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Weather Comparison

London vs Tokyo

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

London: 17°CTokyo: 22°C9,559 km apart

May Weather: London vs Tokyo

MetricLondonTokyoBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer17°C (63°F)22°C (72°F)Tokyo
Average LowHigher is milder8°C (46°F)14°C (57°F)Tokyo
Rain DaysFewer is drier10 days11 daysLondon
PrecipitationLess is drier52 mm131 mmLondon
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier10h/day9h/dayLondon
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer109Tokyo
Wind SpeedCalmer is better20 km/h23 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.

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

London reaches an average high of 17°C (63°F) and drops to 8°C (46°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 9°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Tokyo averages 22°C (72°F) for the high and 14°C (57°F) for the low, with a daily range of 8°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

London receives approximately 52 mm of rainfall across 10 rain days during May. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Tokyo sees 131 mm over 11 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: London vs Tokyo

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

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

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

Year-Round Comparison: London vs Tokyo

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.

MonthLondonTokyo
HighRainHighRain
Jan7°C11d8°C6d
Feb8°C10d9°C8d
Mar10°C10d12°C12d
Apr14°C11d17°C11d
May17°C10d22°C11d
Jun20°C10d25°C15d
Jul22°C11d28°C13d
Aug21°C10d30°C11d
Sep19°C9d26°C14d
Oct15°C11d21°C13d
Nov10°C11d16°C9d
Dec8°C11d11°C7d
17°

London Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

22°

Tokyo Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is London warmer than Tokyo in May?
No. 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, London or Tokyo?
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 London or Tokyo in May?
It depends on your preferences. London averages 17°C and 10 hours of daily sunshine with 10 rain days. Tokyo averages 22°C with 9 sunshine hours and 11 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Tokyo. For drier weather, London is the better pick.
How far apart are London and Tokyo?
London and Tokyo are approximately 9,559 km (5,936 miles) apart. London is located in United Kingdom (Europe) while Tokyo is in Japan (Asia).
What is the best month to visit London and Tokyo?
For London, June tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 20°C. For Tokyo, April is typically ideal with 9 sunshine hours and 17°C highs.

Compare London and Tokyo 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.

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