Kyoto is a city of seasons. Its gardens, festivals and even its sweets change every few weeks, which means there’s no bad time to come — only trade-offs between beauty, crowds, heat and prices. Here’s what to expect month by month, so you can pick the right moment for your trip.
Seasonal experiences in Kyoto
Kyoto month by month
| Month | Avg high / low | Crowds | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9°C / 1°C | Low (except New Year) | Hatsumode at shrines, quiet temples |
| February | 10°C / 1°C | Low | Plum blossoms, possible snow on Kinkaku-ji |
| March | 14°C / 4°C | Rising | Higashiyama Hanatouro, first cherry blossoms late month |
| April | 20°C / 9°C | Very high | Cherry blossoms (early April), Miyako Odori |
| May | 25°C / 14°C | High (Golden Week) | Fresh maples, Aoi Matsuri (15 May), river terraces |
| June | 28°C / 19°C | Medium | Rainy season, hydrangeas, moss gardens |
| July | 32°C / 23°C | High | Gion Matsuri all month |
| August | 34°C / 24°C | Medium | Very hot, Gozan Okuribi fires (16 Aug) |
| September | 30°C / 21°C | Medium | Still hot, typhoon risk, quieter |
| October | 24°C / 14°C | High | Pleasant weather, Jidai Matsuri (22 Oct) |
| November | 18°C / 8°C | Very high | Autumn leaves, temple illuminations |
| December | 12°C / 3°C | Medium (early) / low | Late foliage early month, Arashiyama Hanatouro |
Cherry blossom season in Kyoto
Kyoto’s cherry trees usually reach full bloom around the end of March and the first week of April, a few days after Tokyo; the exact date varies each year with the weather, so follow the Japan Meteorological Corporation forecasts from February. The best spots: the Philosopher’s Path, Maruyama Park (with its famous weeping cherry), Heian Shrine, the Okazaki canal (boat rides), Daigo-ji and Arashiyama. Expect hotels to be booked months in advance and prices at their peak.
Autumn leaves (koyo) in Kyoto
The maples turn red from early November in the mountains (Kurama, Takao) to the city centre, usually peaking in the second half of November and lasting into early December. Top spots: Tofuku-ji’s Tsutenkyo bridge, Eikan-do (with night illuminations), Kiyomizu-dera, Arashiyama and the Sagano train, Nanzen-ji and Kitano Tenmangu’s maple garden. Our temples guide and Arashiyama guide have the details.
Summer in Kyoto: heat and festivals
From July to early September, Kyoto is hot and humid (often 35°C+). It’s also the season of the Gion Matsuri (the whole of July, with the grand processions on 17 and 24 July), riverside dining platforms in Pontocho and Kibune, and evening events. Plan sightseeing early in the morning and in the evening, and use the afternoon for museums, a cooking class or a nap.
Winter in Kyoto: the underrated season
December to February is our secret. Days are often cold but sunny, temples are quiet, hotel prices are at their lowest and, a few days each winter, snow covers Kinkaku-ji and the Arashiyama hills. It’s also the season for yudofu, hot sake and onsen. New Year (31 December–3 January) is the exception: shrines are packed for hatsumode and many restaurants close.
Crowds: dates to avoid (or plan around)
- Cherry-blossom peak (around late March–early April).
- Golden Week (29 April–5 May): Japanese domestic holidays.
- Obon (mid-August).
- Autumn-leaf peak (second half of November), especially weekends.
- New Year (31 December–3 January).
During these periods, book experiences and restaurants early and visit the major sites at opening time — or at night.
Read also:How many days in Kyoto + itineraries
Frequently asked questions
What is the best month to visit Kyoto?
November is the best month for most travellers thanks to mild weather and the autumn leaves (peaking mid-to-late November). April is the other favourite for cherry blossoms, but it’s very crowded.
When do cherry blossoms bloom in Kyoto?
Usually around the end of March to the first week of April. Dates change every year, so check forecasts from February.
What is the cheapest time to visit Kyoto?
January and February (outside New Year) and, to a lesser extent, June and early September. Hotel prices can be half of what they are in April or November.
Is Kyoto worth visiting in winter?
Yes. It’s cold but often sunny, temples are quiet, prices are low and snow on Kinkaku-ji or Arashiyama is a rare and beautiful bonus.
Is it too hot to visit Kyoto in summer?
July and August are very hot and humid (often 35°C+). It’s doable if you sightsee early and late, and the Gion Matsuri makes July special.
Affiliate disclosure: this guide contains affiliate links to GetYourGuide. If you book through them we earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Prices are indicative (“from”) and were checked in October 2026 — the live price on the booking page always prevails.