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Planning a trip to Japan in May, what kind of clothes should I pack?
How much does the temperature and weather vary by region?
I’m here to answer those questions!
What You’ll Learn in This Guide
☑ Japan’s May weather and average temperatures in major travel destinations.
☑ What to wear in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Hakata (Fukuoka), Sapporo (Hokkaido) & Okinawa in May.
☑ Clothing tips for a comfortable domestic trip in Japan in May.
The Writer & Trustworthiness of this Article
☑ I’m Japanese, and my name is Hiroyuki.
☑ I lived in Tokyo for 6 years and now live in Osaka.
☑ I stayed in Dallas, Texas for several months.
☑ I use reliable weather data from
・The Japan Meteorological Agency
・The Japan Weather Association
This guide covers May weather and temperature trends and What to Wear in six destinations—Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Hakata, Sapporo, and Okinawa. It also provides outfit tips and Climate comparisons with California, New York, Texas in the U.S.
The following three people let you know the perceived temperature!
■ California
I’m a university student and from San Francisco, California!
I love Japanese pop culture and I’m traveling around Japan alone!
■ New York
I’m from New York City, traveling in Japan with my family to enjoy Japanese culture!
■ Texas
I’m from Dallas, Texas, visiting Japan with my wife to enjoy Japanese food!
Get ready for your Japan trip with this essential May clothing guide!
- What to Wear in Japan 6 Major Cities in May?
- What to Wear in Tokyo in May?
- What to Wear in Osaka in May?
- What to Wear in Kyoto in May?
- What to Wear in Hakata, Fukuoka in May?
- What to Wear in Sapporo, Hokkaido in May?
- What to Wear in Okinawa in May?
- Travel Tips for Domestic Travel in Japan
- Summary / Key Takeaways
What to Wear in Japan 6 Major Cities in May?
May marks the transition from spring to early summer in Japan, with warm and pleasant weather across the country. Clothing with layers for cooler mornings and evenings is ideal.
What to Wear in Tokyo in May?
Weather trends over the last 5 years
Average temperature over the last 5 years
Tokyo’s weather is warm and slightly humid, especially in late spring and early summer. For your Tokyo summer travel, wearing light, breathable clothing will keep you comfortable throughout the day. A light jacket for cooler evenings and a compact umbrella for unexpected showers will come in handy!
| Outerwear | light jacket / cardigan |
| Tops | long-sleeve T-shirt / light sweater |
| Bottoms | trousers / pants |
| Item | – |
Check the Tokyo annual weather and outfits.
Check details on Tokyo May’s weather and outfits.
Climate comparisons with California, New York and Texas
Comfortable like early summer in San Diego but with slightly higher humidity.
Light long sleeves work well!
Similar to New York in May, but slightly more humid.
Some days even feel like early summer!
Feels like April in Dallas or Austin—pretty comfortable, but humidity starts to rise, making it feel a bit like Houston!
What to Wear in Osaka in May?
Weather trends over the last 5 years
Average temperature over the last 5 years
May in Osaka brings warm temperatures and an early summer feel, but the weather can be unpredictable. Daytime is often warm enough to go without an outer layer, but mornings and evenings can still feel a bit cool. While sunny days are common, expect occasional cloudy and rainy weather, with slightly higher precipitation levels. Humidity remains comfortable, making it a great time for sightseeing. For the best outfit, wear lightweight layers and bring a light jacket or cardigan for cooler moments. Since rain showers can occur, carrying an umbrella or rain gear is recommended. If you’re visiting Osaka in May, expect warm afternoons, comfortable humidity, and occasional showers!
| Outerwear | light jacket / cardigan |
| Tops | long-sleeve T-shirt / light sweater |
| Bottoms | trousers / pants |
| Item | – |
Check the Osaka annual weather and outfits.
Check details on Osaka May’s weather and outfits.
Climate comparisons with California, New York and Texas
Similar to early summer in San Diego—pleasant, but more humid than coastal California.
Feels like May in NYC, but with slightly higher humidity, closer to early June in New York.
Feels similar to April in Dallas or Austin, comfortable but starting to feel more humid.
What to Wear in Kyoto in May?
Weather trends over the last 5 years
Average temperature over the last 5 years
May in Kyoto brings many sunny days, with temperatures rising as the weather shifts from spring to early summer. While rain becomes a bit more frequent, humidity remains low. For daytime warmth, light clothing like shirts and dresses are ideal, but don’t forget to bring a light jacket or cardigan for the cooler mornings and evenings. With the increased chance of rain, it’s a good idea to prepare by carrying a portable umbrella or rainwear.
| Outerwear | windproof coat (Ex. Trench coat) |
| Tops | long-sleeve T-shirt / light sweater |
| Bottoms | trousers / pants |
| Item | – |
Check the Kyoto annual weather and outfits.
Check details on Kyoto May’s weather and outfits.
Climate comparisons with California, New York and Texas
Mostly nice, but the humidity is creeping in! Comparable to spring in San Diego, with comfortable temperatures. However, the rising humidity makes it feel a little warmer than the numbers suggest.
Mostly comfortable but getting humid! Similar to NYC in early May. Pleasant temperatures, but with a bit more humidity than New York.
Getting warm and humid! Think of early May in Dallas or Austin. Temperatures are comfortable, but you start noticing the humidity creeping in.
What to Wear in Hakata, Fukuoka in May?
Weather trends over the last 5 years
Average temperature over the last 5 years
May in Hakata, Fukuoka brings pleasant early summer weather, with mostly sunny days but occasional rain and cloudy skies. While mornings and evenings can be cool, daytime temperatures are warm and comfortable. A light long-sleeve shirt is ideal, and bringing a light jacket helps adjust to temperature changes throughout the day. Whether you’re sightseeing or enjoying outdoor activities, layering ensures you stay comfortable.
| Outerwear | light jacket / cardigan |
| Tops | long-sleeve T-shirt / light sweater |
| Bottoms | trousers / pants |
| Item | – |
Check the Hakata, Fukuoka annual weather and outfits.
Check details on Hakata, Fukuoka May’s weather and outfits.
Climate comparisons with California, New York and Texas
Feels like April in San Diego, but humidity starts to rise.
Similar to early May in NYC! Comfortable temperatures, but humidity starts to increase slightly.
Similar to April in Dallas or Austin! Still comfortable, but the humidity starts increasing.
What to Wear in Sapporo, Hokkaido in May?
Weather trends over the last 5 years
Average temperature over the last 5 years
May in Sapporo, Hokkaido brings mild spring weather with warmer temperatures. While sunny days are common, rain and temperature changes are frequent. A windproof coat is useful for chilly moments, and layering is key to staying comfortable throughout the day.
| Outerwear | windproof coat (Ex. Trench coat) |
| Tops | long-sleeve T-shirt / light sweater |
| Bottoms | trousers / pants |
| Item | – |
Check the Sapporo, Hokkaido annual weather and outfits.
Check details on Sapporo, Hokkaido May’s weather and outfits.
Climate comparisons with California, New York and Texas
Sapporo in May is like winter in Los Angeles—comfortable in the afternoon, but the mornings and nights can still feel chilly. A light jacket is a good idea.
Feels like early May in NYC, but a little cooler and drier. Comfortable in the daytime, but mornings and evenings still have a crisp chill, so a windproof coat is a good idea.
May in Sapporo feels like late March or early April in Dallas—mild and pleasant. Compared to Texas, it’s much less humid and feels crisp and refreshing.
What to Wear in Okinawa in May?
Weather trends over the last 5 years
Average temperature over the last 5 years
May in Okinawa is warm and humid as the rainy season begins. Expect frequent rain and high humidity, with occasional sunny days. Wear breathable clothing and short sleeves for comfort but bring a light jacket for cooler indoor spaces. A compact umbrella or raincoat is essential for sudden downpours.
| Outerwear | light jacket / cardigan |
| Tops | short sleeves |
| Bottoms | short pants |
| Item | light rain jacket / umbrella |
Check the Okinawa annual weather and outfits.
Check details on Okinawa May’s weather and outfits.
Climate comparisons with California, New York and Texas
Already feels like early summer! The temperature is similar to June in Los Angeles, but the humidity is much higher, making it feel warmer and more tropical.
Feels like full summer! The temperature is close to July in NYC, but the humidity makes it feel even stickier. Unlike New York, where the shade provides relief, Okinawa stays warm and humid even in the shade.
Summer is kicking in! Feels like June in Houston—hot and humid. Unlike Texas, where the shade offers some relief, Okinawa stays muggy all day long.
Travel Tips for Domestic Travel in Japan
- In Okinawa, Kyushu, and Shikoku (southern Japan), temperatures can exceed 77°F (25°C) in May, making short sleeves the best option.
- Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto usually see temperatures around 68°F (20°C), but mornings and evenings can still feel a bit chilly.
- Sapporo (Hokkaido) remains cooler in May, with daytime highs between 59–68°F (15–20°C) and chilly mornings/evenings around 50°F (10°C).
- Flying (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka → Sapporo/Okinawa)
- Airplane cabins are warm, so wear layers that you can easily remove.
- If traveling from Sapporo to Okinawa, prepare to change into short sleeves upon arrival for better comfort.
- Shinkansen (Bullet Train) Travel (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka, Sapporo)
- The train’s air conditioning can be strong, so carrying a light cardigan or scarf helps regulate temperature.
- May marks the beginning of stronger UV rays across Japan, so sun protection is essential for those planning long hours outdoors.
- In Okinawa and Kyushu, the sun can be intense—bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to stay comfortable.
- Hokkaido and Tohoku have milder UV levels, but on sunny days, prolonged outdoor activities can still cause sunburn.
- Heavy coats and sweaters are no longer needed, so packing lighter clothing will help reduce luggage weight.
- If heading to northern Japan, bring a Windproof coat for cooler mornings and evenings.
- In Okinawa and Kyushu, you may sweat more, so packing breathable, quick-dry fabrics is a smart choice.
- If traveling from north to south (Hokkaido → Tokyo → Osaka → Okinawa), gradually transition to lighter clothing as you move to warmer regions.
- If visiting Japan in late May, check the “June Clothing Guide” to prepare accordingly.
- Consider doing laundry locally to minimize how much you need to pack!
- Golden Week (April 29 – May 6) means crowded transportation—book flights and Shinkansen tickets early.
Travel Comfortably Between Cities
With a Japan Rail Pass, you can enjoy smooth and hassle-free travel on bullet trains and local trains. Don’t let crowding during Golden Week slow you down—stay comfortable and explore with JAPAN RAIL PASS!
Summary / Key Takeaways
- Gradual temperature increase – Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto see daytime highs around 68–77°F (20–25°C), while Okinawa often exceeds 77°F (25°C), feeling like early summer.
- Mornings and evenings can still be cool, especially in Hokkaido and northern Japan, where temperatures can drop to 50°F (10°C) at night.
- Layering is still recommended, but heavy coats are no longer needed—a light jacket or cardigan is enough for cooler moments.
- UV rays are getting stronger, especially in southern Japan—bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for protection.
- Rain starts to increase, especially in late May, so carrying a compact umbrella or light rain jacket is useful.
- April 29 – May 6 is Japan’s “Golden Week” – One of the busiest travel periods in Japan, with domestic travel surging. Airports, Shinkansen, and highways will be extremely crowded, so booking tickets and accommodations in advance is essential.
With the right clothing choices, you’ll stay comfortable and fully enjoy Japan’s scenic landscapes, outdoor activities, and early summer festivals during your May trip!
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