What to Wear
From ChinaTravelGuide
What to wear really depends on where and when you are visiting China.
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[edit] Where are you traveling to?
China is a vast country, and there is a wide range of climate across the country. For example, northern Heilongjiang (黑龙江) province has a winter climate the year round without summer, while Hainan (海南) Island has a summer climate the year round without winter. Generally, the southern part (East China (华东), South China (华南) and Southwest China (西南)) is usually warm, humid, and rainy, while the northern part (North China (华北), Northeast China (东北), and Northwest China (西北)) is usually dry and windy.
In southern China, late spring and late summer is the rainy season. It's wise for the visitors to bring some rainwear during that season.
In northern China, winter is frigid. It's better to bring woolen clothes, warm coats, thermal underwear, hats, gloves, and an extra sweater.
[edit] When is your trip?
You will need to bring seasonal clothes when traveling in China.
In spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), you will need casual and comfortable clothes. Wear a lined jacket or woolen sweater over light clothes. Trousers are still necessary for women traveling to China, since many temples are forbidden to those who wear skirts.
In summer (June to August), lightweight clothing is advisable, and cool cotton garments are recommended.
In winter (December to February), thermal or silk underwear with a sweater, and a light cotton-patted coat will keep you warm enough in the south; but in the north a heavy woolen coat or down parka, plus a wool-lined boot, are a must.
[edit] General advice
In general, comfortable and durable walking shoes are essential at any time of year. In cool or uncertain weather, it is better to wear several layered clothes. For example, wear a sweater on top of a shirt on top of a turtleneck. This way you can always take off/put on some when you feel too warm or cold. Also, you should not bring expensive jewelry as you probably won't have the occasion to wear it, and also no need to worry about losing it.
But you don't need to bring too much clothes with you. You can readily buy those things in China relatively cheap, and take them home.
