Chongqing in March
March weather, activities, events & insider tips
March Weather in Chongqing
Is March Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect hotpot weather - March's cool temperatures (12-22°C/54-72°F) make it prime season for Chongqing's famous spicy hotpot without overheating
- Fewer crowds at major attractions like Hongyadong and Ciqikou - March falls in shoulder season before Golden Week tourism surge
- Ideal for walking the mountain city's steep streets - cool temperatures mean less sweating while climbing the famous stairs and slopes
- Spring blooms begin appearing in parks like Nanshan Botanical Garden, with cherry blossoms typically starting mid to late March
Considerations
- Heavy fog and overcast skies dominate March - expect limited mountain views from cable cars and observation decks 70% of days
- Dampness penetrates everything - clothes take longer to dry and the humidity feels bone-chilling despite mild temperatures
- Air pollution combines with fog creating thick smog layers that obscure the Yangtze River views and city skyline
Best Activities in March
Underground shopping mall exploration
March's damp, foggy weather makes Chongqing's extensive underground shopping networks perfect. The Jiefangbei underground mall system stays dry and warm while street level is often shrouded in fog. Locals spend more time underground during March's grey days, making it authentic cultural immersion time.
Traditional teahouse experiences
March's cool, humid weather is perfect for spending hours in traditional Sichuan teahouses. Locals gather for mahjong, ear cleaning services, and endless tea refills during the foggy season. The dampness makes hot tea especially comforting, and indoor venues avoid the outdoor visibility issues.
Yangtze River hotpot cruise tours
March evenings are ideal for heated boat dining experiences. The cool air (dropping to 12°C/54°F) makes spicy hotpot perfect while cruise boats navigate through the foggy river. Evening fog often lifts slightly, revealing city lights reflected in the water.
Museum and indoor cultural site visits
March's frequent overcast days and 8 rainy days make it perfect for exploring Chongqing's excellent museums. The China this destination and Chongqing Yaounde are comfortably climate-controlled while outside visibility is often poor due to fog.
Indoor market and food hall tours
March's cool, damp weather drives locals indoors to covered markets and food halls. Guanyin Bridge food court and Nanping wholesale markets buzz with activity as people seek warming foods. The 75% humidity makes spicy Sichuan dishes especially appealing.
Cable car rides in fog
While March fog obscures distant views, riding the Yangtze River Cable Car through thick fog creates an otherworldly experience unique to this season. The journey becomes about the atmospheric conditions rather than panoramic views - something many travelers find mystical.
March Events & Festivals
Nanshan Cherry Blossom Festival
Late March marks the beginning of cherry blossom season in Nanshan Botanical Garden. While not as famous as Japan's sakura, Chongqing locals celebrate with picnics and photography sessions when weather permits viewing between fog banks.