Japan in May

Japan is a country full of unique culture, history, and breathtaking scenery that attracts millions of tourists every year. May is an exceptional time to visit Japan as it marks the beginning of the summer season, with pleasant weather and a variety of exciting events and festivals taking place throughout the country.

From the famous Golden Week holiday to the stunning cherry blossom season, May is an ideal time to explore Japan’s natural beauty, experience its cultural heritage, and indulge in its delicious cuisine.

In this blog post, we will guide you through some of the best places to visit in Japan in May, highlighting the top events and activities that you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, Japan in May is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Where to Go in Japan in May

Japan is a vast and diverse country, and there are many places to explore during the month of May. Tokyo is a must-visit destination, with its vibrant atmosphere, world-class shopping, and fascinating cultural attractions. The city is also home to some of Japan’s most famous landmarks, such as the Tokyo Tower, the Imperial Palace, and the Meiji Shrine. You will see all these sights during our 5-Day Explore Tokyo and the Surrounds tour.

For those seeking a more traditional experience, Kyoto is an excellent choice. The city is known for its beautiful temples and gardens, and May is an excellent time to visit as the weather is mild and pleasant. Some of the top attractions in Kyoto include the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the Fushimi Inari Shrine, and the Arashiyama bamboo forest. If you would like to experience both, traditional and futuristic Japan, join our 6-Day Tradition Meets Future in Tokyo & Kyoto tour.

If you’re looking to escape the city and enjoy some natural beauty, Hokkaido is a great option. The island is known for its stunning scenery, with vast forests, sparkling lakes, and rugged mountains. May is an excellent time to visit Hokkaido as the weather is mild, and you can enjoy activities such as hiking, cycling, and camping. You can easily adjust to your needs and preferences our 10-Day Hokkaido Skiing and Culture tour.

Another great destination in May is Hiroshima. The city is home to the famous Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, which commemorates the victims of the atomic bombing in 1945. May is also the start of the city’s annual Hiroshima Flower Festival, which features parades, music, and a variety of street performances. You can include the Hiroshima Flower Festival in our 11-Day Highlights of Japan With Ryokan Stay tour.

For nature lovers, May is an excellent time to visit Japan’s national parks and enjoy the great outdoors. The weather is mild, and the scenery is breathtaking, making it the perfect time for hiking, camping, and exploring. Some of the best national parks to visit in May include Nikko National Park, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, and Daisetsuzan National Park.

It’s worth noting that May is a popular time for travel in Japan, especially during Golden Week, so it’s a good idea to talk to our Local Designers in Japan in advance. Additionally, many Japanese people take this time to travel within the country, so be prepared for crowds at popular tourist destinations.

Trips you may like

9-Day Authentic Samurai and Sake Experience

This 9-day trip is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will immerse you in rich history and culture, as you uncover two of the things that make Japan truly unique; Sake and Samurai. When it comes to Sake, you’ll learn about the various processes behind making sake and the unique properties that make each style of sake different – and just how many different ways there are as you explore local sake breweries throughout Niigata and Yamagata. Now, it is time for your first introduction to the history of the Samurai. You’ll start in Nagoya and head out to Inuyama, where your swordsmith training will begin. Beginning with an exploration of Inuyama Castle, one of Japan’s five national treasures, you will then spend the next two days learning the art of sword-making, its importance in Samurai and Japanese culture, its origins and the training behind it. Next, you will have the rare opportunity to meet with katana artisans in their own ateliers, where you will watch their crafts being practised firsthand and learn the history of their trade. You’ll visit a tsukamakishi (hilt-wrapper), a shiroganeshi (habaki-maker), a sayashi (scabbard-maker), and a togishi (sword polisher), and might even see their own personal antique collections on this tour! This bucket-list trip captures the heart and history of Japan; Samurai and Sake, but also allows you time to explore the spiritual side of Japan, following walking trails to temples, meeting extraordinary locals and embracing the culture of this unique destination. Accommodation listed or similar.

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6-Day Tradition Meets Future in Tokyo & Kyoto

Japan is a real feast for all of your senses, with sumo, geisha, sake, karaoke, onsen, and izakaya waiting to be discovered. Spend six days exploring the highlights of this enthralling country, centred around Japan’s two major cities, Tokyo and Kyoto. Begin your trip with a guided tour of incredible Tokyo, where you will explore Tokyo’s dazzling lights, the Tsukji Market, famous for its tuna auctions and the ultra-cool shopping district of Shibuya, complete with a never-ending array of lights and mega-street crossings.Boarding the Shinkansen bullet train, you will travel at up to 320km/h from Tokyo to Kyoto in complete comfort. Arriving in Kyoto, you will be guided through the wonders of this city, visiting the famous Gion ‘Geisha’ district, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Nishiki Market, otherwise known as Kyoto’s kitchen! The highlight of this trip is a traditional group tea ceremony with an authentic Geisha, where you will learn the importance of this sacred Japanese ritual.Transferring back to Tokyo for the final leg of your journey, you will have the opportunity for last minute sightseeing and shopping before your private airport transfer!Thousands of years of history are concentrated in this fascinating nation – come and explore Japan’s attractions for yourself.Accommodation listed or similar.

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10-Day Nature and Unique Culture of Japan

This 10-day journey highlights the hotspots, hidden gems, nature and unique culture of Japan! Taking you through parts of modern Tokyo, to the traditional and historical former capital Kyoto, stopping along the way in the food and nightlife capital of Japan, Osaka. From the serenity of grand gardens to conveyor belt sushi restaurants at the top of skyscrapers; from the observation decks sprinkled around the city to the humble little ramen shops tucked away on side streets, it’s understandable why Tokyo is the most popular starting point for travellers coming to Japan. Tokyo is where you will uncover the hot-spots and the hidden gems of the city.Next stop, historic Kyoto. From your first day in Kyoto, you may very well feel the elegant ambience of a city entrenched in history. Here you will be immersed in Japan’s culture with a local guide, exploring the beautiful scenery that is Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, taking part in a traditional tea-ceremony and wandering amongst free-roaming deer in nearby Nara . Known by many as the food capital of Japan, the city of Osaka, your next stop is bright, vivacious, and friendly, however it also has a historical side. Here, you will explore Osaka Castle, a monument that played an integral role in the unification of Japan, before strolling down Dotonbori, where you can see the popular Glico running man display and try out Osaka’s signature foods: Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki. This trip is the perfect trip for travellers looking for a combination of Japanese culture, nature and food.Accommodation listed or similar.

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14-Day Highlights of Japan: Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto & Osaka

Customise this Japan trip with a Local Designer in a few simple steps to embark on the perfect two-week trip that covers all the major Japan highlights!

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What to Do in Japan in May

Japan in May offers a wealth of unique experiences and attractions to explore. Here are some of the best places to visit and activities to try:

1. Attend a Golden Week Festival – Golden Week is a national holiday in Japan that takes place from late April to early May. During this time, many events and festivals take place across the country, ranging from traditional parades to modern music festivals. Some of the top Golden Week events to check out include the Yabusame Horseback Archery Festival in Kamakura, the Hakata Dontaku Festival in Fukuoka, and the Kanda Matsuri Festival in Tokyo.
2. Explore the Great Outdoors – May is a perfect time to enjoy Japan’s stunning natural landscapes. Head to the Japanese Alps and hike the scenic Kamikochi Trail, visit the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park to see the iconic Mount Fuji, or take a bike ride around Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake.
3. Visit a Traditional Japanese Garden – Japan is famous for its beautiful gardens, and May is the perfect time to enjoy them. Some of the top gardens to visit include the Kenroku-en Garden in Kanazawa, which is known for its cherry blossoms and elegant tea houses, and the Ritsurin Koen Garden in Takamatsu, which features ponds, bridges, and traditional Japanese architecture.
4. Sample Local Cuisine – Japan is a food lover’s paradise, and May is an excellent time to sample some of the country’s seasonal dishes. Try the fresh bamboo shoots, which are harvested in May and often used in soups and stews, or sample some of the delicious seafood, such as sea bream, squid, and sea urchin.
5. Enjoy a Cultural Experience – Japan is known for its rich cultural heritage, and there are many opportunities to immerse yourself in Japanese traditions. Try a tea ceremony, take a calligraphy class, or visit a local shrine or temple for a chance to see traditional Japanese architecture and learn about the country’s spiritual practices.

Festivals and Special Events

May is a wonderful time to visit Japan, as the country is filled with colourful festivals and special events. One of the most prominent events is Golden Week, a series of national holidays that take place from the end of April to the beginning of May. During Golden Week, many people travel to see family and friends, and the country is bustling with activity. 

Another notable festival in May is the Kanda Matsuri, a three-day festival held in Tokyo’s Kanda area. The festival features a colourful parade with beautifully decorated floats, traditional music and dance performances, and a procession of portable shrines. 

Another popular festival is the Aoi Matsuri, held in Kyoto, which is one of the oldest and most famous festivals in Japan. The festival features a procession of people dressed in traditional costumes, carrying portable shrines and offering prayers for good health and prosperity.

Other notable events include the Sanja Matsuri, a three-day festival held in Tokyo’s Asakusa area, and the Hakata Dontaku Festival, held in Fukuoka, which features a parade of local people dressed in colourful costumes. 

Weather in Japan in May

May marks the beginning of summer in Japan, with warm temperatures and longer daylight hours. The average temperature in Tokyo during May is around 22°C (72°F), while the northern areas of Japan, such as Hokkaido, may still be experiencing cooler temperatures.

It is also the start of the rainy season in Japan, known as Tsuyu, which typically lasts until the end of July. During this time, it is common to experience periods of heavy rainfall, so it is important to pack appropriate rain gear and footwear.

May is also a popular time for tourism in Japan, with many festivals and events taking place throughout the country. However, as it is the start of the high season, expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodation and travel. Overall, May is a great time to visit Japan to experience the beginning of summer and the vibrant festivals and events that take place during this time, but it’s important to be prepared for the rainy weather.

Things to Know Before You Go

If you’re planning to visit Japan in January, here are a few things you should know before you go:

• Currency: The currency in Japan is the yen. It’s important to have some cash on hand, as many small shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
• Visa: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Japan. Check with the Japanese embassy in your home country to see what the requirements are for your nationality.
• Weather: January is one of the coldest months in Japan, so be sure to pack warm clothing and accessories. If you plan to visit areas with heavy snowfall, such as Hokkaido, bring waterproof shoes or boots with good traction.
• Cultural habits: Japan has many unique cultural customs and habits, so it’s important to be respectful and mindful of local customs. For example, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple. It’s also important to be quiet and respectful in public spaces, such as trains and buses.
• Language: Japanese is the official language in Japan, although many people in tourist areas and major cities may speak some English. It’s a good idea to learn some basic Japanese phrases to help with communication and show respect to the local culture.

In conclusion, May is a wonderful time to visit Japan, with its mild and pleasant weather, beautiful natural landscapes, and vibrant festivals and events.

From the famous Golden Week holidays to the colourful parades of the Kanda Matsuri and Aoi Matsuri, visitors can experience the rich cultural traditions of Japan during this time of the year. The temperatures are comfortable for outdoor activities, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and hiking.

To find your dream holiday to Japan in May, scroll through our gallery of fully customisable Japan trips or connect with our Local Designers on the ground and let them help you craft your ultimate Japan stay!