Climate Japan
Japan has a unique climate due to its location between subtropical and temperate zones. The country has all four seasons and a wide variety of temperatures and meteorological conditions.
Overall, Japan has something for everyone, from the splendor of the cherry blossoms in spring to the vibrant and colorful autumn foliage. There is no bad time to visit Japan, whether you want to explore the country's diverse culture or admire its natural beauty.
Variations by region
Japan is a long and thin country with different climates. Kyushu, Japan's southernmost island, has a subtropical climate with moderate winters and hot, humid summers. In contrast, the northern island of Hokkaido has a more moderate climate, with fresher winters and cool summers.
Spring in Japan
As the country recovers from the cold of winter, spring in Japan is a season of renewal and growth. Spring temperatures range on average from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius, while it can still be cold in some areas of the country.
The cherry blossom season, which usually lasts from late March to early April, is a popular time to visit Japan, as the country is awash with beautiful pink and white flowers.
Summer time in Japan
Summer in Japan is hot and humid, with temperatures averaging 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. Tsuyu, or the rainy season, usually lasts from June to mid-July and brings torrential rain and thunderstorms to many regions of the country. Summer is a popular time to visit Japan, despite the rain, as there are numerous outdoor festivals and activities to enjoy.
Japan in autumn
Autumn is a beautiful season in Japan, when the leaves change color and temperatures begin to drop. Autumn temperatures range from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius, making it a pleasant time to explore the country.
Fall foliage season often reaches its peak in mid-November, when trees turn red, orange and yellow in various regions of the country.
Japan in winter
Winter in Japan is chilly, with average temperatures ranging from 0 to 10 degrees Celsius across the country. On the northern island of Hokkaido, temperatures are considerably lower, and snow is common. Because of the low temperatures and snowfall, Japan offers a variety of winter sports, such as skiing, snowboarding and hot springs.
Climate Japan by month
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day temp. (°C) | 9 | 9 | 13 | 18 | 23 | 25 | 29 | 30 | 27 | 21 | 16 | 11 |
| Night temp. (°C) | 3 | 3 | 6 | 10 | 16 | 19 | 24 | 25 | 21 | 16 | 11 | 6 |
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
| Precipitation (mm) | 14 | 21 | 32 | 21 | 19 | 26 | 19 | 17 | 33 | 28 | 20 | 16 |
| Days with rain | 6 | 9 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Days with snow | 1 | 2 | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Dry days | 24 | 17 | 17 | 19 | 22 | 18 | 22 | 23 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 23 |
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
| Sun hours per day | 7 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 6 |
| Wind force (Bft) | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| UV-index | 3 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 3 |
