Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are the best seasons: moderate temperatures, lower humidity, and the mountain colours are good in both. Summer is hot and extremely crowded — July and August are peak Chinese domestic tourism season and the combination of heat and crowds makes the outdoor sites uncomfortable. The Shaolin International Wushu Festival, held annually in early September, draws martial arts practitioners from around the world and is worth timing a visit around if the spectacle interests you; book accommodation well ahead. Winter is cold but quiet, and the monastery in snow is genuinely beautiful if you are dressed for it.