Best destinations to visit in May in Asia
Best destinations to visit in May in Asia
May is a month of extremes across Asia, with rising heat in some regions and one of the more comfortable stretches of the year in others.
South Asia hits its hottest stretch in May, pushing many travelers toward cooler hill towns in the mountains rather than the sweltering lowland cities. Southeast Asia grows hotter and more humid too, as the region edges closer to its wet season, which typically arrives by June. East Asia offers a real contrast, with mild spring weather that makes May one of the most comfortable months to visit. Japan's Golden Week holiday falls in late April and early May, filling domestic travel routes and popular sights with local visitors. Mountain regions across the continent also start opening up as the last of the winter snow melts.
The destinations on our list for Asia reflect that same range, from a comfortable spring further north to rising heat closer to the equator.
Lists by region
State/Prefecture in Japan
Hokkaido
Volcanoes, powder snow and fresh seafood
Japan's northernmost main island has wide plains, volcanoes and a cool climate. Cherry trees bloom late in Hakodate and Sapporo, often in late April or early May. Pink moss phlox carpets the hillside at Takinoue Park from mid May. Days are fresh at about 15 degrees Celsius. Hiking trails begin to open.
Garden in Japan
Ashikaga Flower Park
Giant wisteria trellis and winter light show
Soft, fragrant and purple, this garden north of Tokyo is known for wisteria. A great wisteria tree more than 150 years old covers a trellis larger than a tennis court. Blooms usually peak between late April and mid May. White wisteria hangs in an 80 meter tunnel. Evening lights make the flowers glow.
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