May in Japan is a time that blends traditional culture with the beauty of nature and is a month full of vibrancy, color, and festive events. As spring draws to a close, the weather in most parts of Japan in May is pleasantly unseasonably warm, making it an ideal time to embark on a trip to this magic country. The Golden Week of May holiday in Japan allows the locals to travel around and enjoy family reunions and leisure time. Learn about Things to Do in Japan in May 2025, so as to enjoy a memorable trip during May in Japan.
Table of Contents
1. Best Things to Do in Japan in May 2025
2. Cherry Blossom in May in Japan 2025
3. Best Places to Visit in Japan in May 2025
4. Japan Weather in May 2025
5. What to Wear in Japan in May 2025
1. What to Do in Japan in May 2025
What is Japan like in May? What season is it in Japan in May? Japan May is a month of transition to early summer, with the weather gradually warming up to enjoy the end of spring and the flavor of early summer. During this time, a variety of traditional events and festivals are held throughout Japan, and it's also a great time to enjoy flower viewing. Let's see what are the top things to do in Japan in May 2025?
Cherry Blossom Viewing: Catch the Time to Enjoy the Late Cherry Blossoms during May in Japan
Are there still cherry blossoms in Japan in May? Of course yes! Hokkaido Sakura is what to see in Japan in May as May is the cherry blossom season in Hokkaido. You can enjoy picnics under the blooming Sakura trees at parks like Moerenuma Park in Sapporo, Goryokaku Park in Hakodate, Otaru Park in Otaru, or enjoy Japan's latest cherry blossom at Seiryuji Temple in Nemuro.
Kanda Matsuri: Witness the Fusion of Modernity and Ancient Customs in Japan's Capital City in May
If you are looking for more things to do in Tokyo Japan in May, I will also recommend you experience the Kanda Matsuri, which is one of the important Japan events in May 2025. Held near Akihabara Station in central Tokyo during mid-May, Kanda Matsuri is known as the Kanda Myojin Festival. It lasts for several days and culminates in a grand procession featuring elaborately decorated floats, musicians playing traditional instruments, and hundreds of participants dressed in historical costumes. Make sure not to miss this remarkable experience if you visit Tokyo Japan in May during the Kanda Festival 2025!
Sanja Festival: One of the Top Things to Do in Tokyo in May 2025
Sanja Festival is a major annual May festival in Japan held at Sensoji Temple in Tokyo's Asakusa district usually from May 14th to 16th. This lively festival features parades, dancing performances, street vendors selling traditional foods and drinks, and plenty of noise and excitement. If you happen to be in Tokyo in May during these dates, don't miss this exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese tradition and culture!
Aoi Matsuri (Hollyhock Procession): One of the Important Events in Japan in May 2025 not to Be Missed
Also hope to know about Kyoto things to do in May Japan 2025? You can participate in the Aoi Matsuri. Also known as the Heian Shrine Festival, it takes place annually in Kyoto on May 15th. It commemorates Emperor Kameyama's visit to Kyoto's Higashiyama District over eight hundred years ago. During the festival, people dress up in traditional Heian-era costumes and participate in a sacred procession passing by famous landmarks like the Heian Shrine, Imperial Palace, and Kodaiji Temple. When you visit Japan in May 2025, you can expect beautiful scenes of Aoi Matsuri with traditional music, dance, and horsemen in full regalia. Don't hesitate to join this enchanting celebration and get lost in the history and charm of old Kyoto in May!
Admire Stunning Blue Hydrangeas: One of the Best Things to See When Visiting Japan in Late May
The Hydrangeas in Japan usually bloom in June and July, but in late May, you can still enjoy the blue hydrangeas blooming in Kyushu, Shikoku, Kansai, and Kanto. When visiting Japan in May 2025, you will find clusters of these stunning flowers in parks, botanical gardens, temples, and shrines, adding splashes of color against green backgrounds. If you're interested in capturing their beauty on camera or simply admiring nature's artwork, just leave us a message, and we will plan accordingly and arrange the best places to visit Japan in May for azure hydrangeas!
Visit Hokkaido Flower Fields: One of the Top Japan Things to Do in May for Nature Tours
While cherry blossoms are undoubtedly iconic, they aren't the only natural marvel worth exploring in Japan. From May to July, fields of poppies, tulips, lavender, sunflowers, and rapeseed burst forth in colors across Hokkaido's countryside, creating breathtaking vistas reminiscent of postcards. Panoramic Flower Gardens Shikisai-no-oka is the best place in Japan to visit in May 2025 if you hope to experience the picturesque landscape in this colorful month.
Shibazakura Festival: One of the Most Important Festivals in Japan May 2025 to Enjoy Springtime
I personally think that the best things to do in Japan May 2025 must include experiencing the Shibazakura Festival 2025. Taking place around mid-April to the end of May each year, it is centered around pink moss phlox (also called Shibazakura in Japanese) which blankets hillsides in vibrant hues of magenta and white. During early to mid-May, don't forget to enjoy the Fuji Shibazakura Festival or the Chichibu Shibazakura Festival, which will be the most photogenic and delightful experience during your trip in May in Japan 2025.
Mount Fuji Climbing Season Begins: Enjoy the Outdoor Adventures in Japan during May 2025
May is an ideal time to climb Mount Fuji as the weather in Japan May tends to be milder and drier compared to summer months when heavy rain and fog are common. Do remember to check the forecast before setting off! If you love hiking or simply wish to take scenic views of snowcapped Mount Fuji, then head towards Fujisan Honguchi Ropeway station which is situated at the foot of Mount Fuji.
Shopping Sales & Discounts: Bargain Hunting Is also What to Do in May in Japan
Is it good to visit Japan in May? Of course yes if you enjoy shopping and hope to buy something in Japan. End-of-season sales usually happen from mid-April until June, when you can enjoy discounted goods and souvenirs in department stores and shopping districts across Japan. And popular places to visit in Japan in May 2025 for bargain hunting include Shibuya in Tokyo and Kawaramachi Street in Osaka.
Golden Week Holidays: Experience the most Significant May Holidays in Japan
This national holiday in Japan comprises four consecutive holidays - Showa Day (April 29), Constitution Memorial Day (May 3), Greenery Day (May 4) & Children's Day (May 5). Many Japanese people take advantage of the long weekend by traveling domestically, so you might see larger crowds than usual, therefore, we normally don't recommend visiting Japan during Golden Week Holidays. However, if you make a private trip from us, it's also worth going to Japan around this time, as our private car and private guide will ensure you a worry-free and enjoyable journey. And the Hakata Dontaku Festival 2025 held from 3rd May - 4th May 2025 in Fukuoka is worthwhile for you to enjoy the most popular Golden Week festival in Japan May 2025!
These are just some suggestions for Japan things to do in May to indulge in. And take quick visits to our best Japan tours below, tell us what you hope to experience during your trip to Japan in May 2025, and we will craft the perfect itinerary for you based on your interests!
10 Days Tokyo - Mt.Fuji - Hakone - Osaka - Kyoto - Nara - Takayama - Kanazawa Tour
10 days | From $ 5799
15 Days Tokyo - Hakone - Takayama - Kanazawa - Kyoto - Sapporo - Asahikawa Tour
15 days | From $ 8562
9 Days Tokyo - Hakone - Mt.Fuji - Kyoto - Nara Tour
9 days | From $ 4421
12 Days Tokyo - Hakone - Mt.Fuji - Sapporo - Furano - Asahikawa - Biei - Toya Tour
12 days | From $ 4788
●You May Also Like to Read More Things to Do in Japan 2025 Before Making a Plan to Visit This Country:
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>>>Top Things to Do in Japan in April
>>>Top Things to Do in Japan in October
>>>Top Things to Do in Japan in November
>>>Top Things to Do in Japan in December
2. Cherry Blossom Japan in May 2025
Is May cherry blossom season in Japan? Can you see cherry blossoms in May in Japan? When planning to visit Japan in May, you may wonder about these questions. In fact, during May in Japan, there are still opportunities to see cherry blossoms, mainly in the Hokkaido region, which is also the best place to visit Japan in May. Because of higher latitude and cooler temperatures, the Hokkaido Sakura is the last to bloom in Japan, usually in early to mid-May according to the cherry blossom forecast. Here are our suggestions on where to see cherry blossoms in Japan in May 2025.
Goryokaku Park, Hakodate
Best time to enjoy cherry blossom Japan 2025 at Goryokaku Park: Late April to Early May
In my opinion, the best places for Japan in May cherry blossom viewing must include the Goryokaku Park. Goryokaku Park is in the shape of a five-pointed star, and the star-shaped land is densely planted with more than 1,600 cherry trees, mainly Yoshino cherry trees, making it a paradise to walk along the pathway during the cherry blossom season Hokkaido 2025. In the daytime, you can enjoy walking along the star-shaped waterway under the cherry blossom trees that are lined up along the river. In addition, there is a Goryokaku Tower in Goryokaku Park, which is an excellent observatory where you can look down at the pink and green colors of Japan during May 2025.
Address: 44-2 Goryokakucho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0001, Japan
Hours: Closes 7 PM
Phone: +81 138-31-5505
Matsumae Park
Best time to appreciate the Matsumae Park cherry blossom in May Japan 2025: Late April to Mid-May
Matsumae Park is the best place to go in Japan in May to view the Hokkaido cherry blossom 2025. It is even selected as one of the "100 Famous Places for Cherry Blossoms in Japan", and is known as the home of cherry blossoms, and it is the earliest place in the whole of Hokkaido to see cherry blossoms in full bloom. There are more than 10,000 cherry blossom trees of 250 kinds planted in the park, and the blossoms are pink as far as the eye can see, which makes the park unique against the old buildings during the cherry blossom season in Hokkaido 2025. Matsumae Park is open 24 hours a day, and the illumination here is what things to see in Japan in May, enjoying the stunning nighttime cherry blossoms. In one corner of the park, there is a Cherry Blossom Museum where paintings and artifacts related to cherry blossoms are exhibited.
Address: Matsushiro, Matsumae, Matsumae District, Hokkaido 049-1511, Japan
Hours: Open 24 hours
Phone: +81 139-42-2275
Odori Park
Best time to admire Odori Park cherry blossom in Japan in May 2025: Early May
Sapporo is also one of the best cities to visit in Japan in May 2025. Odori Park is the central park of Sapporo City, with more than 4,000 cherry trees. During the Sapporo cherry blossom festival 2025, the Odori Park Sakura is in full bloom, which is very spectacular. Odori Park in spring is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Bring your camera to capture the beautiful combination of cherry blossoms and buildings in the background. Here I would like to remind you that morning or evening is the best time to take pictures of Odori Park Sakura in May Japan because of the soft light.
Address: Japan, 〒060-0042 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Chuo Ward, Odorinishi, １〜１２丁目
Hours: Open 24 hours
Phone: +81 11-251-0438
Hakodate Park
Best time to see Hakodate Park Sakura in May Japan 2025: Early May
Hakodate Park, located at the foot of Mt. Hakodate, is the first park established in Hokkaido and has a very long history. There are abundant facilities in the park, such as water spraying plaza, children's playground, etc. In addition to the local residents of Hakodate, it attracts tourists from all over the country. About 420 cherry trees are planted in the park, and when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom in early May in Japan 2025, a large number of people will head to Hakodate Park to enjoy the blossoms. And don't forget to try various Japanese snacks that are sold in the evening in the park during this period, which is also a wonderful way to experience the Hokkaido Sakura Season like locals when visiting Japan in May 2025.
Address: １７番地 Aoyagicho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0044, Japan
Hours: Open 24 hours
Phone: +81 138-22-6789
Nijukken Road Cherry Blossoms
Best time to see Nijukken Road Cherry Blossoms during May in Hokkaido 2025: Early to Mid-May
Nijukken Road Cherry Blossoms is a 7-kilometer-long road lined with about 10,000 cherry blossoms of different kinds. The road is about 36 meters wide. This scale of viewing 10,000 cherry blossoms at a glance is unique in Japan, making it one of the places to see in Japan in May 2025. Nijukken Road Cherry Blossoms bloom in early May, and when they are in full bloom, you will feel it hard to describe the feeling of lightness and pleasure when the cherry blossoms flutter in the wind, and the small petals are gently falling down on your body.
Address: Shizunaitahara, Shinhidaka, Hidaka District, Hokkaido 056-0144, Japan
Hours: Open 24 hours
Phone: +81 146-42-1000
In addition to the best places to see in Japan in May above, you can also enjoy picturesque cherry blossoms in Hokkaido's large and small lanes, such as Sakuragaoka Dori. If you miss the cherry blossom Japan 2025 in early spring, it is a good idea to go to Hokkaido in May to admire the cherry blossoms in late spring, avoiding the crowds and enjoying a relaxing time. Anyhow, it is important to pay attention to the May weather in Japan 2025 to maximize your chance of viewing the stunning cherry blossoms in May Japan. To save time, you can also contact us for a private guided trip to enjoy Japan in May 2025!
3. Best Places to Go in Japan in May 2025
There are so many best places to visit in Japan during May 2025, not just for viewing the Hokkaido Sakura, as what to see in Japan in May also includes the Shibazakura! This is also one of the best things to do in May in Japan, especially for photographers!
Have you ever seen a mountain full of pink Shibazakura? The short blooming period of only seven days and the crowds of people flocking to the city may make you only imagine the romance of Japanese cherry blossoms in your mind. In fact, even if you miss the Sakura season, in early summer, the gorgeous and dreamy Shibazakura flower fields in Japan are also worth your visit. This delicate and small herbaceous plant itself has nothing to do with cherry blossoms, but because its flower shape is similar to cherry blossoms and its flowering period is similar, it is known as the "cherry blossoms growing on the ground". It is called "Shibazakura" in Japanese. During the Shibazakura Festival 2025, the ground-covering Shibazakura blooms at the same time. Some are pink, some are snow-white, and some are light purple, making the earth colorful and eye-catching, so beautiful that you will feel it unbelievable. Let’s see where to visit Japan in May to enjoy the Shibazakura Festival Japan 2025.
Fuji Shibazakura Festival 2025
Best time to enjoy Mt Fuji Shibazakura Festival in Japan 2025: Early to Mid-May
Where are the best places to visit in Japan in May 2025? My answer is definitely Mt. Fuji! It seems that any beautiful scenery in the same frame with Mt. Fuji has its own Japanese style, and Shibazakura is no exception. Viewing the Fuji Shibazakura is also one of the must-do things to do in Japan in May. From mid-April to late May 2025, there will be the Fuji Shibazakura flower festival by Lake Motosu, when as many as eight different types of more than 800,000 Shibazakura are in full bloom behind the snow-covered Mount Fuji and dotted with soft clouds in the blue sky. At a glance, it looks like an unlimited colorful carpet stretching directly to the foot of the snow-covered Mt. Fuji. It is superbly beautiful, and there is no need for too many words to describe it, as the scenery in front of you is the best illustration. What you see in the photo is only one-thousandth of the beauty that can be captured by the naked eye during the Fuji Shibazakura Festival. In addition to admiring the Shibazakura, the Mt Fuji Shibazakura Flower Festival also hosts a food carnival that will leave you wanting more: local specialties such as Yoshida udon noodles, Fujinomiya yakisoba, Koshu Fuji Sakura pork, and Shibazakura ramen, etc. Numerous famous local stores will set up stalls here, and you're sure to have a good time during your Fuji Shibazakura festival tour. And don’t forget to take along limited edition souvenirs that can only be bought at the Fuji Shibazakura Festival.
●Fuji Shibazakura Festival 2025
Even period: April 13th (Sat) – May 26th (Sun), 2024 (Mt Fuji Shibazakura Festival 2024 for Reference)
Business hours: 08:00-16:00
Fuji Shibazakura Festival Location: Fuji Motosuko Resort
Fuji Shibazakura Festival Observation Deck Address: Motosu, Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0337, Japan
Fuji Shibazakura Festival Tickets: 1,000-1,300 yen for adults (junior high school students and above); 500-700 yen for children over 3 years old (prices vary depending on the season)
Transportation for Mt Fuji Shibazakura Tour:
-Take a direct bus from Shinjuku Station to the venue
-Transfer to the Fujikyuko Line from Otsuki Station on the JR Chuo Main Line, get off at Kawaguchiko Station, and then take a bus to the venue
-Take a bus from JR Shin-Fuji Station to the venue
Shibazakura Takinoue Park
Best time to visit Shibazakura Flowers Takinoue Park Japan 2025: Early May to Early June
Takigami Shibazakura Park, also located in Hokkaido, is the largest Shibazakura park in Japan. This 100,000 square meter flower field was first established in 1956 from a small box of Shibazakura seeds. Since then, the people here have been planting more and more Shibazakura every year until the beautiful park of Shibazakura flowers has been created today. During the Shibazakura season in the Takinoue Shibazakura Park, you will be immersed in the sweet scent of the flowers that waft through the park and draw you into a dreamlike world. The locals also organize many events to celebrate the Shibazakura Takinoue Season, not only with cute snacks and souvenirs limited to the season but also with a variety of performances, making your Shibazakura Hokkaido trip more memorable during Japan May 2025.
Address: Japan, 〒099-5604 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Takinoue, 元町2358-1
Hours: Opens 8 AM
Phone: +81 158-29-2730
Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park
Best time to visit Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park in Hokkaido Japan 2025: Late May - Early June
Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park is a famous place for viewing Hokkaido Shibazakura. Every year in May and June, the park is filled with stunning Shibazakura that covers an area of 80 hectares. The entire hillside is like a canvas of the earth, and in the middle of it, there are patterns of Shibazakura in different colors, which are reflected in the blue sky behind it and the green mountains in the distance, and the breeze is mixed with the fragrance of the flowers, which makes the whole thing beautiful in the park. In addition to viewing Shibazakura Japan, you can still experience many interesting recreational facilities there. For example, you can enjoy the picturesque view from the foot of the mountain all the way to the top of the mountain on an excursion bus. The unique campgrounds in the park also include huts that are shaped like glass balls. When you stay in one, you will be surrounded by a "carpet" of pink Shibazakura, and when you wake up from a sea of flowers, it is even more astonishing to be in the middle of it. Don’t miss this beautiful place when you visit Japan in May 2025.
Address: 393 Higashimokotosuehiro, 大空町 Ozora, Abashiri District, Hokkaido 099-3232, Japan
Hours: Opens 8 AM
Phone: +81 152-66-3111
In the minds of Japanese people, both Shibazakura and cherry blossoms are both signs of spring and summer. Every year from April to June, after the cherry blossoms have faded, Japan welcomes the Shibazakura season. During this time, you can experience a variety of flower viewing and food festivals. A pilgrimage to such a dreamy and romantic place is a must, and you're sure to get something unexpected out of it! Contact us to plan a private guided trip to enjoy the Shibazakura Flower Festival at the best places in Japan in May 2025!
4. May Weather in Japan 2025
What's the weather like in Japan in May? Just as what we have mentioned at the beginning of the article, May in Japan generally experiences a transition from the cool and wet spring to the hot and humid summer. The weather varies by region, with the average temperature in Japan during May at approximately 17.9 °C (64.2 °F). Check out more details about regional weather in Japan in May 2025 in the following:
May Weather in Tokyo Japan (Kanto)
In May, you may experience sudden changes in May weather in Japan Tokyo due to its location between two oceanic currents - the warm Oyaizu Current and the cold Tsushima Warm Current. This creates unpredictable rain showers, sometimes lasting only a few minutes but heavy enough to cause flooding. On clear days in Tokyo in May, however, there might be beautiful blue skies with fresh greenery after the rains. The average high temperature of Tokyo Japan in May is approximately 22°C (71.6°F), while the low temperature averages around 16°C (60.8°F).
May Weather in Osaka Japan (Kansai)
May weather in Japan Osaka tends to be mildly warm and comfortable with less precipitation compared to other months. The average temperature during May ranges between 17℃ (63℉) to 25℃ (77℉), which is perfect for outdoor activities as well as exploring indoor attractions without having to worry about heavy downpours ruining your plans. Although there might still be some occasional showers, the probability of rain in May decreases significantly than other wetter months. Overall, the combination of warmer days, lower rainfall levels, and extended daylight hours make May one of the most enjoyable times to explore Osaka.
May Weather in Hokkaido Japan (North)
Spring comes late to Hokkaido, so flowers such as rhododendrons, lilacs, and poppies begin to bloom in mid-May. With mild winds blowing in from the Sea of Japan, Hokkaido's climate becomes increasingly comfortable during May in Japan. However, it is still advisable to carry a jacket since nights could get chilly. The highest recorded temperature in May usually reaches around 16°C (60.8°F), whereas minimum temperatures drop to nearly 6°C (42.8°F).
May Weather in Okinawa Japan (South)
By May in Japan, the tropical island of Okinawa starts experiencing warmer temperatures accompanied by higher humidity levels. Daily maximum temperatures in this region hover around 28°C (82.4°F), while overnight lows remain relatively stable at roughly 24°C (75.2°F). Typhoons become increasingly likely towards the end of May, though these storm systems normally do not affect Okinawa until July or August.
This is what May weather is like across different parts of Japan. Pay more attention to the weather in Japan May 2025, especially the Japan temperature in May 2025 before you embark on your trip to Japan if you hope to have an enjoyable journey.
5. What to Wear to Japan in May 2025
Just as what we mentioned in the part of Japan weather, the May in Japan weather is mild and pleasant with temperatures ranging from around 15°C (59°F) to 23°C (73°F). Here are some suggestions on what to wear in May in Japan 2025:
What to Pack for Japan in May 2025
Lightweight clothing: Pack light cotton or linen shirts, pants, dresses, and skirts that will keep you comfortable in the humid weather.
Layers: It's still a bit chilly in the mornings and evenings, so pack a light jacket or cardigan that can easily be layered under your clothes. A denim jacket would work well as it provides warmth without adding bulk.
Comfortable shoes: If you tend to walk a lot when exploring Japan during May 2025, opt for comfortable sneakers or sandals that won't cause blisters. Flip-flops are also popular in Japan, especially at hot spring resorts.
Sun protection: Be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun's rays, particularly if you plan to visit outdoor attractions like gardens or temples, or plan to go hiking in May in Japan.
Rain gear: Although rainy days are less common in May than they are in June, it's always better for you to err on the side of caution and pack an umbrella or a lightweight raincoat just in case when visiting Japan in May.
Cultural Sensitivity on What to Wear in Japan in May 2025
When you plan to travel to Japan in May, remember that Japan has strict modesty standards on dressing, especially if you are to visit temples and shrines. Make sure your shoulders and knees are covered before entering these sacred places. Also, avoid wearing brightly colored clothing or anything too flashy, as this may draw unwanted attention. Instead, you can wear clothes of neutral colors such as black, white, navy blue, and earth tones during May in Japan 2025.
Overall, packing lightweight and versatile pieces will allow you to navigate the fluctuating weather in Japan on May 2025 with ease while respecting local customs.
Conclusion
May in Japan is a very popular time to visit, with a pleasant climate that is neither too hot nor too cold, making it an ideal time to explore the natural beauty, experience traditional culture, and enjoy great outdoor activities. We've shared with you the things to do in May in Japan and the best places to go in Japan in May, now contact us to customize your private May trip to Japan!