How is the air quality in China? Do I need to wear a mask?
China's air quality has improved significantly over the past decade. The annual average PM2.5 concentrations in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, the Yangtze River Delta, and the Pearl River Delta have dropped substantially, and the everyday air quality in most cities is comparable to major cities around the world. Periods to pay attention to are the northern winter heating period (November–March), during which smog may occur under stagnant weather conditions; when the AQI exceeds 200, sensitive groups should reduce outdoor activities. Additionally, in spring (March–April) there is dusty weather in the north, which is more common in Inner Mongolia and the northwest regions. Recommendation: check on your mobile app before departure (China's local "Moji Weather" or international)
The air quality in China has improved significantly over the past decade. The annual average PM2.5 concentration in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei, Yangtze River Delta, and Pearl River Delta regions has dropped substantially, and the everyday air quality in most cities is comparable to major cities around the world. Periods to pay attention to are winter heating season in the north (November–March), when haze may occur under calm weather conditions. When the AQI exceeds 200, sensitive groups should reduce outdoor activities. Additionally, spring (March–April) in the north may have sandstorm days, which are more common in Inner Mongolia and northwestern regions. Recommendation: Before departure, check real-time data using a mobile app (China's local "Moji Weather" or foreign apps can both check AQI), and bring N95 or KN95 masks just in case. Most of the time you won't need them, but you'll be glad to have them when you do.