[May travel Guide] 7 Must-Visit Destinations in May with Seasonal Highlights and Festive Vibes
28 Apr 2025
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May brings pleasantly mild weather — the ideal time to explore vibrant cultures and seasonal festivities around the world. We’ve rounded up 7 top destinations, from Japan and South Korea to Vietnam, each offering unique experiences and exciting events that only happen in May. With public holidays on the calendar, it’s the perfect opportunity to book your flight with HK Express and embark on an unforgettable journey from late spring into early summer.
Best places to visit in May 1｜Japan – Fukuoka
Fukuoka in May hosts the Hakata Dontaku Port Festival, a centuries-old traditional celebration and one of the city’s most iconic events. The streets come alive with colourful parades, traditional dances, and lively music performances. Visitors can fully immerse themselves in Japan’s cultural traditions while enjoying local delights like Hakata ramen and grilled skewers.
Scheduled date of the event: 3–4 May 2025
Weather in Fukuoka: Transitioning from spring to summer, with average temperatures between 16°C and 24°C.
Best places to visit in May 2｜Japan – Tokyo
In mid-May, Tokyo celebrates Kanda Matsuri, one of Japan’s three major festivals, with origins dating back to the Edo period. The area around Kanda Myojin Shrine comes alive with energy, as hundreds of people carry ornate mikoshi (portable shrines) through the streets, accompanied by traditional music and dance.
Festival Dates: Mid-May (Dates TBC)
Weather in Tokyo: Mild and pleasant, with average temperatures between 15°C and 23°C.
Best places to visit in May 3｜Japan – Okinawa
Located in southern Japan, Okinawa is known for its pristine blue seas and subtropical charm. In early May, Naha hosts the Hari Festival, a traditional dragon boat race with a history spanning centuries. Join locals and tourists at Naha Port to watch vibrant dragon boats race across the water in a lively, festive atmosphere.
Festival Dates: 3–5 May 2025
Weather in Okinawa: Early summer with average temperatures between 22°C and 28°C.
Best places to visit in May 4｜South Korea – Seoul
Held from April to May, the Taean Tulip Festival is just around two hours from Seoul. With hundreds of thousands of tulips in full bloom, visitors can marvel at a vibrant floral wonderland while enjoying the natural charm of late spring in Korea.
Festival Dates: 8 April– 6 May 2025
Weather in Seoul: Pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities, with average temperatures between 20°C and 25°C.
Best places to visit in May 5｜South Korea - Jeju Island
May is peak season for blooming canola flowers on Jeju Island. Fields of golden blossoms create a stunning contrast against the blue sea and sky — perfect for photo ops. Visitors can also explore natural attractions like Hallasan Mountain and Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak.
Weather in Jeju: Warm and comfortable, with average temperatures between 19°C and 22°C.
Best places to visit in May 6｜Vietnam - Da Nang
May brings ideal weather to Da Nang for exploring attractions like Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge. Visitors can also enjoy relaxing beach time and indulge in fresh seafood and delicious Vietnamese cuisine — affordable and flavourful.
Weather in Da Nang: Getting warmer, with average temperatures around 32°C to 34°C — perfect for water activities.
Best places to visit in May 7｜Japan – Komatsu
Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route opens from 15 April to 30 November, and May is one of the best times to witness the stunning snow walls and mountain scenery. Travel from Komatsu is convenient, and with HK Express launching exclusive direct flights to Komatsu starting 24 April, you can enjoy a smoother travel experience with three round-trip flights weekly.
Weather in Komatsu: Mild and suitable for outdoor activities, with average temperatures between 19°C and 23°C.