Japan in May: lush nature and cultural festivities

May is one of the best months to travel to Japan. The temperatures are pleasant, nature is in full bloom and festivals are animating the country. After the effervescence of Golden Week, the second half of the month offers ideal conditions to explore the hidden treasures of the archipelago before the arrival of the rainy season.

Golden Week: a time to anticipate

Golden Week, which runs from late April to early May, is one of the most lively periods in Japan. This series of holidays leads to a peak of traffic in transport and hotels, with often full bookings weeks in advance.

To avoid crowds, it is recommended to plan your trip either before Golden Week or after, when the calm returns and the prices of accommodation become more accessible. It is also a good time to prefer less well-known destinations and enjoy rural Japan, away from the crowds of big cities.

Spring flowering: much more than cherry trees

While most cherry trees lost their flowers in May, some northern areas, such as Hokkaido and Tohoku, still offer beautiful sakura landscapes until mid-May. However, other floral varieties take over and transform the country into a true palette of colours.

• The glycines of the floral park of Ashikaga (Tochigi): From mid-April to mid-May, these purple and white flowers form impressive plant tunnels. In the evening, they are illuminated for a magical show.
• Kawachi Fujien Glycin Garden (Fukuoka)Its glycine tunnel is a real photographic marvel and reaches its peak at the beginning of the month.
• The Nemophiliacs of Hitachi Seaside Park (Ibaraki): These small blue flowers cover the hills of the park from mid-April to the end of May, creating a dreamlike landscape.
• Shibazakura at the foot of Mount FujiFrom mid-April to the end of May, the mousse phlox fields form a spectacular pink and purple carpet with Mount Fuji in the background.

Festivals and events not to be missed

May is a month full of festivities that offer a fascinating insight into Japanese culture.

• Sanja Matsuri (Tokyo, mid-May): One of the most vibrant festivals in the capital, with processions of portable shrines in the district of Asakusa. It attracts more than one million visitors every year.
• Sumo tournament in May (Tokyo, mid-May to end of May): A must-see event to discover this iconic sport of Japan. Tickets are stormed, so it is recommended to reserve them early in April.
• Festa design (Tokyo, mid-May): A huge artistic gathering where thousands of creators exhibit their works at Tokyo Big Sight.
• Koinobori and Children’s Day (5 May)All over Japan, carp-shaped banners fly to the wind to celebrate the health and prosperity of children. The rivers and bridges of rural Japan offer the most beautiful scenes of koinobori floating in the sky.

Hiking and mountain excursions

May is also the perfect time to explore the Japanese mountains, as snow gradually melts and nature regains its rights.

• Kamikochi (Nagano): Known for its spectacular alpine landscapes, this valley offers hikes accessible through forests and along crystal clear rivers.
• Kurobe Gorges (Toyama): As early as May, the Kurobe tourist train offers a breathtaking crossing between steep cliffs and lush forests.
• Mount Takao (Tokyo)Just an hour from the capital, this mountain is ideal for a natural getaway and offers panoramic views of Mount Fuji in clear weather.

The climate in May: sweetness and sunny days

With temperatures ranging from 15 to 25°C depending on the region, May is a particularly pleasant month to travel to Japan. The days are sunny and showers are still rare before the rainy season arrives in June. A light jacket and breathable clothing are sufficient to fully enjoy the stay.

Why visit Japan in May?

Between spectacular blooms, traditional festivals and wilderness getaways, may offer a perfect balance between cultural discovery and relaxation. The second half of the month is ideal for exploring Japan in a more peaceful setting, just before the arrival of summer.

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