Things to do
in MAY 2026
Written by
Angus Miyaji
Things to know about MAY 2026
May is arguably one of the most fantastic months to explore the countryside near Tokyo.
The vibrant spring flower season reaches its peak before slowly transitioning into the lush, brilliant green landscapes of early summer. The weather is typically warm, sunny, and incredibly pleasant. This makes it the perfect window for outdoor adventures before the tsuyu (rainy season) and higher humidity arrive in June.
It is a dynamic time filled with lively outdoor festivals, bustling craft markets, and world-renowned gardens in full bloom.
What to wear in May
As temperatures continue to rise, you can comfortably wear short-sleeved T-shirts or breathable light tops for warm, sunny afternoons. However, spring weather can still be a bit unpredictable. It is highly recommended to dress in layers by bringing a light jacket, cardigan, or fleece. These are essential for cooler evenings or if you plan to venture into the mountains.
Most importantly, bring comfortable walking shoes that are easy to slip on and off. You will likely spend time strolling through expansive flower parks, traditional towns, and historical temple grounds!
Holidays & Crowds in May (Golden Week)
Be aware of the Golden Week holidays (GW) ! In 2026, this massive national holiday block runs from Wednesday, April 29th through to Wednesday, May 6th. During the first week of May, it can get extremely busy, causing peak crowds at popular sightseeing spots around Japan. (There are many events and festivals even in smaller towns)
At the start of GW (end of April), bullet trains and expressways leaving big cities such as Tokyo are extremely crowded and the same traffic returns to big cities around 5th and 6th of May so it is good to avoid this flow of traffic.
Accommodations during GW (Golden week) can be harder to book with higher prices so try to visit undiscovered places (off-the-beaten-track areas) such as Nakagawa, Nasu-Karasuyama in Tochigi, Tsumagoi, Akagi and Kiryu in Gunma, Daigo in Ibaraki.
If your dates are flexible and would like a quieter experience, the middle to the end of the May is generally a sweet spot for visiting Japan. It is much more relaxed, affordable, and crowd-free. I highly recommend planning your explorations of Tochigi, Gunma, Saitama, or Ibaraki from the second week of May onwards if you have a choice.
Recommended Activity in May
May is the absolute prime time for breathtaking floral landscapes across the countryside.
Step into a fairytale at the world-famous Ashikaga Flower Park. Here you can walk beneath enchanting wisteria tunnels that bloom brilliantly into mid-May, and they are especially magical during their evening illuminations.
In Ibaraki, the iconic sweeping hills of blue Nemophila at Hitachi Seaside Park are a must-see, while Lupin flowers and Azeleas can be enjoyed at Kanuma Kaboku Center that also showcases stunning, meticulously crafted bonsai artistry. Later in the month, the Suigo Itako Iris Festival offers a highly photogenic, Edo-themed experience complete with traditional boats gliding down historical canals.
If you love Japanese crafts, you cannot miss the Mashiko Spring Pottery Fair running through May 6th, 2026. Mingle with hundreds of local artisans, browse beautiful handmade tableware, and soak in the lively atmosphere of this premier pottery town. For history buffs, experience the thrilling Sengoku-era samurai reenactments at the Yorii Hojo Festival in Saitama. It is an incredible, off-the-beaten-path cultural gem.
Finally, the beautiful scenery and mild weather make May ideal for active outdoor pursuits. It is the perfect time for hiking the scenic trails of Gunma, cycling through quiet farming villages, or simply unwinding in the region’s renowned onsen (hot spring) resorts like Kusatsu, Kinugawa, or Shiobara. Check out Ride Experience and Rindo Bike tours for cycling tours.
News for MAY 2025
Japan’s Ministry of Transport has officially recognized the “North Kanto Flower Corridor” under its Garden Tourism registration system. This exciting initiative connects 12 beautiful gardens across Tochigi, Gunma, and Ibaraki prefectures, such as Ashikaga Flower Park and Hitachi Seaside Park aiming to boost regional tourism by showcasing their unique floral attractions.
Events & Festivals in May
*Illumination days 18th April (Sat) -20th May (Wed)
*Illumination days 18th April (Sat) -20th May (Wed)
*Annual bloom peak is around June 10th
*Annual bloom peak is around June 10th
from Tokyo
Recommend things to do in May
Iwafune Explosion Experience
Oku-Nikko Nature Guide JUN
Pottery Shop TOKO
Nikko Natural Science Museum
NAOC
Kanuma Kaboku Center
shiobara viva
Edo Wonderland
Kitrip Nikko
Ashikaga Flower Park
Hitachi Seaside Park
Ride Experience
Watanabesahei Sake Brewery
Katayama Sake Brewery
Tonoike Sake Brewery
Shimazaki Sake Brewery
Wakayama Farm
Max Minakami
Shoai Samurai
Nasu Animal Kingdom
Popular areas such as, “Asia Forest”, “Tropical Forest”, “Aqua Stage” and “Sky Stadium” are great for both children and adults.
Places to stay in May
Senkyou Ryokan
Akasawa Onsen Ryokan
Sansuikaku (Ryokan)
Nasu Village
Check out Nasu Village in the Nasu forest. There are 20 cottages suitable for couples, friends & families or larger groups. All houses come with free Wi-Fi, a BBQ space and cooking equipment. Read more to find out more.
