Best Summer Destinations in China for Interns & Students

Top 8 Cities to Visit in China During Summer 2025

When summer arrives in China, it brings both opportunities and challenges—especially for interns and students navigating the heat of cities like Beijing and Shanghai. But if you’re looking to beat the heat, recharge, and explore, there are cooler destinations where scenic beauty, cultural richness, and comfortable weather create the perfect summer travel experience.

Whether you're on an internship break, a student holiday, or just seeking a weekend getaway, here are the best cities to visit in China during summer.

Lijiang (Yunnan Province) – Cool Breezes and Ancient Charm

Lijiang offers a perfect summer getaway with its high-altitude setting and pleasant temperatures. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town is filled with cobbled streets, wooden homes, and canals. Hike the nearby Jade Dragon Snow Mountain or experience Naxi minority culture for a truly immersive trip.

Ideal for: Culture lovers, photographers, solo travelers.

Qingdao (Shandong Province) – Coastal Vibes with a European Twist

Qingdao blends German colonial history with sandy beaches and crisp ocean air. It’s home to the famous Qingdao International Beer Festival, held each summer. Enjoy fresh seafood, mild coastal weather, and charming seafront architecture.

Ideal for: Foodies, weekend getaways, couples.

Zhangjiajie (Hunan Province) – Nature’s Surreal Playground

Known for inspiring the floating mountains in Avatar, Zhangjiajie is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with sandstone pillars, glass bridges, and jaw-dropping cliffs. Despite the season, the altitude keeps temperatures cooler and the views breathtaking.

Ideal for: Adventure seekers, nature lovers, families.

Chengdu (Sichuan Province) – Spicy Food, Slow Living

Though humid, Chengdu makes up for it with a relaxed pace, shaded tea houses, and a spicy food culture that draws visitors year-round. Don’t miss the pandas at the Chengdu Research Base, or escape into the nearby mountains for a day trip.

Ideal for: Foodies, digital nomads, cultural travelers.

Harbin (Heilongjiang Province) – Summer in the North

Best known for its winter ice festival, Harbin also makes an excellent summer destination with its cooler northern climate and Russian-style architecture. Walk along the Songhua River or enjoy al fresco beer gardens in Central Street.

Ideal for: History buffs, cooler climate seekers, architecture lovers.

Dalian (Liaoning Province) – Beaches and Business Fusion

Dalian blends modern urban living with coastal charm. Known for clean beaches, green parks, and seafood markets, it’s a perfect destination for professionals in northeast China seeking a quick summer break.

Ideal for: Business travelers, urban explorers, beachgoers.

Changbaishan (Jilin Province) – Crater Lakes and Alpine Air

Changbaishan, located near the North Korean border, is one of China’s most beautiful alpine destinations. The highlight is Heaven Lake (Tianchi), a volcanic crater lake surrounded by peaks and clouds. Summer is the best time to visit its waterfalls, wildflower fields, and forests.

Ideal for: Nature enthusiasts, hikers, wellness seekers.

Travel Tips for Summer 2025 in China

Book early: Summer is peak travel season, especially in July and August.
Pack for variety: From desert to alpine, China’s climates vary widely in summer.
Stay hydrated and rest: Particularly important when visiting high-altitude locations.

Conclusion

Whether you're an intern escaping city heat or a student planning a memorable trip, these top summer destinations in China offer a refreshing change of pace. Thanks to China’s growing tourism infrastructure and fast train network, your perfect getaway is only a few hours away.

Where will your next summer trip take you?

Looking to find internships or career opportunities in these cities? Explore our Sina Careers internship listings to plan your summer journey.

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Best Summer Destinations in China for Interns & Students

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