Best Time to Visit Kyoto

Jan

January is chilly with highs around 47°F and lows around 30°F, offering a quiet, introspective experience with fewer crowds. Pack warm layers!

• New Year's Day (Ganjitsu)

Feb

February sees similar cold temperatures as January, with highs of 48°F and lows of 32°F. Rainfall picks up slightly to 64mm, but it's still a relatively calm time to visit before the spring rush.

• Setsubun (Bean-Throwing Festival)

Mar

March brings a noticeable warming trend, with highs reaching 58°F and lows around 39°F. However, rainfall increases significantly to 123mm, so be prepared for some wet days as the city awakens.

• Higashiyama Hana-Touro

Apr

April is peak cherry blossom season, with comfortable highs of 67°F and lows of 48°F. Be warned: rainfall is high at 160mm, and crowds are at their absolute peak, so book everything far in advance!

• Cherry blossom season
• Miyako Odori (Spring Dances)

May

May continues to be pleasant with highs of 73°F and lows of 55°F, but expect frequent rain with 213mm, making it quite wet. While cherry blossoms are gone, the city is lush and vibrant.

• Aoi Matsuri (Hollyhock Festival)

Jun

June marks the start of the rainy season, with 274mm of rain and warm, humid weather. Highs reach 81°F and lows are around 65°F. While lush, outdoor activities can be damp, and crowds begin to thin.

• Hydrangea viewing

Jul

July is hot and humid, with highs of 89°F and lows of 74°F. While rainfall is still significant at 198mm, the iconic Gion Matsuri draws crowds, making it a lively but sweltering visit.

• Gion Matsuri

Aug

August is the hottest month, with highs of 90°F and lows of 76°F, continuing the humid trend with 208mm of rain; prepare for intense heat and seek air-conditioned respite if visiting during this time.

• Gozan Okuribi (Daimonji)

Sep

September brings some relief from the summer heat, with highs of 85°F and lows of 70°F, but the city still receives substantial rainfall with 158mm; expect lingering humidity well into the month.

• Moon viewing (Otsukimi)

Oct

October is delightful, offering crisp, clear weather with highs of 72°F and lows of 56°F, and a significant drop in rainfall to 122mm. It's an ideal time to visit for comfortable exploration and vibrant autumn foliage.

• Jidai Matsuri (Festival of Ages)

Nov

November is another fantastic month, with comfortable highs of 62°F and lows of 44°F, and rainfall further decreasing to 83mm. The autumn foliage is at its peak, attracting crowds, so book in advance.

• Autumn leaf viewing

Dec

December cools down significantly, with highs of 51°F and lows of 34°F, and only 42mm of rain, creating a dry and crisp atmosphere. Crowds are lower than peak seasons, offering a more peaceful experience, especially around the holidays.

• Arashiyama Hanatouro