Kyoto

Find out what weather to expect in Kyoto! This section provides up-to-date weather reports and forecasts to help you plan your day.

The climate in Kyoto can be described as temperate with four distinct seasons, offering travelers completely different experiences depending on the time of year. The city experiences significant temperature fluctuations and changes in precipitation throughout the year, creating a unique atmosphere for every visit.

Winter in Kyoto (December–February) is usually cool, with average temperatures around 3–5°C and occasional light precipitation. Spring (March–May) brings a gradual and pleasant warming as the city blooms with new colors. Summer (June–August) is a period of hot and humid weather, where average temperatures can rise to 27°C, and it is also the time with the highest rainfall. Autumn (September–November) delights with comfortable temperatures, gradually cooling from warm to crisp, and picturesque landscapes of colorful foliage.

It is particularly worth noting that the summer months, especially June and July, stand out for having the highest precipitation and most rainy days, which is characteristic of this region of Japan. If you prefer drier weather, late autumn or early spring may be a more suitable time to visit, although every season in Kyoto has its own unique charm and offers special opportunities for exploration.

The temperature regime in Kyoto demonstrates significant seasonal fluctuations throughout the year. The coldest month is usually January, when the average temperature stays around 3.6°C and minimum nighttime temperatures can drop to 0.4°C, creating a true winter feel. In contrast, the peak of the heat occurs in August, with an average temperature of 27.1°C and maximum daytime values reaching 30.5°C, making it the sweltering month of the year. The annual range of average temperatures stretches from cool winter values to hot summer ones.

Summer in Kyoto, spanning from June to August, is characterized by warm and sometimes hot weather. Average maximum temperatures in July and August hold steady around 29–30.5°C, while the average temperature in these months is 25.9°C and 27.1°C respectively. Winter, from December to February, brings cool weather. Average temperatures during this period range from 3.6°C in January to 5.6°C in December, and nighttime lows can drop to 0.4°C–2.3°C, making the air crisp and bracing.

Throughout the year, Kyoto experiences moderate temperature fluctuations between daytime highs and nighttime lows. On average, this difference is about 6–9°C. For example, in April, the average maximum reaches 17.5°C, while the minimum is 8.8°C. In October, daytime temperatures can be around 20.4°C, dropping to 13.8°C at night. Such temperature swings are a characteristic feature of the city's climate, particularly noticeable during the transition seasons of spring and autumn.

Kyoto experiences pronounced seasonality in the distribution of precipitation throughout the year. The wettest period is summer, especially the months from June to August. Rainfall peaks in July, which is the rainiest month both in terms of total volume (averaging 9 mm) and the number of rainy days (around 20). June and August are also characterized by significant precipitation (7 mm each) and frequent rain, with 16–17 rainy days respectively, marking the summer season as the city's primary rainy period.

The lowest amount of precipitation in Kyoto usually falls in late autumn and early winter. November, December, and January are the driest months by total volume, with figures of only about 2 mm each. November also stands out for having the fewest days with precipitation—an average of 9 days. Winter precipitation is generally light. Given that minimum temperatures in January can drop to 0.4°C, some of this precipitation may fall as snow, especially during cold snaps, though the total amount remains small. Interestingly, in January, for example, despite only 2 mm of precipitation, there are 15 days with it, indicating frequent but very light winter moisture, possibly in the form of drizzle or light snow.

The frequency of precipitation in Kyoto varies significantly. While in the height of summer, in July, it rains about 20 days a month, in November that number drops to 9 days. However, even in months that are relatively dry by volume, such as January or March (15 rainy days with 2–4 mm of precipitation), rainfall can be quite frequent but not heavy. This means travelers should be prepared for changeable weather and carry an umbrella or raincoat, especially during the summer season and even in periods with less total precipitation, when frequent but light rain or drizzle is possible.

When planning a trip to Kyoto, it is important to take its distinct seasonal changes into account so that your wardrobe matches the weather. Regardless of the time of year, comfortable walking shoes are an absolute necessity, as you will be doing a lot of walking while exploring temples and gardens. The principle of layering your clothes will be your best friend, allowing you to easily adapt to temperature changes throughout the day and when moving from indoors to outdoors. A small folding umbrella or a light raincoat is also worth having on hand at all times, as precipitation, while not always heavy, can be quite frequent, especially from March to August.

In winter (December–February), Kyoto is quite chilly, with average temperatures around 3–5°C and the possibility of nighttime frosts. You will need a warm jacket, sweaters, a hat, gloves, and a scarf. Although the total amount of precipitation is low, it can fall as light rain or even snow, so waterproof outerwear will come in handy. In spring (March–May), the weather becomes warmer but is still changeable. A light jacket, jumpers, and comfortable trousers will be appropriate. In May, it is already quite warm, reaching +21°C, but evenings can still be cool.

Summer (June–August) in Kyoto is a period of hot and humid weather, with temperatures reaching +30°C and the highest amount of rainfall, especially in June and July. Choose light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics, shorts, and T-shirts. Be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. A reliable umbrella or raincoat will be indispensable this season. Autumn (September–November) brings a pleasant gradual cooling and drier weather. September can still be warm, but by November, you will need a light jacket or coat. Layering remains relevant to keep you comfortable during both the warm daylight hours and cool evenings.