If you’re preparing a video shoot in China, one of the most important planning decisions is timing. The best time of year to film in China can greatly impact your visuals, crew logistics, and even permit approvals—especially in production hubs like Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen.
At Shoot In China, we’ve coordinated shoots across all seasons and cities, helping clients avoid common weather pitfalls and local holiday delays. This guide covers the best times to shoot in China, and what to watch out for in each major region.
🌸 Spring (March–May)
✅ Ideal for: Outdoor shoots, cityscapes, branded content
- Shanghai & Suzhou: Mild weather, cherry blossoms, great light
- Beijing: Crisp air, clear skies before summer pollution peaks
- Challenges: Spring Festival (late Jan–mid Feb) can slow down permits and crew availability
Pro Tip: March to early May is peak filming season—book early to secure crew, gear, and permits.
☀️ Summer (June–August)
✅ Ideal for: Controlled indoor shoots, coastal filming, dynamic city B-roll
⚠️ Considerations:
- Shanghai: Hot, humid, frequent rainstorms
- Beijing: High temps and occasional poor air quality
- Shenzhen & Guangzhou: Tropical downpours, typhoon risk (esp. July–Sept)
Pro Tip: If filming outdoors, aim for early mornings or golden hour. Indoor corporate shoots with air conditioning are safest.
🍂 Autumn (September–November)
✅ Ideal for: Commercials, cinematic city shots, landscape films
- Beijing: Clear skies, golden leaves, best visibility of the year
- Shanghai: Comfortable temps, low humidity
- Chengdu & Chongqing: More stable than summer; good for urban lifestyle shoots
Pro Tip: October is a peak travel season due to Golden Week (Oct 1–7)—avoid this holiday week unless filming tourism content.
❄️ Winter (December–February)
✅ Ideal for: Indoor interviews, factory shoots, winter campaigns
- Beijing: Cold, dry, some smog days—good for dramatic winter visuals
- Shanghai: Cold but rarely snowing; fewer tourists = easier permitting
- Harbin or Tibet: Great for snow content or frozen landscapes
Pro Tip: Many crews take time off during Chinese New Year (late Jan–Feb). Schedule around this or confirm early with local teams.
📍 Other Factors to Consider
🛂 Permit Processing Times
Avoid major Chinese holidays (Chinese New Year, Labor Day, Golden Week), as government offices close, and permit approvals stall.
🚁 Drone & Airspace Rules
Flying near landmarks like the Forbidden City or The Bund requires extra clearance. We recommend 2–3 weeks’ lead time.
🎡 Local Events & Restrictions
Large expos, summits, or citywide campaigns may restrict public filming. Always check city calendars in advance.
📸 Location Highlights by Season
| City | Best Time to Film | Visuals to Capture |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | March–May, Sept–Nov | Skyline, historic streets, urban lifestyle |
| Beijing | April–June, Sept–Oct | Temples, Great Wall, business parks |
| Chengdu | March–June, Oct–Nov | Tea houses, pandas, city parks |
| Guangzhou | Nov–Jan | Modern skyline, Pearl River scenes |
| Harbin | Dec–Feb | Ice & snow festival, frozen cityscapes |
🎬 Need Help Planning the Best Time to Film in China?
Whether you’re shooting in Beijing, Shanghai, or beyond, we’ll help you pick the right window for weather, permits, and local support. Our bilingual producers ensure your shoot stays on schedule and on budget, no matter the season.
👉 Contact Shoot In China to start planning your next China-based production.