Kyoto and Osaka are close in July. Kyoto averages 24–32°C with moderate-high crowds; Osaka 25–32°C with moderate-high crowds.
By Daan · Last reviewed October 2026
Kyoto and Osaka
The verdict for July
Hot, humid, and festival-filled
+One of Japan's greatest festivals
–Heat, humidity and big festival crowds
Gion Matsuri takes over the whole month, with grand processions on 17 and 24 July. The heat and humidity are intense, so plan around the midday hours. Evenings are the best time to be outside.
Hot, humid and electric
+Tenjin Matsuri (24–25) is one of Japan’s great festivals — river procession, huge fireworks.
–Hot, humid, and riverside areas get packed around the festival.
Tenjin Matsuri (24–25) is one of Japan’s great festivals — river procession, huge fireworks.
Scores and crowd levels are my own judgement; temperatures are monthly averages. Higher scores are better: quieter, cheaper and more pleasant.
Another month