Japan Weather in May 2026: Good Time Without Crowds & Heat

May in Japan is comfortable with more sunny days. You can enjoy the pleasant spring warmth before the summer heat and rain.

May is also a quieter time in Japan, as it's the shoulder season. It's a great opportunity to explore the country with a crowd-free experience and lower costs.

If you have any questions about traveling to Japan in May, such as the weather, places to visit, what to wear, and more, no worries! Just keep reading, I'll provide all the information you need based on our experiences.

Japan's Weather and Climate in May

May is one of the best times to visit Japan. The weather is mild, skies are often sunny, and you'll enjoy spring warmth without the summer heat.

In May, most of Japan enjoys warm but not hot weather, with temperatures averaging 16-23°C (61-73°F). It's perfect for sightseeing in a light jacket or even just a T-shirt.

If you're heading north to Hokkaido, it's still a bit cool, ranging from 6-16°C (44-62°F). Packing a sweater is great.

Down south in Okinawa, it already feels like summer, with highs around 27°C (80°F).

Rain is usually not a big concern in May. Most regions only get around 9 rainy days. However, showers become more frequent later in the month, especially in Okinawa.

Tokyo and Central Japan Weather in May: Warmer and Sunny

Expect warm and pleasant weather in May in central Japan cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

The average temperatures range from 16-23°C (61-73°F). You'll enjoy warmth during the daytime, while mornings and evenings will still be cool.

May is relatively dry. Light rain or showers are common during this time. However, with humidity levels reaching 66%, you may feel a bit muggy after the rain.

The weather can change a lot in May. You might encounter both cool and hot days. That's why it's a good idea to pack both a light jacket and a short-sleeved shirt for your trip this month.

Hokkaido and Northern Japan: Best for Cherry Blossoms

In May, Hokkaido in northern Japan is the coolest and driest region. The temperature stays around 6-16°C (44-62°F), with just a few light showers throughout the month.

Cherry blossoms are at their peak in Hokkaido this month. This is your final chance to enjoy cherry blossoms in Japan! Unlike the top choices of Tokyo and Kyoto, you'll encounter fewer travelers here admiring the flowers.

Okinawa and Southern Japan: Rainy Season Begins

Okinawa in southern Japan is hot and rainy in May. The daily high can reach up to 27°C (80°F), making it perfect for enjoying water activities like snorkeling, surfing, and kayaking.

The rainy season in Okinawa starts in May. It is Japan's wettest region this month. While it often sees heavy downpours, the rain usually clears up quickly.

5 Best Places to Visit in Japan in May

Nothing is better than exploring the outdoors in May's lovely weather! You can also experience special festivals and traditional events that are unique to this month. Check out our top 5 picks for places to visit in May below.

1. Tokyo: Experience Traditional Sumo

In May, Tokyo hosts the Sumo Tournament, which runs for two weeks (May 10th - May 24th). You can watch top-level Japanese sumo matches and experience Japanese culture firsthand.

However, getting tickets for the Sumo Tournament can be difficult. They are not sold through reservations but through a lottery system, making it even more challenging to secure them.

Can't get tickets for the big tournament? We've got you covered with a special sumo experience! You can watch sumo performances, taste traditional chanko-nabe hot pot, and even have a friendly sumo match with a wrestler!

If you're interested in the wrestler's morning training routine, we can also arrange for you to see it up close.

2. Hokkaido: Catch the Last Chance to See Cherry Blossoms

Missed the cherry blossoms in April? Don't worry! You have one last chance to see them in Hokkaido this May.

Cherry blossoms in Hokkaido usually bloom from late April to early May. You can enjoy their best scenery before May 10th.

Hokkaido's Goryokaku Park in Hakodate is my top pick for cherry blossom viewing. This unique pentagon-shaped park is home to a thousand cherry trees.

Moreover, finding a quiet spot under the cherry trees for a picnic is easy here. The park's vast size helps in spreading out the crowds effectively.

For a delightful experience of cherry blossoms by the sea, visit Temiya Park in Otaru. Here, you can enjoy a unique view of both the cherry blossoms and the ocean in one picture.

Compared to the highly popular destinations of Tokyo and Kyoto, Hokkaido has fewer visitors during the cherry blossom season. This ensures a more enjoyable experience for you.

3. Kyoto: Soak Yourself in the Traditional Aoi Matsuri

Kyoto is a must-visit city in Japan. In this ancient capital, you can explore historic shrines, wear a kimono, and enjoy traditional cultural activities like geisha tea ceremonies.

The Aoi Matsuri festival is a major event in Kyoto during May. It is one of the city's top three festivals, happening annually on May 15th.

The parade is the highlight of the Aoi Matsuri festival. Hundreds of people dressed in traditional Heian Period court clothes walk along a specific route.

For the best view, I suggest watching from the Kyoto Imperial Palace. There, you'll have more space for an unobstructed view of the parade.

4. Mount Fuji: Enjoy the Clear Visibility Before the Rainy Season

Your Japan trip wouldn't be complete without seeing the iconic Mount Fuji. You can still enjoy a clear view of its snow-covered peak in May, before the rainy season starts in June.

I highly recommend visiting Mount Fuji in the first half of May. You'll have better visibility, and the snow at the top hasn't melted yet.

Admiring Mount Fuji isn't just about looking at the mountain itself - it's about how to experience it. You can explore it through various outdoor activities like biking, kayaking, or taking an easy hike around the lake.

Additionally, you could even enjoy cherry blossoms in the Mount Fuji area in May! Check out the Shibazakura Festival at Lake Motosu. 

These pink-purple flowers grow on the ground like a carpet, offering a sight with Mount Fuji in the background from mid-April to late May.

Check more on Best time to visit Mt Fuji for clear visibility

5. Kamikōchi: Hiking to See the Snow Mountains

Kamikochi, nestled in the Japanese Alps, is a fantastic hiking destination. It offers a serene escape from the crowds, allowing you to get closer to nature.

Kamikochi opens every May. Hiking during this month is unique as you can enjoy views of snowy mountains in the distance.

Whether you're a beginner or very experienced, Kamikochi offers trails for everyone. We'll help you in selecting the perfect hiking route based on your preferences.

What Should I Wear in Japan in May?

For Japan in May, I suggest dressing in layers. The daytime is warm, but mornings, evenings, and rainy days can be cooler.

Pack a light coat and short-sleeved shirts to adapt to varying weather conditions:

• Daytime: short-sleeves or long-sleeves.
• Morning and evening: light jackets, windbreakers, and light sweaters.

How Crowded is Japan in May?

Besides the Golden Week peak season, you can expect fewer travelers on most days throughout the shoulder season in May.

Golden Week (April 29-May 6 in 2026) is one of the busiest times in Tokyo. Be prepared for large crowds, as many Japanese people travel during this public holiday.

During Golden Week, popular spots like Tokyo's Sensoji Temple and Kyoto's Kiyomizu-dera will be packed with people. Roads to top destinations like Mount Fuji will also have traffic jams. If your schedule is flexible, avoid exploring Japan at this time.

Is Japan Expensive in May?

Usually, travel costs in Japan are average in May. However, prices will double during Golden Week (April 29 to May 6, 2026).

Hotel prices jump the most during Golden Week. They can rise by 50-100% and sell out fast.

In Japan, the cost of a 4-star hotel room typically ranges from US$180-200 per night for most days in May. But the price can increase to US$300-400 per night during Golden Week.

If your schedule is flexible, you'd better visit Japan after May 10th, when the crowds and costs tend to decrease.

To get a good hotel price during Golden Week, I highly recommend booking your hotel and Japan tour 3-6 months ahead.

FAQs About Visiting Japan in May

Is it Hot and Humid in Japan in May?

No, May is mild and warm in Japan.

However, humidity in central Japan (like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka) reaches 66% in May. You might feel a bit muggy after rainy days, but it won't make you too uncomfortable.

Are There Cherry Blossoms in Japan in May?

Yes, May is the last month in Japan to see cherry blossoms. Hokkaido is a popular place to enjoy them during this month.

If you're looking to see cherry blossoms near Tokyo, visit Lake Motosu in the Mount Fuji area. The Shibazakura Festival runs from mid-April to late May, offering a chance to enjoy the blooms.

Are there any Public Holidays in May?

Golden Week is a public holiday period in May. In 2026, it will be from April 29 to May 6, lasting 8 days.

During this busy time, you'll face big crowds and higher prices. If you plan to travel during Golden Week, I suggest booking your tour 3-6 months in advance.

Need Help Planning Your Japan Trip?

No matter what you want to experience in Japan, our Japan travel advisors are here to make it happen! Just tell us your preferences, and we'll take care of everything for you.

You could also check out our Japan tours for inspiration.

• 9-Day Japan Highlights Tour Including Hakone Leisure
• 12-Day Epic Japan Family Tour

Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Japan

Learn about the weather in Japan for 12 months and find out the best places to visit each month.

• Japan in January
• Japan in February
• Japan in March
• Japan in April
• Japan in May
• Japan in June
• Japan in July
• Japan in August
• Japan in September
• Japan in October
• Japan in November
• Japan in December