Kyoto Weather

Kyoto has a subtropical maritime monsoon climate. The annual rainfall is 2284mm (89.92in) averagely. But located in a basin surrounded by the mountains, it also has the characteristics of continental climate. Its four seasons are clearly different from each other. The summer from June to August is burning hot and the rainfall is pretty high, especially in plum rainy season from mid-June to late July. The winter from December to next February is freezing cold and dry. The weather in spring from March to May and autumn from September to November is generally pleasant. Comparatively, the weather in Kyoto is similar like the weather in Miami in America. The peak season of typhoon is from August to September, when it’s not good time of traveling.

 

Spring (March – May)

Weather: Mild & Pleasant

Average temperature: 9-17°C (48.2-62.6°F)

The weather in spring is warm and most of the days are suitable for travelling. In early spring, the big temperature difference between day and night needs to be paid attention to. It is highly recommended to wear a thick coat while travelling. In late spring, the temperature gradually climbs up and light clothes are needed. Hoodie and jeans are a good match. The oriental cherry is the most attracting part of the spring and many travelers choose this period to have a trip in Kyoto.

Best things to do:
1. Appreciate the sakura in Nijo Castle, Heian Shrine and Kiyomizu temple.
2. Enjoy the beauty of Hozugawa Valley on the Sagano Sightseeing Train.
3. Experience Kyoto geisha culture in Gion Corner.

• Read more: Cherry Blossom Season in Japan 

Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka in Spring

Summer (June – August)

Weather: Rainy &Torrid
Average temperature: 24-30°C (75.2-86°F)

The temperature in summer is pretty high. Except the hot weather, summer also has the plum rainy season. The plum rainy season starts from mid-June and ends in late July. During this time, the weather is hot and humid, which gives people an uncomfortable feeling. The rainfall reaches the highest level so umbrella is quite necessary. After the plum rainy season, the weather becomes burning hot and stuffy. Light and short sleeve clothes are recommended. What’s more, August is the possible month of typhoon. Checking the weather forecast before travelling is important too. Although the weather is hot and rainy, the splendid fireworks show in Kyoto is unmissable.

Best things to do:
1. Experience one of the three major festivals in Japan, Gion Matsuri, in Yasaka Shrine.
2. Enjoy the atmosphere of Kyoto Tanabata Festival in summer.

• Read more: Everything You Need to Know about Rainy Season in Japan 

Kinkaku-ji Temple in Summer

Autumn (September – November)

Weather: Cool & Fresh
Average temperature: 14-21°C (57.2-69.8°F)

September is also the peak season of typhoon and the weather is still hot like summer. The daytime temperature occasionally exceeds 35°C (95°F). Checking the weather forecast is a wise choice before going out. But after September, October and November in autumn are both the best time to visit Kyoto. These two months have not only the pleasant and cool weather, but also the marvelous red maple leaves. During this time, long sleeve clothes like hoodie and shirt are suitable. 

Best things to do:
1. Appreciate the red maple leaves in Arashiyama area, Ginkakuji Temple and Rurikoin Temple.
2. Experience the culture and customs of different eras in Kyoto in the Jidai Festival.
3. Admire the special exhibitions of treasures from various temples and shrines in Kyoto in September.

Nijo Castle in Autumn

Winter (December – February)

Weather: Cold & Rainless
Average temperature: 1-7°C (33.8-44.6°F)

Winter in Kyoto is freezing cold and dry. The average temperature is between 1-10°C (33.8-50°F). It doesn’t frequently snow but the sensible temperature is much lower than the actual temperature. To reduce the possibility of catching a cold, clothes should be as thick as possible. Woolen overcoat, padded overcoat are good choices. Scarf, gloves and winter hat are necessary too. Although the outdoor temperature is low, most of the indoor places are warm. Visitors need to pay attention to the temperature difference between indoors and outdoors and wear a thick overcoat easy to be taken off. 

Best things to do:
1. Ringing bells to welcome New Year at Kodai Temple or other shrines in Kyoto.
2. Enjoy many types of natural hot springs in Kyoto and heal tired body and mind.
3. Admire the plum blossoms in Kitano Tenmangu Shrine in winter.