Summer in Kyoto feels like a mix of heat, humidity, and rain that really shapes how you experience the city. Usually, daytime temperatures sit between 26°C and 32°C (79°F to 90°F), with July and August often pushing into the hottest territory. Humidity stays high, and afternoon showers or sudden downpours pop up a lot, especially early in the summer.
You might notice the climate shifting as the season moves along. June feels damp with the lingering rainy season. July brings heavy humidity and rising heat. August? That’s when the summer warmth really peaks. Nights don’t cool off much either, so the city rarely gives you a break from the heat.
This weather impacts everything—what you pack, how you plan your days, and even your mood. Festivals, lush scenery, and long daylight hours make summer tempting, but you’ll need to prepare. If you know the usual patterns of temperature, rainfall, and humidity, you can enjoy Kyoto and stay comfortable.
Overview of Kyoto’s Summer Climate
Kyoto’s summers feel hot and humid, mostly because the city sits inland and is surrounded by mountains. That combo brings high temperatures and a good amount of rain, so sometimes it feels even more intense than in Japan’s coastal cities.
Climate Classification and Location
Kyoto sits in the Kansai region on Honshu, Japan’s main island. The city is tucked into a basin, with mountains on three sides. This setup traps heat and moisture, so summer feels warmer and stickier than in some nearby places.
The Köppen system classifies Kyoto as humid subtropical (Cfa). You get long, hot summers with high humidity, mild winters, and rainfall scattered through the year. Unlike coastal cities, Kyoto misses out on those refreshing sea breezes, so the heat stands out more.
Average summer highs reach about 30–32°C (86–90°F). Lows usually hang around 21–23°C (70–73°F). Rainfall shows up often, especially in June and July, thanks to the East Asian summer monsoon. Some days are sunny, others are gray and overcast—the cloud cover changes a lot as summer goes on.
Seasonal Patterns and Weather Influences
Summer in Kyoto runs from June through August. June kicks things off with the tsuyu, or rainy season, bringing steady rain and sticky humidity that can last for weeks.
By late July, the rain backs off, but temperatures keep climbing. Humidity sticks around, so even moderate heat can feel pretty oppressive. Afternoon thunderstorms roll through now and then, especially in the mountains around the city.
Monsoon circulation really drives Kyoto’s weather. Warm, moist air drifts in from the Pacific, and since Kyoto sits inland, the basin traps that air, building up the “steamy” feeling people talk about.
The heat also brings out lush greenery all over the prefecture and clear waters up north. If you’re exploring, it’s smart to stay hydrated and pace yourself. That way, you can actually enjoy the climate instead of battling it.
Monthly Breakdown: June, July, and August
Summer in Kyoto means rising temperatures, high humidity, and lots of rain. Each month has its quirks, from the rainy season starting in June to the real summer heat in August.
June Weather Characteristics
June starts off summer and brings the rainy season to Kyoto. Highs average about 25°C (77°F), and nighttime lows hover near 16–17°C (61–63°F). Humidity ramps up fast, often above 70%, so the air feels warmer than the numbers say.
Rain picks up, with many days seeing showers or steady drizzle. You’ll usually get 60–70 mm of rain over several days, but totals can swing a bit year to year. The rain isn’t constant, but when it comes, it can pour.
Days are long, with 14–15 hours of sunlight, so you get plenty of time outside between showers. If you’re out exploring temples or gardens, light rain gear and breathable clothes are a must.
July Weather Characteristics
July is both wet and hot in Kyoto. Daytime highs climb to about 29°C (84°F), and nighttime lows stick around 21°C (70°F). Humidity often jumps past 75%, which makes being outdoors feel a bit much.
July usually brings the most rain, with 140–150 mm falling in the month. Showers happen on about 20 days, so it’s the wettest stretch of the year. Outdoor plans? They’ll probably get interrupted.
Still, July isn’t all clouds. When the sun comes out, it’s strong—UV levels run high, and the mountains trap the heat, making it feel hotter. Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothes and sunscreen are essential if you’re outside for long.
August Weather Characteristics
August is the hottest month in Kyoto. Highs reach 31–32°C (88–90°F), and lows hover near 22–23°C (72–73°F). Heat and humidity, often around 80%, make things feel heavy and sticky all day.
Rain falls less than in July but still shows up, with about 90–95 mm spread over 15–17 days. Storms don’t hit as often, but sudden downpours and persistent humidity can still mess with your plans. Nights stay warm, so don’t expect much relief after sunset.
Sunshine peaks in August, with nearly 10 hours of daylight on average. Sightseeing days run long, but you’ll want to manage the heat. Stay hydrated, take breaks in the shade, and maybe plan some indoor activities for the afternoons.
Temperature Trends and Variations
Kyoto’s summer climate is all about high humidity and the swings between daytime heat and slightly cooler nights. You’ll notice both steady seasonal patterns and daily changes that can affect your comfort and plans.
Average Highs and Lows
In summer, average highs in Kyoto range from 28°C to 33°C (82°F to 91°F), with August usually being the hottest. The humidity makes those numbers feel even higher.
Nighttime lows generally fall between 20°C and 24°C (68°F to 75°F). Evenings usually stay warm, and it’s tough to escape the heat. July and August especially can feel muggy even after dark.
Compared to spring or autumn, summer highs are much more intense. June often starts in the upper 20s°C, but by August, daily highs shoot past 30°C. If you’re planning a longer stay, that steady temperature climb is worth keeping in mind.
Here’s a quick table for average highs and lows in Kyoto’s summer months:
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low |
|---|---|---|
| June | 28°C / 82°F | 20°C / 68°F |
| July | 31°C / 88°F | 23°C / 73°F |
| August | 33°C / 91°F | 24°C / 75°F |
Daytime Versus Nighttime Temperatures
Daytime temperatures usually peak around 3 PM, right when the sun is at its strongest. High heat and humidity can make sightseeing tough during these hours. You might find shaded spots or indoor attractions a lot more appealing in the afternoon.
Nights cool off a bit, but not by much. With lows in the low-to-mid 20s°C, the humidity keeps things feeling sticky. If your hotel doesn’t have air conditioning, sleeping can be a challenge.
The gap between day and night temperatures in Kyoto is usually 8–10°C (14–18°F). That’s not as big as in drier parts of Japan, but it does help a little after the afternoon heat.
Mornings, especially before 9 AM, are the most comfortable for walking or outdoor activities. By late evening, humidity still hangs around, so even if the temperature drops, the air might feel heavy.
Rainfall and Humidity in Kyoto’s Summer
Kyoto’s summer brings frequent rain and very high humidity, both of which shape your daily experience in the city. Heavy downpours hit during the rainy season, and muggy weather makes the heat feel even stronger.
Rainy Season and Precipitation Patterns
The summer rainy season in Kyoto usually starts in June and runs into mid-July. Locals call this tsuyu, and it means steady showers and the occasional thunderstorm. Rainfall often tops 200 mm per month, with July averaging around 240 mm.
Even after the main rainy season ends, August still gets short but intense showers, sometimes from typhoon activity. These storms can dump a lot of rain in a hurry, but they usually don’t last long.
Rain falls on 15–20 days each month during summer, so you’ll want to plan for wet weather. Most locals carry a small umbrella or rain jacket just in case. Even with all that rain, you’ll still see plenty of sunshine, which can make the air feel even more humid.
| Month | Avg. Rainfall | Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|
| June | ~210 mm | 17–19 |
| July | ~240 mm | 18–20 |
| August | ~200 mm | 15–18 |
Humidity Levels and Their Impact
Humidity in Kyoto during summer sticks around 70–80% all day. When you combine that with highs of 28–33°C (82–91°F), the result is a sticky, heavy atmosphere. Even mornings and evenings don’t offer much relief.
High humidity makes it harder for your body to cool down by sweating, so the heat feels worse than the thermometer says. You might feel tired faster, especially if you’re walking crowded streets or climbing temple stairs.
Hotels, shops, and trains all use air conditioning, so you can escape the muggy air indoors. Outside, you’ll want to drink water often, take breaks in the shade, and slow your pace.
The rain and humidity also make Kyoto’s temples and gardens extra lush. The scenery is gorgeous, but you should expect damp paths, slippery stones, and more mosquitoes, especially in shaded spots.
Regional Differences Within Kyoto
Summer weather in Kyoto isn’t the same everywhere. The northern coast, the inland south, and the city center’s basin each bring their own mix of temperature, humidity, and comfort. These differences can really change your plans and what you need to pack.
Northern Kyoto Versus Southern Kyoto
Northern Kyoto faces the Sea of Japan, so cooler breezes and heavier rainfall show up more often in summer. Coastal areas feel less stifling, especially at night, though you’ll still see sudden showers. Beaches and mountain forests in the north usually get slightly lower daytime highs than the city center.
Southern Kyoto, like Uji and the tea regions, tends to be warmer and more humid. Inland valleys trap the heat, and with no coastal winds, nights stay warmer. Afternoon highs often go above 30°C (86°F), and humidity can get uncomfortable.
If you’re visiting both regions, pack accordingly. You’ll want a light rain jacket or umbrella up north, and in the south, breathable clothes and extra water are a must.
| Area | Average High (Summer) | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Northern Kyoto | ~28–30°C (82–86°F) | Breezier, wetter, cooler nights |
| Southern Kyoto | ~30–33°C (86–91°F) | Hotter, humid, warmer nights |
Urban Basin Effects on Weather
Kyoto City sits in a basin surrounded by mountains, trapping heat and moisture every summer. This geography makes the city center hotter than the nearby countryside, and you’ll notice there’s hardly any breeze to cool down the streets or buildings.
At night, the heat just lingers, barely escaping the basin. Honestly, muggy evenings are the norm here.
Humidity in the city can feel overwhelming, especially without much wind. If you step into shaded parks or temple grounds, you’ll get some relief, but narrow alleys and all that concrete really crank up the heat.
In August, daytime highs often hit 33°C (91°F) or even higher. The “urban heat island” effect keeps things pretty warm after sunset too.
If you’re out and about, carrying water, using a handheld fan, and ducking indoors for breaks can make Kyoto’s summer heat a bit more manageable.
Tips for Visiting Kyoto in Summer
Kyoto summers bring heavy heat, thick humidity, and sudden bursts of rain. You’ll want to plan ahead for comfort and safety, especially if you’re spending long hours outdoors at temples, gardens, or festivals.
Recommended Clothing and Essentials
Stick with light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen—they really do help in the humidity. Short sleeves, loose dresses, and skirts let air move, and sandals or lightweight sneakers keep your feet happier.
Rain shows up out of nowhere sometimes, so toss a compact umbrella or a light raincoat in your bag. Waterproof shoes or sandals can save you on soggy days.
The heat can be brutal, with plenty of days over 30°C (86°F). To reduce sun exposure, pack a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A folding fan or even just a hand towel comes in handy for wiping away sweat as you wander through busy streets.
Air conditioning inside can feel almost chilly compared to outside. Bring a thin cardigan or light jacket for trains, restaurants, or museums.
You’ll also want a small reusable water bottle, since dehydration and heat exhaustion are real risks during Kyoto’s summer.
Outdoor and Indoor Activities
You can dive into summer festivals like Gion Matsuri in July and Gozan Okuribi in August. These lively events really bring out Kyoto’s traditions.
Expect big crowds at these festivals, so it’s smart to dress lightly and stay hydrated.
If you’re after a cooler outdoor vibe, try wandering through shaded temple gardens or grabbing a bite at riverside dining spots along the Kamo River. Coastal areas in northern Kyoto get those refreshing sea breezes, which honestly feel amazing in the summer.
On rainy days, you might want to check out museums, tea houses, or covered shopping arcades. Many temples actually look even more beautiful in the rain, especially when the hydrangeas start blooming in early summer.
If the heat gets to you, just head up into the surrounding mountains. The temperature up there usually drops a few degrees compared to central Kyoto.
You’ll probably find hiking or visiting rural shrines way more comfortable than sweating it out in the city basin.