Last updated: January 18, 2025
Ishikawa, Japan, exhibits a complex climate characterized by the Köppen-Geiger classifications of Cfa and Dfb. This region experiences a significant temperature spectrum throughout the year, with winter lows plummeting to a frigid -10°C (15°F) in December. In contrast, the warmth of summer brings average temperatures around 15°C (60°F), soaring to an extreme 40°C (104°F) in August. These diverse climatic conditions contribute to Ishikawa's rich ecological and cultural tapestry, influencing agriculture, biodiversity, and the daily lives of its residents.
In Ishikawa, Japan, temperature patterns showcase a marked seasonal progression, transitioning from the chill of winter to the warmth of summer. January and February are characterized by cold temperatures, with minimums around -9°C (16°F) and -7°C (20°F), respectively. As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise, reaching averages of 8°C (47°F) in March and 12°C (54°F) in April, alongside a notable spike in maximums to 27°C (82°F). The summer months of June through August experience the region's peak warmth, with July and August presenting average temperatures of 26°C (78°F) and 27°C (82°F), respectively, and maximums soaring to 40°C (104°F). As autumn sets in, temperatures start to decline, with November experiencing cooler averages around 13°C (55°F) and December bringing a return to colder conditions, including a minimum of -10°C (15°F). This cyclical fluctuation highlights the distinct seasonal variations that define Ishikawa's climate.
In the region of Ishikawa, temperatures vary significantly throughout the year. Kanazawa experiences a minimum of -3°C (26°F) in December and a maximum of 35°C (95°F) in August, while Nanao sees slightly lower winter temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (24°F) in January, and a higher peak, reaching up to 39°C (103°F) in August. Similarly, Hakusan mirrors Kanazawa’s winter minimum of -3°C (26°F) in December and also reaches a maximum of 35°C (95°F) during the summer months. For more details on the climate, you can visit monthly temperatures in Kanazawa, monthly temperatures in Nanao, and monthly temperatures in Hakusan.
Ishikawa, Japan, experiences a notable pattern of precipitation throughout the year, with winter months demonstrating heightened rainfall. January sees the highest precipitation levels, with 179 mm (7.0 in) spread over 21 days, while December also brings substantial moisture with 224 mm (8.8 in) over 24 days. February and March observe a decline in precipitation, though they still maintain significant amounts of 149 mm (5.9 in) and 138 mm (5.4 in), respectively. This rainy winter season establishes a strong backdrop for the warmer months that follow.
As spring transitions into summer, rainfall patterns shift markedly. July and August are particularly wet, featuring the highest monthly totals of 285 mm (11.2 in) and 231 mm (9.1 in), respectively, with July also experiencing 17 rainy days. Although precipitation begins to taper off in September, it still remains considerable at 219 mm (8.6 in). The onset of autumn reintroduces consistent rainfall, with notable amounts recorded in October (182 mm (7.2 in)) and November (142 mm (5.6 in)). Overall, Ishikawa's precipitation reflects a dynamic climate influenced by seasonal changes, providing crucial water resources for its diverse ecosystems.
Sunshine duration in Ishikawa, Japan, exhibits a pronounced seasonal pattern, reflecting a steady increase from the cold winter months into the warmth of summer. In January, the region receives 158 hours of sunshine, a relatively low figure that gradually climbs to 202 hours in February. This upward trend continues as spring arrives, with March seeing 259 hours and April reaching 283 hours. The shift into late spring and early summer further accelerates this increase, culminating in May with an impressive 306 hours of sunshine, which marks the transition towards the sunniest months of the year.
The summer period, particularly during July and August, enjoys abundant sunshine, with August peaking at 310 hours, making it the month with the most sunlight. However, this duration begins to taper off as autumn sets in, with September recording 254 hours, and further declines in October (238 hours) and November (220 hours) as days grow shorter. By December, the year closes with 196 hours of sunshine. This cyclical pattern highlights not only the significant variation in light exposure throughout the year but also underscores the vital role sunlight plays in shaping Ishikawa's climate and ecological dynamics.
The UV Index in Ishikawa, Japan, reflects significant variations across the seasons, primarily influenced by the angle of the sun and cloud cover. Starting the year, January sees a moderate UV Index of 4, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes before skin damage may occur. As February rolls in, the index rises to 6, indicating high UV levels, with reduced exposure time of 25 minutes. March and April experience even more intense UV radiation, escalating to 8 and 10, classified as very high, with a minimal burn time of just 15 minutes by late April. This trend signifies the increasing risks associated with sun exposure as spring transitions to summer.
Summer months, particularly from May through August, showcase the highest levels of UV radiation, reaching an extreme index of 11. During this peak period, skin can begin to burn in as little as 10 minutes of exposure. As autumn approaches, September sees a slight dip to a UV Index of 10, while October and November present greater relief with indices of 7 and 5. By December, the index falls to 3, proving to be the safest month for sun exposure with a moderate classification. Understanding these UV Index trends is critical for promoting skin safety and awareness in Ishikawa's diverse climate throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Ishikawa, Japan, presents a clear seasonal pattern characterized by progressive changes throughout the year. In January, residents experience approximately 9 hours of daylight, which gradually increases to 10 hours in February and 11 hours by March. As spring unfolds, daylight hours expand significantly, peaking at 14 hours in both May and June, where the sun graces the region for longer periods, fostering vibrant outdoor activities and natural beauty.
Following the summer months, daylight duration begins to decline as autumn approaches. In July, daylight remains at a robust 14 hours, but this gradually tapers to 13 hours in August and 12 hours in September. As the year nears its end, October records 11 hours of daylight, while November and December see further reductions, returning to 10 hours and 9 hours, respectively. This cyclical rhythm of daylight hours not only influences the lifestyle and activities of Ishikawa's residents but also plays a pivotal role in the region's agricultural and ecological cycles.
Hakusan, Japan experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winter months, particularly January and February, feature average temperatures around 5°C (41°F) and considerable precipitation, peaking at 195 mm (7.7 in) in January. Summers are warm, with July and August averaging 26°C (78°F) and 27°C (82°F), while precipitation is high, especially in July at 286 mm (11.3 in). Sunshine duration peaks in August, offering over 300 hours of sunlight, making it the sunniest month. For more detailed information, visit Hakusan climate.
Kanazawa, Japan experiences a diverse climate, marked by cold winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from -3°C (28°F) in January to 35°C (95°F) in August, with notable warmth in late spring and summer. Precipitation is substantial, particularly in July (286 mm / 11.3 in) and August (237 mm / 9.3 in), while sunshine hours peak in August at 309 hours. This city enjoys a balance of rain and shine throughout the year, making it unique within Japan. For more detailed information, visit Kanazawa climate.
Nanao, Japan, experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -4°C to 16°C, while August can peak at a scorching 39°C. Precipitation is highest in July at 295 mm, contributing to the region's lush greenery. The city enjoys significant sunshine, particularly in May and August, with over 300 hours recorded. For more detailed climate information, visit Nanao climate.
Wajima, Japan, experiences a varied climate with distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold, with average temperatures around 5°C (42°F) and significant precipitation, peaking in January at 172 mm (6.8 in). Summers (June to August) are warm, reaching highs of 32°C (90°F) in July and August, although rainfall is also high, particularly in July with 238 mm (9.4 in). The region boasts a good amount of sunshine, with the sunniest months being May and August, each averaging over 310 hours. For more details, visit Wajima climate.
In conclusion, Ishikawa, Japan, is characterized by its distinct seasonal variations in climate, temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. These elements intertwine to create a rich environmental tapestry that influences the daily lives of its inhabitants. From the chilly, sun-limited winters to the warm, sun-drenched summers, the region experiences profound shifts that shape its landscape, agriculture, and recreational activities. Understanding these climatic trends is essential for mitigating heat and UV exposure during peak seasons, while also embracing the beauty and diversity of Ishikawa's natural environment across the changing year.