Pollen Count & Forecast for Kyoto

Kyoto’s spring allergy season (February–May) is dominated by Cedar and Cypress pollen; Japanese Cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) prolific in the Kitayama Mountains and Arashiyama; Japanese Cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa) widespread along the Higashiyama hills. Japanese Oak (Quercus serrata) contributes significantly from northern forest areas. Summer (May–August) has high Grass (Poaceae) pollen levels, originating from Kamo River and Katsura River banks.

The city’s basin geography traps air between surrounding mountain ranges. Autumn and winter have elevated Mould (Alternaria, Cladosporium) spore counts; spores are common in damp temple gardens and wooden structures. Decomposing leaf litter in the Gyoen National Garden raises seasonal spore levels.