Shanghai May weather
Shanghai, China · May
Warm, more humid days as summer approaches
May in Shanghai feels like the start of early summer, with daytime highs around 24-28°C and more humidity in the air.
It is still before the full rainy season, so many days are pleasantly warm, but some can already feel quite muggy under strong sun.
May averages at a glance
Average low
around 17-19°C
Average high
around 24-28°C
Average rainfall
around 80-100 mm
Rainy days
about 9-11 days
What to wear in May in Shanghai
Actual feel will change with wind and rain, but use the suggestions below to build a comfortable layered outfit.
- • Short-sleeve tops or thin long sleeves with light trousers or skirts are comfortable.
- • Pack a thin jacket or cardigan for cooler mornings, evenings, and strong indoor AC.
- • Choose breathable fabrics like linen and cotton to cope with rising humidity.
Travel tips for visiting Shanghai in May
- • Outdoor attractions such as Shanghai Disneyland, the Bund, and Pudong towers are best scheduled for mornings and late afternoons.
- • The early May Labor Day holiday can be extremely crowded; if your trip overlaps, plan early starts for major attractions.
- • Mosquitoes start to appear around humid spots, so bring insect repellent if you are sensitive.
May weather in Shanghai — FAQ
Q. Is May in Shanghai hot?
A. It feels similar to early June in many temperate countries—warm enough for light clothing but not as oppressive as midsummer.
Q. Are evenings cool enough for long sleeves?
A. Yes, evenings can be pleasantly cool, so a light layer is often comfortable.
Q. Does it rain a lot?
A. There are a fair number of rainy days, but full-day downpours are less common than scattered showers.
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.