Last updated: August 21, 2025
In May, Otaru, Japan experiences a captivating transition into spring, marked by a maximum temperature of 26°C (80°F) and an average of 11°C (51°F), while dipping to a minimum of 3°C (38°F). This month is characterized by moderate precipitation, totaling 90 mm (3.6 in) across 13 days, contributing to a lush and vibrant landscape. With an humidity level of 86%, the air is imbued with the rich scents of blooming flora, creating an enchanting atmosphere for locals and visitors alike to explore the beauty of this picturesque coastal town.
May in Otaru, Japan, unveils a delightful transition from the lingering chill of winter to the warmth of summer. As temperatures rise significantly, the minimums start at a comfortable 3°C (38°F), paving the way for average highs of 26°C (80°F). This month showcases a remarkable leap from the previous months, where April's max reached only 17°C (63°F). The gentle warmth of May encourages outdoor exploration, making it a favorite time for visitors to enjoy the blooming landscapes and vibrant local festivals. With an average of 11°C (51°F), Otaru fully embraces the beauty of spring, offering a refreshing escape that invites both locals and travelers to bask in its revitalizing ambiance.
In Otaru, Japan, May experiences a moderate precipitation total of 90 mm (3.6 in), featuring an average of 13 rainy days. This amount is slightly above the preceding month of April, which recorded lower rainfall but fewer rainy days at just 11. May's weather signals a transition into the summer months, as daily rainfall picks up, paving the way for the wetter conditions seen in June and later months. Notably, the rainfall pattern in Otaru suggests a gradual increase in precipitation from the drier winter months, highlighting the region's unique climatic shift as it blooms into late spring.
In May, Otaru experiences a notable increase in humidity, reaching 86%, a slight rise from the previous months. This uptick marks the beginning of a gradual ascent that continues into the warmer summer months. As we transition from the cool spring air of April to the balmy days of June and July, the humidity steadily climbs, peaking at a sweltering 93% in July. The trend of rising humidity not only signals the coming summer heat but also enriches the city's serene coastal atmosphere, characteristic of its charming surroundings. Following the summer peak, humidity begins to wane as autumn approaches, creating a striking annual rhythm that defines Otaru's diverse climate.
In May, Otaru, Japan, experiences a significant uptick in UV exposure, with a UV Index of 9 categorizing it as very high. This sharp rise from the previous months indicates a noteworthy trend as spring transitions into summer, drastically reducing the burn time to just 15 minutes. It's a reminder for residents and visitors alike to prioritize sun protection during this time, as the risk of skin damage escalates. This pattern continues into June and July, where the UV Index remains at 9, before peaking in August at a maximum of 10. Stay informed and prepared as you enjoy the sunny days ahead by checking the detailed predictions at Otaru UV Index.
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As spring brightens Otaru, Japan, May stands out with an impressive 310 hours of sunshine, marking the pinnacle of daylight before summer fully unfolds. This month showcases a remarkable increase from April's 288 hours, reflecting the steady transition into warmer days. The upward trend in sunshine hours is enchanting, with each month building anticipation; January starts the year modestly at 127 hours, but by March, the sunshine significantly ramps up to 242 hours. Following May, June remains vibrant with 295 hours, yet the peak of sunlight in May makes it a highlight of the season, inviting locals and travelers alike to bask in the city's charming landscapes illuminated by the sun.
In Otaru, Japan, May brings a moderate chance of sunny weather, with about 27% likelihood of clear skies. This figure, while slightly lower than the preceding month of April at 41%, is part of a noticeable trend where the likelihood of sunny days generally increases as spring transitions into summer. Following May, June offers a significant boost with a 48% chance of sunshine, marking the beginning of the region’s sunnier months. As we move from the still cool days of spring into the warmth of June, Otaru residents and visitors can anticipate a greater share of respite from cloudy skies, making outdoor activities more appealing.
As spring blooms into summer, May in Otaru, Japan, welcomes an inviting stretch of 14 hours of daylight, marking a notable increase from the 13 hours in April. This surge in daylight not only enhances outdoor activities but also fosters a vibrant atmosphere as locals and visitors alike embrace the warmth of the season. Following May, June peaks with 15 hours of daylight, before gradually tapering off through the summer months. This progressive lengthening of daylight from the depths of winter—with just 9 hours in January—illustrates the dynamic transition of Otaru’s annual rhythm, cultivating a sense of renewal and energy as the days grow longer and brighter.
In May, the winds in Otaru, Japan begin to taper off, with an average speed of 3.7 m/s (8 mph), marking the first significant drop as we transition from the brisk spring months. This noticeable decline follows the higher winds of earlier months, like January and February, which boast average speeds of around 5.3 m/s (12 mph). As spring gives way to early summer, the gentle breezes of May create a more serene atmosphere, fostering a sense of calm before the summer's arrival. Interestingly, the wind really stays tame through the summer months, with June seeing an even lower average of 2.9 m/s (6 mph). This trend reflects the shifting seasons, as the once invigorating gusts soften, wrapping Otaru in a quieter charm just in time for outdoor exploration and festivities.
Weather in Otaru varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Otaru, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
May and January present contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a pleasant average of 11°C (51°F), peaking at a warm 26°C (80°F). This month sees about 90 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 13 days, contributing to a high humidity of 86%. Conversely, January is characterized by much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -12°C (10°F) and a chilling average of -4°C (25°F), only reaching a maximum of 4°C (40°F). Although precipitation in January is slightly lower at 87 mm (3.4 in), it is spread over more days—20 in total—resulting in a humidity level of 84%. For more information on the conditions during this chilly month, check out Otaru weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, the differences are quite striking. May enjoys milder temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and an average of 11°C (51°F), ultimately reaching a maximum of 26°C (80°F), while February is characterized by colder conditions, registering a minimum of -13°C (8°F) and an average of -3°C (26°F). Precipitation is similar, with May receiving 90 mm (3.6 in) over 13 days and February slightly higher at 99 mm (3.9 in) across 22 days. Humidity levels are quite close as well, with May at 86% and February at 83%. For a more detailed look at February weather, you can visit Otaru weather in February.
In comparison to March, May experiences significantly milder weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 26°C (80°F), while March sees a much cooler minimum of -7°C (19°F) and a maximum of 12°C (54°F). The average temperature in May is also notably higher at 11°C (51°F) compared to March's chilly average of 1°C (34°F). Although May has slightly less precipitation at 90 mm (3.6 in) over 13 days, compared to March's 95 mm (3.7 in) over 16 days, it features a higher humidity level of 86% versus March's 81%. For more detailed information, you can check out Otaru weather in March.
In comparing the weather between April and May, we see a notable warming trend, with May showcasing higher temperatures overall. April experiences a minimum of -3°C (26°F) and averages around 5°C (40°F), while May's temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 26°C (80°F). Additionally, May tends to be wetter, receiving 90 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 13 days, compared to April's 76 mm (3.0 in) over 11 days. Humidity also rises in May to 86%, slightly above April's 81%. For more details on April weather in Otaru, you can check Otaru weather in April.
May and June exhibit distinct weather characteristics. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 26°C (80°F), with an average of 11°C (51°F). This month receives about 90 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 13 days, and the humidity stands at a high 86%. In contrast, June sees a slight increase in temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (44°F), an average of 14°C (58°F), and a maximum of 24°C (75°F). Precipitation rises to 112 mm (4.4 in) over 12 days, and humidity remains comparable at 87%. For a deeper look into the weather dynamics, you can check Otaru weather in June.
In May, temperatures fluctuate more dramatically, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum reaching 26°C (80°F). The month experiences relatively high humidity at 86% and receives about 90 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 13 days. In contrast, July offers warmer and more stabilized weather, with minimum temperatures around 9°C (49°F) and averaging 20°C (68°F), peaking at 28°C (82°F). Despite being hotter, July sees slightly higher precipitation at 101 mm (4.0 in) over 12 days and even higher humidity levels at 93%. For more details on what to expect, check out Otaru weather in July.
May and August present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 3°C (38°F) at night to a pleasant 26°C (80°F) during the day, with an average of 11°C (51°F). The month sees about 90 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 13 days and a relatively high humidity of 86%. In contrast, August is significantly warmer, with minimum temperatures around 14°C (58°F) and maximum highs reaching 29°C (85°F), averaging 21°C (70°F). However, it experiences even more rainfall, totaling 169 mm (6.7 in) over 14 days, and higher humidity at 95%. These differences highlight how the seasons shift, creating distinct weather experiences in Otaru. For more details, you can visit Otaru weather in August.
May and September present a notable contrast in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 3°C (38°F) at night to a pleasant 26°C (80°F) during the day, with an average of 11°C (51°F). However, this month experiences significant rainfall, totaling 90 mm (3.6 in) over approximately 13 days, at a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, September offers milder temperatures with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F), while still reaching a maximum of 26°C (80°F). It tends to be wetter, with precipitation at 117 mm (4.6 in) over 14 days, and slightly higher humidity at 88%. For more details on September weather, you can visit Otaru weather in September.
May and October present contrasting yet mild weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a cool minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a pleasant maximum of 26°C (80°F), with an average of 11°C (51°F). This month experiences around 90 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over approximately 13 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 86%. In contrast, October sees a slight increase in the minimum temperature at 4°C (39°F) and a cooler maximum of 22°C (71°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). However, it is significantly wetter in October, receiving about 152 mm (6.0 in) of rainfall over 17 days, while humidity stays relatively comfortable at 83%. For more detailed information, you can check Otaru weather in October.
May and November exhibit contrasting weather patterns that reflect the transition from spring to late autumn. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 26°C (80°F), with an average of 11°C (51°F), creating a pleasant atmosphere as the days grow warmer. Precipitation during this month totals 90 mm (3.6 in) over approximately 13 days, and the humidity is relatively high at 86%.
In November, temperatures drop significantly, with a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), reaching a maximum of 15°C (59°F). This chillier month sees a marked increase in precipitation, totaling 167 mm (6.6 in) over 22 days, and humidity levels decrease slightly to 79%. For more details about November conditions, you can explore Otaru weather in November.
May and December present stark contrasts in weather, reflecting the shift from spring to winter. In May, temperatures range from a mild 3°C (38°F) to a pleasant 26°C (80°F), with an average of 11°C (51°F). The month experiences about 90 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 13 days, coupled with high humidity at 86%. In contrast, December temperatures plunge, with a minimum of -10°C (15°F) and a maximum of 11°C (52°F), averaging around -2°C (29°F). This month sees an increased precipitation of 147 mm (5.8 in) spread over 27 days, and humidity levels drop slightly to 80%. For a closer look at December conditions, you can check out Otaru weather in December.
May in Otaru heralds a vibrant transition into warmer months, showcasing a distinct shift from the lingering chill of winter and the coolness of early spring. With temperatures rising and reaching a pleasant peak, this month offers a refreshing reprieve from the harsh cold, while still maintaining a comfortable breeze. However, the cloudy skies and frequent rain, with over a week of precipitation, remind us that spring weather can be unpredictable. The elevated humidity adds to the overall softness of the air, creating a lush backdrop as nature bursts into bloom. For those looking to understand Otaru's full seasonal charm, dive deeper into the comprehensive insights on the region's climate by visiting Otaru Climate.