Kyoto Weather in May
May in Kyoto sees daytime temperatures around 24°C (75°F) and lows of 13°C (55°F) at night. With around 155 mm (6.1 in) of rainfall expected, it's worth packing a rain jacket.
Rainfall in Kyoto in May
This month experiences about 15 days of rain according to historical data, averaging 155 mm (6.1 in). This is a wet month with frequent and often heavy showers. Both the number of rain days and the total rainfall are high.
Temperature in Kyoto in May
In May, Kyoto sees high temperatures, with highs of 24°C (75°F). Nights drop to around 13°C (55°F). Overall, the month follows a fairly predictable daily temperature pattern. At 13°C (55°F) overnight, it can feel quite a bit cooler after dark. Worth packing something warmer for evenings, but the cooler temperatures are ideal for sleeping.
Sunshine in Kyoto in May
The month experiences a moderate amount of sunlight, with 185 hours of sunshine. This provides a nice balance between sunshine and clouds.If you favor pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, May is one of the best months to visit Kyoto.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Japan, check out our Kyoto's climate page.
Kyoto Temperature in May
Min Temperature
13°C (55°F)
Max Temperature
24°C (75°F)
Chance of Rain
51%
Precipitation
155 mm (6.1 in)
Rainy days
15 days
Humidity
62%
Sunshine
185 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Kyoto typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 24°C (75°F). Nights are pleasant, with lows typically ranging from 12°C (54°F) to 17°C (63°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 for Kyoto in May
Browse day-by-day weather records for Kyoto spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Kyoto historical weather extremes in May
Based on weather observations in Kyoto between 1976 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes during May.
- The hottest May day on record in Kyoto reached 34°C (93°F) (May 25, 2019).
- The coldest May day was on May 3, 1991, with a maximum of 14°C (57°F).
- The lowest overnight temperature recorded in May was 4°C (39°F) (May 5, 1991).
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 →
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What to Wear in Kyoto in May
For Kyoto in May, you'll want flexible clothing. It's wise to pack cotton shirts, comfortable shorts, and a pair of jeans for cooler evenings. A light sweater or jacket is useful for air-conditioned spaces (like buses) or unexpected cool moments. Also bring a poncho, it will rain a lot! Waterproof everything you can. Sunglasses could come in handy during the sunnier parts of your trip.What To Do in Kyoto in May
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Japan, check out our Kyoto's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Kyoto climate overview or explore weather in Japan.
