Japan provides its visitors outstanding opportunities to discover the country in May because it presents the most beautiful and harmonious blend of pleasant weather, along with colourful festivities and dramatic natural beauty that will not fail to take your breath away. Japan welcomes all visitors throughout the spring to experience its diverse natural wonders, including northern cherry blossoms and southern wisteria tunnels, while celebrating various cultural events. The guide covers information on the weather conditions of Japan in May while highlighting must-visit destinations to make sure that your trip to Japan stays cosily tucked in the warmest corner of your heart forever!
Weather in Japan in May
Japan enters early summer during May, which brings mild weather together with relatively low rainfall. The Japan climate in May offers comfortable weather conditions, which makes it an ideal time for outdoor exploration and sightseeing.
Average Temperatures
The temperature in Japan in May varies by region:
- Tokyo: Average highs of 23°C (73°F) and lows of 15°C (59°F)
- Osaka: Highs around 24°C (75°F) and lows of 15°C (59°F)
- Sapporo: Cooler, with highs of 17°C (63°F) and lows of 8°C (46°F)
- Fukuoka: Warmer, averaging highs of 24°C (75°F) and lows of 15°C (59°F)
Rainfall is moderate, and Tokyo experiences about 10 rainy days in May. It's advisable to carry a light jacket and an umbrella, especially towards the end of the month when the rainy season approaches.
Suggested Read: Japan in March: Weather, Best Places to Visit, & Things To Do
Top 10 Places to Visit in Japan in May
Japan offers its best appearance to visitors during May because spring flowers continue to bloom alongside delightful comfortable weather. These top 10 destinations to visit in Japan in May grant visitors memorable experiences between their cultural attractions along with their scenic destinations.
1. Tokyo
Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a cosmopolitan city with ancient and modern blending. In May, Tokyo enjoys great spring weather, ideal for walking around parks like Shinjuku Gyoen that are teeming with azaleas and late-blooming cherry blossoms. Ancient landmarks like Asakusa Temple add historical depth and Shibuya and Harajuku districts are teeming with youth culture and fashion. Comfortable temperatures in Japan in May also make it a great time to walk along the Sumida River or drop by open-air cafes all over the city.
- Shinjuku Gyoen: Spring blossoms and huge picnic areas
- Asakusa: Ancient Senso-ji Temple and old shops
- Sumida River: Ideal for river walks with Tokyo Skytree views
2. Kyoto
Famous for its timeless beauty and age-old elegance, Kyoto is at its most enchanting in May. Temples within the city, such as Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Kiyomizu-dera, shine in cerulean blue skies. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is lush and picture-perfect and the Philosopher's Path is peaceful with blooming foliage. With celebrations such as Aoi Matsuri in Japan in May, Kyoto is a cultural hub with a mix of heritage and nature.
- Kinkaku-ji: Stunning golden temple with gardens encircling
- Aoi Matsuri: Ancient festival celebrated on May 15
- Philosopher's Path: Serene walking path lined with spring flowers
3. Hokkaido
The northern island of Hokkaido is a welcome respite for Japan in May. Melting snow gives way to green landscapes and cool temperatures. It's also one of Japan's last places to see cherry blossoms. Sapporo and Hakodate parks become floral paradises and Daisetsuzan National Park offers scenic hiking. For foodies, local dairy and fresh seafood are seasonal delicacies. May is also a good month to see Furano's flower farms before summer visitors descend.
- Sapporo's Maruyama Park: Late cherry blossoms
- Furano flower farms: Early-blooming fields and lavender preparation
- Daisetsuzan National Park: Mountain trail scenery.
4. Fukuoka
Located on the island of Kyushu, Fukuoka is known for its carefree vibe and spring flower vistas. In May, the Kawachi Fujien Wisteria Garden is an otherworldly place with wisteria spilling purple, pink and white overhead. Fukuoka also contains serene beaches, lively yatai (street food stands) and ancient sites like the ruins of Fukuoka Castle. The climate is warm in Japan in May but not hot, perfect for sightseeing away from the crowds of summer.
- Kawachi Fujien: Wisteria tunnel in full bloom in early May
- Ohori Park: Large lake with serene walking paths
- Yatai stalls: Get a taste of street ramen and tempura
5. Nikko
Nikko is a mountain town north of Tokyo, well known for its ornate shrines and greenery. May is a good time to go on account of its clear skies and gentle climate. The UNESCO-designated Toshogu Shrine, set within a cedar forest, is especially lovely in spring. The nearby Kegon Falls amidst new greenery offers a breathtaking view of Japan in May. Nikko National Park also has well-marked hiking trails and serene lakes such as Lake Chuzenji.
- Toshogu Shrine: Heavily ornamented and of historic significance
- Kegon Falls: a 97-meter waterfall located in the spring bloom
- Lake Chuzenji: Peaceful waters ideal for boating and picnics
6. Kanazawa
Often referred to as "Little Kyoto," Kanazawa boasts one of Japan's three most renowned gardens, Kenrokuen, which blooms in Japan in May. The garden boasts flowering irises, ponds and stone bridges in a peaceful setting. A well-preserved samurai district and a high-tech art museum are also part of the city. May's comfortable weather is ideal for a walk through its old districts or enjoying fresh seafood at the Omicho Market.
- Kenrokuen Garden: Japan's much-lauded landscape garden
- Higashi Chaya District: Tea culture and geisha houses
- Omicho Market: Fresh local seasonal seafood and produce
7. Takayama
Takayama, situated within the Japanese Alps, offers the perfect blend of nature and heritage. In May, snowmelt from nearby mountains exposes green meadows and trekking paths. The town itself is renowned for its Edo-period houses, morning markets and peaceful rivers. It is peaceful but also rustic in nature, particularly when you visit the Hida Folk Village or sample local cuisine like Hida beef.
- Sanmachi Suji: Old streets of Merchant town
- Hida Folk Village: Thatched-roof cottages in a serene setting
- Walking trails: Fresh mountain air and stunning mountain views
8. Nara
Near Kyoto, Nara is a cultural gem that makes for a perfect day trip to Japan in May. During May, the massive Nara Park is filled with flowering azaleas and playful deer that freely roam the park. The Great Buddha of Todai-ji Temple is a spiritual gem and Isuien Garden offers peaceful scenes. With less crowd than Kyoto and beautiful weather, it's a peaceful destination to experience Japan's ancient culture.
- Nara Park: Friendly, roaming deer's home
- Todai-ji Temple: Colossal Buddha statue in the largest wooden hall
- Isuien Garden: Formal garden with pond and teahouse
9. Hakone
A short escape from Tokyo, Hakone is a combination of leisure and nature. Renowned for hot springs and Mount Fuji views, May's good weather provides optimal visibility of the mountain on Lake Ashi. One can also visit the Hakone Open Air Museum, ropeway over volcanic valleys and ryokan stays. The pleasant spring weather makes outdoor adventure even more inviting.
- Lake Ashi: Panoramic boat cruises with Fuji views
- Owakudani Valley: Volcanic valley containing hot springs and sulfur vents
- Hakone Open Air Museum: Sculptures in the natural hillside setting
10. Kamakura
South of Tokyo is Kamakura, a beach town steeped in history and scenery. Its hilltop trails in May are covered in lush greenery. Its renowned Great Buddha and numerous Zen temples provide a reflective and cultural experience. Nearby beaches and seasonal flowers like hydrangeas just starting to bloom in Japan in May and provide an excellent mix of beach relaxation and ancient spirituality.
- Great Buddha (Daibutsu): Massive bronze statue
- Hasedera Temple: Renowned for sea scenery and spring blossoms
- Komachi Street: Colourful shopping and eating stalls
Suggested Read: 10 Beautiful Places In Japan: Top Tourist Attractions
Festivals and Celebrations of Japan in May
Let us now have a look at some of the best festivals and celebrations that one can experience at Japan in May such that their trip to Japan turns out to be an absolute treasure trove of memories.
1. Golden Week (Late April – Early May)
Golden Week is Japan's largest holiday season, with four national holidays in seven days. Golden Week is the time when Japan is alive with colourful festivals, parades and traditional performances. Shrines and temples are filled with tourists and popular tourist spots are filled with locals and international tourists. From food stalls and fireworks to cultural displays and activities for families, Golden Week is an awe-inspiring experience of Japanese culture and seasonal festivities that one can experience at Japan in May.
2. Fuji Shibazakura Festival (Mid-April to Late May)
Against the stunning backdrop of Mount Fuji, the Fuji Shibazakura Festival is an ethereal floral wonder. On the shores of Lake Motosu, it boasts over 800,000 flowering moss phlox, or "shibazakura," of pink, white and purple. Winding paths make their way through vividly colored fields, with infinite opportunities for photographs. Tourists are also treated to food stands with regional cuisine as well as specially created thematic souvenirs, making for an excellent Tokyo day trip for anyone looking to experience the very best of Japan's nature in bloom.
3. Grand Sumo Tournament, Tokyo (11–25 May)
One of Japan's six annual official sumo tournaments, the May Grand Sumo Tournament is held at Tokyo's Ryogoku Kokugikan and attracts big crowds of locals and foreign visitors to Japan in May. The tournament pits top-ranked wrestlers (rikishi) against each other for 15 days of fierce matches filled with ritual and tradition. Visiting a sumo match is a great way to immerse oneself in Japanese history and culture. Visitors can also visit the nearby Sumo Museum and indulge in authentic chanko nabe (sumo stew) at restaurants operated by retired wrestlers.
4. Aoi Matsuri (15th May, Kyoto)
Aoi Matsuri is one of the three great Kyoto festivals and takes place every year on May 15. It is a serene procession that commences at the Imperial Palace and makes its way to the Shimogamo and Kamigamo Shrines. It features attendants in exquisite Heian-type attire riding the streets on carts pulled by oxen surrounded by flowers. It is a lifetime experience to observe Japan's aristocratic heritage. The historical accuracy and peaceful nature of Aoi Matsuri render it an ultimate destination for cultural immersion seekers at Japan in May.
5. Mifune Matsuri (Third Sunday in May, Kyoto)
Taking place in Kyoto's Arashiyama district, Mifune Matsuri is a reenactment of a Heian-era boating party from ancient times. People dressed in period attire float down the Oi River in traditional boats while playing classical music and reciting poetry. This offbeat festival at Japan in May brings together natural beauty, costumed historical dress and cultured elegance into one peaceful spectacle. The green surroundings and peaceful river scenery make for an atmospheric festival that embodies the spirit of old Japan.
6. Kurayami Matsuri (Late April–Early May, Tokyo)
Translated as "Festival of Darkness," Kurayami Matsuri is held at the Okunitama Shrine in Fuchu, Tokyo. It is more than 1,000 years old, one of the oldest festivals in the area. The festival includes giant taiko drums, mikoshi (portable shrines) that are paraded through the streets at night and traditional horseback archery. The night parades are especially exciting, with lanterns illuminating the shrine grounds and the town with vibrant energy. It's an off-the-beaten-path celebration to discover in Japan in May.
Suggested Read: 8 Things to Do in Japan: Top Attractions & Activities 2024
What to Pack for Japan in May?
Your travel experience will be more enjoyable when you pack thoughtfully for Japan in May because the weather allows comfort although it can differ from one area to another. The temperature in Japan in May typically ranges between 13°C and 25°C which brings comfortable daytime heat followed by cooler nights. While the month is relatively dry, occasional rain showers may occur, especially in the south. The checklist provided below includes exploring the city as well as countryside along with festival attendance to help travellers get ready for their Japan trip.
Essential Clothing:
- Lightweight Layers because days are warm, but mornings and evenings can be cool. Pack breathable tops, a couple of long-sleeved shirts along with a light sweater or cardigan
- Comfortable Pants/Jeans that are ideal for walking tours and temple visits, especially in cities like Kyoto or Nara
- Modest Attire for Shrines; carry a shawl or wear tops with sleeves when visiting sacred sites
- Light Jacket or Windbreaker, especially very useful if you're heading to Hokkaido or Mount Fuji, where it’s chillier
Footwear:
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: You’ll walk a lot in cities like Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. Opt for cushioned, breathable sneakers or walking shoes
- Easy Slip-On Footwear: Useful for entering traditional accommodations or temples where you’ll need to remove your shoes frequently.
Travel Essentials:
- Umbrella or Compact Raincoat as showers are rare but possible (especially in southern areas like Fukuoka)
- Sunscreen & Sunglasses because May days can be sunny in open spaces like parks and gardens.
- Daypack: Perfect for carrying your camera, water bottle and snacks during day trips and festivals.
Tech & Gear:
- Universal Travel Adapter: Japan uses Type A and B plugs so it’s best to bring a universal adapter with USB ports
- Portable Charger: You’ll be using your phone for maps, translations as well as photos- a power bank is an absolute lifesaver
- Camera or Phone with Good Zoom to capture spring flowers, city skylines along with traditional festivals in detail.
Extras:
- Allergy Medication: If you’re sensitive to pollen, pack antihistamines since May is still part of allergy season
- Reusable Water Bottle as Japan has clean tap water and many public refill stations.
- Travel Guide or Phrasebook which will be quite helpful for navigating rural areas or small towns where English might be limited
Pro Tip: If you plan on attending festivals or taking part in traditional tea ceremonies or dinners, pack at least one dressier outfit. Locals often dress up elegantly for such events.
Travel Tips for Visiting Japan in May
- Book Early: because Japan in May includes Golden Week and this is one of Japan’s busiest travel times. Hotels and transport fill up very fast so reserve in advance.
- Use a JR Pass: A Japan Rail Pass offers excellent value for long-distance train travel all across the country
- Carry Cash: because irrespective of its modernity, many Japanese eateries and retail locations only accept cash payments rather than debit or credit.
- Stay Hydrated: May can feel warmer than expected; carry a water bottle while exploring cities and temples
- Respect Local Etiquette: Learn basic phrases and manners like bowing, removing shoes indoors, being quiet on public transport etc
- Download Helpful Apps: Use Hyperdia for train schedules, Google Translate for communication and MAPS.ME for offline navigation
- Try Seasonal Food: Japan in May has a lot to offer- fresh bamboo shoots, strawberries and refreshing soba noodles—don’t miss out on local cuisine
- Explore Nature: Parks and gardens are lush in May and are absolutely perfect for picnics and scenic walks
- Pack Light but Smart: Luggage space is tight on trains and buses. Carry versatile clothing and travel-sized essentials.
May stands as one of the best months to discover Japan. The perfect mix of mild weather, blooming landscapes along with vibrant festivals makes Japan in May ideal for all types of travellers. Each Japanese region presents different attractions between its vibrant cities, peaceful temples and picturesque spring landscapes across Tokyo and Kyoto and Hokkaido. The pleasant Japan climate in May enables visitors to pursue outdoor activities along with traditional festivities while avoiding severe hot or rainy conditions. Japan presents visitors with an unparalleled experience during May because it integrates contemporary facilities with classical aesthetics. Wait no more, pack your bags and enjoy your trip to Japan to the fullest!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the weather in Japan in May like?
Japan in May is generally warm and pleasant. The average temperatures range between 13°C and 25°C. It's one of the driest and sunniest months and it is perfect for sightseeing and festivals.
2. Is May a good time to visit Japan?
Yes, May is considered one of the best times to visit Japan due to its mild weather and beautiful natural scenery. Plus, it’s filled with seasonal festivals and blooming gardens.
3. What should I wear in Japan in May?
Light layers, comfortable walking shoes and a light jacket for evenings are ideal. If you’re visiting mountainous areas like Hokkaido, pack a warmer layer as well.
4. Are there any major events in Japan in May?
Yes, there are major events in Japan in May such as the famous Golden Week, Fuji Shibazakura Festival and the Tokyo Grand Sumo Tournament. These events provide a unique cultural insight into Japan.
