

Kyoto Weather by Month: Best Time to Visit, Seasons, and What to Wear

By TaraKai
July 28, 2026

Kyoto weather changes clearly with each season. Spring brings cherry blossoms, summer is hot and humid, autumn is known for colorful leaves, and winter is cold with occasional snow. For Filipino travelers, packing the right layers makes a big difference. This guide covers Kyoto temperatures, rainfall, clothing, activities, and the best time to visit.
Current and Next 7 Days Weather in Kyoto







What Is the Weather Like in Kyoto?
Kyoto has four clear seasons. The city sits in a basin surrounded by mountains on three sides, so summers can feel hotter and more humid than the temperature suggests. Winters are cold, especially in the morning and at night.
Based on the Japan Meteorological Agency's 1991 to 2020 climate averages, Kyoto has an annual mean temperature of 16.2°C. August is normally the hottest month, with an average daytime high of 33.7°C. January is the coldest, with an average low of 1.5°C.
Kyoto receives rain throughout the year, but the wettest period is usually from June to July. Summer can also bring sudden afternoon rain and thunderstorms. Snow may fall from December to February, although it rarely stays on the ground for long in central Kyoto.
Season | Months | Kyoto Weather | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
Spring | March to May | Mild days, cool mornings, occasional rain | Cherry blossoms, temple walks, gardens |
Summer | June to August | Hot, humid, rainy, sometimes above 35°C | Gion Matsuri, riverside dining, summer events |
Autumn | September to November | Warm at first, then cool and dry | Autumn leaves, hiking, outdoor sightseeing |
Winter | December to February | Cold and mostly dry, with occasional snow | Quiet temples, winter views, fewer crowds |
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Kyoto Weather by Season
Spring in Kyoto: March to May

Spring starts cool in March, then becomes warmer and more comfortable through April and May. Average temperatures range from 4.3°C to 14.1°C in March, 9.2°C to 20.1°C in April, and 14.5°C to 25.1°C in May.
Cherry blossoms usually become the main attraction from late March to early April, but exact bloom dates change every year. April is beautiful, but it is also one of Kyoto's busiest travel periods. By May, the weather feels warmer and the city turns green.
What to wear
- March: A warm jacket, sweater, long pants, and closed shoes
- April: A light jacket, long-sleeved top, and comfortable walking shoes
- May: Light clothes for daytime and a thin jacket for the evening
- Small umbrella for changing weather
Best seasonal activities
- See cherry blossoms along the Philosopher's Path
- Visit Maruyama Park and Kiyomizu-dera
- Walk through Arashiyama before the midday crowds
- Explore temple gardens and hiking routes
- Attend Aoi Matsuri on May 15
🌸 Travel Tip: Kyoto mornings can still feel cold in March and early April. I recommend wearing layers that you can remove when the afternoon gets warmer.
Kyoto Rainy Season: Early June to Mid-July

Kyoto's rainy season is called tsuyu. It usually begins in early June and continues until around mid-July. June receives about 199.7 mm of rain on average, while July receives about 223.6 mm.
It does not normally rain all day, every day. Some days have light showers, while others bring heavy rain or thunderstorms. Humidity is high, so wet clothes and shoes may take longer to dry.
What to wear
- Light and quick-drying clothes
- Waterproof or water-resistant walking shoes
- Thin rain jacket
- Small umbrella
- Extra socks
Best seasonal activities
- See hydrangeas around temples and gardens
- Visit Kyoto Aquarium
- Explore the Kyoto International Manga Museum
- Spend time in Nishiki Market
- Visit covered shopping streets and indoor cultural sites
☔ Travel Tip: Keep one indoor attraction in your daily plan. If heavy rain starts, you can change your schedule without wasting the whole day.
Summer in Kyoto: June to August

Summer in Kyoto is hot, humid, and sometimes difficult for long outdoor walks. Average temperatures rise from 19.2°C to 28.1°C in June, 23.6°C to 32.0°C in July, and 24.7°C to 33.7°C in August. Days above 35°C are possible, especially in July and August.
Kyoto's basin location blocks some cooling winds, so the heat may remain even after sunset. Sudden afternoon rain and thunderstorms can also happen.
What to wear
- Thin, breathable shirts
- Shorts, skirts, or light pants
- Hat or UV umbrella
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light cover-up for air-conditioned trains, buses, and shops
Best seasonal activities
- Experience Gion Matsuri throughout July
- Watch the Gozan Okuribi bonfires on August 16
- Enjoy riverside dining along the Kamo River
- Visit Fushimi Inari early in the morning
- Explore museums, markets, and indoor attractions in the afternoon
☀️ Travel Tip: I recommend starting outdoor sightseeing before 9:00 AM. Take a hotel or cafe break during the hottest hours, then continue your trip in the late afternoon.
Autumn in Kyoto: September to November

September can still feel like summer, with average temperatures from 20.7°C to 29.2°C. October is more comfortable at around 14.4°C to 23.4°C. November becomes cooler, with averages from 8.4°C to 17.3°C.
Kyoto's autumn leaves usually become more colorful in November, although the exact timing depends on the year's weather. This is another busy travel season, especially around famous temples and Arashiyama.
Early autumn may still be affected by typhoons. Heavy rain and strong winds can cause changes to flights, trains, and attraction schedules.
What to wear
- September: Light clothes, sunscreen, and a small umbrella
- October: Long sleeves and a light jacket
- November: A sweater, warm jacket, long pants, and scarf for cold evenings
Best seasonal activities
- See autumn leaves at Tofuku-ji and Eikando
- Walk around Arashiyama and the Higashiyama area
- Visit Kiyomizu-dera in the early morning
- Attend Jidai Matsuri on October 22
- Enjoy seasonal food and temple night illuminations
🍁 Travel Tip: Daytime may feel comfortable, but the temperature can drop quickly after sunset. Bring a jacket even when the morning forecast looks mild.
Winter in Kyoto: December to February

Winter is cold and mostly dry. Average temperatures range from 3.5°C to 11.6°C in December, 1.5°C to 9.1°C in January, and 1.6°C to 10.0°C in February.
Kyoto sometimes gets snow, especially in January and February, but deep snow is uncommon in the city center. Mountain areas and northern parts of Kyoto can be colder. Clear winter days are good for temple visits, but shaded paths may feel much colder.
What to wear
- Wool or down coat
- Thermal innerwear
- Sweater
- Gloves, scarf, and knit hat
- Warm socks
- Closed shoes with good grip
Best seasonal activities
- Visit quiet temples with smaller crowds
- Take winter photos at Kinkaku-ji after light snowfall
- Enjoy hot matcha, noodles, and seasonal dishes
- Join New Year temple and shrine visits
- See plum blossoms beginning in February
❄️ Travel Tip: Trains, buses, shops, and hotels are heated. Wear several removable layers so you stay warm outside without feeling too hot indoors.
Kyoto Weather by Month
The temperatures and rainfall below are long-term monthly averages from the Japan Meteorological Agency. Actual weather during your trip may be warmer, colder, wetter, or drier.
Month | Average Low to High | Average Rainfall | What to Expect | Good Things to Do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
January | 1.5°C to 9.1°C | 53.3 mm | Cold and mostly dry | Quiet temples, New Year visits, winter photos |
February | 1.6°C to 10.0°C | 65.1 mm | Cold with occasional snow | Plum blossoms, museums, warm food |
March | 4.3°C to 14.1°C | 106.2 mm | Cool, with warmer days later | Early blossoms, temple walks |
April | 9.2°C to 20.1°C | 117.0 mm | Mild and popular | Cherry blossoms, gardens, picnics |
May | 14.5°C to 25.1°C | 151.4 mm | Warm and comfortable | Aoi Matsuri, hiking, outdoor sightseeing |
June | 19.2°C to 28.1°C | 199.7 mm | Warm, humid, and rainy | Hydrangeas, museums, markets |
July | 23.6°C to 32.0°C | 223.6 mm | Hot, humid, and wet | Gion Matsuri, evening walks |
August | 24.7°C to 33.7°C | 153.8 mm | Very hot with sudden rain | Gozan Okuribi, indoor attractions |
September | 20.7°C to 29.2°C | 178.5 mm | Warm, humid, possible typhoons | Early autumn trips, food tours |
October | 14.4°C to 23.4°C | 143.2 mm | Mild and comfortable | Jidai Matsuri, cycling, temple walks |
November | 8.4°C to 17.3°C | 73.9 mm | Cool and drier | Autumn leaves, night illuminations |
December | 3.5°C to 11.6°C | 57.3 mm | Cold and mostly dry | Winter scenery, quieter sightseeing |
Best Time to Visit Kyoto
For comfortable sightseeing, I recommend spring and autumn. April is popular for cherry blossoms, while November is known for autumn colors. These months are beautiful but busy, so book transport and accommodation early.
May and October are also good choices. The weather is usually comfortable for walking, and you can enjoy outdoor attractions without the most intense summer heat or winter cold.
Best Time for Budget Travelers
Consider mid-January to February, excluding the New Year period, or the rainy season in June. These periods may have lower demand than peak cherry blossom and autumn foliage dates.
Why visit
- Better chance of finding hotel deals
- Fewer crowds at popular temples
- Easier restaurant reservations
- More relaxed sightseeing
Money-saving tip: Compare hotel prices across different Kyoto areas. Staying near a train or subway station outside Gion may cost less while still giving you convenient access to attractions.
Best Time for Luxury Travelers
Late March to early April and mid to late November are ideal for seasonal scenery, premium ryokan stays, private tours, and special dining experiences.
Best experiences
- Traditional ryokan stay
- Seasonal kaiseki dinner
- Private temple or garden tour
- Kimono experience
- Cherry blossom or autumn foliage viewing
Booking tip: Reserve popular ryokan rooms and special dining experiences several months ahead because availability becomes limited during peak seasons.
Best Time for Adventure Seekers
April to May and October to November offer better temperatures for hiking, cycling, and long walks. The weather is usually more comfortable than summer, and the trails are less likely to feel icy than in winter.
Good outdoor plans
- Hike from Kurama to Kibune
- Walk through Arashiyama
- Cycle along the Kamo River
- Explore Fushimi Inari beyond the lower gates
- Visit mountain temples
Safety tip: Avoid mountain trails during heavy rain, thunderstorms, typhoon warnings, or icy winter conditions.
Best Time for Cultural Travelers
Kyoto has major cultural events across the year:
- May 15: Aoi Matsuri
- July 1 to 31: Gion Matsuri
- August 16: Gozan Okuribi
- October 22: Jidai Matsuri
Festival dates can be crowded. Arrive early, check road closures, and confirm the latest event schedule before leaving your hotel.
Best Time for Family Travelers
May and October are comfortable for families because the weather is mild enough for parks, temples, and walking tours. Late October and early November can also be easier than the busiest autumn foliage dates.
Family travel tips
- Start early and schedule afternoon breaks
- Mix outdoor attractions with museums or aquariums
- Stay near Kyoto Station or another major transport stop
- Bring snacks, water, and a small umbrella
- Use a stroller only where paths and stairs are manageable
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What to Pack for Kyoto Weather

Kyoto requires different clothes for each season. Always check the forecast again a few days before your flight.
Spring Packing List
- Light or medium jacket
- Cardigan or sweater
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Long pants
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Small umbrella
- Light scarf for cold mornings
Summer Packing List
- Breathable shirts
- Light pants, shorts, skirts, or dresses
- Hat or UV umbrella
- Sunscreen
- Portable fan
- Refillable water bottle
- Small towel
- Rain jacket or umbrella
- Light cover-up for air-conditioned places
Autumn Packing List
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Light jacket or warm coat, depending on the month
- Sweater
- Long pants
- Scarf for November evenings
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Small umbrella
Winter Packing List
- Thick coat
- Thermal innerwear
- Sweater
- Gloves
- Scarf
- Knit hat
- Warm socks
- Closed shoes with good grip
- Hand warmers
Kyoto Rain, Heat and Typhoon Tips
Kyoto's rainy season, summer heat, and possible typhoons can affect outdoor plans. Here are simple ways to prepare:
- Check the weather forecast every morning
- Carry a small umbrella or light rain jacket
- Wear quick-drying clothes during June and July
- Avoid riverside and mountain areas during heavy rain
- Stay indoors when strong wind or typhoon warnings are issued
- Allow extra travel time for delayed trains or buses
- Keep museum, market, aquarium, or shopping plans as backups
- Drink water often during summer
- Rest in a cool place if you feel dizzy, weak, or unwell
- Follow announcements from your hotel, airline, and railway operator
Secure Your Stay in Kyoto
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Breakfast
Stay Ahead with Kyoto Weather Apps

- Japan Meteorological Agency: Check official forecasts, heavy rain information, typhoon tracks, and weather warnings.
- Safety Tips: Receive earthquake, tsunami, volcano, heat, and severe weather alerts for travelers in Japan.
- NHK WORLD-JAPAN: Follow English-language weather, transport, and emergency news.
- Trip.com: Keep flights, hotels, attraction bookings, airport transfers, and travel plans in one place.
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Best Things to Do in Kyoto by Weather
Weather | Best Things to Do |
|---|---|
Sunny and mild | Temples, gardens, cycling, Arashiyama, walking tours |
Rainy | Kyoto Aquarium, Manga Museum, Nishiki Market, covered shopping streets |
Hot and humid | Early temple visits, indoor museums, cafe breaks, evening walks |
Cold and clear | Quiet temples, winter photos, hot food, indoor cultural experiences |
Light snow | Kinkaku-ji, temple gardens, photography, warm cafes |
Heavy rain or strong wind | Stay indoors, follow official updates, avoid mountains and rivers |
Kyoto Weather Tips for Filipino Travelers
Kyoto's seasonal changes may feel strong if you are used to the warm weather in the Philippines.
Must know before your trip:
- Check Kyoto's forecast before packing because spring and autumn temperatures can change quickly
- Bring a proper winter coat from December to February
- Do not underestimate summer heat, even if you are used to Philippine weather
- Carry water, sunscreen, and a portable fan in July and August
- Pack a small umbrella for sudden rain
- Wear comfortable shoes because many Kyoto trips involve long walks and temple stairs
- Bring a thin jacket for cold trains, buses, malls, and restaurants in summer
- Keep your hotel name and address saved in English and Japanese
- Check Kansai Airport and railway updates when a typhoon is approaching
- Book Kyoto hotels early for cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons
- Check the latest Japan visa and entry requirements before leaving the Philippines
- Consider travel insurance that covers weather-related delays and cancellations
FAQs About Kyoto Weather
-
What is the best month to visit Kyoto?
April is popular for cherry blossoms, while November is best known for autumn leaves. For comfortable weather with fewer peak-season crowds, May and October are also good choices. -
What is the rainy season in Kyoto?
Kyoto's rainy season usually runs from early June to mid-July. Rain does not always last the whole day, but heavy showers, thunderstorms, and high humidity are possible. -
Is Kyoto very hot in summer?
Yes. July and August are hot and humid. The average daytime high is around 32.0°C in July and 33.7°C in August, but some days rise above 35°C. -
Can typhoons affect Kyoto?
Yes. Typhoons may affect Kyoto from summer to early autumn, especially around August and September. They can bring strong wind, heavy rain, and transport delays, but they do not occur every day. -
Is summer or winter better for Kyoto?
Winter is better if you prefer smaller crowds and can handle cold weather. Summer is better for major festivals, but the heat and humidity can be tiring. For easier sightseeing, spring and autumn are usually more comfortable.
Related products
Kyoto Weather
- 1. Current and Next 7 Days Weather in Kyoto
- 2. What Is the Weather Like in Kyoto?
- 3. Kyoto Weather by Season
- 4. Kyoto Weather by Month
- 5. Best Time to Visit Kyoto
- 6. What to Pack for Kyoto Weather
- 7. Kyoto Rain, Heat and Typhoon Tips
- 8. Stay Ahead with Kyoto Weather Apps
- 9. Best Things to Do in Kyoto by Weather
- 10. Kyoto Weather Tips for Filipino Travelers
- 11. FAQs About Kyoto Weather
I enjoy exploring new destinations, testing travel products, and sharing useful travel tips that help Filipino travelers enjoy smoother and more comfortable trips.
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