What to Wear in Kyoto? Ultimate Clothing & Weather Guide for Travelers

Climate, Weather

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What’s the weather like in Kyoto when I visit?
What should I wear to stay comfortable throughout my trip?

I’m here to answer those questions!

The Writer & Trustworthiness of this Article

☑ I’m Japanese, and my name is Hiroyuki.
☑ I lived in Osaka for four years and now live in Tokyo.
☑ I use reliable weather data from
・The Japan Meteorological Agency
・The Japan Weather Association
☑ This photo was taken when I climbed Mt. Fuji.

In this Kyoto weather and clothing guide, we’ll break down Kyoto’s month-by-month weather, recommend the best outfits for every season, and compare Kyoto’s climate to major U.S. weather zones so you can better understand what to expect.

The following three people let you know the perceived temperature!

Frank (CA)
Frank (CA)

I’m a university student and from San Francisco, California!
I love Japanese pop culture and I’m traveling around Japan alone!

Ashley (NY)
Ashley (NY)

I’m from New York City, traveling in Japan with my family to enjoy Japanese culture!

Ronald (TX)
Ronald (TX)

I’m from Dallas, Texas, visiting Japan with my wife to enjoy Japanese cuisine!

Get ready for your Kyoto trip with this essential clothing guide!

What to Wear in Kyoto in January?

Weather trends over the last 5 years

Average temperature over the last 5 years

When visiting Kyoto in January, expect mostly sunny days, but cloudy and rainy weather is also possible. Snow is rare, and precipitation levels are very low, though the humidity is slightly higher. Since January is the coldest month in Kyoto, dressing warmly is essential. To stay comfortable, wear windproof outerwear and layer your clothes for better body temperature regulation. Additionally, be mindful of the humidity and choose moisture-wicking clothing for extra comfort.

Outerwearwarm coat / down coat
Topswarm long-sleeve T-shirt / sweater / knitwear
Bottomswarm trousers / pants
Item

Check details on Kyoto January’s weather and outfits.

Climate comparisons with California, New York and Texas

Frank (CA)
Frank (CA)

Kyoto’s winter is way colder than San Francisco!
Think of Sacramento on a particularly cold day, or even colder than Fresno at times. The air is dry on some days, making it tolerable, but when the wind picks up, it feels freezing!

Ashley (NY)
Ashley (NY)

Kyoto is cold, but NYC is definitely colder!
Kyoto feels more like early December in NYC. It gets chilly, but it never reaches NYC’s deep winter temperatures. The humidity and wind can make it feel colder than the actual temperature, but compared to NYC’s January, Kyoto is still milder.

Ronald (TX)
Ronald (TX)

Kyoto’s winter is colder than Dallas!
It’s closer to a chilly day in Austin or San Antonio, but colder than Houston. On some days, it feels like a rare cold front in Dallas. The humidity makes the cold feel sharper!

What to Wear in Kyoto in February?

Weather trends over the last 5 years

Average temperature over the last 5 years

February in Kyoto is characterized by fewer sunny days, with more cloudy and snowy weather. Precipitation increases during this month, and snowfall is possible. As it remains cold, it’s essential to wear warm clothing, including windproof outerwear and a thick coat, while layering your clothes to stay warm. Since snow can fall, don’t forget to bring waterproof shoes and gloves to keep comfortable and dry.

Outerwearwarm coat / down coat
Topswarm long-sleeve T-shirt / sweater / knitwear
Bottomswarm trousers / pants
Item

Check details on Kyoto February’s weather and outfits.

Climate comparisons with California, New York and Texas

Frank (CA)
Frank (CA)

Still really cold! Temperatures are similar to winter in Sacramento or Fresno, but the higher humidity makes it feel even chillier. Definitely not a time to go without a warm coat.

Ashley (NY)
Ashley (NY)

Still winter, but not as cold as NYC! Kyoto’s February is more like NYC’s late December or early March—cold, but not the bitter cold you get in NYC in February. Wind and humidity can make it feel chilly, but overall, it’s not as harsh.

Ronald (TX)
Ronald (TX)

Still cold—more like Dallas in January! Kyoto’s February is similar to late January in Dallas. It’s not as warm as Houston’s winter, but it’s still not as bad as the rare ice storms Texas sometimes gets.

What to Wear in Kyoto in March?

Weather trends over the last 5 years

Average temperature over the last 5 years

March in Kyoto is marked by many sunny days, few rainy days, and a fair number of cloudy days. As the temperature rises, you’ll feel the warmth of spring, though mornings and evenings can still feel chilly. Precipitation increases slightly, and humidity remains relatively low. To dress appropriately, choose long-sleeve shirts or light sweaters for the daytime warmth and a windproof coat for the chilly mornings and evenings. Since rain is a possibility, it’s advisable to bring portable rainwear or an umbrella to stay comfortable.

Outerwearwindproof coat (Ex. Trench coat)
Topslong-sleeve T-shirt / light sweater
Bottomstrousers / pants
Item

Check details on Kyoto March’s weather and outfits.

Climate comparisons with California, New York and Texas

Frank (CA)
Frank (CA)

Spring is coming, but it still feels chilly! Think of late winter in San Francisco. The air is crisp, and while some days feel comfortable, mornings and evenings still require a windproof coat.

Ashley (NY)
Ashley (NY)

Spring is coming, but it still feels cool! Kyoto in March feels like NYC in mid-to-late March. Some warm days start to appear, but mornings and evenings still require a windproof coat.

Ronald (TX)
Ronald (TX)

Starting to warm up, but mornings and nights are still cool! Feels like early March in Dallas or late February in Austin. Mornings can be chilly, but afternoons are comfortable.

Spring in Japan is the perfect season to explore Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and other beautiful destinations! With a Japan Rail Pass, you can travel affordably using bullet trains and local trains. If you want to travel smart, check JAPAN RAIL PASS!

What to Wear in Kyoto in April?

Weather trends over the last 5 years

Average temperature over the last 5 years

April in Kyoto brings many sunny days and the pleasant warmth of spring, though there are still occasional rainy days. While daytime temperatures are mild, mornings and evenings can feel cool. Precipitation slightly increases, but humidity stays low. For clothing, long-sleeve shirts or light sweaters are perfect for daytime warmth, and layering with a jacket or cardigan helps stay comfortable during the chilly mornings and evenings. Since rain is possible, it’s recommended to bring portable rainwear or an umbrella to stay dry.

Outerwearwindproof coat (Ex. Trench coat)
Topslong-sleeve T-shirt / light sweater
Bottomstrousers / pants
Item

Check details on Kyoto April’s weather and outfits.

Climate comparisons with California, New York and Texas

Frank (CA)
Frank (CA)

Pleasant during the day, but mornings and evenings are cool! Similar to March or early April in Los Angeles. Humidity starts to increase, and nights feel a bit like a spring evening in San Francisco.

Ashley (NY)
Ashley (NY)

Finally, spring weather! Feels like late April in NYC. Days are warm, but nights can still be a bit chilly kind of like an early spring evening in Upstate NY.

Ronald (TX)
Ronald (TX)

Perfect spring weather! Kyoto’s April feels like late March to early April in Austin or San Antonio. Warm and pleasant, but not hot yet.

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.

Outerwearlight jacket / cardigan
Topslong-sleeve T-shirt / light sweater
Bottomstrousers / pants
Item

Check details on Kyoto May’s weather and outfits.

Climate comparisons with California, New York and Texas

Frank (CA)
Frank (CA)

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.

Ashley (NY)
Ashley (NY)

Mostly comfortable but getting humid! Similar to NYC in early May. Pleasant temperatures, but with a bit more humidity than New York.

Ronald (TX)
Ronald (TX)

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 Kyoto in June?

Weather trends over the last 5 years

Average temperature over the last 5 years

June in Kyoto marks the rainy season, with fewer sunny days and more cloudy and rainy weather. The temperatures rise, and the humidity makes it feel hot and sticky, with average rainfall of 11.5mm and a humidity level of 67.6%. For clothing, breathable, lightweight fabrics are best, but moisture-wicking materials will help you stay comfortable in the damp conditions. Since rain is frequent, it’s essential to carry portable rainwear or an umbrella to stay dry.

Outerwearlight jacket / cardigan
Topsshort sleeves
Bottomsshort pants
Itemlight rain jacket / umbrella

Check details on Kyoto June’s weather and outfits.

Climate comparisons with California, New York and Texas

Frank (CA)
Frank (CA)

Getting hot! Unlike June in Los Angeles, Kyoto is already quite humid. Feels more like a hot day in California’s inland areas like Fresno or Sacramento, but with stickier air.

Ashley (NY)
Ashley (NY)

Getting hot and sticky! Think of a warm June day in NYC. The temperature itself isn’t much higher, but the humidity makes it feel a lot muggier than NYC’s early summer. Unlike NYC, Kyoto doesn’t cool down much at night.

Ronald (TX)
Ronald (TX)

Already summer, but more humid than Texas! Kyoto’s June feels like late May or early June in Dallas, but with way more humidity. The moisture in the air makes it feel hotter than it actually is.

What to Wear in Kyoto in July?

Weather trends over the last 5 years

Average temperature over the last 5 years

July in Kyoto brings the summer heat after the rainy season, with many sunny days and soaring temperatures. The humidity remains high at 71.9%, making it feel hot and sticky, while precipitation is low but sudden rain is still possible. To stay comfortable, wear lightweight, breathable clothing, and protect yourself from heatstroke with a hat and sunscreen. Given the high humidity, it’s recommended to choose moisture-wicking materials to stay dry and cool. Be prepared for unexpected rain by carrying a portable umbrella or rainwear.

Outerwear
Topsshort sleeves
Bottomsshort pants
Itemlight rain jacket / umbrella

Check details on Kyoto July’s weather and outfits.

Climate comparisons with California, New York and Texas

Frank (CA)
Frank (CA)

Kyoto’s summer is on another level! Temperatures are similar to August in Los Angeles, but with much more humidity, making it feel way hotter. Unlike California’s dry heat, you’ll be sweating even if you’re just standing still.

Ashley (NY)
Ashley (NY)

Worse than NYC’s worst summer days! Kyoto’s summer feels like the worst heatwave in NYC, but with even more humidity and no ocean breeze. Even at night, it stays hot and sticky.

Ronald (TX)
Ronald (TX)

Hot and sticky—feels worse than Texas! The actual temperature isn’t much different from a hot July day in Dallas or Austin, but the humidity makes it feel way worse. If you’re used to Texas’s dry heat, Kyoto’s summer will be a shock.

What to Wear in Kyoto in August?

Weather trends over the last 5 years

Average temperature over the last 5 years

August in Kyoto brings extreme heat with many sunny days and high temperatures. The humidity is also very high, making it feel sticky and uncomfortable. Although precipitation is relatively low, it is typhoon season, so it’s important to be prepared for sudden rain and strong winds. To stay comfortable, wear lightweight, breathable clothing and stay hydrated to prevent heatstroke. Don’t forget to use hats and sunscreen for sun protection. Due to the potential for sudden weather changes from typhoons, it’s recommended to carry rainwear or a foldable umbrella with you.

Outerweara light jacket / cardigan
(In case the AC is too strong in shopping mall)
Topsshort sleeves
Bottomsshort pants
Itemhat and sunglass

Check details on Kyoto August’s weather and outfits.

Climate comparisons with California, New York and Texas

Frank (CA)
Frank (CA)

Feels like a sauna! Similar to the hottest summer days in Fresno or Sacramento, but the humidity makes it feel even worse. Think Death Valley temperatures but with thick, heavy air that makes it hard to breathe.

Ashley (NY)
Ashley (NY)

The peak of summer misery! If you think NYC summers are humid, Kyoto is worse. Imagine NYC’s hottest August day, but with even thicker, heavier air. It’s like standing in the subway with no AC—24/7.

Ronald (TX)
Ronald (TX)

Feels like Houston’s worst summer days! Kyoto’s August is like Houston’s humid summer but even more intense. If you think Texas is hot, Kyoto’s humidity makes it feel like a sauna all day and night.

What to Wear in Kyoto in September?

Weather trends over the last 5 years

Average temperature over the last 5 years

September in Kyoto features many sunny days, but the heat and humidity remain high, making it still quite hot. While rainy days are rare, the risk of sudden strong winds and heavy rain due to typhoons is significant. The high humidity can make it feel muggy. To stay comfortable, opt for lightweight, breathable clothing and moisture-wicking fabrics. Since typhoon season brings unpredictable weather, it’s essential to carry rainwear or a foldable umbrella to stay prepared.

Outerweara light jacket / cardigan
(In case the AC is too strong in shopping mall)
Topsshort sleeves
Bottomsshort pants
Itemhat and sunglass

Check details on Kyoto September’s weather and outfits.

Climate comparisons with California, New York and Texas

Frank (CA)
Frank (CA)

Still hot but slowly becoming bearable! Feels like August in Los Angeles. The humidity gradually decreases, making the heat slightly easier to handle.

Ashley (NY)
Ashley (NY)

Still warm but starting to cool down! Feels like early September in NYC. The humidity remains, but by mid-to-late September, it starts feeling more like fall in Upstate NY.

Ronald (TX)
Ronald (TX)

Still warm but finally cooling off! Feels like late September in Austin or San Antonio. The heat lingers, but by the end of the month, it feels much more comfortable.

What to Wear in Kyoto in October?

Weather trends over the last 5 years

Average temperature over the last 5 years

October in Kyoto features many sunny days with cooler temperatures, creating a comfortable autumn climate. While precipitation levels are low, sudden weather changes due to typhoons are possible. The humidity is slightly higher, but the oppressive summer heat has passed, offering more pleasant days. For daytime comfort, wear long-sleeve shirts or light sweaters, and bring a jacket or cardigan for the cooler mornings and evenings. As typhoon season can bring unexpected weather, it’s advisable to prepare by carrying rainwear.

Outerwearlight jacket / cardigan
Topslong-sleeve T-shirt / light sweater
Bottomstrousers / pants
Item

Check details on Kyoto October’s weather and outfits.

Climate comparisons with California, New York and Texas

Frank (CA)
Frank (CA)

Finally, comfortable weather! Similar to fall in San Francisco—mild and pleasant during the day, but evenings start getting a bit chilly. A light jacket is a good idea.

Ashley (NY)
Ashley (NY)

Finally, cool and comfortable! Similar to mid-October in NYC. Days are pleasant, but nights can get chilly—perfect sweater weather.

Ronald (TX)
Ronald (TX)

Perfect fall weather! Similar to mid-October in Dallas or Austin—warm days, cool nights, and much lower humidity.

October is the perfect season for sightseeing. If you’re planning to visit Japan’s famous autumn foliage spots or multiple cities, the Japan Rail Pass is the best way to travel efficiently and cost-effectively! Learn more!

What to Wear in Kyoto in November?

Weather trends over the last 5 years

Average temperature over the last 5 years

November in Kyoto offers plenty of sunny days with a pleasant autumn climate. Precipitation levels are low, and while the humidity is slightly higher, the overall weather is comfortable. For daytime, long-sleeve shirts or light sweaters are ideal, and it’s wise to wear a windproof coat for the cooler mornings and evenings. Since it’s a dry season, consider clothing that provides moisture retention and helps protect your skin from dryness.

Outerwearwindproof coat (Ex. Trench coat)
Topslong-sleeve T-shirt / light sweater
Bottomstrousers / pants
Item

Check details on Kyoto November’s weather and outfits.

Climate comparisons with California, New York and Texas

Frank (CA)
Frank (CA)

End of fall, beginning of winter! Feels like the start of winter in Sacramento, and some days are as cold as Fresno on a chilly morning. Lower humidity makes some days feel comfortable, but when the wind blows, it gets noticeably colder.

Ashley (NY)
Ashley (NY)

Chilly, but nothing like NYC’s deep cold! Feels like early November in NYC—cool enough for a jacket but nowhere near the brutal chill of late November in NYC.

Ronald (TX)
Ronald (TX)

Chilly, like a cool November day in Dallas! Kyoto’s November feels like early November in North Texas. You’ll need a windproof coat, but it’s not freezing.

What to Wear in Kyoto in December?

Weather trends over the last 5 years

Average temperature over the last 5 years

December in Kyoto features many sunny days and marks the arrival of winter with cold temperatures. Precipitation is minimal, and while humidity is slightly higher, the season is still quite dry. Warm clothing is crucial, so layering with thick coats and sweaters is recommended. Don’t forget accessories like gloves and scarves to stay warm. As the dry air can lead to skin dryness, it’s a good idea to incorporate moisturizing products to keep your skin hydrated during your stay in Kyoto.

Outerwearwarm coat
Topswarm long-sleeve T-shirt / sweater / knitwear
Bottomswarm trousers / pants
Item

Check details on Kyoto December’s weather and outfits.

Climate comparisons with California, New York and Texas

Frank (CA)
Frank (CA)

Winter is in full force—nothing like San Francisco! Think of a cold day in California’s mountain regions. The combination of cold temperatures, humidity, and wind makes it feel even chillier. If you’re used to Los Angeles or San Diego weather, this will feel really cold!

Ashley (NY)
Ashley (NY)

Cold, but still milder than NYC! Think of a cold December day in NYC, but slightly warmer. It’s nowhere near the freezing cold of NYC’s January or February. The humidity and wind can make it feel cold, but NYC is objectively colder in winter.

Ronald (TX)
Ronald (TX)

Colder than Dallas, but not extreme! Kyoto’s December is more like late December in Dallas. It’s colder than Austin or Houston but never gets as icy as a Texas winter storm.

By understanding Kyoto’s month-by-month weather and choosing the best outfits for each season, you can stay comfortable and fully enjoy your visit. Whether you’re admiring cherry blossoms in spring, strolling through summer’s historic streets, marveling at vibrant autumn foliage, or experiencing Kyoto’s serene winter temples, dressing appropriately will enhance your travel experience.

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Enjoy your time in Kyoto—a city where history and culture come to life in every corner!