May · China
Best time to visit Shanghai in May Weather, crowds & prices
Weather in Shanghai in May
Average temperature 21°C, 108 mm of rain, about 22 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 77% humidity — based on the five most recent complete years of ERA5 data (2021–2025).
May score
7.9/10
Ranked #1 of 12 months
- Avg temp
- 21°C
- Rainfall
- 108 mm
- Humidity
- 77%
- Days with 6h+ sun
- 22
- Crowd Density
- Moderate Crowds
- Average Expenses
- $$$ · Peak Season Rates ($$$)
May in Shanghai scores 7.9/10 for sightseeing and cultural travel - the single best month of the year. Expect around 21°C, 108 mm of rain, and roughly 22 days with 6+ hours of sunshine this month.
Bund nights, gardens, and riverfront walks thrive in late spring through early autumn.
May in Shanghai tops the year's climate scores
At 21°C (69°F) this is comfortable city weather in May, with sightseeing easiest before lunch and after the afternoon peak.
108 mm of rain makes this a wet month here, though with about 22 days with 6+ hours of sunshine there is still bright weather between the fronts.
On our climate-comfort scale this is the top-ranked month of the year for Shanghai at 7.9/10 — the reference point every other month on this page is measured against.
Pack light clothing, a hat and real sun protection, a proper rain shell rather than an umbrella.
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 Shanghai in May?
- In May, Shanghai averages 21°C, 108 mm of rain, and about 22 days with 6+ hours of sunshine. Its climate-comfort score is 7.9/10.
- Is May a good time to visit Shanghai?
- May earns a 7.9/10 climate-comfort score. Use the year-round chart to weigh the weather against your budget and crowd preferences.
- How much does it rain in Shanghai in May?
- Expect about 108 mm of rain in May. Average humidity is 77% and there are about 22 days with 6+ hours of sunshine.
Curated in Shanghai
Tickets & experiences
Things to do in Shanghai
Shanghai, China. Live activities and tours from GetYourGuide, matched to this destination.