August

August in China presents a landscape at its most dramatically lush and vibrant. This is the peak of summer, where days are long and generously warm, filled with brilliant sunshine that fuels explosive growth across forests, fields, and lotus-covered lakes. The air hums with life, carrying the earthy scent of late summer blooms and the promise of refreshing, dramatic thunderstorms that cool the evenings. It is a month of magnificent scale and rich color—a time to witness golden rice terraces ripening under vast skies, to feel the cool mist of roaring waterfalls at their most powerful, and to savor the tranquil beauty of lush valleys where nature’s vitality is on full, breathtaking display. August offers the final, magnificent crescendo of summer before the subtle turn towards autumn.

 

Cool Canyons, Waterfall Spectacles & Grassland Festivals

 

Enshi Grand Canyon, Hubei

 

 

Seasonal Highlight

 

August is the ideal summer retreat here, with average temperatures around 22°C. Marvel at geological wonders like the “Incense Stick Rock,” cliffside walkways, and dramatic fissures.

 

 

Why Visit in August

 

Enjoy cool weather while hiking through the canyon, experience the “suspended boat” illusion in Pingshan Canyon (often called “China’s Palawan”), and explore the rich cultures of the Tujia and Miao ethnic groups.

 

 

 

Huangguoshu Waterfall, Guizhou

 

 

Seasonal Highlight

 

August is the peak water period, when the waterfall thunders at its most powerful. Walk behind the cascading curtain at the “Water-Curtain Cave” and spot rainbows arching over the mist.

 

 

Why Visit in August

 

With pleasant temperatures, explore the waterfall complex, Tianxing Bridge, and Doupotang Waterfall. Feel the awe of “China’s Largest Waterfall” and taste local dishes like sour fish soup.

 

 

 

Nalati Grassland, Xinjiang

 

 

Seasonal Highlight

 

In August, the grassland is lush and dotted with wildflowers, earning it the name “Sky Grassland.” Enjoy horseback riding, archery, and traditional events like the Nadam Fair.

 

 

Why Visit in August

 

Drive along the scenic Dushanzi-Kuqa Highway, take in views of grasslands, snow peaks, and forests, experience Kazakh culture, and feast on whole roasted lamb.

 

 

 

Zhangye Danxia Landform, Gansu

 

 

Seasonal Highlight

 

August intensifies the colors of this UNESCO-recognized Danxia landscape—vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges intertwine like “God’s overturned palette.”

 

 

Why Visit in August

 

Watch sunrise or sunset at the Colorful Danxia Scenic Area for stunning photos, explore Binggou Danxia, and admire the surreal beauty of these rock formations.

 

 

 

Shangri-La Pudacuo National Park, Yunnan

 

 

Seasonal Highlight

 

In August, alpine rhododendrons bloom across the park, complementing its lakes, wetlands, and forests—often called the “Soul of Shangri-La.”

 

 

Why Visit in August

 

Hike around Shudu Lake and Bitahai Lake, admire plateau lake and wetland scenery, experience Tibetan culture, and savor butter tea.

 

 

Mount Lushan, Jiangxi

 

 

Seasonal Highlight

 

August offers a cool summer escape with average temperatures of 22°C. Waterfalls, sea of clouds, strange peaks, and unique rocks combine to form the “Most Beautiful Mountain Under Heaven.”

 

 

Why Visit in August

 

Visit attractions like Sandie Spring, Five Old Peaks, and Hanpo Pass to admire the waterfalls, taste Lushan Cloud Mist Tea and local stone frog dishes.

 

 

 

Ulan Butong Grassland, Inner Mongolia

 

 

Seasonal Highlight

 

August blankets the grassland in wildflowers and lush grass. Try horseback riding, archery, staying in a yurt, and visit film shooting locations.

 

 

Why Visit in August

 

Drive across the prairie, enjoy views of grasslands, lakes, and forests, photograph famous movie sites, and savor roasted lamb leg.