By: S. Ray CHINA SEASONAL TRAVEL PATTERNS

 Winter can be incredibly cold especially in the north. Off season visit can also offer its rewards. For example, the Harbin Winter Ice Lantern Festival is quite charming. WINTER

 Summer (from June to the end of August) can be extremely hot with temperatures well above 72F, especially in the famous 'four furnaces' of China: Wuhan, Tianjin, Chongqing and Nanchang.  Summer is also a rainy season, so visitors should not forget umbrellas, light raincoats and rubber/plastic shoes. SUMMER

 Normally, the most comfortable season of the year is early autumn (September to early October). During that period, temperatures are reasonable throughout China (about 50-72F) with a limited amount of rain. September for example is the only month in the year when the ancient and valuable paintings of the Beijing Palace Museum are displayed due to proper climate conditions (low humidity and proper temperature). AUTUMN

 Spring can also be delightful with the average temperatures roughly the same as in autumn (about 50-72F). The best way to deal with weather unpredictability is to wear layered clothing that will make you comfortable in both chilly and warm weather. SPRING

 Summer and Winter are the high seasons, making Spring and Autumn the low seasons.  Many people plan a visit during high seasons. However it is not always the best choice. During high seasons tickets for trains, planes, as well as accommodations at hotels are hard to obtain, as great numbers of people travel during these times. It is highly recommended to join an organized tour if you must travel during high seasons, as doing so will certainly relieve you from the difficulties of obtaining tickets. HIGH/LOW SEASON