Tokyo Weather in May

May belongs to a transition month in Tokyo from spring to summer. The weather is favorable overall, and alternates quickly between sunny and rainy. Flourishing green vegetation everywhere replaces lovely cherry blossoms.

High temperature above 20℃

It’s pretty warm during the day, with a high temperature of 20 – 24 degrees Celsius (68 – 75.2 degrees Fahrenheit). When the sun appears, it climbs to above 25℃ (77℉), and you may sweat a bit after walking for a long time. In rainy conditions, the perceived temperature drops below 20℃ (68℉).

Big day-night temperature difference is an obvious feature of Tokyo weather in May. The value at night is a cool 11 - 17℃ (51.8 – 62.6℉); people sensitive to temperature changes or departing early can feel a little cold.

Tokyo Skytree Scenery

Moderate rainfall with increasing probability

About 11 days are rainy in Tokyo in May, bringing a total of 140 mm (5.5 in) precipitation. Moderate rains and light rains take the majority; rarely, thunderstorms occur. Within a day, it mostly appears in the afternoon to evening; throughout the month, the rainfall increases gradually. In the second half, 4 consecutive days see some rain at most, and the air humidity becomes higher, 68% on average. Occasionally, it feels a little stuffy. Luckily, blowing wind often accompanies and easily makes people cool.

Long daylight with much sunshine

In May, the sun rises as early as 4:27 – 4:49 and sets at 18:27 – 18:50, offering 13.5 – 14.5 hours of daylight to tourists. So, you don’t need to be in a hurry all the time and can slowly enjoy your trip.

On the basis, Tokyo receives a lot of sunshine in May, 6 hours on average, although cloudy climate dominates. Completely sunny weather makes up a small part, actually.

Mount Fuji at Sunset

Is May a good time to go to Tokyo?

Yes, because Tokyo is particularly “mild” in May:

Mild weather: Temperatures and rainfall are moderate, and long daylight hours serve as a good foundation.

Mild tourists volume: Except for the Golden Week at the beginning of the month, there are not numerous tourists in Tokyo in May. You don’t have to spend a lot of time queueing up to enter attractions, and can visit at your own pace.

Mild prices: As May is not a peak season in Tokyo most of the time, the prices of flights and hotels are not that high, which is a good news for budget travelers.

However, if you are cherry blossom lovers, May is not a good choice, because you can hardly see the blooming ones by then. Only Northern Hokkaido in Japan, where cherry blossoms bloom fully in early May, can be your choice.

Meiji Jingu Shrine in May

What to wear in Tokyo in May?

During the day

Denim shirt with light pants is a good match for outings in the sun. Women can choose long-sleeve dress. If you prefer coolness, T-shirt is acceptable.

In the morning and evening

You still need a thin jacket in Tokyo in May, which also works well in rainy weather. Or you can choose a short trench coat.

Shoes

It’s proper to wear a pair of casual shoes to travel around

Travel advice for Tokyo during Golden Week: Apr. 29th - May 5th

The Golden Week at the beginning of the month is a time when millions of people in Japan travel around. Tokyo is undoubtedly a popular destination. So, its streets and attractions are often overcrowded, and it’s difficult to get a restaurant or hotel on site. The prices also rise observably.

If possible, it is recommended to avoid traveling to Tokyo during this period. Otherwise, make all your reservations 2 - 3 months in advance, including the flights and hotel rooms. At the same time, check the opening hours of the place you intend to go, and make a reasonable plan for your day. Then, get outdoors earlier during your trip to avoid the peak crowds and queue up for less time.

Crowded Takeshita Street

Busy Senso-ji Temple

Top Festivals to Enjoy in Tokyo in May 2026

1. During May 11 – 17, 2026, Kanda Matsuri blessing prosperity and good luck is held in city center. The liveliest events like the parade often take place on the weekend before May 15th.

2. Sanja Matsuri celebrated around Senso-ji Temple lasts for three days every year, on Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the third week of May, during which visitors can appreciate the music, lively parade, and experience traditional Japanese food. In 2026, it’s on May 15 – 17.

Sanja Festival Celebration

Other advice for visiting Tokyo in May

1. If you want to see Mount Fuji with a snow cap, seize early May, which is the last period in the first half year. There are over 10 days this month when you can see its whole picture. Remember to check the visibility forecast before departure.

2. Although cherry blossoms are no longer available, you can appreciate pretty hydrangea at Ueno Park, roses at Jindai Botanical Garden, etc. to feel the lively spring.

3. Raingear is easily available at convenience stores everywhere. So, you don’t have to carry one for possible showers in May if no space left in your backpack.