Kyoto

1. Spring (March to May)

Weather and Climate:

• Early spring (March): Cool, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F).
• Mid to late spring (April-May): Warmer, with temperatures rising to 10°C–25°C (50°F–77°F).
• Occasional rain, especially in May, as the rainy season approaches.

Clothing Recommendations:

• Layers: Spring mornings and evenings can be chilly, so layering is key. A light sweater, cardigan, or jacket over a long-sleeve shirt works well.
• Outerwear: A trench coat or a light windbreaker is ideal for early spring.
• Bottoms: Jeans, chinos, or skirts with tights are suitable.
• Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers, as Kyoto is a city best explored on foot.
• Accessories: A lightweight scarf for added warmth and style.

Cultural Considerations:

• Spring is cherry blossom season, and locals often dress elegantly for hanami (flower-viewing) events. Consider wearing pastel or floral patterns to blend in with the festive atmosphere.
• Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing, especially if visiting temples or shrines.

Where to Shop:

• Uniqlo: Affordable, high-quality basics like cardigans and light jackets.
• Nishiki Market: While primarily a food market, some stalls sell scarves and accessories.
• Kyoto Handicraft Center: For unique, locally made items like scarves or shawls.

Estimated Costs:

• Light jacket: ¥3,000–¥8,000 ($20–$55).
• Sweaters or cardigans: ¥2,000–¥5,000 ($14–$35).
• Scarves: ¥1,000–¥3,000 ($7–$20).

---

2. Summer (June to August)

Weather and Climate:

• Hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F).
• June is part of the rainy season (tsuyu), so expect frequent showers.

Clothing Recommendations:

• Lightweight Fabrics: Opt for breathable materials like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking fabrics.
• Tops: Short-sleeve or sleeveless tops.
• Bottoms: Shorts, skirts, or loose-fitting pants.
• Rain Gear: A compact umbrella or a lightweight raincoat is essential during the rainy season.
• Shoes: Sandals or water-resistant shoes for rainy days.
• Accessories: A wide-brimmed hat or UV-blocking parasol to protect against the strong sun.

Cultural Considerations:

• Kyoto summers are known for traditional festivals like Gion Matsuri in July. Yukata (light cotton kimono) is commonly worn during these events. You can rent or purchase one to participate in the festivities.
• Modesty is appreciated, so avoid overly revealing outfits, especially when visiting temples or shrines.

Where to Shop:

• Aeon Mall Kyoto: A large shopping center with a variety of clothing stores.
• Local Yukata Shops: Stores like Kyoto Kimono Rental Wargo offer yukata for purchase or rental.
• Daiso or Muji: Affordable options for umbrellas and summer accessories.

Estimated Costs:

• Lightweight tops: ¥1,000–¥3,000 ($7–$20).
• Yukata: ¥5,000–¥15,000 ($35–$100) for purchase, or ¥3,000–¥5,000 ($20–$35) for rental.
• Compact umbrella: ¥500–¥1,500 ($3.50–$10).

---

3. Autumn (September to November)

Weather and Climate:

• Early autumn (September): Warm and humid, with temperatures around 20°C–30°C (68°F–86°F).
• Mid to late autumn (October-November): Cooler, with temperatures dropping to 10°C–20°C (50°F–68°F).
• Clear skies and crisp air, especially in November.

Clothing Recommendations:

• Layers: Light sweaters or cardigans for cooler evenings.
• Outerwear: A medium-weight jacket or coat for late autumn.
• Bottoms: Jeans, trousers, or skirts with tights.
• Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes or ankle boots.
• Accessories: A scarf for added warmth and style.

Cultural Considerations:

• Autumn is the season for momiji-gari (autumn leaf viewing). Earthy tones like brown, orange, or red are popular and reflect the season’s colors.
• Kyoto’s temples and gardens are especially busy during this time, so dress modestly and comfortably for walking.

Where to Shop:

• Takashimaya Kyoto: A department store with a wide range of clothing options.
• Secondhand Stores: Shops like Kinji Kyoto offer affordable, high-quality secondhand clothing.
• Local Markets: Flea markets at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine often sell unique scarves and jackets.

Estimated Costs:

• Medium-weight jacket: ¥5,000–¥10,000 ($35–$70).
• Sweaters: ¥2,000–¥5,000 ($14–$35).
• Scarves: ¥1,000–¥3,000 ($7–$20).

---

4. Winter (December to February)

Weather and Climate:

• Cold, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F).
• Occasional snowfall, though it rarely accumulates.

Clothing Recommendations:

• Outerwear: A heavy coat or down jacket is essential.
• Layers: Thermal undergarments, sweaters, and fleece-lined tops.
• Bottoms: Thick trousers or jeans, and thermal leggings if needed.
• Shoes: Insulated boots or sturdy shoes with good grip for icy conditions.
• Accessories: Gloves, a warm scarf, and a hat or earmuffs.

Cultural Considerations:

• Kyoto winters are serene, with many visitors enjoying the quiet beauty of snow-dusted temples. Dress warmly but modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
• If attending New Year’s shrine visits (hatsumode), traditional attire like kimono is common, but warm layers underneath are recommended.

Where to Shop:

• Uniqlo: Known for its HeatTech thermal wear and affordable winter coats.
• Don Quijote: A discount store with a variety of winter accessories.
• Local Department Stores: Daimaru Kyoto offers high-quality winter clothing.

Estimated Costs:

• Heavy coat: ¥8,000–¥20,000 ($55–$140).
• Thermal wear: ¥1,000–¥3,000 ($7–$20) per piece.
• Winter accessories: ¥500–¥2,000 ($3.50–$14).

---

General Tips for All Seasons

• Cultural Norms: Kyoto is a traditional city, so modest and respectful clothing is appreciated, especially at temples and shrines. Avoid overly casual or revealing outfits.
• Footwear: Comfortable shoes are a must, as Kyoto’s cobblestone streets and temple grounds require a lot of walking.
• Local Shopping Etiquette: When shopping in Kyoto, politeness is key. Greet shopkeepers with a bow and say “arigatou gozaimasu” (thank you) when leaving.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy Kyoto’s beautiful seasons while respecting its cultural traditions.