Shanghai March weather
Shanghai, China · March
Transition month from damp cold to early spring
March in Shanghai is the transition from winter to spring, but clear “spring warmth” often comes a bit later than people expect.
Morning lows around 6-8°C and highs around 13-15°C still feel cool, and there are quite a few cloudy and rainy days.
By late March the weather gradually becomes milder, with more spring-like days appearing.
March averages at a glance
Average low
around 6-8°C
Average high
around 13-15°C
Average rainfall
around 80-100 mm
Rainy days
about 10-12 days
What to wear in March in Shanghai
Actual feel will change with wind and rain, but use the suggestions below to build a comfortable layered outfit.
- • Thin padded jackets or medium-weight coats are still useful, especially in the mornings and evenings.
- • During the day, a light knit or sweatshirt plus a windbreaker is often comfortable for walking.
- • Because rain is fairly frequent, water-resistant shoes or slip-ons help keep your feet warm.
Travel tips for visiting Shanghai in March
- • Spring dust and pollution can appear on some days; if you are sensitive, pack a mask just in case.
- • With a good number of rainy days, build indoor activities (cafés, museums, shopping) into your itinerary.
- • In outdoor neighborhoods like Xintiandi or along Nanjing Road, wind and shade can make it feel cooler than expected.
March weather in Shanghai — FAQ
Q. Do I still need a padded jacket in March?
A. Early March can still justify a padded layer, while late March is often fine with a coat or layered windbreaker depending on your cold tolerance.
Q. Is an umbrella necessary?
A. Yes, March has enough rainy days that a small umbrella is very handy.
Q. Can I see spring blossoms in March?
A. Yes, from late March into early April you can see plum blossoms, magnolias, and cherry blossoms in parks and older neighborhoods.
Authored by Jiheon Bang
Updated: 2025-12-01
Reviewed using Visual Crossing Weather data and reorganized from a traveler’s perspective.
Weather data is designed to be refreshed roughly every 10 minutes.