Best Time to Visit Kyoto

Kyoto is one of the most important administrative regions in Japan. It is located in the Kansai region of Japan and borders Osaka, Nara, Hyogo, Mie and Shiga. What’s the weather like in Kyoto? When is the best time to visit Kyoto？The best time to visit Kyoto is March to April and September to November.

Where is Kyoto?(Kyoto map)

Kyoto is located in the Kansai region of Japan and borders Osaka, Nara, Hyogo, Mie and Shiga. Since the end of the 8th century, Kyoto has become the capital of the Heian period, witnessing the evolution of history over the millennium. Although the capital of Japan moved to Tokyo after the Meiji Period, Kyoto has always been regarded as the true place of Japanese culture.

In Kyoto, you can see ancient buildings with thousands of years of history. You can see the costumed geisha on the street of Gion. You can also experience the highest level of Japanese cuisine- Kaiseki cuisine. If you are fortunate enough to visit Kyoto on many festivals, be sure to join the crowds celebrating the streets and feel the charm of Kyoto.

Weather in Kyoto

The four seasons in Kyoto are distinct. The climate is warm in spring. It is hot and humid in summer. Sometimes, the temperature is as high as 39 degrees in summer. There is often continuous heavy rain in autumn and occasional snowing in winter.

When is the best time to visit Kyoto?

Kyoto has attractions to watch all year round, from late March to late May, late September to late November, which is the most suitable for travel to Kyoto. Spring and autumn is the best time to visit Kyoto. Spring is the best time to see cherry blossoms and autumn is the best time to see red maple leaves in Kyoto. You can’t miss it.

►Travel to Kyoto in spring(March to April)–Good time for cherry blossoms viewing

In spring of Kyoto, where the climate is mild and comfortable with less rain. It is the plum season in late February and mid of March, and the most popular cherry blossom season from the end of March to mid of April.

Where to visit: Fushimi Inari、Todaiji Temple

►Travel to Kyoto in summer(May to August)–Good time for experience festivals

The weather in summer of Kyoto is hot, because Kyoto is surrounded by mountains on three sides. June to July is a long period of rainy season. Rain gear is essential when traveling to Kyoto. In the middle and late July, there is Gion Matsuri in Kyoto. In the middle of August, there is Bon Festival in Kyoto.

Where to visit: Gion

►Travel to Kyoto in autumn(September to November)–Good time for red maple leaves viewing

The autumn in Kyoto is sunny and comfortable. In September, you can enjoy the chrysanthemums viewing. There is a famous festival called Jidai Matsuri (Festival of the Ages) in October. From mid-November to the beginning of December, it is the best time for red maple leaves viewing.

Where to visit: Arashiyama、Nara Deer Park

►Travel to Kyoto in winter(December to February)–Good time for shopping

The winter in Kyoto is relatively cold and humid. As we all know, there are many hot springs in Japan, and Kyoto is no exception. Go to hot springs is best thing to do in cold winter. If you are lucky to catch up with a snow, you can see a more beautiful Kyoto. The atmosphere of the New Year's Eve from the end of December to the beginning of January is also strong, and it also coincides with discounts at stores. Go shopping is a good choice for traveling to Kyoto in winter.

Where to visit: Kinkakuji、Hanaikada onsen

Tips for best time to visit Kyoto:

During the cherry blossom and red maple leaves viewing period and the golden week of May, Kyoto is often overcrowded, and the price of hotels are rising and it is hard to find a room.
 

Tips for clothing:

In the early spring and late autumn, it is recommended to wear a thin jacket. In winter, a warm coat or down jacket is essential. In summer, it is hot and rainy, it is better to bring umbrella.