May Weather in Arashiyama, Japan

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In May, Arashiyama, Japan, welcomes the warmth of spring with maximum temperatures soaring up to 31°C (88°F), while the average temperature holds at a comfortable 18°C (66°F). Early mornings and evenings can be brisk, with minimum temperatures dipping to 4°C (39°F). This transitional month experiences a total precipitation amount of 154 mm (6.1 in) over 12 days, contributing to the lush, vibrant landscapes that define the region. With humidity levels averaging a high 83%, visitors can expect a moist atmosphere that enhances the beauty of Arashiyama's famous sights. Whether exploring the iconic bamboo groves or enjoying serene riverside views, May offers a unique blend of warmth and greenery in this picturesque locale.

May Temperature in Arashiyama

In May, Arashiyama begins to embrace the warmth of spring, with temperatures rising significantly from the chilly winter months. The minimum temperature hovers around 4°C (39°F), while the average climbs to a pleasant 18°C (66°F), and peaks can reach a balmy 31°C (88°F). This month marks a transition as the landscape bursts into vibrant greens, inviting locals and tourists alike to explore the iconic bamboo groves and lush parks. Compared to April's milder figures, May showcases a delightful warmth that not only enhances the region’s natural beauty but also sets the stage for the hotter months ahead, such as June and July. Visitors can enjoy comfortably warm days, making it an ideal time to experience the breathtaking charm of Arashiyama.

May Weather in Arashiyama: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Arashiyama, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Arashiyama, May typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec394048566572798274645343
Data source: Temperature data for Arashiyama generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in Arashiyama

In May, Arashiyama experiences a significant volume of rainfall, with precipitation reaching 154 mm (6.1 inches) over approximately 12 days. This measurement is notably high, just slightly below April's rains, indicating a robust continuation of the wet season that begins in March. Interestingly, the consistent pattern of precipitation begins to ramp up towards June, where the rainfall increases to 161 mm. Overall, May serves as a transitional month characterized by lush greenery and vibrant natural beauty, as the abundant rain nourishes the region before the heavier downpours of summer arrive. The richness of the landscape during this time is a testament to the steady rainfall that marks not just May, but the broader trends within Arashiyama's climate.

May Precipitation Trends in Arashiyama

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Arashiyama, with values for each month alongside May’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how May’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Arashiyama, May typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec56621251581551613242281722464766
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

May Humidity in Arashiyama

As spring gives way to early summer in Arashiyama, Japan, May brings a notable uptick in humidity, averaging 83%. This marks a shift from the milder conditions of April, which sits at 76%, signaling the onset of the warmer, more humid months ahead. The trend of increasing humidity is clear, as it continues to rise sharply into June, where it reaches 87%, and peaks at 93% in July. This seasonal pattern reflects the transition from the refreshing breezes of spring to the heavier, embracing air of summer, inviting visitors to experience the lush landscapes of Arashiyama in bloom.

May Average Humidity in Arashiyama

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Arashiyama, with May’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In May, average humidity in Arashiyama is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec82%79%74%76%83%87%93%91%87%85%83%83%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Arashiyama

In May, Arashiyama experiences a significant jump in the UV Index, soaring to an extreme level of 11, which calls for heightened sun safety awareness. This trend marks a continuation of increasingly intense UV exposure that began in late winter. With a burn time of just 10 minutes, it's critical to take precautions such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing. Following May, June through August maintains the same extreme UV Index, solidifying this period as one of the sun’s most aggressive phases in Arashiyama. As the temperatures rise, so does the need for vigilance against UV radiation—making it essential to stay informed about the Arashiyama UV Index to enjoy the stunning scenery safely.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Arashiyama for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Arashiyama in May, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In May, the maximum UV index in Arashiyama typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec468101111111110753
Data source: Arashiyama May UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

May Sunshine in Arashiyama

In May, Arashiyama, Japan, basks in a delightful 285 hours of sunshine, marking a peak in spring brightness and a vibrant transition into the summer months. This surge is part of a broader trend that sees sunlight steadily increasing from the chilly 176 hours in January to an uplifting 272 hours in April. Following May, there’s a slight decline with 265 hours in June, hinting at the seasonal shifts ahead. The sun-soaked days not only elevate the mood but also invite visitors to explore the lush landscapes and historical sites of Arashiyama, making it a picturesque time to appreciate the beauty of this enchanting region.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Arashiyama: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Arashiyama experiences direct sunlight during the month of May, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of May with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec176h211h255h272h285h265h254h295h236h231h229h209h
Data source: Arashiyama May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Arashiyama During May

May in Arashiyama, Japan tends to showcase a lower likelihood of sunny days, with only 26% chance of sunshine compared to the more promising months surrounding it. This marks a notable dip from April’s 42%, suggesting that spring gradually shifts toward the wetter conditions typical of early summer. The pattern continues with even sunnier prospects in the later months, such as October and November, which boast chances of 51% and 54%, respectively. As visitors plan their outings, it's wise to prepare for the fluctuating weather, especially during May when clouds might outweigh the sun.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Arashiyama

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Arashiyama throughout the year, with May highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Arashiyama experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec47%47%37%42%26%22%29%24%27%51%54%52%
Data source: Arashiyama May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Arashiyama in May

In Arashiyama, Japan, the daylight duration transitions beautifully throughout the year, reflecting the changing seasons. Starting in January and February, the days are relatively short, offering 10 hours of daylight. As spring approaches, there's a noticeable increase, with daylight extending to 11 hours in March and blossoming to 13 hours in both April and May. This trend continues through early summer, peaking at 14 hours in June and July, perfect for enjoying the lush landscapes and vibrant flora. As summer fades, the days gradually shorten, reverting back to 13 hours in August, then slipping to 12 hours in September. The cycle completes itself as autumn fades into winter, with daylight reducing again to 10 hours in November and dwindling to 9 hours by December. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight captures the enchanting essence of Arashiyama's natural beauty throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Arashiyama for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Arashiyama throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h 4m10h 54m11h 58m13h 4m13h 59m14h 27m14h 13m13h 25m12h 22m11h 16m10h 19m9h 49m
Data source: Arashiyama daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Arashiyama

In Arashiyama, Japan, the May winds offer a gentle embrace, with an average speed of 2.6 m/s (6 mph). This slight dip in wind speed from the slightly breezier months of January through April suggests a transitional calmness as spring gives way to summer. Following the dynamic gusts of early spring, May’s winds create a serene atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the lush greenery and blooming landscapes. As the summer months approach, the winds gradually diminish, reaching their lowest point in June at 1.9 m/s (4 mph). This trend not only reflects the seasonal shift but also sets the stage for the warmer, more tranquil days ahead in this picturesque region.

Average May Wind Speed in Arashiyama

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Arashiyama, with values for each month shown alongside May's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how May's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.83.13.02.92.6 m/s1.92.02.32.22.42.42.7
Data source: Arashiyama May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Arashiyama Compares to Other Months

Weather in Arashiyama varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Arashiyama, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

May and January offer strikingly different weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 4°C (39°F) to a warm maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 18°C (66°F). It's also a relatively wet month, receiving about 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain over 12 days and maintaining high humidity at 83%. In contrast, January experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (19°F) and a maximum of only 16°C (60°F), averaging just 4°C (39°F). Precipitation is lower at 56 mm (2.2 in) over 9 days, and humidity stays slightly lower at 82%. For more insights on January weather specifics, you can check Arashiyama weather in January.

May and February present contrasting weather patterns. In May, the temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an impressive average of 18°C (66°F). The month experiences significantly higher precipitation, totaling 154 mm (6.1 in) over about 12 days, while humidity levels remain high at 83%. In contrast, February is characterized by colder weather, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -8°C (18°F) to a milder 19°C (67°F) and an average of just 4°C (40°F). Precipitation is notably lower at 62 mm (2.5 in) spread over 9 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 79%. For a more detailed look at February weather, visit Arashiyama weather in February.

In comparing the weather between March and May, it is clear that May embraces warmer temperatures, with averages reaching 18°C (66°F) and highs of 31°C (88°F), compared to March's milder 9°C (48°F) average and maximum of 23°C (73°F). Additionally, May experiences higher humidity at 83%, while March maintains a lower level at 74%. Precipitation is also more pronounced in May, with 154 mm (6.1 in) over 12 days, slightly surpassing March's 125 mm (4.9 in) during the same number of days. For more detailed insights on March weather, you can visit Arashiyama weather in March.

In comparing the weather of April and May, May brings warmer temperatures with an average of 18°C (66°F) compared to April's cooler average of 13°C (56°F). The maximum temperature in May can reach up to 31°C (88°F), significantly higher than April's maximum of 26°C (80°F). Despite this increase in warmth, May experiences a similar level of precipitation to April, with 154 mm (6.1 in) over 12 days in May versus 157 mm (6.2 in) over 11 days in April. Additionally, May's humidity is higher, averaging 83% compared to April's 76%. For more detailed information on April weather, you can check Arashiyama weather in April.

The weather in May generally features a more moderate temperature range, with minimums dropping to around 4°C (39°F) and maximums peaking at 31°C (88°F), whereas in June, the monthly average temperature rises significantly, with minimums at 11°C (52°F) and maximums reaching 32°C (89°F). Both months experience considerable rainfall, with May seeing 154 mm (6.1 in) over 12 days, while June sees slightly higher precipitation at 161 mm (6.3 in) over 14 days. Additionally, humidity levels increase from May's 83% to June's 87%, making the air feel more muggy as the season progresses. For more detailed information about June weather, you can check Arashiyama weather in June.

May and July present quite different weather characteristics. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average temperature of 18°C (66°F). The month sees 154 mm (6.1 in) of precipitation, falling over 12 days, and a humidity level of 83%. In contrast, July boasts a much warmer climate, with temperatures starting at 19°C (66°F) and peaking at 37°C (98°F), averaging around 26°C (79°F). However, it also experiences a significant increase in rainfall, totaling 324 mm (12.7 in) over 22 days, along with higher humidity levels of 93%. For those interested in detailed weather patterns, you can find more information at Arashiyama weather in July.

May and August present striking contrasts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a cool minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a warm maximum of 31°C (88°F), averaging at 18°C (66°F). The month experiences considerable rainfall, totaling 154 mm (6.1 in) over 12 days, with humidity levels at a comfortable 83%. In contrast, August sees much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 17°C (63°F), an average of 28°C (82°F), and a peak of 37°C (98°F). This month also experiences increased rainfall, reaching 228 mm (9.0 in) over 14 days, coupled with higher humidity at 91%. For more details on August's weather, check out Arashiyama weather in August.

May and September exhibit distinct weather characteristics that highlight the transition from spring to autumn. In May, temperatures range from a cool 4°C (39°F) at night to a warm 31°C (88°F) during the day, with an average of 18°C (66°F). The month sees 154 mm (6.1 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days, and humidity levels are high at 83%. In contrast, September features milder nighttime temperatures starting at 12°C (54°F) and peaking at 34°C (94°F) during the day, with an average of 23°C (75°F). Precipitation is slightly higher at 172 mm (6.8 in), falling over 15 days, and humidity increases to 87%. For a closer look at weather conditions specific to September, you can visit Arashiyama weather in September.

May offers a wide range of temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), averaging at a pleasant 18°C (66°F). While there is notable precipitation during this month, totaling 154 mm (6.1 in) over 12 days, the humidity remains relatively high at 83%.

In contrast, October sees slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F) and a maximum of 32°C (89°F), also averaging around 18°C (64°F). However, October experiences more rainfall, collecting 246 mm (9.7 in) over 13 days, and slightly higher humidity at 85%. For more specific weather details during this time, check out Arashiyama weather in October.

May and November present contrasting weather experiences. In May, temperatures range from a cool 4°C (39°F) at night to a warm 31°C (88°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 18°C (66°F). This month sees relatively high precipitation, totaling 154 mm (6.1 in) over about 12 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 83%. In contrast, November features milder temperatures, with nighttime lows around -1°C (31°F) and daytime highs reaching 24°C (76°F), averaging 12°C (53°F). The month experiences much less rainfall, with just 47 mm (1.8 in) spread over 6 days, yet maintains the same humidity level of 83%. For more specific information about November weather, you can check Arashiyama weather in November.

May and December present striking contrasts in weather. In May, temperatures range from a mild 4°C (39°F) to a warm 31°C (88°F), with an average of 18°C (66°F). This month also sees significant rainfall, totaling 154 mm (6.1 in) over approximately 12 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 83%. In contrast, December brings a much colder climate, with temperatures dipping as low as -9°C (17°F) and peaking at 21°C (71°F), averaging around 6°C (43°F). Rainfall is notably lower, with just 66 mm (2.6 in) over 9 days, yet humidity remains consistent at 83%. To learn more about the December weather specifics, visit Arashiyama weather in December.

Compare Arashiyama's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Arashiyama

As May settles over Arashiyama, the transition to warmer weather becomes palpable, with delightful temperatures peaking around 31°C (88°F) while maintaining a comfortable average of 18°C (66°F). Unlike the cooler months that precede it, May is characterized by increased humidity levels, reaching about 83%, which can make the air feel quite muggy. Moreover, the month experiences a moderate amount of rainfall, with precipitation occurring on roughly 12 days. This blend of warmth and moisture sets the stage for the lush greenery that Arashiyama is famous for, making May a vibrant time to explore the area. To learn more about Arashiyama's distinctive climate throughout the year, visit Arashiyama Climate.