Best Time to Visit Kyoto
The best months to visit Kyoto are Apr, Oct, Nov. Here is the full monthly breakdown.
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Best Months: Apr, Oct, Nov
These months offer the best balance of comfortable temperatures and low rainfall for visiting Kyoto. Expect highs of 20°C to 23°C to 17°C with relatively dry conditions.
Warmest Month
August
34°C high
Coldest Month
January
-1°C low
Driest Month
December
6 rain days
Wettest Month
June
16 rain days
Monthly Weather
January
High: 9°C / Low: -1°C
8 rain days
February
High: 9°C / Low: 0°C
13 rain days
March
High: 14°C / Low: 3°C
13 rain days
April
High: 20°C / Low: 9°C
14 rain days
May
High: 23°C / Low: 13°C
15 rain days
June
High: 27°C / Low: 18°C
16 rain days
July
High: 33°C / Low: 24°C
15 rain days
August
High: 34°C / Low: 25°C
16 rain days
September
High: 31°C / Low: 22°C
16 rain days
October
High: 23°C / Low: 14°C
13 rain days
November
High: 17°C / Low: 7°C
7 rain days
December
High: 11°C / Low: 2°C
6 rain days
Tourist Seasons in Kyoto
Peak Season
April, October, November
- +Best weather conditions
- +Most activities and events
- -Higher prices and larger crowds
- -Book accommodation well in advance
Shoulder Season
March, May, September, December
- +Good weather, fewer tourists
- +Better value for accommodation
- +More authentic local experiences
- ~Some attractions may have reduced hours
Off Season
January, February, June, July, August
- +Lowest prices of the year
- +No crowds at attractions
- -Weather may be less favourable
- -Some seasonal businesses may close
Month-by-Month Breakdown
| Month | High | Low | Rain Days | Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
January | 9°C | -1°C | 8 | Off Season |
February | 9°C | 0°C | 13 | Off Season |
March | 14°C | 3°C | 13 | Shoulder Season |
April★ | 20°C | 9°C | 14 | Peak Season |
May | 23°C | 13°C | 15 | Shoulder Season |
June | 27°C | 18°C | 16 | Off Season |
July | 33°C | 24°C | 15 | Off Season |
August | 34°C | 25°C | 16 | Off Season |
September | 31°C | 22°C | 16 | Shoulder Season |
October★ | 23°C | 14°C | 13 | Peak Season |
November★ | 17°C | 7°C | 7 | Peak Season |
December | 11°C | 2°C | 6 | Shoulder Season |
Season Timeline
Frequently Asked Questions
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Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Kyoto
Make the most of your trip by booking popular tours and activities in advance.
Kyoto Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Kyoto on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
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Kyoto Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Kyoto with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Kyoto: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Kyoto's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Kyoto: Scenic Excursion
Escape Kyoto for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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Kyoto Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Kyoto's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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Top 3 Areas to Stay in Kyoto
Liveliest areas for nightlife, culture, and entertainment
Kawaramachi
Lively downtown area with vibrant shopping arcades, diverse restaurants, and nightlife.
Our top picks in Kawaramachi
Modern hotel with stylish rooms and a prime location in the heart of the shopping district.
Book NowComfortable and conveniently located hotel with good amenities and friendly staff.
Book NowUnique capsule hotel experience with smart technology and excellent communal spaces.
Book Now
Gion
Traditional geisha district with preserved wooden machiya houses and exclusive teahouses.
Our top picks in Gion
Modern luxury with excellent service and amenities, located near Higashiyama.
Book NowOffers a traditional ryokan experience with kaiseki dining and cultural performances.
Book NowLuxurious hotel with stunning city views and impeccable design, nestled in Higashiyama.
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Arashiyama
Serene district known for its iconic bamboo grove, temples, and scenic river views.
Our top picks in Arashiyama
Luxurious riverside hotel offering exquisite rooms, private onsen, and stunning views.
Book NowTraditional ryokan with beautiful garden views and excellent kaiseki meals.
Book NowReasonably priced hotel offering clean and comfortable rooms in a convenient location.
Book NowWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
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