Shizuoka Weather in May

Season: Spring
Summary: somewhat hot; relatively high rainfall; last chance to see the snowcapped Mount Fuji in early May with more tourists

Somewhat Hot

Average Temperature: 15 - 24℃ (59-75℉)

Generally Speaking, the weather of Shizuoka in May turns somewhat hot. Daily maximum temperatures often hover around 20 degrees Celsius (degrees Fahrenheit) at the beginning of the month, while ones rise to 24℃ (75℉) or more over time, occasionally reaching as high as 28℃ (82℉). As for daily minimum temperatures, they mainly range from 10-15℃ (50-59℉) in the first twenty days, but easily exceed 15℃ (59℉) in late May, perhaps climbing to 20℃ (68℉) in some warmer years like 2025.

Last Chance to See the Snowcapped Mount Fuji

The summit of Mount Fuji is still covered in white snow in early May, making it the last opportunity to capture such beautiful scenery. With increasingly higher temperatures, the snow cover visibly gets fewer over time. By the end of the month, the snowcapped Mount Fuji may not be seen; but it possibly snows on the mountain, so the snow-covered peak appears temporarily. If your travel plan includes this activity in May 2026 - the month of fresh greenery, you’re advised to visit Nippondaira Hotel Garden, where a large expanse of lush lawn fits in well with the distant Mount Fuji.

Bonus Tip: Thanks to its superb location to admire Mount Fuji, Nippondaira Hotel is usually at full capacity, especially in early May during Japan’s Golden Week, so it’s better to book its room well in advance.

Rainfall & Humidity

Monthly Humidity: 76%

In May, Shizuoka receives the average precipitation of 220 mm (8.7 in) scattering in around 17 days. Light shower is the main trend, usually occurring in the afternoon and evening. Sometimes, there may be two showers throughout a day. The probability of heavy rain is slightly lower than that of light shower, bringing more than 30 mm (1.2 in) daily rainfall. Therefore, remember to carry raingear in case you get caught in rainy weather.

However, there may be a surprising gift after heavy rain - burning clouds, which dye the yacht a light peach color. The entire landscape bathed in a soft-focus filter comes into view.

Abundant Daylight Hours & Sunshine Hours

Sunrise Time: 04:37 - 04:59
Sunset Time: 18:33 - 18:57

With earlier sunrise and later sunset, this month sees an increase in daylight hours from 13 hours 35 minutes in early May to 14 hours 20 minutes in late May. Abundant daylength makes for your more relaxing travel. Though cloudy climate dominates May in Shizuoka, sunshine hours still average 6 hours per day, contributing to a higher likelihood to take photos of more stunning natural and cultural landscapes. 

Daily Clothing Guideline for Shizuoka Trip in May

 Clothes: For your upper body, it’s advisable to wear two layers: long-sleeve shirts as inner clothes, coupled with light jackets such as outwear shirts. During lots of sunny periods, short sleeved T-shirts are more comfortable for your daily outing. In the regions around Mount Fuji with lower temperatures than in flat areas, wear a tad warmer clothing. Long pants are the best like thin overalls, and dresses may be more suitable at the end of the month.

 Shoes: Many vibrant sights in Shizuoka require walking a lot, so comfy sneakers and walking shoes both work well in this month.

 Others: The UV index in May is in the range of 8-10, so sunscreen, sun hats and sunglasses are important items among your packing list.

Travel Advice and Tips for Shizuoka in May

1. In early May, since many local people take a long holiday to travel around, you’ll see more people on the public transportation and the traffic may get relatively congested.
2. May is one of the most recommended periods to visit Bridge of Dreams in Sumatakyo Gorge, as the water may be more turbid in other months. The bridge can only hold 10 individuals at a time, along with its wide popularity, so you usually wait in a long line during holidays with pleasant weather. If you want to reduce the waiting time, please come here earlier on weekdays. 
3. Obuchi Sasaba Tea Fields offers a panoramic view of Mount Fuji and green tea plantations, and the best-visiting time is early May, when you have precious opportunities to see farmers picking tea leaves, as well as savor tea tempura and new tea.

Shizuoka Weather by Month