Last updated: January 18, 2025
Kagawa, Japan, is characterized by a Cfa climate type according to the Köppen-Geiger classification, indicating a humid subtropical climate. This region experiences a wide temperature range, with January temperatures dipping as low as -6°C (21°F), while July can soar up to a sweltering 34°C (94°F). The average annual temperature hovers around 16°C (62°F), reflecting the distinct seasonal variations that define Kagawa's weather patterns, shaping both its ecology and human activities throughout the year.
Kagawa, Japan, exhibits distinct seasonal temperature patterns throughout the year. The winter months of January and February are marked by colder temperatures, with minimums dropping as low as -6°C (21°F) and -6°C (22°F), respectively, while average temperatures linger around 6°C (44°F). As spring arrives, temperatures begin to rise, peaking in April, where averages reach 14°C (58°F) and maximums hit 24°C (76°F). The transition into summer sees a dramatic shift, with July and August marking the hottest months, featuring averages around 26°C (79°F) and 28°C (82°F), alongside maximums frequently soaring to 34°C (94°F). The onset of autumn brings a gradual cooling, returning to average figures of 19°C (67°F) in October and dropping further through November and December, where temperatures again approach winter lows. This cyclical pattern of cool winters, moderate springs, hot summers, and mild autumns shapes the climate experience in Kagawa.
Takamatsu experiences a temperature range from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) in January to a maximum of 34°C (93°F) in September. This variation highlights the city's distinct seasonal changes, making it an interesting destination year-round. For more detailed monthly temperature information, visit monthly temperatures in Takamatsu.
Precipitation in Kagawa, Japan, exhibits a clear seasonal rhythm, characterized by the highest levels during the summer months. January and February feature relatively low rainfall, with 49 mm (1.9 in) and 64 mm (2.5 in), respectively, and an average of 7 to 8 rainy days. As spring progresses, precipitation increases dramatically, peaking in March with 105 mm (4.1 in) and continuing to rise through April and May, culminating in 131 mm (5.2 in) by late spring. The region experiences a notable shift in June, where rainfall escalates to 169 mm (6.7 in), setting the stage for the summer monsoon.
The summer months are the wettest in Kagawa, with July recording a staggering 294 mm (11.6 in) of rainfall over 16 days, followed by August with 146 mm (5.7 in) across 10 rainy days. As the season transitions into autumn, precipitation remains significant, with September seeing 196 mm (7.7 in) and October even higher at 230 mm (9.0 in). The frequency of rainy days during this period is also noteworthy, averaging 12 days in October, before dipping again in November to 50 mm (2.0 in) over 6 days. This seasonal variability in precipitation not only influences the local climate but also shapes the region’s agricultural practices and water management strategies throughout the year.
In Kagawa, Japan, sunshine duration showcases a clear progression from winter through to summer, reflecting the seasonal changes typical of the region. The year begins with January, offering a modest 182 hours of sunshine, which gradually increases to 230 hours in February. This upward trend continues into spring, with March registering 266 hours and peaking in May at 299 hours. The consistent growth in sunlight during these months not only contributes to the blossoming of flora but also encourages outdoor activities as residents emerge from the winter months.
Summer brings the highest sunshine duration, with August standing out as the most sun-drenched month, boasting 310 hours of glorious sunlight. Following closely, July and June provide ample sunshine with 281 hours and 284 hours, respectively. However, as autumn approaches, the sunshine hours begin to wane, with September dropping to 255 hours and October further declining to 245 hours. Notably, November and December have 235 hours and 217 hours of sunshine, respectively, indicating a gradual return to winter's shorter days. Overall, the fluctuation in sunshine hours throughout the year not only highlights Kagawa's climatic diversity but also deepens the appreciation for its vibrant seasonal shifts.
The UV Index in Kagawa, Japan, displays significant seasonal variation, with distinct peaks during the warmer months. January begins with a moderate UV Index of 4, allowing for approximately 30 minutes of safe sun exposure. As winter transitions to spring, the UV Index rises steadily; February reaches 6 (high exposure risk) and March escalates to 8 (very high). By April, the Index hits 11, categorizing it as extreme and reducing the safe exposure time to just 10 minutes. This pattern underscores the increasing need for sun protection as the days become longer and sunnier.
Summer in Kagawa brings the most intense UV radiation, with July and August both reaching a peak UV Index of 12, categorized as extreme, necessitating immediate sun safety precautions. The burn time during these months remains short, at just 10 minutes. As autumn approaches, the UV levels begin to decrease; September sees a UV Index of 10 (very high), followed by a drop to 7 in October (high) and 6 in November. Finally, December ends the year with a return to a moderate UV Index of 4, similar to January. This annual cycle emphasizes the importance of vigilance and protective measures against UV exposure, particularly during the peak summer months.
UV Risk Categories
In Kagawa, Japan, daylight duration exhibits a dynamic seasonal pattern that influences daily life and activities throughout the year. The year starts with a modest 10 hours of daylight in both January and February, providing a stable but limited amount of sunlight. As spring approaches in March, daylight begins to increase, stretching to 11 hours and continuing this upward trajectory into April and May, where it reaches 13 hours. By June, daylight peaks at 14 hours, allowing residents to fully embrace outdoor activities as nature awakens from winter.
As summer transitions into autumn, daylight duration gradually decreases, maintaining 14 hours in July before declining to 13 hours in August. September sees daylight reduced to 12 hours, and this pattern continues into October and November, where daylight returns to 11 hours and 10 hours, respectively. As the year concludes, December experiences the shortest daylight span at 9 hours, marking the onset of winter. This annual fluctuation in daylight not only shapes the rhythm of daily life in Kagawa but also enhances the appreciation for the changing seasons.
Takamatsu, Japan experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winter months, particularly January and February, see average temperatures around 6°C (43°F) and modest snowfall, while summer peak temperatures in July and August can reach up to 33°C (92°F). Precipitation is highest in July, with 295 mm (11.6 in), contributing to the region's lush landscapes. The area enjoys a good amount of sunshine, especially in August, with around 310 hours recorded. For more details, visit Takamatsu climate.
In conclusion, Kagawa, Japan, showcases a diverse and dynamic climate characterized by distinct seasonal changes in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. From the chilly, less sunny winters to the hot summer months filled with abundant sunshine and extreme UV levels, the region's weather patterns significantly impact both the environment and the lifestyle of its residents. With a clear understanding of these climatic factors, individuals can better prepare for seasonal variations, embracing outdoor activities during the sunnier months while adopting protective measures during peak UV exposure. This comprehensive overview of Kagawa's climate underscores the importance of seasonal awareness in promoting a healthier and more enjoyable living experience.