Using the operational track data of tropical cyclones from National Meteorological Center, observing data of surface weather stations and data from other sources, analysis and review are conducted on the main characteristics of the typhoon activities over western North Pacific and the South China Sea in 2023, focusing on the typhoon tracks, intensities and wind and rainfall impacts on China. The results indicate that in 2023, 17 tropical cyclones that reached tropical storm intensity or higher (hereafter referred to as “typhoons”) formed over western North Pacific and the South China Sea, which is 9.9 and 8.1 fewer than the long-term average and climate average, respectively. Only 4 typhoons formed in autumn, accounting for just 40% of the historical average in the same period. The overall intensity of the typhoons is stronger than normal, and the formation regions are further east. There are 6 landfalling typhoons, which is 1.0 and 1.2 fewer than the long-term average and climate average, respectively. However, the typhoons are stronger with frequent extreme precipitation events, causing severe damage. Among them, Typhoon Doksuri has widespread wind and rainfall impacts, causing significant casualties and economic losses. Typhoon Saola and Typhoon Haikui also have severe impacts on South China, triggering widespread heavy rainfall, flooding, landslides, and other disasters and thus resulting in severe casualties and economic losses. The typhoon active period is not distinct, with fewer typhoons making landfall in midsummer but more in autumn.