Last updated: August 21, 2025
In Shimoda, Japan, May brings a delightful blend of warmth and moisture as temperatures steadily rise, with a maximum of 23°C (74°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F), while the minimum dips to 13°C (55°F). The month is characterized by high humidity levels around 81%, creating a lush atmosphere for outdoor enthusiasts. However, visitors should prepare for frequent rain, with 222 mm (8.7 inches) of precipitation spread over 11 days, adding a vibrant touch to the area's natural beauty and helping to nourish its stunning landscapes.
In May, Shimoda, Japan, basks in the warmth of transition, marking a significant shift from the cooler months. With minimum temperatures rising to 13°C (55°F) and daytimes averaging around 18°C (65°F), the city begins to awaken with vibrant life. The maximum temperatures reach a pleasant 23°C (74°F), inviting both locals and travelers to enjoy outdoor activities against a backdrop of blooming landscapes. This month heralds a delightful warmth compared to the preceding April, where temperatures were still notably cooler. As the season progresses toward summer, May’s idyllic climate creates the perfect setting for leisurely strolls along the coastline or exploring the lush countryside, embraced by the gentle ocean breeze.
In May, Shimoda experiences a significant uptick in precipitation, with 222 mm (8.7 in) of rain falling over 11 days, marking one of the wetter months of the year. Following the gradual increase in rainfall from the previous months of March and April, May sets the stage for the upcoming peak wet season. This surge reflects a transition into summer, as precipitation levels escalate from the previous months, culminating in a noticeable rise that leads into June's even higher totals. The combination of increased rainfall days and the substantial volume of rain further enriches the lush greenery of Shimoda, painting a vibrant tableau that is characteristic of spring's embrace before the summer heat takes over.
May marks a notable shift in humidity levels in Shimoda, Japan, where the average humidity rises to 81%, setting the stage for the sultry summer months ahead. This increase follows a gradual decline from the winter months, where humidity levels hovered around 76% in January and dropped to 70% in March. As spring transitions into summer, humidity sees a pronounced rise, peaking at 88% in June and soaring to 93% in July. Such trends highlight the region’s tendency toward a humid climate as the year progresses, with May serving as a clear indicator of the more oppressive conditions that lie ahead.
As May unfolds in Shimoda, Japan, the UV Index reaches an extreme level of 11, making it a crucial time for sun protection. This sharp rise from April's already high index of 10 highlights the intensifying sun as summer approaches; the effective burn time drops to a mere 10 minutes. Comparing this to the more moderate levels seen earlier in the year, such as 4 in January and February or 8 in March, the trend is clear: caution is key. As residents and visitors bask in the vibrant blooms of spring, awareness of UV exposure becomes vital. For more detailed insights into Shimoda’s UV levels throughout the year, visit Shimoda UV Index.
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May shines brightly in Shimoda, Japan, offering an impressive 292 hours of sunshine—a peak in the spring season that hints at the vibrant summer ahead. As daylight steadily increases from 190 hours in January to a remarkable 275 hours in April, May marks a delightful transition where the sun's embrace becomes even warmer. This upward trend continues into June, although it dips slightly to 268 hours, suggesting a comforting balance between sun and sea breezes. The increase in sunshine hours throughout spring not only brightens the days but also sets a lively stage for outdoor activities and festivals, making Shimoda a must-visit destination as summer approaches.
In May, Shimoda, Japan, experiences a notable shift in weather patterns, with a 27% chance of sunny days—a stark contrast to the brighter skies of earlier months. As spring transitions into summer, the likelihood of sunshine drops significantly from April's 50%, signaling the onset of the rainy season. This trend continues into June, where the probability further declines to 24%. Interestingly, while May may be less favorable for sun-seekers, the region historically witnesses an uptick in sunshine later in the year, particularly in November and December, which boast 60% and 72% chances of clear skies, respectively. Thus, while May may not be ideal for outdoor activities, brighter days are just around the corner!
As spring unfolds in Shimoda, Japan, the days gradually lengthen, with March ushering in an additional hour of daylight at 11 hours. This upward trend continues into April, where daylight expands to 13 hours, mirroring May’s duration. With June and July experiencing the peak at 14 hours each, the summer months bask in extended sunshine, creating perfect conditions for outdoor activities. As the season transitions into late summer and fall, daylight begins to dwindle, dropping to 12 hours in September and gradually decreasing to 10 hours by November. This pattern emphasizes the beauty of nature's rhythm, as Shimoda enjoys a vibrant interplay of light and darkness throughout the year.
In May, Shimoda experiences a gentle wind that mirrors the mild transition of spring into summer, with an average speed of 6.2 m/s (14 mph). This is consistent with the previous month, April, highlighting a period of relative stability in wind patterns as the region enjoys the blossoming outdoors. As the year progresses, wind speeds gradually diminish in June and July, suggesting a calming influence of the ocean and an increase in warmer weather. Notably, the winds pick up again in November, reaching an average of 6.9 m/s (15 mph), hinting at the seasonal shifts that define Shimoda's unique coastal climate. Overall, May serves as a gentle reminder of the transition into summer, encapsulating the serene breezes that enhance the beauty of this picturesque coastal town.
Weather in Shimoda varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Shimoda, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
May and January present contrasting weather experiences. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 13°C (55°F) to a pleasant maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average of 18°C (65°F). This month also sees significant rainfall, totaling 222 mm (8.7 in) over about 11 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 81%. In stark contrast, January's temperatures are much cooler, with lows of 1°C (34°F) and highs reaching only up to 17°C (63°F), averaging around 9°C (48°F). Additionally, January experiences less precipitation, totaling 78 mm (3.1 in) across about 7 days, along with a slightly lower humidity of 76%. For more details on January weather, check out Shimoda weather in January.
In comparing the weather between May and February, May clearly showcases milder temperatures with a minimum of 13°C (55°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F), reaching up to 23°C (74°F). In contrast, February experiences much cooler conditions, with a minimum of just 2°C (37°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F), peaking at 18°C (65°F). Precipitation levels also differ significantly; May receives 222 mm (8.7 in) over 11 days, resulting in a humid atmosphere at 81%, while February has only 90 mm (3.5 in) of rainfall over 8 days, accompanied by a lower humidity of 74%. For those interested in detailed February weather specifics, you can refer to Shimoda weather in February.
In comparing the weather of May to that of March, May generally presents warmer temperatures, with average highs reaching 23°C (74°F) compared to March's maximum of 18°C (65°F). The minimum temperature in May is also more pleasant, with lows around 13°C (55°F), while March starts at a cooler 5°C (41°F). However, May experiences more precipitation, totaling 222 mm (8.7 in) over 11 days, compared to March's 203 mm (8.0 in) over 14 days. The humidity in May is higher at 81%, compared to March's 70%, indicating a more humid atmosphere in late spring. For a detailed look at March's weather in Shimoda, you can visit Shimoda weather in March.
In comparison to April, May experiences warmer temperatures, with averages rising from 15°C (58°F) to 18°C (65°F), while the maximum temperatures reach up to 23°C (74°F) compared to April's 21°C (70°F). Additionally, May sees an increase in precipitation, with 222 mm (8.7 in) over 11 days, compared to April’s 175 mm (6.9 in) over 10 days. The humidity also rises in May, reaching 81%, up from April's 74%. For more specifics on April weather, you can check Shimoda weather in April.
May and June exhibit noticeable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 13°C (55°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average of 18°C (65°F). The month experiences 222 mm (8.7 in) of rainfall over 11 days and maintains a humidity level of 81%. In contrast, June sees a rise in temperatures, with minimums at 17°C (62°F) and maximums reaching 25°C (78°F), while the average temperature climbs to 21°C (70°F). Precipitation increases significantly to 300 mm (11.8 in) over 15 days, and humidity also rises to 88%. For more detailed information, you can check Shimoda weather in June.
May and July exhibit distinct contrasts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a mild 13°C (55°F) to a pleasant average of 18°C (65°F), with maximums reaching up to 23°C (74°F). The month also experiences significant rainfall, totaling 222 mm (8.7 in), spread over 11 days, and humidity levels are relatively high at 81%. In comparison, July sees a warmer climate with minimum temperatures starting at 20°C (68°F) and averaging 25°C (77°F), peaking at 30°C (87°F). This month brings even more precipitation, totaling 360 mm (14.2 in) across 18 days, and a higher humidity level of 93%. For more detailed insights, you can check Shimoda weather in July.
The weather in May is generally cooler and wetter compared to August. May sees temperatures ranging from a minimum of 13°C (55°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average temperature of 18°C (65°F). It also experiences significant rainfall, with 222 mm (8.7 in) over 11 days and a humidity level of 81%. In contrast, August is much warmer, featuring a minimum temperature of 22°C (71°F) and a maximum of 30°C (87°F), with an average of 26°C (80°F). Although the monthly precipitation is lower at 183 mm (7.2 in), it occurs over a greater number of days—15 in total—with higher humidity at 90%. For more insights into August conditions, visit Shimoda weather in August.
May typically offers cooler temperatures, with lows around 13°C (55°F) and highs reaching up to 23°C (74°F), while averaging around 18°C (65°F). However, it sees significant rainfall, averaging 222 mm (8.7 in) over about 11 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 81%. In contrast, September brings warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), averaging 24°C (76°F). The month also experiences higher rainfall, totaling 254 mm (10.0 in) over 19 days, alongside increased humidity at 86%. For more details on September weather, you can visit Shimoda weather in September.
May and October present contrasting but pleasant weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 13°C (55°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average of 18°C (65°F). However, it is a relatively wet month, receiving 222 mm (8.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days and maintaining a humidity level of 81%. In contrast, October warms slightly, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 14°C (57°F) and reaching a maximum of 26°C (79°F), averaging 20°C (69°F). This month experiences even more rainfall, totaling 305 mm (12.0 in) across 16 days, and the humidity rises slightly to 83%. For more insight into the October climate, you can visit Shimoda weather in October.
May and November showcase distinct weather patterns, reflecting the transition from spring to late autumn. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 13°C (55°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average of 18°C (65°F). This month also experiences a significant amount of precipitation, totaling 222 mm (8.7 in) over 11 days, accompanied by high humidity at 81%. In contrast, November brings cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 22°C (72°F), averaging 16°C (61°F). Precipitation is lower during this month, at 144 mm (5.7 in) over 12 days, while humidity remains quite similar at 80%. For more detailed information about November weather, you can visit Shimoda weather in November.
May and December exhibit striking differences in weather conditions. In May, temperatures are mild, with a minimum of 13°C (55°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F), reaching up to 23°C (74°F) at their peak. The month is characterized by significant rainfall, totaling 222 mm (8.7 in) over 11 days, along with high humidity levels of 81%. In contrast, December is much cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to an average of 11°C (53°F), and a maximum of 21°C (69°F). Precipitation is lower at 88 mm (3.5 in) across 10 days, and humidity is slightly reduced at 78%. For more detailed information about December weather, you can check Shimoda weather in December.
May in Shimoda marks a delightful transition as temperatures rise steadily, offering a pleasant average that is notably warmer compared to the cooler months preceding it. While you might encounter rainy days — with over 200 mm of precipitation — the refreshing humidity creates an invigorating atmosphere that evokes the beauty of spring. The warmth invites outdoor activities, making it an ideal time for exploring Shimoda's stunning coastal scenery. To learn more about the weather patterns that shape this coastal gem, visit Shimoda Climate.