Last updated: January 18, 2025
Fukuoka, Japan, classified under the Cfa Koppen-Geiger climate zone, experiences a temperate humid climate characterized by significant seasonal temperature variability. In the coldest month of February, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -6°C (21°F), while the summer months can see heat peaks reaching a maximum of 38°C (101°F) in August. The city's average annual temperature hovers around a mild 17°C (63°F), reflecting a climate that supports vibrant seasonal changes and diverse ecological environments.
Fukuoka's temperature patterns exhibit notable seasonal fluctuations, beginning with the chilly winter months where January and February see minimums dropping to -6°C (21°F) and max temperatures only reaching the low 20s°C. As spring unfolds in March and April, temperatures gradually rise, with March averaging around 11°C (52°F) and April peaking at 29°C (84°F), heralding the arrival of warmer weather. May continues this upward trend, showcasing average highs of 32°C (89°F). The heat intensifies during the summer months of June through August, when temperatures frequently soar, hitting maximums of 38°C (101°F) in August. As autumn approaches, temperatures begin to cool, with September reflecting average highs around 35°C (96°F) before dipping significantly in October and November, where average low temperatures may drop to -3°C (27°F). Overall, Fukuoka's climate is defined by its stark contrasts between chilly winters, warming springs, hot summers, and mild autumns, contributing to a varied and vibrant seasonal cycle.
Dazaifu experiences a minimum temperature of -3°C (26°F) in February and a maximum of 37°C (100°F) in August, while Itoshima sees slightly milder temperatures with a minimum of -1°C (30°F) in January and a maximum of 36°C (97°F) in August. Similarly, Fukuoka shares a minimum of -3°C (26°F) in February and peaks at 37°C (100°F) in August. For more detailed monthly temperature insights, refer to the links for monthly temperatures in Dazaifu, monthly temperatures in Itoshima, and monthly temperatures in Fukuoka.
Fukuoka experiences a diverse precipitation pattern throughout the year, marked by a significant peak during the summer months. The year begins with relatively low rainfall in January at 55 mm (2.2 in) over approximately 7 days, followed by a slight increase in February with 77 mm (3.0 in) accumulated across 9 days. A more substantial rise is observed in March and April, where rainfall reaches 123 mm (4.8 in) and 115 mm (4.5 in), respectively, indicating the start of a wetter season leading into May, which records 161 mm (6.3 in) over 11 days.
The summer months of June and July are particularly noteworthy, with June receiving 200 mm (7.9 in) and July experiencing the highest monthly total of 353 mm (13.9 in) over 19 days, reflecting the influence of the rainy season. August follows suit with another substantial drop in precipitation to 280 mm (11.0 in), while September maintains a high level at 201 mm (7.9 in) over 14 days. As autumn arrives, rainfall begins to taper off, with October and November seeing declines to 115 mm (4.5 in) and 50 mm (2.0 in), respectively. This seasonal fluctuation in precipitation underscores Fukuoka’s shift from drier winters to distinctly wetter summers, shaping its overall climate.
Fukuoka’s sunshine duration showcases a clear seasonal trend, with hours of sunlight steadily increasing as the year progresses. Starting with the winter months, January sees the least sunshine at just 177 hours, which gradually rises to 233 hours in February. This upward trajectory continues into spring, where March and April enjoy 261 and 279 hours, respectively, culminating in May with an impressive 291 hours. This steady increase not only enhances the landscape's beauty but also stimulates outdoor activities as residents welcome the arrival of warmer weather.
Summer reaches the peak of sunshine duration in Fukuoka, with August capturing the highest total at 301 hours, providing long, sun-soaked days ideal for beachgoers. The sunshine levels remain consistent through June and July, with totals slightly below that of August at 273 and 274 hours. As autumn approaches, sunshine hours begin to decline, with September and October experiencing 253 and 252 hours respectively, while November sees a significant drop to 235 hours. Finally, December closes the year with 216 hours of sunshine, marking a gradual return to the shorter days typical of winter. This cycle of sunshine highlights Fukuoka's climate variability, allowing for vibrant seasons that cater to different outdoor pursuits and horticultural practices.
Fukuoka experiences notable fluctuations in UV Index levels throughout the year, reflecting the changing intensity of sunlight. The year begins with a moderate UV Index of 4 in January, allowing for longer exposure times of up to 30 minutes without significant risk of sunburn. As February rolls in, the index rises to 6, indicating a high exposure category, which decreases burn time to 25 minutes. By March, the UV Index escalates further to 8, classifying it as very high, prompting a heightened awareness of skin protection as burn times drop to just 15 minutes.
The peak of UV exposure occurs during the summer months, where the index reaches extreme levels of 11 in April, May, June, and September, and even 12 in July and August. During these months, the burn time shortens to a mere 10 minutes, necessitating proactive sun safety measures. As autumn settles in, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping to 8 in October and 6 in November, before returning to a moderate level of 4 in December. Overall, Fukuoka's UV Index emphasizes the importance of sun protection during the summer, while also reminding residents to remain mindful of UV exposure year-round.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Fukuoka, Japan, demonstrates a clear seasonal progression, gradually increasing as the year transitions from winter to summer. In January and February, the city experiences a consistent 10 hours of daylight, providing a brief window for outdoor activities during the colder months. As spring approaches, daylight begins to extend, reaching 11 hours in March and stabilizing at 13 hours in both April and May, allowing residents to enjoy longer evenings as temperatures rise.
Summer sees the longest days of the year, with daylight stretching to 14 hours in June and July, creating ideal conditions for various outdoor pursuits and social gatherings. As August rolls in, daylight decreases slightly to 13 hours, followed by a gradual decline as autumn sets in. By September, daylight reduces to 12 hours, then further to 11 hours in October. The transition into winter brings shorter days, culminating in December with only 9 hours of daylight. This rhythm of daylight not only shapes the daily lives of Fukuoka's residents but also contributes to the scenic beauty of each season as the duration of sunlight varies throughout the year.
Dazaifu, Japan, experiences a diverse climate characterized by warm summers and mild winters. January temperatures range from a minimum of -3°C (26°F) to a maximum of 17°C (63°F), gradually increasing to highs of 37°C (100°F) in August. Rainfall peaks in July at 367 mm (14.4 in), with the wettest months typically spanning from May to August. The region enjoys substantial sunshine, particularly in July and August, with up to 304 hours. For more detailed information, visit Dazaifu climate.
Fukuoka, Japan experiences a temperate climate with notable seasonal variations. Winters are chilly, with January average temperatures around 6°C (43°F) and lows dipping to -3°C (26°F), while summers are hot and humid, peaking in August with average temperatures of 28°C (83°F) and highs reaching 37°C (100°F). Precipitation is significant, especially in July, which sees an average of 367 mm (14.4 in) of rain, contributing to a vibrant environment. On average, Fukuoka enjoys considerable sunshine, peaking at 304 hours in August. For more detailed information on the weather patterns, visit Fukuoka climate.
Itoshima, Japan experiences a varied climate, with cold winters and hot summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of -1°C to a maximum of 17°C, gradually warming to highs of 36°C in August. Rainfall peaks in July with 321 mm, while the lightest precipitation occurs in November at 51 mm. The area enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in August, which boasts 304 hours of sunlight. For more detailed climate information, visit Itoshima climate.
The climate in Kasuga, Japan, features a broad temperature range throughout the year, ranging from harsh winter lows of -3°C (26°F) in January to summer highs reaching 37°C (100°F) in August. Precipitation is significant, particularly in July, which receives the most rainfall at 367 mm (14.4 in). The area enjoys a good amount of sunshine, with August boasting the highest at 304 hours. Overall, Kasuga experiences mild winters, hot summers, and a rainy season primarily in the summer months. For more detailed information, visit Kasuga climate.
Kawasaki, Japan experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by distinct seasons. Winter months, particularly January and February, can see temperatures drop to a minimum of -5°C (24°F) with moderate sunshine hours. The warmest months, July and August, reach maximum temperatures of up to 38°C (100°F), accompanied by heavy rainfall, particularly in July. Overall, Kawasaki enjoys a fair amount of sunshine year-round, with May and August offering the most. For more details, visit Kawasaki climate.
Kitakyushu, Japan, experiences a diverse climate characterized by distinct seasons. Winters can be chilly, with January temperatures ranging from -3°C to 17°C, while summers are hot and humid, peaking in July with maximums of 36°C. Precipitation is significant during the warmer months, particularly from June to August, where rainfall exceeds 250 mm monthly. Sunshine hours are abundant in summer, with August receiving the most sunlight at 301 hours. For more detailed information, visit Kitakyushu climate.
Yanagawa, Japan experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasons. Winter months, particularly January and February, can see minimum temperatures drop to -4°C (25°F), while summer peaks in July and August reach highs of 35°C (95°F) and 36°C (97°F), respectively. The area receives significant rainfall, especially in July, which averages 450 mm (17.7 in), contributing to its lush landscapes. Sunshine is abundant, with August boasting the highest hours at 296, providing ample opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. For more detailed information, you can check the Yanagawa climate.
In conclusion, Fukuoka, Japan, showcases a dynamic climate characterized by distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight hours. From the chilly winters with moderate sunshine to the sweltering summers marked by extreme UV exposure and prolonged daylight, the city's climate profoundly influences both the lifestyle and activities of its residents. The substantial fluctuations in weather patterns and sunshine hours underscore the importance of adapting to changing conditions throughout the year, fostering an appreciation for nature's cyclical rhythms. Understanding Fukuoka's climate not only enhances our awareness of environmental changes but also encourages proactive measures for sun safety and outdoor planning in this vibrant city.