Jianshui, China: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Jianshui, China? If you're planning to go to Jianshui, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Jianshui, China

Based on the climate and weather in Jianshui, China, the best time to go is March. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Jianshui, China

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Jianshui, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Jianshui, China by month

January

January for Jianshui is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost regularly. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jianshui. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you pick the correct kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

If you check out a temple, such as Temple of Confucius, wear:

Going to Swallow Cave? You'll need:

February

If you go to Jianshui in February, you will notice that it is relatively cool. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jianshui. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to find the correct type. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

If you check out a temple, such as Temple of Confucius, wear:

Going to Swallow Cave? You'll need:

March

Traveling to Jianshui in March, you will notice that it can be chilly. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C). There is frost once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jianshui. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you check out a temple, such as Temple of Confucius, wear:

Going to Swallow Cave? You'll need:

April

April for Jianshui is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jianshui. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to get the right kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you check out a temple, such as Temple of Confucius, wear:

Going to Swallow Cave? You'll need:

May

May is warm. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jianshui. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you check out a temple, such as Temple of Confucius, wear:

Going to Swallow Cave? You'll need:

June

June in this region is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jianshui. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to choose the correct type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

If you check out a temple, such as Temple of Confucius, wear:

Going to Swallow Cave? You'll need:

July

Traveling to Jianshui in July, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain most days. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 60s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jianshui. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you check out a temple, such as Temple of Confucius, wear:

Going to Swallow Cave? You'll need:

August

If you go to Jianshui in August, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain most days. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 60s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jianshui. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to pick the correct kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you check out a temple, such as Temple of Confucius, wear:

Going to Swallow Cave? You'll need:

September

If you go to Jianshui in September, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jianshui. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you choose the right type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you check out a temple, such as Temple of Confucius, wear:

Going to Swallow Cave? You'll need:

October

October in this region is mild. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jianshui. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to pick the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

If you check out a temple, such as Temple of Confucius, wear:

Going to Swallow Cave? You'll need:

November

November is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost once in a while. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jianshui. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to find the necessary type. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you check out a temple, such as Temple of Confucius, wear:

Going to Swallow Cave? You'll need:

December

If you go to Jianshui in December, you will notice that it is relatively cool. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 40s F (single digits C). There is frost about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jianshui. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to find the right type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you check out a temple, such as Temple of Confucius, wear:

Going to Swallow Cave? You'll need:

What to do in Jianshui, China

Jianshui, located in the southern part of China’s Yunnan Province, is a hidden gem with a rich cultural and historical heritage. From ancient temples to traditional architecture, the city has much to offer visitors looking for an authentic Chinese experience. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Jianshui.

1. Confucius Temple: Built in the late 13th century, the Confucius Temple is one of the oldest and best-preserved Confucian temples in China. The impressive complex includes multiple halls, a pavilion, and a courtyard featuring traditional Chinese gardens.

2. Chaoyang Tower: Located in the heart of Jianshui’s Old Town, the Chaoyang Tower is a unique hexagonal building that dates back to the Ming Dynasty. The tower was used as a military lookout and a place for city officials to announce important news.

3. Zhang Family Garden: Built in the late 19th century, the Zhang Family Garden is a traditional Chinese garden that boasts intricate carvings, beautiful courtyards, and a peaceful atmosphere. The garden is a great place to relax and soak up the history and culture of Jianshui.

4. Twin Dragon Bridge: This iconic bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in Jianshui. Spanning the Tachong River, the bridge is over 350 years old and features two impressive dragon sculptures at each end.

5. Swallow Cave: Located just outside of Jianshui, the Swallow Cave is a natural wonder that has been attracting tourists for decades. The cave is home to thousands of swallows, and visitors can watch as the birds nest and fly around the cave.

6. Jianshui Old Town: With its narrow streets, traditional buildings, and ancient temples, Jianshui’s Old Town is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. The area is rich in history and culture, and exploring on foot is the best way to experience it.

7. Zhu Family Garden: This stunning garden was built by a wealthy merchant family in the late 19th century. The garden features numerous pavilions, courtyards, and rock formations, and is considered one of the best-preserved examples of traditional Chinese architecture and gardening.

Overall, Jianshui is a hidden gem in China that has something for everyone. From ancient temples to natural wonders, the city is a great place to experience traditional Chinese culture and history. So if you’re looking for an authentic Chinese experience that’s off the beaten path, Jianshui is definitely worth a visit.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Lac-Saint-Jean, Quebec, Canada, Karnala Bird Sanctuary, India, Olsztyn, Poland, Grand Rivers, Kentucky, United States of America, Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia, Xijiang, China, Casselberry, Florida, United States of America, Borlänge, Sweden, Monschau, Germany, Litovel, Czech Republic, and Northern Illinois, Illinois, United States of America.