Home / Japan / Travel Guide / Kyoto Weather /

Kyoto Weather in May

Season: Late spring

At the average temperature of 19℃ (66.2℉), Kyoto weather in May is warm and mostly clear. The maximum temperature reaches 23℃ (73.4℉) averagely, and the minimum temperature is about 14℃ (57.2℉). It is pretty comfortable and pleasant generally. However sometimes, it is somewhat hot when the sunshine is strong during the daytime. May in Kyoto sees beautiful flowers in various kinds. Long-sleeve T-shirt, hoodie, and light cotton pants are proper for the weather in Kyoto in May.

Jan.

Feb.

Averages for Kyoto Weather in May

Temperature: 19°C / 66.2°F

High Temperature: 23°C / 73.4°F

Low Temperature: 14°C / 57.2°F

Humidity: 64%

Rainfall: 148 mm

Rainy Days: 10 days

Sunrise: 04:45 ~ 05:06

Sunset: 18:42 ~ 19:05

Clothes to Wear in Kyoto in May

In warm May in Kyoto, long-sleeve T-shirt, blouse, hoodie, cotton trousers and other casual clothes are suitable. When the temperature rises to a high level during the day, visitors can also wear T-shirt. However, the diurnal temperature difference is large and a cardigan or jacket is recommended to keep warm at dusk and dawn.

Top Things to Do in Kyoto in May

Recommendation Rate:

On May 3, a Yabusame ceremony is held at Shimogamo-jinja Shrine, which provides an opportunity for visitors to review the archery on horse in Heian Period. It’s also a ceremony to pray for safety for the coming Aoi Matsuri, a best-known festival in Kyoto. Aoi Matsuri on May 15 reproduces the Heian procession in celebrations with all items decorated with hollyhock leaves. The procession parades from Kyoto Imperial Palace to Kamigamo-jinja Shrine by passing Shimogamo-jinja Shrine, reproduce historical scenes in ancient scroll paintings.

May is the right time to see blooming azalea flowers; and wisteria and Japanese iris are also flowering. Fushimi Inari Taisha, Nijo Castle and more historical attractions are fascinating, too.

Tips

Early May is the “golden week” in Japan, during which it is crowded at scenic spots and hotel price is high. You may avoid travelling to Japan in the first week of May to save some money.

- Last updated on Apr. 11, 2023 by Nancy He -