Japan in May 2026: Your Complete Travel Guide

• Weather: Mild temperatures (15-25°C) across Japan with low rainfall, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities
• Golden Week Impact: Book 3-6 months ahead for early May travel
• Major Festivals: Experience Kanda Matsuri, Aoi Matsuri, and Sanja Matsuri
• Seasonal Highlights: Late cherry blossoms in Hokkaido, wisteria gardens in full bloom, and the opening of alpine routes
• Best: Those who want to enjoy comfortable weather, cultural events and fewer tourists.

The weather in May is very different in the regions of Japan. However, the best month to go to Japan is in May when there is good weather and the rainfall is minimal.

• Light layers, including t-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and a light sweater
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Compact umbrella or light rain jacket for occasional showers
• Sunscreen and a hat for sunny days
• For Hokkaido: warmer jacket and additional layers

The Golden Week ( April 29- May 5) brings millions of people to Japan. Popular destinations in Japan, including Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hakone, are exhausted. The trains, roads are also crowded and the hotels are filled quickly.

Tips: Book accommodations and transportation at least 3-6 months ahead. 

Tokyo: Best for Festivals and Urban Adventures

During early Golden Week, Tokyo is surprisingly silent as people are travelling. The capital is also ideal after May 6, when you can visit the Tokyo attractions such as Shibuya, Harajuku or Asakusa without the heat of summer.

Must-See Attractions:

• Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa (especially during Sanja Matsuri)
• Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park
• Shibuya Crossing and the Harajuku fashion district
• Tokyo Skytree for city views

Kyoto: Best for Temples and Cultural Beauty

Kyoto is vibrant during May with nice sightseeing opportunities and two major events that include Aoi Matsuri on May 15 and Mifune Matsuri. May is not hot and humid, and it therefore makes the temple tours enjoyable without having the crowds of October in Japan.

Must-See Attractions:

• Fushimi Inari Taisha (10,000 red torii gates)
• Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
• Philosopher's Path for peaceful walks

Tip: Visit Fushimi Inari before 7 AM or after 5 PM for fewer crowds and better lighting.

Hokkaido: Best for Late Cherry Blossoms

Hokkaido is one of the best places to spot cherry blossoms in Japan in May. This gives a person a second chance to see sakura when they are over in Tokyo or Kyoto. The island's cooler climate makes May ideal for outdoor activities without mosquitoes or heat.

Must-See Attractions:

• Sapporo, towards the end.
• Morning market and night views of Hakodate.
• Daisetsuzan National Park for hiking

Hakone: Best for Hot Springs and Mt. Fuji Views

Located 100 kilometres southwest of Tokyo, Hakone offers mountain scenery, natural hot springs, and Mt. Fuji views. The highland area stays cooler than Tokyo with temperatures around 18-20°C (64-68°F). May's clear skies increase chances of seeing Mt. Fuji, which becomes cloud-covered more frequently in summer.

Must-See Attractions:

• Lake Ashi cruise for Mt. Fuji views
• Hakone Ropeway over the Owakudani volcanic valley
• Hakone Open-Air Museum
• Traditional ryokan with private onsen baths

Takayama: Best for Historic Streets and Local Markets

It is a mountain town in the Gifu Prefecture that has been able to preserve streets and old trader houses of the Edo period. The pleasant weather during May is favorable to explore or visit the Morning markets, sake breweries and the preserved merchant district.

Must-See Attractions:

• Sanmachi Suji historic district
• Morning markets along Miyagawa River
• Takayama Jinya (historical government house)
• Sake breweries with tastings

Tip: Visit the morning markets between 7-9 AM for local produce and crafts before tour groups arrive.

May unlocks specific activities in Japan that aren't available during other seasons. Focus your 11-day Japan itinerary on these May-specific opportunities.

• Visit Wisteria Gardens: Wandered Ashikaga Flower Park and Kawachi Fuji Gardens in full bloom. Evening illuminations created a magical atmosphere.
• Go Mountain Hiking: Hike to the Kamikochi trails and the Nakasendo Trail in the comfortable and moderate May weather. Climbed sections of Mt. Takao and felt the historic charm.
• Explore Seasonal Gardens: Visited gardens with blooming azaleas, roses, and early hydrangeas. Early mornings offered the best light and peaceful moments.
• Try Seasonal Foods: Enjoy fresh katsuo, bamboo shoots, and early summer vegetables. Tried wagashi confections themed for May alongside matcha tea.

Daily travel costs in Japan in May range from ¥7,000 to ¥16,500 (₹3,900 to ₹9,200) per person, covering accommodation, food, transportation, and activities. Budget is higher during Golden Week when accommodation charges reaches to skyrocket.

• Book accommodations: Book hotels 3-6 months in advance during Golden Week (May 1-7). Popular spots are filled either in February or March, and prices may shoot 15-30 % above the normal rates.
• Transportation: Purchase a JR Pass in advance in case of travelling to other regions. A 7-day ticket would cost approximately 50,000 Yen (INR 27,000), which includes a Tokyo-Kyoto-Tokyo round-trip shinkansen ticket.
• Dining Reservations: Popular restaurants, especially in Kyoto, require reservations weeks or months in advance, regardless of when you visit in May. 
• Payment: The payment in Japan is still based on a cash-only business; however, credit cards are used in tourist destinations.
• Cultural Difficulties: Do not touch festival equipment, do not venture through crowds during a ceremony, and do not take flash photographs during a ceremony.

The month of May is the best month to visit Japan due to the pleasant weather, fewer crowds and lower prices. Go to Japan in May when you are more about beautiful weather, sightseeing and festivals, like the Kanda and Aoi and Sanja Matsuri. Travel during the post-Golden Week is cheaper. If you are looking for a perfect romantic getaway without any hassle, browse through our Japan honeymoon packages.