the five most recent complete years of ERA5 data (2021–2025).
May score
8.5/10
Ranked #1 of 12 months
- Avg temp
- 21°C
- Rainfall
- 83 mm
- Humidity
- 71%
- Days with 6h+ sun
- 23
- Crowd Density
- Moderate Crowds
- Average Expenses
- $$$ · Peak Season Rates ($$$)
May in Nanjing scores 8.5/10 for sightseeing and cultural travel - the single best month of the year. Expect around 21°C, 83 mm of rain, and roughly 23 days with 6+ hours of sunshine this month.
Nanjing is a former Chinese capital on the Yangtze, known for Ming walls, plane trees and its memorials.
May in Nanjing tops the year's climate scores
At 21°C (71°F) this is comfortable city weather in May, with sightseeing easiest before lunch and after the afternoon peak.
Budget for roughly 83 mm of rain this month — a flexible day or two helps — with about 23 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 13.6 hours of daylight to work around it.
On our climate-comfort scale this is the top-ranked month of the year for Nanjing at 8.5/10 — the reference point every other month on this page is measured against.
Pack light clothing, a hat and real sun protection, a packable rain layer.
Expect peak pricing, and crowds are moderate. You are paying the year's highest rates for the year's best conditions — book early or shift a few weeks either side.
Frequently asked
- What is the weather like in Nanjing in May?
- In May, Nanjing averages 21°C, 83 mm of rain, and about 23 days with 6+ hours of sunshine. Its climate-comfort score is 8.5/10.
- Is May a good time to visit Nanjing?
- May earns a 8.5/10 climate-comfort score. Use the year-round chart to weigh the weather against your budget and crowd preferences.
- How much does it rain in Nanjing in May?
- Expect about 83 mm of rain in May. Average humidity is 71% and there are about 23 days with 6+ hours of sunshine.
Curated in Nanjing
Tickets & experiences
Things to do in Nanjing
Nanjing, China. Live activities and tours from GetYourGuide, matched to this destination.