When to Go to Kyoto

When to Go to Kyoto

Cherry blossom time in spring (usually the first week in April) and the glorious autumn foliage in early November are remarkable. Except for the depths of winter and the peak of summer in August, when the temperature soars, Kyoto's climate is mild enough—though often rainy, especially mid-June to mid-July—to make sightseeing pleasant for most of the year. In the high season (May-October) the large numbers of visitors to the city can make accommodations scarce, and you must apply in advance to visit those attractions that require permits, such as Katsura Rikyu and the Shugaku-in imperial villas. You can also expect lines for admission tickets to the Imperial Palace.

Religious buildings are generally open seven days a week, but many museums close Monday. If you're lucky enough to be in Kyoto for the Gion Festival, which is held throughout the month of July, be sure to go downtown on the 17th for the main parade. Two other memorable festivals are Aoi Matsuri (Hollyhock Festival) on May 15, and the Jidai Festival on October 22, which celebrates Kyoto's founding. If you're here for the latter, be sure to head for the Heian Jingu for the procession of about 2,000 people in costumes from every period of Kyoto history.

Climate

The average daily maximum and minimum temperatures for Kyoto are as follows: Jan.-Mar., 32-59°F (0-15°C); Apr.-May and Oct., 44-75°F (7-24°C); June-Sept., 66-93°F (19-34°C); Nov.-Dec., 33-62°F (1-17°C).