Kyoto Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Kyoto.
Climate overview of Kyoto
The number of hours of sunshine is fairly limited in Kyoto. On average the city has 1800 hours of sunshine per year. The months of April, May and August are the sunniest.
Kyoto Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Kyoto — and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Kyoto
The climate in Kyoto is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. Average daytime temperatures reach a very warm 33°C (91°F) in August. In January, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a chilly 9°C (48°F).
At night, temperatures range from around 23°C (73°F) in August to 0°C (32°F) in January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Kyoto
Kyoto has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 1713 mm (67 in) of rain/snowfall per year. Kyoto can be quite wet during July, receiving approximately 241 mm (9.5 in) of precipitation over 18 rainy days.
In contrast, during the driest month (December), you will experience much drier conditions, with 71 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation spread across 18 rainy days days. For more details, please visit our Kyoto Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Kyoto
Kyoto experiences moderate variation in sunshine hours across the seasons. With 6.2 hours daily sunshine in May, it dips to 4.0 hours in February, offering a balanced mix of sunny and overcast days.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Humidity in Kyoto by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Kyoto.
The city experiences its highest humidity in July, reaching 70%. In April, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 60%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit Kyoto
The wettest months are June, July, September and October, when precipitation is at its highest. Wondering where to travel based on your weather preferences? Our recommendation tool helps you find destinations with your ideal climate conditions. Use our weather planner to find your perfect destination.
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Kyoto
What is the best time to visit Kyoto?
May and October typically offer the most optimal weather in Kyoto. In contrast, January, February, July and August tend to have less optimal conditions.
What temperatures can I expect in Kyoto?
Daytime highs range from 9°C (48°F) in January to 33°C (91°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from 0°C (32°F) to 23°C (73°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Kyoto get?
Annual rainfall is around 1713 mm (67 in). July is the wettest month with 241 mm (9.5 in), while December is the driest with 71 mm (2.8 in).
How sunny is Kyoto?
Kyoto receives around 1,805 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 185 hours, while February is the cloudiest with just 120 hours.
Kyoto 3-Day Forecast
Kyoto 3-Day Forecast
Kyoto on the map
Kyoto is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
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Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
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We recommend walking the 88 temple circuit from April til October. Although June, July and August can be a bit wet, hot and humid.
The famous bamboo forests of Arashiyama
The famous bamboo forests of Arashiyama lie just outside the city center of Kyoto and is unique in the world. If you look at photos of this bamboo forest, it looks like you have landed in a fairy-tale world.
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Here are 10 reasons why you should plan a winter trip to Japan. During this period, popular sights are less busy and prices for flights and hotels much cheaper.