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Weather Comparison

Tokyo vs London

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Tokyo: 22°CLondon: 17°C9,559 km apart

May Weather: Tokyo vs London

MetricTokyoLondonBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer22°C (72°F)17°C (63°F)Tokyo
Average LowHigher is milder14°C (57°F)8°C (46°F)Tokyo
Rain DaysFewer is drier11 days10 daysLondon
PrecipitationLess is drier131 mm52 mmLondon
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier9h/day10h/dayLondon
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer910Tokyo
Wind SpeedCalmer is better23 km/h20 km/hLondon

Which City is Better in May?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, London edges ahead as the better destination in May. London offers 10 hours of daily sunshine with only 10 rain days, while Tokyo sees 9 sunshine hours and 11 rain days.

Tokyo sits in the comfortable travel range at 22°C. London is also comfortable at 17°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, London is the stronger choice in May. London receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in May

Tokyo reaches an average high of 22°C (72°F) and drops to 14°C (57°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 8°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

London averages 17°C (63°F) for the high and 8°C (46°F) for the low, with a daily range of 9°C. There is a notable 5°C gap between the two cities, so expect a very different feel.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in May.

Rainfall Comparison in May

Tokyo receives approximately 131 mm of rainfall across 11 rain days during May. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

London sees 52 mm over 10 rain days. That makes London the drier option by 1 rain day and 79 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Tokyo vs London

Packing for Tokyo in May

Highs of 22°C, lows of 14°C, 11 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes

Packing for London in May

Highs of 17°C, lows of 8°C, 10 rain days

  • warm layers
  • a mid-weight jacket
  • long trousers
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes

Pack for both: waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes. These items are useful in either destination during May.

Year-Round Comparison: Tokyo vs London

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.May is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthTokyoLondon
HighRainHighRain
Jan8°C6d7°C11d
Feb9°C8d8°C10d
Mar12°C12d10°C10d
Apr17°C11d14°C11d
May22°C11d17°C10d
Jun25°C15d20°C10d
Jul28°C13d22°C11d
Aug30°C11d21°C10d
Sep26°C14d19°C9d
Oct21°C13d15°C11d
Nov16°C9d10°C11d
Dec11°C7d8°C11d
22°

Tokyo Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

17°

London Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tokyo warmer than London in May?
Yes. In May, Tokyo is warmer with an average high of 22°C (72°F) compared to London at 17°C (63°F), a difference of 5°C.
Which city gets more rain in May, Tokyo or London?
Tokyo gets more rain in May with 11 rain days and 131 mm of precipitation. London is the drier option with 10 rain days.
Is it better to visit Tokyo or London in May?
It depends on your preferences. Tokyo averages 22°C and 9 hours of daily sunshine with 11 rain days. London averages 17°C with 10 sunshine hours and 10 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Tokyo. For fewer rain days, London is the better pick.
How far apart are Tokyo and London?
Tokyo and London are approximately 9,559 km (5,936 miles) apart. Tokyo is located in Japan (Asia) while London is in United Kingdom (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Tokyo and London?
For Tokyo, April tends to be the best month with 9 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 17°C. For London, June is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 20°C highs.

Compare Tokyo and London in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Tokyo coordinates: 35.68°N, 139.65°E | London coordinates: 51.51°N, -0.13°E