Changzhou Jiangsu, China Travel Guide
Changzhou experiences a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) brings mild temperatures (10-20°C) with increasing rainfall. Summer (From june To august) becomes hot and humid (25-30°C, often above 35°C), with significant monsoon rains. Autumn (September to November) offers mild and dry conditions (15-25°C), generally the most pleasant season. Winter (December to February) is cold and dry (0-8°C), with occasional light snowfall. Annual precipitation averages around 1,100 mm, mostly in summer.
Changzhou's climate shows clear seasonal shifts. Spring offers comfortable warmth, making outdoor activities pleasant before the summer heat. Expect occasional showers, making for lush landscapes. Humidity levels remain moderate. Summer months are present intense heat and high humidity, making outdoor exploration challenging during midday. Heavy, often sudden, rain showers characterize the monsoon season. Travelers during this period will want to plan for indoor activities or early morning/late afternoon excursions. The air can feel heavy and damp. Autumn provides a welcome respite with generally clear skies, lower humidity, and comfortably cool temperatures. This season makes for ideal conditions for sightseeing and walking tours, as the air feels crisp. This is a popular time to visit due to the agreeable weather. Winter brings chilly conditions. While snowfall is not constant, light flurries do occur, presenting another view of the city. The air becomes dry and cold, necessitating heavy clothing. Some days may feature fog, impacting visibility.
Changzhou experiences the East Asian monsoon, having heavy rainfall and high humidity during summer (June to August). Travelers during this period should prepare for rain. Though not directly on the coast, Changzhou sometimes feels the effects of typhoons passing through coastal areas during late summer and the beginning of autumn. These events bring high winds and localized flooding. Summers sometimes feature heatwaves, with temperatures exceeding 35°C. Winters can bring freezing temperatures and occasional light snow. Always check local weather forecasts just before and during your trip.
Always ask a reliable weather forecast for the most current conditions.
(April-May, September-October)
Superb weather for sightseeing. Clear skies for photography.
Higher prices for accommodations and flights. Larger crowds at popular attractions.
(March, June, November)
Fewer crowds, potentially lower prices. Comfortable, if varied, temperatures.
Transitioning weather conditions. June can be very humid.
(July-August, December-February)
Lowest prices for flights and hotels. Minimal tourist crowds.
Very hot weather/humidity in summer. Cold winters. Potential for haze or fog.
Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter China. The "L" visa is most common for tourist purposes. The application process typically involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, a recent photograph, confirmed flight and hotel bookings, and sometimes an invitation letter, to a Chinese embassy or consulate in your home country or a Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC). China also features visa-free transit policies regarding citizens of specific countries (including most EU countries, USA, Canada, UK, Australia) who are transiting through certain ports to a third country. These policies allow stays of 24, 72, or 144 hours. Changzhou falls within the 144-hour visa-free transit zone for travelers entering via Nanjing Lukou International Airport (NKG), Shanghai Pudong (PVG), or Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA).
Visa fees vary by nationality and visa type. For example, single-entry L visas range from approximately $30-$140 USD. Using a CVASC incurs additional service fees. Upon arrival, visitors present their passport and visa (or transit permit) to immigration officers. Expect to provide fingerprints and a facial scan. You will also complete an disembarkation card, which asks for basic personal and travel information. The process is generally straightforward but calls for patience.
Valid for at least six months beyond your stay, with two blank visa pages.
Complete accurately and truthfully.
One recent, passport-style color photo (48x33mm), white background.
Round-trip air tickets and confirmed hotel reservations for your stay.
A detailed plan of your visit.
Prices vary significantly based on your travel style, from budget-conscious exploration to luxury experiences.
The official currency in China is the Chinese Yuan (CNY), also known as Renminbi (RMB), symbol ¥. Major foreign currencies can be exchanged at international airports, large banks (like Bank of China, ICBC), and some hotels. ATMs are widely available and accept international cards (Visa, MasterCard, Plus, Cirrus).
Tipping is not customary in China and is generally not expected in restaurants, hotels, or for taxi drivers. Attempting to tip in local establishments might cause confusion or refusal. In some high-end hotels or for tour guides catering to international visitors, a small gratuity might be accepted, but it remains optional, not obligatory.
Efficient public transit and diverse attractions shape your daily spending.
This section outlines precautions and emergency information.
Ensure MMR, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, Varicella, Polio, Influenza are current.
Recommended for most travelers.
Typhoid recommended for those eating outside major hotels; Rabies for long-term travelers.
Always drink bottled, boiled, or purified water.
Tap water in Changzhou, and most of The people's republic of china, is not suitable for direct consumption. Hotels typically provide boiled water in thermos flasks or bottled water.
Food from reputable restaurants and busy street stalls is generally safe. Seek places with high customer turnover. Avoid raw or undercooked meat, unpeeled fruits, and salads washed in tap water. Use common sense when choosing where to eat.
A LifeStraw or other water filter can be useful.
Consume bottled water, avoid raw food, practice hand hygiene. Carry Anti-diarrhea medication.
Check AQI daily. Wear an N95 mask on high pollution days if you have respiratory conditions.
Drink plenty of fluids, avoid prolonged time in the sun, wear light clothing.
Changzhou is generally a safe city for tourists. Violent crime is rare.
Changzhou has several large, modern hospitals. International clinics are rare, so communication may pose a challenge without a translator. For severe illnesses, consider seeking care in Nanjing or Shanghai, which feature more options for international patients.
Changzhou No. 1 People's Hospital, Changzhou Authentic Chinese Medicine Hospital.
Dial 120 for an ambulance. Be prepared to provide location.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. World Nomads and SafetyWing are options.
