Take your coffee to the roof and watch the blue sky tumble fog around the mountains just beyond the river. Jog down the tree-lined streets toward the Kamogawa, then lie back on the cool grass and watch the ducks paddle by, carefree. Feel that rare mix of peace and electricity that spring brings.
This is May in Kyoto and Osaka, and Japan in general.
Light sweater weather. Botanical garden all-day weather. Anything-can-happen weather.
Come stay with us at KABIN, in Kyoto, where our downtown hotels are just a short walk from the river, and in Osaka, where we’re right in the heart of the action.
While you’re planning your dream May-in-Japan vacation (and it really is one of the best times to come), we’d love to sprinkle in a few nighttime, event, and cultural ideas in Kyoto & Osaka, including a LOT happening at our hotels, that we just can’t get enough of.
AT KABIN
SALSA SOCIAL
KABIN KYOTO
MAY 3rd, 2025 | 15:00-20:00
We love our fun and funky monthly collabs with Kyoto’s legendary salsa powerhouse, Café Rumbita — and this month, we’re turning up the heat with Tango Candela!
We’re thrilled to be part of Salsa Candela 2025, Kyoto’s premier Afro-Latin dance and music festival held during Golden Week. Spanning five days of parties, workshops, and cultural experiences across iconic venues in the city, this festival brings together dancers from all over Japan and beyond.
Join us for an afternoon of tango flair, social dancing, and craft cocktails in our dreamy tree terrace and warm GRZE restaurant space.
Whether you're a seasoned salsero or just looking to try something new, all are welcome. Event pricing can be found on the official flier. Let’s dance!
YIELD & OVERCOME
KABIN TAKA
MAY 24th, 2025 | 16:00-17:00
We could not be more excited for the opening reception of a new photography exhibition by one of our favorite up-and-coming local artists, Mars. Admission is free, and all are welcome. Join us as we cheers this debut series, shot entirely in Kyoto & Tokyo, featuring striking black-and-white imagery that leaves space for stillness, while allowing raw emotion, movement, and quiet intensity to emerge from each frame. It’s a thoughtful body of work that invites personal reflection. The exhibition will remain on view at KABIN Taka for an indefinite period. We welcome you to stop by, take your time with the photographs, and perhaps enjoy a moment in Taka's SWRL cafe, over a coffee or a milkshake.
KABIN MATSURI
KABIN TAKA
MAY 24th, 2025 | 17:00-22:00
Celebrate the vibrant spirit of spring at KABIN Matsuri on May 24th, from 5 to 10 p.m., a lively evening of cultural immersion and community connection. This festive gathering brings together the rich traditions of Kyoto and Osaka with a contemporary twist.
Guests can look forward to an unforgettable live performance by a gifted traditional singer and instrumentalist, along with immersive experiences such as tarot card readings, hand massages with essential oils, and a playful photo booth. The celebration continues with festival-style food, local food stalls, KRFT’s signature cocktails, and live DJ sets to keep the energy flowing all night long.
And that’s not all—more vendors and surprises will be announced soon, so stay tuned.
Whether you're a Kyoto local or a curious traveler, KABIN Matsuri offers a chance to celebrate, connect, and welcome the season in style.
IN KYOTO
NATURE & CRAFTS:
Botanical Gardens Craft Marche
Kyoto Botanical Gardens
MAY 3-5th, 2025 | 09:00-16:00
If you're looking for a breathtaking and community-driven way to enjoy spring in Kyoto, we can’t recommend Craft Marche enough. Held at the beautiful Kyoto Botanical Gardens, it’s a seasonal market filled with handmade treasures.
We had the opportunity to explore the market last year and had an amazing time just chilling on the lawn, wandering among the trees, and soaking in the sounds of some amazing local music. We picked up thoughtful gifts for friends—including a plant-themed wedding present that was a total hit.
From pottery and homewares to accessories, baked goods, and more, there’s a little something for everyone. With live performances and workshops for all ages, it’s also a fun day out for families.
Whether you're shopping, relaxing, or just there for the atmosphere, Craft Marche is a perfect way to enjoy Kyoto in bloom.
TRADITION:
Mifune Festival
Arashiyama
May 18
Held every May in Arashiyama, Mifune Matsuri offers a rare glimpse into how Japan’s nobility partied over a thousand years ago. Organized by Kurumazaki Shrine, this elegant riverside festival re-creates imperial boating ceremonies once enjoyed by emperors and courtiers.
The highlight? A graceful procession of twenty traditional boats gliding along the Oi River, complete with classical music, dance, and poetry performances on board. Performers wear stunning period costumes, including women in elaborate 12-layer kimono, while colorful sensu fans are gently floated down the river in tribute.
Don’t expect the usual matsuri crowds and food stalls—this one’s all about refinement, history, and artistry. Whether you're drawn by the beauty, the cultural depth, or the riverside views near Togetsukyo Bridge, Mifune Matsuri is a serene and unforgettable Kyoto experience.
IN OSAKA
NATURE:
May in Osaka is a floral paradise. Osaka Castle Park and Kema Sakuranomiya Park are renowned for their cherry blossoms and other spring flowers. Pack a picnic and enjoy the scenery while you relax under the trees.
Check more of our top Osaka Spring recommendations here!
TRADITION:
Nakanoshima Festival
May 3–5
Experience the vibrant community spirit of Osaka at the Nakanoshima Festival, one of Japan's largest citizen-led festivals. Held annually at Nakanoshima Park in Osaka's Kita Ward, this festival features over 100 local organizations presenting lively stage performances, vibrant parades, bazaars, and even outdoor movie screenings. It's a celebration of local culture and creativity that brings together residents and visitors alike.
CULTURE:
Expo 2025 Osaka
YUMESHIMA
April 13-October 13
The highlight of 2025 is the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan. This six-month event features participation from over 160 countries and organizations in around 80 uniquely designed pavilions. Highlights include cutting-edge tech displays such as robots, flying cars, and health innovations. The Expo also features a space travel-themed U.S. pavilion and an emotional Ukrainian exhibit documenting life during the ongoing war.
NIGHTLIFE:
SUPER RAVE KITAKAGAYA
CLUB DAPHNIA
MAY 17, 2025 | 22:00 OPEN
DOOR: 2,000 YEN + 1 DRINK
Looking for things to do in Kyoto at night’s wilder cousin across town? Osaka's underground scene comes alive at Club Daphnia, a cutting-edge venue nestled in the creative Kitakagaya district. Known for its genre-defying lineups, immersive VJ visuals, and intimate industrial atmosphere, Daphnia is where Osaka’s art-meets-nightlife crowd comes to play.
Don’t miss their upcoming blowout:
The night features a stacked lineup of DJs and live acts including:
お嬢, 和也之介宏常, SUPER RAVE KITAKAGAYA, SCUM PRIEST, WÖNDER GIRL, collagen, and 遊機 (四四四式反音楽)
With visuals by K46, D.A.I, and Y.A.S
And delicious eats from PENO食堂 to keep you going between sets.
Expect a genre-bending, body-moving night that blends rave culture with experimental art — the kind of nightlife that makes Osaka unforgettable.
Spring into Kansai
May in Kyoto and Osaka is a time of rejuvenation and celebration. From the serene beauty of blooming gardens to the dynamic energy of cultural festivals and nightlife, there's something for everyone.
At KABIN, we're at the heart of it all. Whether you're exploring the historic streets of Kyoto or the bustling avenues of Osaka, our hotels offer the perfect base for your adventures. Join us for our in-house events, relax in our comfortable accommodations, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Japan.
Book your stay with KABIN now and make the most of your May in Japan!
Are you falling in love, or is it just May in Kyoto?
