Get ready for beautiful blooms, vibrant festivals, and sunshine! May in Tokyo is a wonderful time to visit, with pleasant weather, colorful flowers, and exciting events.
May Weather in Tokyo: A Month of Transitions
As we transition from spring to summer, May’s weather in Tokyo offers a mix of sunny days and occasional showers.
The second week of May, while starting with clouds and rain, promises to clear up toward the weekend, bringing delightful early summer sunshine.
The third week brings pleasantly warm, breezy days, with some showers around the weekend. The fourth week sees temperatures rising to the low to mid-20s Celsius (low to upper 70s Fahrenheit) with a blend of sunshine and clouds, leading to warmer days toward the end of the month.
The fifth week continues the heating trend, bringing summery weather over the weekend, but scattered showers on Thursday and Friday might hint at the rainy season to come. Temperatures remain comfortably in the mid to upper 20s (upper 70s) throughout the week.
What to See in Tokyo in May
May is a blooming wonderland in Tokyo, with a dazzling display of vibrant colors.
Roses: Visit the Toden Arakawa Sakura Tram Line, where colorful roses bloom along the tracks, particularly between Arakawa-shakomae Station and Arakawa Yuen Amusement Park, and between Ōtsuka Station and Mukōhara Station. Don’t miss the Ōtsuka Spring Rose Festival (around mid to end of May) or the Arakawa Rose Market in front of Machiya Station.
Hydrangeas: These beautiful flowers are practically everywhere in Tokyo, from planters to temples and gardens. Enjoy strolling around Ginza, Nezu, and Ningyocho areas, and visit Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and Hakusan Jinja Shrine for picturesque views. For even more hydrangea beauty, head to Hase Temple in Kamakura and Meigetsuin Temple in Kita-Kamakura, renowned for their stunning hydrangea displays from early June until mid-July.
Koinobori (carp streamers): These colorful windsocks, symbolizing courage and strength, adorn parks and buildings during Golden Week, a celebration leading up to Children’s Day. Under Tokyo Tower, 333 koinobori are flown from around April 3 until around May 7, creating a vibrant spectacle.
What to Do in Tokyo in May
May is a month filled with festivals and lively events.
Matsuri (Festivals): Experience the energy and thrill of traditional festivals, with music, drumming, and the procession of gilded portable shrines (mikoshi).
Motomishima Festival: Held on the second Saturday of May near Uguisudani Station, this local festival draws crowds with its taiko drumming and mikoshi processions.
Sanja Matsuri: This massive festival in Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s oldest neighborhoods, takes place during the first full week of May and attracts over a million visitors. Witness the parade of mikoshi through the neighborhoods and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
What to Pack for Tokyo in May
Second Week in May: While rainy season hasn’t arrived yet, showers are possible. Pack layers, with a short-sleeved shirt and a light jacket or long-sleeved shirt for cooler evenings. Don’t forget an umbrella, and consider buying a large poncho that will fit over your backpack.
Third Week in May: Jeans and t-shirts are the preferred attire. Pack sunglasses and sunscreen, and a light jacket or long-sleeved shirt for cooler evenings. A portable umbrella is essential as showers are expected.
Fifth Week in May: With summery weather arriving, jeans and t-shirts or comfortable dresses are appropriate. A light jacket or cardigan is still a good idea for cooler evenings. Don’t forget your umbrella!
Enjoy your trip to Tokyo in May! From blooming flowers to lively festivals, the city offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
