Last updated: August 21, 2025
In May, China and Japan experience a transition into warmer days, with maximum temperatures reaching around 27°C (80°F) and an average of 23°C (74°F), while the minimums hover around 19°C (66°F). Alongside the warmth, both countries contend with significant precipitation, totaling 206 mm (8.1 in) over approximately 13 days, contributing to an overall humidity level of 84%. This combination creates a vibrant atmosphere, fostering lush landscapes and a rich tapestry of natural beauty, characteristic of early summer in these East Asian nations.
In May, temperatures in China and Japan begin to warm considerably, marking a transition into the more vibrant summer months. With minimums rising to 19°C (66°F) and average temperatures reaching 23°C (74°F), the month offers a delightful shift from the cooler spring climate. The maximum temperatures also peak at 27°C (80°F), creating perfect conditions for outdoor activities and blooming landscapes. This warming trend from April to May suggests a steady ascent towards the summer's heat, as both countries experience a notable increase in warmth that paves the way for the sun-soaked days of June. As nature bursts into life, May becomes a month characterized by pleasant weather, inviting all to enjoy the beauty of the season.
In May, precipitation in China and Japan surges significantly, reaching an impressive 206 mm (8.1 in), marking a noticeable increase compared to earlier months. This uptick is accompanied by rainfall over 13 days, maintaining a consistent pattern seen since January. Notably, May marks the transition from moderate to heavy rainfall, with June expected to further amplify the wetness, averaging a striking 403 mm (15.9 in) on about 20 rainy days. This trend paints a vivid picture of the region's climatic shift, where spring's gentle showers give way to the more intense downpours of early summer, highlighting the dynamic weather patterns that define this season.
As May approaches, humidity levels in China and Japan reach a peak of 84%, marking a noticeable rise from the previous months. This increase reflects a consistent trend throughout the spring, where humidity gradually escalates from 71% in January and February to 82% in April. The warming temperatures in May prepare the region for the even more humid summer months ahead, with June and July recording a high of 86%. As the year unfolds, the gradual fluctuation in humidity not only signifies the changing seasons but also sets the stage for the vibrant growth patterns in local flora and fauna, as well as influencing everyday life across both countries.
As spring transitions into summer, May brings with it an escalating UV Index in both China and Japan, reaching a significant 13, which falls into the extreme exposure category. This pattern reflects a steady rise from January's 7, highlighting the increasing intensity of UV radiation as the months progress. Those venturing outdoors in May should be mindful of the 10-minute burn time, underscoring the heightened risk of skin damage. This extreme UV trend persists into the following months, with June through September consistently maintaining the same level. As UV exposure peaks, it becomes essential to prioritize sun safety measures, especially for outdoor activities. For more details, check out the China UV Index.
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As May unfolds in China and Japan, the days grow notably brighter, illuminating a promising surge in sunshine hours that reaches 298 hours—a stunning contrast to the 149 hours experienced in January. This steady upward trend begins in the early months of the year, with February at 194 hours and March witnessing a leap to 262 hours. April maintains the momentum with 264 hours, but it's in May that the sunshine truly shines its brightest. Following this pinnacle, the summer months continue to bask in sunlight, peaking in July and August with 315 and 318 hours, respectively. This seasonal radiance not only enhances the natural beauty of these countries but also invigorates outdoor activities and tourism, making May a highlight of the year for enjoying the great outdoors in the heart of East Asia.
As spring unfolds in China and Japan, the likelihood of sunny weather shifts significantly. May presents a 25% chance of sunshine, which is notably lower than the preceding months of March (44%) and April (39%), marking a transitional dip before entering the gloomier summer. This trend indicates that while May offers a respite from the cold of winter, it doesn't quite match the sunshine potential of early spring. The sun starts to retreat in anticipation of the summer months, suggesting that, despite its vibrant blooms and outdoor allure, May may not be the best month for those seeking consistent sunny skies. As summer approaches, the chances of sun decline even further, with June plummeting to an unexpected 11% – a stark contrast to the sunnier days of earlier spring.
As winter fades into spring, both China and Japan experience a gradual increase in daylight, culminating in the vibrant month of May, where the sun graces the skies for 13 hours each day. This trend begins in January with just 10 hours of light, making way for a steady rise throughout the months. Notably, April marks a significant leap to 12 hours, offering a tantalizing glimpse of the longer days ahead. Following May, the daylight remains steady at 13 hours during the summer months, before starting to taper off in September and returning to the more subdued 10 hours by November. This cyclical pattern not only enhances the beauty of each season but also prompts various outdoor activities and cultural celebrations that thrive in the abundant daylight.
In May, the average wind speed in both China and Japan registers at 6.4 m/s (14 mph), showcasing a gentle breeze that contrasts with the more dynamic winds experienced earlier in the year. Following a peak in January and November at 8.1 m/s (18 mph), the trend reveals a gradual decrease through spring, with April's winds slightly revving up before slipping again in May. Interestingly, this month experiences lower wind speeds than both its predecessor and successor, June, which hovers around 6.2 m/s (14 mph). As the seasons transition, May serves as a tranquil pause, bridging the spirited gusts of early spring with the more lively breezes of summer.
Weather in China varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in China, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparing the weather between May and January, it's clear that May boasts warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 19°C (66°F) and an average of 23°C (74°F), while January features cooler temperatures, peaking at a maximum of 23°C (74°F) with an average of 18°C (64°F) and a minimum of 12°C (53°F). Additionally, May experiences significantly higher precipitation, totaling 206 mm (8.1 in) over 13 days, compared to January's 105 mm (4.1 in) over just 10 days. The humidity is also higher in May at 84%, compared to January's 71%, contributing to a more tropical feel in late spring. For more detailed insights about January weather, you can refer to China weather in January.
May's weather is characterized by warm temperatures, with an average of 23°C (74°F) and a maximum reaching up to 27°C (80°F). In contrast, February experiences cooler conditions, averaging 18°C (64°F) and peaking at 24°C (75°F). While both months see similar amounts of precipitation on about 13 days, May receives significantly more rainfall, totaling 206 mm (8.1 in) compared to February's 113 mm (4.5 in). Additionally, May has a higher humidity level at 84%, whereas February's humidity stands at a more moderate 71%. For a detailed overview of February's weather in China, you can refer to China weather in February.
In comparing the weather between May and March, it's evident that May experiences warmer temperatures, with daily averages reaching 23°C (74°F) compared to March's average of 19°C (67°F). The maximum temperature in May can climb to 27°C (80°F), while in March, it peaks at 24°C (75°F). However, May also brings more precipitation, totaling 206 mm (8.1 in) over 13 days, in contrast to March's 138 mm (5.5 in) during the same number of rainy days. Humidity levels are higher in May at 84%, compared to March's 76%. These differences highlight the transition from the cooler, milder climate of March to the warmer, more humid conditions in May. For those interested in understanding more about the weather in March, you can check China weather in March.
In comparing the weather between April and May, May typically experiences warmer temperatures, with minimums around 19°C (66°F) and maximums reaching 27°C (80°F), compared to April's lower range of 15°C (59°F) to a maximum of 25°C (78°F). Although May is warmer, it also sees significantly higher precipitation, with 206 mm (8.1 in) spread over 13 days, in contrast to April's 119 mm (4.7 in) over 12 days. Additionally, May's humidity is slightly higher at 84%, compared to April's 82%. For more details, you can check China weather in April.
May and June present a noticeable shift in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (66°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), with an average of 23°C (74°F). The month also sees significant rainfall, with 206 mm (8.1 in) over 13 days and humidity levels around 84%. By June, temperatures increase slightly, with a minimum of 22°C (71°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F), averaging 26°C (79°F). However, June is also characterized by increased precipitation, totaling 403 mm (15.9 in) spread over 20 days, and a slight rise in humidity to 86%. For more detailed insights, you can visit China weather in June.
In comparing the weather between May and July, it is evident that July is warmer, with average temperatures rising from 23°C (74°F) in May to 28°C (82°F) in July. The minimum temperature in July is also notably higher at 26°C (78°F), compared to May's minimum of 19°C (66°F). However, despite the increased warmth, July experiences slightly less precipitation, with 174 mm (6.8 in) of rainfall over 11 days compared to May's 206 mm (8.1 in) over 13 days. Humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, with July at 86% and May at 84%. For more detailed information, you can check China weather in July.
May and August present distinct weather characteristics, highlighting the transition from late spring to summer. In May, temperatures range from a mild 19°C (66°F) at night to a pleasant average of 23°C (74°F) during the day, with occasional peaks reaching 27°C (80°F). However, this month also sees significant rainfall, with about 206 mm (8.1 in) falling over approximately 13 days, and humidity levels running high at 84%.
By August, the weather shifts notably, with minimum temperatures climbing to a comfortable 25°C (78°F) and average highs reaching 28°C (83°F), peaking at a warm 30°C (87°F). Precipitation decreases to 152 mm (6.0 in) over about 14 days, and humidity slightly lowers to 82%. This makes August feel warmer and drier compared to the wetter, cooler days of May. For more information, visit China weather in August.
May and September exhibit distinct weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (66°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), with an average of 23°C (74°F). The month sees a considerable amount of rainfall, approximately 206 mm (8.1 in) spread over 13 rainy days, and high humidity at 84%. In contrast, September is warmer with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), averaging 28°C (82°F). Although September has slightly more precipitation at 210 mm (8.3 in) across 20 days, the humidity is marginally lower at 82%. For a more detailed look at the weather in September, visit China weather in September.
May and October both feature warm temperatures, but October tends to be slightly warmer on average. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (66°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), with an average of 23°C (74°F). October, on the other hand, enjoys a minimum of 21°C (70°F) and can reach up to 29°C (84°F), averaging 26°C (78°F). While May sees more precipitation at 206 mm (8.1 in) over 13 days, October experiences less rainfall, totaling 142 mm (5.6 in) over the same number of days. Humidity levels are quite similar, with May at 84% and October slightly lower at 80%. For more detailed information, you can check out China weather in October.
May and November share similar average temperatures, both hovering around 23°C (73°F), with maximums reaching 27°C (80°F). However, May tends to be wetter, recording 206 mm (8.1 in) of precipitation over 13 days, compared to November's 112 mm (4.4 in) over just 11 days. Additionally, the humidity is slightly higher in May at 84%, while November sees a more comfortable level at 79%. For those considering travel during these months, China weather in November can provide further insights into November's climate.
May weather typically showcases warmer temperatures with averages around 23°C (74°F), peaking at 27°C (80°F), compared to December's milder averages of 19°C (67°F) and a maximum of 25°C (77°F). While May experiences higher humidity at 84% and significantly more precipitation of 206 mm (8.1 in) over 13 days, December sees less rain at 135 mm (5.3 in) across 15 days, coupled with lower humidity at 75%. This pattern makes December feel cooler and slightly drier than the lush, warm conditions typical of May. For more detailed information on December's weather, you can visit China weather in December.
May in China heralds a delightful transition, showcasing a significant warmth that sets it apart from the cooler months. With temperatures gradually rising and humidity levels peaking, this month blooms with vibrant life, making it ideal for outdoor activities despite the frequent rains. The increased precipitation adds a refreshing touch, nurturing the lush landscapes that characterize this time of year. For those planning a visit, understanding these unique weather patterns is essential. Dive deeper into the details of China’s climate with our comprehensive guide at China Climate.