Shizuoka Weather in May

Season: Spring
Summary: somewhat hot; moderate rainfall; last chance to see the snowcapped Mount Fuji in early May, when at the same time is a peak travel period in Japan

Somewhat Hot

Yummy Sushi

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 (68 degrees Fahrenheit) at the beginning of the month, then 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 half of the month, but easily exceed 15℃ (59℉) by late May, perhaps even 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 rising temperatures, the snow cap obviously gets smaller over time. By the end of the month, the snowcap usually disappears completely. But it possibly snows on the mountain, after which the snow cap appears temporarily. If your travel plan includes this activity in May 2026, please check the real-time snowcap status early, and you’re advised to visit Nippondaira Hotel Garden, where a large expanse of fresh and green 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 a room well in advance.

Snow-covered Mount Fuji

Rainfall & Humidity

Precipitation: 220 mm (8.7 in) / 17 rainy days
Monthly Humidity: 76%

Light shower is the main trend, usually occurring in the afternoon and evening. Sometimes, there may be two or more showers throughout a day. In May, Shizuoka also possibly sees 1-3 days of rain lasting from morning to evening. With luck, you’ll witness a surprising gift after heavy rain - burning clouds, which dye the yacht and the ocean a light peach color. The entire landscape bathed in a soft-focus filter comes into view.

Seascape in May

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 by late May. Abundant daylength makes for more relaxing travel. Though cloudy climate dominates May in Shizuoka, sunshine hours still average 6 hours per day, contributing to a higher likelihood 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, and light jackets as outwear. Around sunny noon by late month, short sleeved T-shirts are enough. 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 can be worn at the end of the month.

 Shoes: Many vibrant sights in Shizuoka require a lot of walk, 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 on 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. Also, the price of hotels increases a lot, so early reservation is advised and may save some money.
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, visitors usually need to wait in a long line, especially during holidays. If you want to reduce the waiting time, please come here early on non-holiday days. 
3. Obuchi Sasaba Tea Fields offers a panoramic view of Mount Fuji. And in early May, you have precious opportunities to see farmers picking tea leaves, as well as savor tea tempura and new tea.

Lush Green Mount Omuro

Shizuoka Weather by Month