Last updated: January 18, 2025
Kanagawa, Japan, is characterized by a Cfa climate classification, indicative of a humid subtropical climate. This region experiences a wide temperature range, with January temperatures dipping as low as -9°C (17°F), while the summer months can soar to a maximum of 36°C (96°F) in August. The annual average temperature hovers around 16°C (61°F), highlighting the seasonal variability that defines the area's distinct weather patterns. This dynamic climate fosters diverse ecosystems and influences the local culture and lifestyle.
In Kanagawa, Japan, temperature patterns reveal a distinct seasonal progression, with a notable range from frigid winter lows to hot summer peaks. January marks the coldest month, where temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -9°C (17°F), gradually warming through February and March, culminating in a mild average of 10°C (51°F) by March. As spring arrives in April, temperatures rise significantly, reaching an average of 14°C (57°F) and peaking at 26°C (79°F). The warmth continues into May, with averages climbing to 18°C (65°F), while June heralds the arrival of summer, averaging 21°C (70°F). The peak summer months of July and August experience the highest temperatures, with averages soaring to 25°C (77°F) and 27°C (80°F) respectively, and maximums reaching up to 36°C (96°F). As autumn descends in September, temperatures begin to taper off, leading into the cooler months of October and November. By December, the cycle returns with temperatures dropping again, showcasing Kanagawa's dynamic climate and distinct seasonal variations.
Kawasaki and Yokohama both experience similar temperature ranges, with January lows dipping to -3°C (27°F) and July highs reaching up to 35°C (95°F) as detailed in their respective climate profiles: monthly temperatures in Kawasaki and monthly temperatures in Yokohama. In contrast, Kamakura has warmer January temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (34°F), while its maximum in August reaches 31°C (87°F), as shown in the link for monthly temperatures in Kamakura.
Kanagawa, Japan, experiences a varied precipitation pattern throughout the year, with rainfall significantly peaking in the late summer and early autumn months. January and February are relatively dry, with precipitation amounts of 62 mm (2.4 in) and 65 mm (2.6 in), respectively, and few rainy days, averaging just 6 and 9 days. As spring progresses into March, rainfall increases markedly to 175 mm (6.9 in), accompanied by about 13 days of rain. The wettest months arrive in June and July, with precipitation levels soaring to 200 mm (7.9 in) and 254 mm (10.0 in), highlighting the onset of the rainy season and increasing to 15 to 18 rainy days.
As summer transitions to autumn, September marks a continuation of high precipitation with 216 mm (8.5 in) over approximately 18 days, while October experiences the highest rainfall of the year at 314 mm (12.3 in), spanning 17 days. November and December see a substantial drop in rainfall, with totals of 100 mm (3.9 in) and 77 mm (3.0 in), reflecting a drier landscape as the year draws to a close. This pronounced seasonal variation in precipitation not only influences local ecosystems but also affects the agricultural practices and cultural activities within the region.
In Kanagawa, Japan, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal rhythm, with a notable increase from the winter to summer months. January begins the year with 189 hours of sunlight, gradually rising through February to 228 hours. This upward trend continues into spring, with March witnessing 256 hours and April enjoying even more at 269 hours. May marks a turning point, as the region basks in 284 hours of sunshine, showcasing the blossoming vitality of the season and hinting at the warmth yet to come.
The summer months reveal Kanagawa's peak sunshine, particularly in August, when the region basks in an impressive 291 hours of sunlight. This bright period is complemented by July’s substantial 237 hours, though it experiences a slight decrease as the rainy season approaches. As autumn settles in, September sees a decline to 238 hours, followed by October's drop to 204 hours. Despite these decreases, November and December maintain relatively consistent sunlight hours, with 228 and 229 hours, respectively. Overall, the dramatic seasonal variation not only marks the passage of time but also significantly influences the region's climate and lifestyle.
In Kanagawa, Japan, the UV Index reveals significant seasonal variations that highlight the need for sun protection throughout the year. January begins with a moderate UV Index of 4, indicating a burn time of 30 minutes. As winter transitions into spring, February sees an increase to a high UV Index of 6, reducing the safe exposure time to 25 minutes. March and April experience very high levels, with UV Index values of 8 and 10, respectively, both featuring a burn time of 15 minutes. This upward trend culminates in May and June, when the UV Index reaches an extreme level of 11, allowing only 10 minutes of safe sun exposure.
Summer months trigger the highest UV Index readings, with July peaking at 12, indicating severe sun exposure risk, followed closely by August at 11. As autumn approaches, the UV Index begins to taper off, dropping to 10 in September before declining further to a high level of 7 in October. The year concludes with November and December showing moderate UV Index levels of 5 and 4, respectively, effectively returning to longer permissible exposure times of 30 minutes. These fluctuations underscore the importance of adapting sun safety measures in response to Kanagawa's changing UV conditions throughout the seasons.
UV Risk Categories
In Kanagawa, Japan, daylight duration undergoes a pronounced seasonal cycle that reflects the region's geographical position. The year begins with 10 hours of daylight in both January and February, creating relatively equal and shorter days at the onset of winter. As spring arrives in March, daylight increases to 11 hours, followed by a more substantial jump to 13 hours in April. The progression towards summer continues, reaching 14 hours of daylight in both May and June, encapsulating the abundance of sunlight that typically characterizes this vibrant season.
As summer transitions into autumn, daylight hours begin to wane slightly. July maintains the 14 hours mark, but August sees a gradual decrease to 13 hours. By September, daylight further reduces to 12 hours, followed by a continued decline through October and November, where both months average 11 and 10 hours, respectively. The year culminates in December with the shortest daylight duration of just 9 hours, signifying the return to winter's longer nights. This rhythmic variation in daylight not only affects the natural environment but also influences local activities, cultural events, and community life throughout the year.
Fujisawa, Japan experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are mild, with January temperatures averaging around 8°C (47°F) and minimal precipitation, while summers are warm and humid, peaking in August with average temperatures of 27°C (80°F) and a significant rainfall of 129 mm (5.1 in). The wettest months occur in June and July, with rainfall exceeding 200 mm (7.9 in). Sunshine is abundant, especially in late spring and summer, providing an average of 286 hours in May and 297 hours in August. For more detailed information, visit Fujisawa climate.
Hakone, Japan experiences a diverse climate, with winter temperatures ranging from -7°C (19°F) in January to a milder 5°C (41°F) in February. As spring arrives, temperatures gradually rise, peaking at an average of 17°C (63°F) in May. The summer months of July and August are warm, with averages around 24°C (76°F) and 26°C (79°F), respectively, accompanied by significant rainfall, especially in July, which receives 321 mm (12.6 in) of precipitation. Autumn sees a decrease in temperatures and rainfall, with October being particularly wet at 360 mm (14.2 in). Overall, Hakone offers a unique climate characterized by distinct seasonal changes, making it a captivating destination year-round. For more information, visit Hakone climate.
Hayama, Japan experiences a temperate climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from 1°C to 18°C, while August peaks at a warm 31°C. The region receives significant rainfall, particularly in October with 303 mm, contributing to its lush landscapes. Sunshine is abundant, especially in August with 297 hours, making it the sunniest month. For more detailed weather information, visit Hayama climate.
Kamakura, Japan, experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are mild with January temperatures averaging 8°C (47°F) and moderate precipitation, while summers, particularly in August, can reach an average of 27°C (80°F) accompanied by higher rainfall, especially in July and October. Notably, the area receives a good amount of sunshine, peaking in May and August with over 280 hours. For more details on weather patterns, visit Kamakura climate.
Kawasaki, Japan experiences a temperate climate characterized by distinct seasonal variations. Winter months see temperatures ranging from -3°C (27°F) to 18°C (65°F), while summers can soar up to 35°C (95°F). Rainfall is most significant during July (209 mm) and October (266 mm), contributing to a yearly average of precipitation, with May and June also receiving substantial amounts. Notably, August boasts the highest sunshine hours (288), providing a bright and warm end to summer. For more details on weather patterns, visit Kawasaki climate.
Miura, Japan experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winter temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) in January to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), while summers are considerably warmer, reaching up to 31°C (87°F) in August. Precipitation is highest in the summer months, particularly July and October, with over 200 mm (7.9 in) of rain in those months. Sunshine hours peak in August, providing ample daylight despite occasional rain. For more detailed information, visit Miura climate.
Odawara, Japan experiences a temperate climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from 0°C to 17°C, while July peaks at around 30°C. Precipitation is significant, especially in the late summer and autumn months, with October receiving up to 346 mm of rainfall. The city enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in May and August with over 280 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Odawara climate.
Yokohama, Japan experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Winters are mild, with January temperatures ranging from -3°C to 18°C, while summers are hot and humid, particularly in July and August, where temperatures can reach up to 35°C. Rainfall is prevalent, especially in the summer months, with July receiving 209 mm, contributing to an annual total that supports lush vegetation. Sunshine is abundant, peaking in May and August with over 280 hours of sun, making these months ideal for outdoor activities. For more details, visit Yokohama climate.
Yokosuka, Japan experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Winters are cool, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C (47°F) in January to 11°C (51°F) in December, and moderate rainfall peaking in March at 155 mm (6.1 in). Summers are warm and humid, featuring average highs of 27°C (81°F) in October, with the warmest month being August, hitting 32°C (89°F). The city enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in August with 297 hours. For more details, visit Yokosuka climate.
Yugawara, Japan experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -7°C (19°F) in January to a warm 35°C (95°F) in August. Precipitation is significant, peaking at 360 mm (14.2 in) in October, while June and July also see heavy rainfall of 234 mm (9.2 in) and 321 mm (12.6 in), respectively. Sunshine hours are abundant, particularly in August with 285 hours, providing a pleasant summer atmosphere. This region's unique climate allows for a distinct seasonal variation, making it an interesting place to explore. For more details, visit Yugawara climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Kanagawa, Japan, is characterized by its distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. As the region transitions from the cold winters to warm summers, residents experience a diverse array of weather patterns, influencing both the natural landscape and daily activities. The pronounced changes in sunlight and UV exposure throughout the year stress the importance of sun safety, particularly during the height of summer. Understanding these climatic trends not only enriches local cultural practices but also aids in preparing for agricultural cycles and outdoor pursuits. Overall, Kanagawa's climate offers a fascinating interplay of elements, making it a unique setting for both residents and visitors alike.