Weather in Kyoto in May
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We also earn commission from other retail partners. Links below are affiliate links.
Book now, pay at pickup — compare Hertz, Avis, Budget, Sixt and 800+ rental companies for May in Kyoto.
Compare car hire prices → Affiliate link — we earn a commission at no extra cost to youKyoto in May is warm — daytime temperatures average 23.0°C, dropping to 12.8°C at night. The month is very wet, with around 12 rainy days, with roughly 8.9 hours of sunshine a day. Weather-wise, this is one of the most reliable months to travel. For the complete picture, see the best time to visit Kyoto — every month compared. Once you know when to go, find your Kyoto packing list at 247PackingList.
Get ready for Kyoto in May
Search flights to Kyoto
Compare 100+ airlines for May — one search, best price.
Search Flights →Thermal travel layers
Pack proper layers — winters are genuinely cold and evenings drop fast year-round.
Check Price →What to pack for Kyoto in May
- Light layers
- Sunscreen
- T-shirts and light trousers or shorts
- Compact travel umbrella
- Waterproof jacket
- Quick-dry clothing
Compare all months in Kyoto
| Month | High | Rain | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 8.4°C | 56.2mm | 10/10 |
| February | 9.4°C | 54.5mm | 10/10 |
| March | 14.9°C | 121.7mm | 9/10 |
| April | 18.4°C | 170.9mm | 9/10 |
| May | 23.0°C | 197.2mm | 9/10 |
| June | 26.8°C | 231.8mm | 8/10 |
| July | 30.0°C | 336.7mm | 8/10 |
| August | 32.1°C | 198.4mm | 9/10 |
| September | 28.3°C | 193.0mm | 9/10 |
| October | 21.7°C | 139.6mm | 9/10 |
| November | 16.9°C | 81.3mm | 10/10 |
| December | 10.6°C | 54.8mm | 10/10 |
Full month-by-month guide: best time to visit Kyoto →
For facts about Japan — currency, language and dialling code — see our Japan country guide at 247CountryInfo. Travellers also find it useful to keep a Kyoto travel guide to hand. Check clothing sizes in Japan before you shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is May a good time to visit Kyoto?
May rates 9/10 for visiting Kyoto — excellent time to visit. Expect average highs of 23.0°C, 197.2mm of rain across the month and about 8.9 hours of daily sunshine.
What is the temperature in Kyoto in May?
In May, Kyoto has average highs of 23.0°C (73.4°F) and average lows of 12.8°C (55.0°F).
Does it rain in Kyoto in May?
Yes — May is one of the wetter months in Kyoto, averaging 197.2mm of rain over roughly 12 rainy days. Pack for heavy showers.
What should I wear in Kyoto in May?
For Kyoto in May (23.0°C highs / 12.8°C lows), pack light layers plus sunscreen, t-shirts and light trousers or shorts, compact travel umbrella.
More essentials for Kyoto in May
Packing cubes
Keep the bag organised whatever the weather — compression cubes for every size.
Check Price →Travel first aid kit
Compact TSA-friendly kit for peace of mind wherever you travel.
Check Price →Last updated:
Climate data sourced from Open-Meteo (open source, open data licence). Monthly averages calculated from 2020–2023 historical data. Weather can be unpredictable — always check a live forecast before travelling.