Chase the autumn leaves in Japan
Japan is one of these cases which turns into a gold, yellow and orange fairy tale starting from September. And we can honestly say: We cannot imagine a more beautiful season to visit Japan.
Karuizawa Weather in May
Thinking of visiting Karuizawa in May? Expect pleasant temperatures reaching 20°C (68°F) during the day, dropping to 10°C (50°F) at night, and note that quite a bit of rainfall is likely.
Rainfall in Karuizawa in May
Past climate data indicates that roughly 16 days will see rain, totalling around 154 mm (6.1 in) for the month. This month brings frequent, heavy showers. Both the number of wet days and the rainfall totals are on the high side.
Temperature in Karuizawa in May
May in Karuizawa brings typical temperatures with highs around 20°C (68°F) and lows of 10°C (50°F). Even when the weather is stable, mornings and evenings can still feel distinctly cool. Nights fall to 10°C (50°F), which is cold enough to feel it indoors too. A good thick duvet makes all the difference for a comfortable night's sleep.
Sunshine in Karuizawa in May
Expect sunny days throughout the month, with an estimated 209 hours of sunshine. This makes it a pleasant time to visit Karuizawa.If your ideal day consists of dry skies and pleasant temperatures, May typically offers the best circumstances for Karuizawa.
Karuizawa Temperature in May
Min Temperature
10°C (50°F)
Max Temperature
20°C (68°F)
Chance of Rain
53%
Precipitation
154 mm (6.1 in)
Rainy days
16 days
Humidity
65% *
Sunshine
209 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
*
* Data from: Nagano, Japan (52 KM, 32 Miles).
Karuizawa Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Karuizawa - and find the best time to visit.
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Karuizawa typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 20°C (68°F). Nights are cool, with lows typically ranging from 7°C (45°F) to 11°C (52°F).
Average temperatures in May
Daily Historical Precipitation
50-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in May
Historical weather records for Karuizawa in May
Browse day-by-day weather records for Karuizawa spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Karuizawa historical weather extremes in May
According to our 50 years of weather records for Karuizawa, the following extremes were recorded between 1976 and 2026.
- The warmest day in May was on May 18, 2026, with a maximum of 32°C (90°F).
- The coldest May day was on May 2, 2001, with a maximum of 6°C (43°F).
- Karuizawa registered its coldest May night on May 8, 2019, with temperatures dropping to -2°C (28°F).
- Peak precipitation in May occurred on May 29, 2011, when 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation was measured.
Best Places in Japan in May
Find out more about the weather in Japan and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Japan in May →
perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor
Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).
What to Wear in Karuizawa in May
Pleasant temperatures in May mean you can pack light but flexibel pieces. Think cotton t-shirts, comfortable walking shorts, and one warmer layer for evenings. A light sweater or denim jacket works well. Heavy rain is guaranteed, please bring a good poncho and waterproof everything! Don't forget sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. These are all good ideas with this much sunshine.
What To Do in Karuizawa in May
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
-
Swimming7/10 -
Camping3/10
Karuizawa 3-Day Forecast
More climate data for Karuizawa
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Karuizawa climate overview or explore weather in Japan.
Popular in May
Where to go in May - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
Chase the autumn leaves in Japan
Walk the 88 temple circuit
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.
10 reasons why you should visit Japan in winter
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.