Tokyo, the heart of Japan. Many major institutions are concentrated here, and despite its small area, countless people are bustling about day and night.
In this article, we'll introduce 15 recommended sightseeing spots to visit in Tokyo in May, 5 hidden gems, events happening in May, as well as information about the weather and recommended clothing for May in Tokyo.
We'll summarize all the information you'll want to check before your Tokyo sightseeing trip, so please read until the end.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Features and Highlights
Shinjuku Gyoen is a vast garden managed by the Ministry of the Environment, spanning across Shinjuku and Shibuya districts in Tokyo. It was originally created as an imperial garden in 1906 but became a national park after World War II.
Selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Viewing Sites, many people visit with cameras during the cherry blossom season.
A unique feature is that you can explore various garden styles rare in Japan, such as Japanese gardens, English landscape gardens, and French formal gardens, allowing you to experience different cultural influences.
Address: 11 Naito-machi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Access: 2-minute walk from Shinjuku-gyoenmae Station
Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Closed: Mondays (or the following weekday if Monday is a holiday), New Year's holidays
Admission fee: Adults 500 yen, High school students and above 250 yen, Middle school students and below free
Official website: Shinjuku Gyoen | National Gardens | Ministry of the Environment
Sensoji Temple, Kaminarimon Gate, and Nakamise Street
Features and Highlights
Sensoji Temple is one of Tokyo's most popular tourist spots. After passing through the famous Kaminarimon Gate with its large lantern and Nakamise Street, you can visit the spacious temple grounds.
On Nakamise Street, you can enjoy delicious foods and browse souvenirs in a lively atmosphere.
It's always crowded with many foreign tourists, so be careful not to lose your friends. Also, be cautious of feeling overwhelmed by the crowds.
For more detailed information about recommended spots for sightseeing and dating around Asakusa, check out our "Asakusa Dating Course" article!
Address: 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Access: 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station on various lines
Opening hours: 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM (6:30 AM - 5:00 PM from October to March)
Closed: Never
Official website: Asakusa Kannon Sensoji Temple
Meiji Shrine
Features and Highlights
Meiji Shrine is a large shrine located just near Harajuku Station. It celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2020.
It's a recommended sightseeing spot in Tokyo where you can spend a relaxing time, so please visit when you're tired of the city's hustle and bustle. The abundant nature and spacious grounds will soothe your heart.
There are several spots known as powerful spiritual spots within the premises, so take your time to explore them.
Address: 1-1 Yoyogi-Kamizono-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Access: 1-minute walk from Harajuku Station
Visiting hours: Sunrise to sunset
Closed: Never
Admission fee: Free
Official website: Meiji Shrine
Nezu Shrine
Features and Highlights
Nezu Shrine is a historic shrine located in Bunkyo Ward. It is said to have existed for over 1,900 years, and many people still visit to worship today.
From around April, over 100 varieties of azaleas in the shrine grounds bloom all at once, beautifully decorating the shrine. If you can visit during the azalea blooming season, you'll be able to take Instagram-worthy beautiful photos.
However, as it's a high-class shrine, please be mindful of your attire and manners when visiting.
Address: 1-28-9 Nezu, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
Access: 5-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Namboku Line
Visiting hours (Azalea Garden): 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Admission fee: Free
Closed: Never
Official website: Nezu Shrine
Ookunitama Shrine
Features and Highlights
Ookunitama Shrine is a shrine located in Fuchu City. It enshrines deities of matchmaking, warding off evil, and exorcism, attracting many visitors throughout the year.
With origins dating back to 111 AD, it is a historic shrine with a long tradition. On May 5th, a major festival called the "Kurayami Festival" is held. Many people from the local area and surroundings visit, creating a lively atmosphere. If you enjoy events, you should definitely go.
Address: 3-1 Miyamachi, Fuchu City, Tokyo
Access: 5-minute walk from Fuchu Station
Visiting hours: 6:30 AM - 5:00 PM (may vary by season)
Closed: None
Official website: Ookunitama Shrine
Yasukuni Shrine
Features and Highlights
Yasukuni Shrine is a historic shrine founded in the Meiji era. It originated from a shrine built by the order of Emperor Meiji to console the souls of those who sacrificed their lives for the country and pass on their memory to future generations.
After World War II, it became a place where many people come to pray. It is especially crowded on days like the anniversary of the end of WWII and air raid commemorations, but you can still spend a quiet time in a solemn atmosphere.
It is recommended to have some background knowledge before visiting.
Address: 3-1-1 Kudankita, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Access: 10-minute walk from Ichigaya Station
Visiting hours: 24 hours
Closed: None
Official website: Yasukuni Shrine
Tokyo Tower
Features and Highlights
Tokyo Tower has been a beloved landmark of Tokyo for over half a century since 1958 and is a famous tourist spot.
The 333-meter tall tower is open to visitors, and from the observation deck at 150 meters, you can view Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Mt. Tsukuba, and more.
At Tokyo Tower, you can not only sightsee but also enjoy shopping and dining at the commercial facilities. There are also regular light-ups and special illuminations for weekend-limited or collaboration events, so it's recommended to visit after dark as well.
Address: 4-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Access: 5-minute walk from Akabanebashi Station on the Oedo Line
Hours: 9:00 AM - 10:30 PM
Closed: None
Admission fee: Main Deck - Adults 1,200 yen, Top Deck Tour - 3,000 yen (2,800 yen with online reservation)
Official website: TOKYO TOWER
Tokyo Skytree
Features and Highlights
Tokyo Skytree, completed in 2012, is an active broadcasting tower. At 634 meters tall, it is registered in the Guinness World Records as the world's tallest tower.
Like Tokyo Tower, it also houses commercial facilities and office buildings, offering many attractions and enjoyable spots besides the view from the observation deck.
The observation decks at 350 meters and 450 meters above ground offer panoramic views of the city, and on clear days, you can even see Mt. Fuji in the distance, making it a spectacular viewpoint.
At night, the tower is illuminated, so enjoy the changing colors at different times.
Address: 1-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida-ku, Tokyo
Access: Directly connected to Oshiage Station
Hours: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Closed: None
Admission fee (Weekdays): Adults from 1,000 yen, Junior/Senior High School Students from 800 yen, Elementary School Students from 500 yen
Admission fee (Weekends/Holidays): Adults from 1,100 yen, Junior/Senior High School Students from 900 yen, Elementary School Students from 550 yen
Official website: Tokyo Skytree TOKYO SKYTREE
SHIBUYA SKY
Features and Highlights
SHIBUYA SKY is an observation deck directly connected to Shibuya Station. From the deck, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Tokyo including the Shibuya area, and at night, you can enjoy the sparkling night view typical of Tokyo.
With many attractions such as the SKY GATE that takes you directly to the 14th-15th floors, the rooftop SKY STAGE, and the indoor observation corridor SKY GALLERY, it's a recommended spot where you can fully enjoy Shibuya even on rainy days.
Daytime is recommended if you want to feel the height of the sky, while evening onwards is best for enjoying the night view.
Address: 2-24-12 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Access: Directly connected to Shibuya Station
Hours: 10:00 AM - 10:30 PM
Closed: January 1st
Admission fee: 2,000 yen (1,800 yen if purchased online)
Official website: SHIBUYA SKY
Roppongi Hills
Features and Highlights
Roppongi Hills is a commercial complex located in Roppongi, Minato Ward. Centered around a 238-meter high-rise building, it includes various facilities such as hotels, a TV station headquarters, and movie theaters.
In addition to enjoying the typical Tokyo cityscape, there are many places to appreciate art, such as museums and galleries, making it ideal for adult dates or sightseeing. It's also great for travelers from afar to experience the essence of Tokyo.
At night, you can spend a wonderful time at bars and restaurants.
Address: 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Access: 4-minute walk from Roppongi Station
Opening hours: 11:00 - 21:00
Closed: None
Official website: Roppongi Hills
Ebisu Garden Place
Features and Highlights
Ebisu Garden Place is a complex facility spanning Shibuya Ward and Meguro Ward. It's an area with a sophisticated atmosphere, including office buildings, department stores, cafes, restaurants, and museums, suitable for a relaxed date overall.
The 38th and 39th floors of the Garden Place Tower are restaurant floors where you can enjoy meals while overlooking Tokyo.
The plaza area also has seasonal special shops and rest areas, making it recommended for taking a break when tired from walking in the city.
Address: 4-20 Ebisu, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Access: 5-minute walk from JR Ebisu Station
Opening hours: 11:00 - 23:00 (varies by store)
Closed: Depends on the store
Official website: Ebisu Garden Place
Tokyo Station
Features and Highlights
Tokyo Station is an active station that serves as the hub for various JR lines and subways running through Tokyo. If you're arriving in Tokyo by Shinkansen, you can start sightseeing right away.
The Marunouchi Exit, in particular, is characterized by its retro appearance using bricks and is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. It's also famous as a photogenic spot, so be sure to take pictures.
Not only the exterior of the station but also various monuments, stone monuments, and memorials inside make it a popular tourist spot. There are also restaurants, making it recommended for lunch.
Address: 1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Access: JR Tokyo Station
Opening hours: Depends on facilities and areas
Closed: Depends on facilities and areas
Fee: Depends on facilities and areas
Official website: TOKYO STATION CITY
National Museum of Nature and Science
Features and Highlights
The National Museum of Nature and Science is a place created to foster scientific literacy and promote communication between society and science. Inside, there are two permanent exhibitions: the Japan Gallery, which displays various exhibits related to the Japanese archipelago, including dinosaur fossils, geology, and biology, and the Global Gallery, which exhibits biology, science and technology, and space from around the world.
In addition, special exhibitions and events are held depending on the season, so be sure to check in advance.
For those with intellectual curiosity, the content is so extensive that you won't get bored even after hours, so please visit.
Address: 7-20 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Access: 5-minute walk from JR Ueno Station
Opening hours: 9:00 - 17:00
Closed: Mondays (next day if a holiday), New Year holidays
Admission fee: 630 yen for university students and above, free for high school students and below
Official website: National Museum of Nature and Science
Showa Kinen Park
Features and Highlights
Showa Kinen Park is a popular national park located in Tachikawa, Tokyo. It's divided into free and paid areas, each with a large site showcasing scenery for all four seasons.
It takes about an hour to walk around, making it recommended for those who want to spend time leisurely. Inside the park, there are areas where you can experience nature and culture up close, such as Japanese gardens, botanical gardens, waterfowl ponds, and dragonfly wetlands, where you can take walks or photos.
May is a comfortable season, so cycling with rental bikes is also good, but be careful as there are many children in the area.
Address: 3173 Midori-cho, Tachikawa-shi, Tokyo
Access: 10-minute walk from Tachikawa Station
Opening hours (free area): 8:30 - 18:00 (varies by season)
Opening hours (paid area): 9:30 - 17:00 (varies by season)
Closed: New Year holidays, 4th Monday of January and the following day
Official website: Showa Kinen Park
Inokashira Onshi Park
Features and Highlights
Inokashira Park, officially known as Inokashira Onshi Park, is a beloved spot that celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2017. The park boasts about 400 cherry trees, painting the entire area in pink during spring. After the cherry blossoms, fresh greenery flourishes, offering beautiful scenery in every season.
Despite being in Tokyo, it's a relaxing park, perfect for when you want to take a break from the busy city life.
Address: 3-4 Inokashira, 1 Shimorenjakku, 4 Mure, Mitaka City; 1 Gotenyama, 1 Kichijoji Minamimachi, Musashino City, Tokyo
Access: 5-minute walk from Kichijoji Station
Open hours: 24 hours
Closed: Never
Admission: Free
Official website: Inokashira Onshi Park Official Website
Mt. Takao
Features and Highlights
Mt. Takao is a mountain located in western Tokyo. Many people visit for hiking and mountaineering, enjoying its rich natural environment. With courses suitable for day trips and cable car access, it's recommended for beginners and families with children. You can observe plants, insects, and wild birds, experiencing a different side of Tokyo away from the urban landscape.
When hiking, be careful not to enter the "Ura-Takao" area, as it can be very dangerous if you're not properly equipped.
Address: Takao-machi, Tokyo
Access: 5-minute walk from Takaosanguchi Station
Open hours: 24 hours
Closed: Never
Fee: Free
Official website: Mt. Takao
Hidden Spots in Tokyo for Sightseeing Without Crowds
Todoroki Valley
Todoroki Valley is a healing spot in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo. It's a perfect place to cool off even on hot days in May. With over 30 spring water sources in the valley, the path surrounded by tall trees creates a soothing space that doesn't feel like you're in the city.
Address: 1-22, 2-37~38 Todoroki, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
Access: 5-minute walk from Todoroki Station
Open hours: 9:00-17:00 (varies by season)
Closed: New Year's holidays
Official website: Todoroki Valley Park | Setagaya City Website
Imado Shrine
Imado Shrine, located in Taito Ward, is said to be the birthplace of the Maneki-neko (beckoning cat). It's known as a place for matchmaking and also as the final resting place of Okita Soji. While young women often visit for good luck in relationships, it's less crowded compared to other places in Tokyo, making it a hidden gem. Why not write your wish on a round ema (votive tablet) symbolizing both "en" (fate) and "en" (circle), and take a photo with the beckoning cat?
Address: 1-5-22 Imado, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Access: 15-minute walk from Asakusa Station
Open hours: 9:00-17:00
Closed: Never
Admission: Free
Official website: Imado Shrine
Nezu Museum
Nezu Museum is an art museum featuring an authentic Japanese garden. It displays various artworks, centering on the collection of Nezu Kaichiro. With its bamboo hedge and modern architecture creating a beautiful space, it's perfect for a leisurely stroll. As a quiet place, why not visit to find some peace when you're tired of the hustle and bustle of Tokyo sightseeing?
Address: 6-5-1 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Access: 10-minute walk from Omotesando Station
Open hours: 10:00-17:00
Closed: Mondays
Admission: Adults 1,600 yen, High school students and above 1,300 yen
Official website: Nezu Museum
Mejiro Garden
Mejiro Garden is a stroll garden with a central pond, featuring a sukiya-style tea house. Passing through the white plastered nagayamon gate, you can enjoy wonderful scenery in every season.
Stepping stones, rest areas, and waterfall viewing platforms are among the many attractions in this garden. Taking a stroll can help relieve everyday stress. In early summer, it becomes a healing spot where you can watch mother ducks and their ducklings walking around.
Address: 3-20-18 Mejiro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Access: 5-minute walk from Mejiro Station
Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Closed: 2nd and 4th Mondays, New Year's holidays
Admission: Free
Official website: Mejiro Garden
Shakujii Park
Shakujii Park is located in Nerima Ward. It features Shakujii Pond and Sanpoji Pond, and the spacious grounds are home to nearly 300 cherry trees.
Interestingly, there's a marsh plant community around the ponds where you can observe unique ecosystems rarely seen in other areas. May is less crowded and comfortable, making it a good time for leisurely ecological observations.
Address: 1-26-1 Shakujiidai, Nerima-ku, Tokyo
Access: 7-minute walk from Shakujii-koen Station
Opening hours: 24 hours
Closed: New Year's holidays
Admission: Free
Official website: Shakujii Park
Events in Tokyo in May
Design Festa
Design Festa is a hugely popular event boasting the largest scale in Asia. It's an event celebrating art and design creation, where many artists exhibit and sell their works.
General participants can visit booths and purchase interesting pieces, so if you're a fan of handmade crafts or art, it's worth attending at least once.
Venue: Tokyo International Exhibition Center (Tokyo Big Sight)
Date: Mid-May
Kurayami Festival
The Kurayami Festival is held at Ookunitama Shrine in Fuchu City. As the name suggests ("kurayami" means darkness), the mikoshi (portable shrine) procession takes place at night, making it a unique event where many people gather from dusk.
Don't miss the large-scale plant market featuring nurseries from all over the Kanto region.
Venue: Ookunitama Shrine
Date: April 30 - May 6
Spring Rose Festa
The Spring Rose Festa is a large-scale rose event held at Jindai Botanical Gardens. The sight of 5,200 roses of 400 varieties blooming in Tokyo's largest rose garden is breathtaking.
In addition to viewing roses, there are concerts and markets, making it enjoyable for flower enthusiasts.
Venue: Jindai Botanical Gardens
Date: Late April - Late June
Tokyo Port Festival
The Tokyo Port Festival is an event celebrating the anniversary of Tokyo Port's opening. Since its inauguration in 1941, many organizations associated with Tokyo Port participate annually.
Check the details about Tokyo Port, participating organizations, and event contents in advance, and consider visiting. There are plenty of attractions for both adults and families with children.
Venue: Tokyo International Cruise Terminal
Date: Weekend around May 20th
Kachiya Festival
The Kachiya Festival is held annually on Children's Day at Katori Shrine. As Katori Shrine is known as the deity of sports promotion, many families, especially those with children involved in sports, visit.
This traditional festival has its origins in the Heian period and continues to be a lively event every year.
Venue: Katori Shrine
Date: May 5th
Kanda Festival
The Kanda Festival is a large-scale festival held at Kanda Myojin Shrine in mid-May. It's counted among both Japan's three major festivals and Edo's three great festivals, attracting many participants every year.
The sight of enormous mikoshi parading through the streets of Tokyo with road closures embodies the vibrant atmosphere of Edo, uniting the town in excitement.
Location: Kanda Myojin Shrine
Time: Mid-May
Sanja Matsuri
The Sanja Matsuri is a festival honoring the three individuals involved in the founding of Sensoji Temple. Known as a major event where the already lively Asakusa becomes even more crowded and exciting, it attracts even more people.
It's highly recommended as a uniquely Tokyo event where you can fully experience the atmosphere of the downtown area.
Location: Around Sensoji Temple
Time: Mid-May
Koinobori Festival
At the Koinobori Festival, many carp streamers "swim" through Tokyo, wishing for children's health and growth.
Over a thousand carp streamers are displayed around Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree Town, colorfully decorating the city.
Location: Around Tokyo Tower
Time: Around May 5th
Tokyo Weather in May
May in Tokyo is hotter than you might expect. However, it can be chilly in the early morning and at night, so it's a good idea to bring a light outer layer when traveling.
In early May, a light coat is reassuring; by mid-May, a single long-sleeved shirt or even short sleeves with a light outer layer is sufficient for some people. By late May, it reaches early summer temperatures, so short sleeves are fine.
However, as the weather and temperature in Tokyo in May can be unstable, it's important to check the weather forecast regularly during your stay.
Enjoy a Special Tokyo Tour in Rental Kimono
Although the weather and temperature in Tokyo in May can be unstable, it's actually a time when traditional Japanese clothing can be more comfortable than Western clothes.
Even if you don't usually wear kimono, why not try going out in kimono for your Tokyo sightseeing?
At "Kimono Rental Wargo," you can rent a kimono for just one day, including dressing assistance. Rental is recommended for those who want to casually go out in kimono.
If you want to make your Tokyo sightseeing with friends a special memory, please consider going out in traditional Japanese attire.
Summary
For May sightseeing in Tokyo, shrines and parks with beautiful fresh greenery, or the city center overflowing with Tokyo's unique atmosphere are recommended. Please try to create a sightseeing route that suits you.
Also, if you're visiting Tokyo from other regions, it's a good idea to include some relaxing, less crowded spots as you might experience crowd fatigue or general tiredness.
While May in Tokyo can have unstable temperatures and weather, choosing to wear a kimono can be a good option at such times. Why not color your memories with a special one-day rental, consulting with kimono professionals to choose your outfit?
"Kimono Rental Wargo" offers a range of kimonos and obi perfect for May sightseeing in Tokyo. If you're interested, please don't hesitate to inquire.