Climate Overview
Kyoto has a humid-subtropical climate with hot, sticky Jul–Aug peaking at 32–34°C and 78–80% humidity, and crisp 9–12°C winters that barely see snow. Rainfall climbs to 215mm in Jun during the tsuyu plum rains. Late Mar–Apr (cherry blossoms) and Nov (foliage) are the prime windows.
Monthly Climate
Temperature range, rainfall, and humidity by month
Monthly Data
| Month | High | Low | Rainfall | Humidity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 10° | 1.3° | 21mm | 73% |
| Feb | 8.6° | 0.3° | 22mm | 71% |
| Mar | 14.8° | 6.3° | 90mm | 74% |
| Apr | 19.7° | 9.2° | 69mm | 71% |
| May | 23.3° | 14.5° | 211mm | 73% |
| Jun | 28.4° | 20.2° | 258mm | 78% |
| Jul | 34° | 25.1° | 119mm | 70% |
| Aug | 34.4° | 25.6° | 141mm | 71% |
| Sep | 30.9° | 23.3° | 185mm | 75% |
| Oct | 23.7° | 16.7° | 237mm | 78% |
| Nov | 16.8° | 8.1° | 27mm | 78% |
| Dec | 12.3° | 3.6° | 48mm | 79% |
When to Visit
Experiences to seek out and peak periods to plan around
Experiences & Highlights
Sakura peaks along the Philosopher's Path and Maruyama Park as highs climb from 15°C to 20°C; go at dawn to beat the tour buses.
Kyoto's signature festival, peaking 17 July with the Yamaboko Junkō float parade; expect 32°C heat and 80% humidity — hydrate and wear light cotton.
Tofuku-ji, Eikan-dō, and Arashiyama turn scarlet as highs drop to 17°C; November is also the driest month (61mm avg), ideal for long temple walks.
22 October procession from the Imperial Palace to Heian Shrine with 2,000 costumed participants spanning 1,000+ years of history; cool 23°C days and thinning summer crowds.
Peak Periods & Travel Advisories
Hotel rates double and central temples hit capacity by 9am; book 3+ months ahead or stay in Osaka and day-trip.
June averages 215mm rainfall and 78% humidity with sticky 28°C days; indoor sights (Nijō Castle, museums) and covered Nishiki Market work well.
Foliage season rivals sakura for crowds; reserve Arashiyama rail and popular temple illuminations weeks in advance.
Japan Destination Comparison
Compare climate across destinations in Japan
| City | Avg High | Avg Low | Annual Rain | Season Overview |
|---|---|---|---|---|
🇯🇵 Kyoto | 21° | 13° | 1426 mm | |
🇯🇵 Okinawa | 26° | 21° | 1756 mm | |
🇯🇵 Osaka | 21° | 14° | 1533 mm | |
🇯🇵 Tokyo | 21° | 14° | 1117 mm |
Official Resources
Government portals and tourism boards for Kyoto, Japan