Chongqing in November
November weather, activities, events & insider tips
November Weather in Chongqing
Is November Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect hotpot weather - November's cool 14-22°C (57-72°F) temperatures make outdoor riverside hotpot dining incredibly popular with locals, and restaurant wait times drop significantly
- Fog season creates dramatic photography opportunities - morning mist rolling over the Yangtze River and shrouding skyscrapers happens 18-22 days in November, creating ethereal cityscape views impossible other months
- Comfortable walking temperatures for exploring the mountainous terrain - climbing the 480 steps (1,575 ft elevation gain) to this destination or hiking Nanshan requires less water breaks and sweat management than summer months
- Chrysanthemum bloom season in city parks - Nanshan Botanical Garden and this destination showcase peak autumn chrysanthemum displays from early to mid-November, coinciding with comfortable 18°C (64°F) afternoon temperatures
Considerations
- Persistent fog reduces visibility for panoramic city views - the famous skyline photos from Nanshan or across the Jialing River are often obscured by thick fog lasting 6-8 hours daily
- Dampness penetrates clothing and indoor spaces - 75% humidity combined with cool temperatures creates a bone-chilling dampness that lightweight jackets can't combat, requiring layered thermal clothing
- River cruise experiences diminished by weather - Yangtze River evening cruises operate but fog often blocks the illuminated skyline views that make these ¥180-320 ($25-45) trips worthwhile
Best Activities in November
Traditional Chongqing Hotpot Districts Exploration
November's cool weather triggers peak hotpot season when locals flock to outdoor riverside hotpot restaurants. The 14-22°C (57-72°F) temperatures make sitting beside steaming broths comfortable rather than sweltering. Ciqikou Ancient Town and Nanbin Road hotpot clusters become most active during this month, with extended evening hours and special autumn ingredient menus featuring local winter vegetables.
Yangtze River Three Gorges Day Cruises
While fog can obstruct views, November's cooler temperatures make deck time comfortable for the 8-10 hour cruise experiences. The dramatic autumn foliage along gorge walls peaks in mid-November, and reduced summer crowds mean better deck positioning and dining reservations. Morning departures often break through fog layers by midday, revealing impressive canyon vistas.
Dazu Rock Carvings Cultural Sites
November's mild temperatures and low rainfall (only 4 rainy days) create ideal conditions for exploring these UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist carvings located 90km (56 miles) west of Chongqing. The 2-3 hour outdoor walking circuits become comfortable without summer's oppressive heat, and autumn lighting enhances the intricate stone details carved between 9th-13th centuries.
Wulong Karst Landscape Adventures
The famous natural rock bridges and gorges featured in 'Transformers 4' become more accessible in November's cooler weather. Hiking the 5km (3.1 miles) Three Natural Bridges circuit and exploring Furong Cave's underground chambers require less hydration breaks. November's reduced rainfall minimizes landslide risks on mountain roads leading to these formations 3 hours southeast of the city.
Historic Ciqikou Ancient Town Walking Tours
November's pleasant temperatures make the steep cobblestone street exploration comfortable for extended periods. The 1,000-year-old riverside town becomes atmospheric with morning fog rolling off the Jialing River, creating perfect conditions for traditional architecture photography. Local artisan workshops stay open longer in cooler weather, offering tea ceremony demonstrations and traditional craft experiences.
Chongqing Cable Car and Skyline Viewing
Despite frequent fog, November offers unique opportunities to experience the city's famous cable car system crossing the Yangtze River. Early morning rides (7-9am) often catch brief fog clearances revealing dramatic urban canyon views. The Yangtze River Cable Car becomes less crowded in cooler weather, allowing multiple rides to catch optimal visibility windows.
November Events & Festivals
Chongqing Chrysanthemum Cultural Festival
Annual celebration showcasing elaborate chrysanthemum displays across major city parks including Nanshan Botanical Garden and People's Park. Features traditional flower arranging demonstrations, autumn tea ceremonies, and photography competitions highlighting the seasonal blooms against the city's mountainous backdrop.
Three Gorges Autumn Tourism Festival
Regional celebration of autumn foliage season along the Yangtze River gorges, featuring discounted cruise packages, cultural performances at riverside venues, and special autumn cuisine menus at participating restaurants. Local communities showcase traditional harvest celebrations and folk music performances.