Last updated: January 18, 2025
Kyoto, Japan, exhibits a Cfa climate classification according to the Köppen-Geiger system, characterized by a humid subtropical climate. The city experiences a wide temperature range throughout the year, with minimum temperatures plunging to -9°C (15°F) in February, showcasing its winter chill. Conversely, warm summer months see average highs reaching up to 39°C (102°F) in August, resulting in a vibrant and diverse seasonal experience. The average annual temperature hovers around 16°C (61°F), making Kyoto a city of profound climate contrasts that contributes to its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Kyoto, Japan, showcases distinct seasonal temperature patterns that reflect its humid subtropical climate. The year begins with cold winter months, where January and February experience minimum temperatures plunging to -9°C (15°F) and -9°C (17°F) respectively, gradually warming as March approaches. Spring ushers in a noticeable increase in warmth, peaking in April, with average temperatures rising to 14°C (57°F) and maximums reaching 28°C (82°F). The summer months of June through August are characterized by significant heat, with averages consistently above 27°C (80°F) and maximums soaring to nearly 39°C (102°F) in August. As the seasons transition to fall, temperatures begin to cool, with October experiencing an average temperature of 18°C (65°F), while November and December bring back the chill, with minimum temperatures again dipping to -9°C (17°F). This cyclical pattern highlights Kyoto's dynamic climate, resulting in vibrant seasonal variations that enhance the city's cultural landscape.
The temperatures in Uji, Arashiyama, and Kyoto exhibit similar extremes, with a minimum of -9°C (17°F) in December and a maximum of 37°C (98°F) in July. For detailed monthly temperature information, you can refer to Uji's climate data here, Arashiyama's climate data here, and Kyoto's climate data here.
Kyoto's precipitation patterns are marked by significant variation throughout the year, aligning closely with seasonal changes. The city experiences its highest rainfall during the summer months, particularly in July, which receives an impressive 300 mm (11.8 in) of precipitation over an average of 19 days. August also sees substantial rainfall at 209 mm (8.2 in) across 13 days, indicating a continuation of the summer monsoon effect. Conversely, winter months like January and February are relatively drier, with precipitation levels around 60 mm (2.4 in) and 67 mm (2.6 in) respectively, prevailing over 9 days each month.
As spring approaches, rainfall begins to increase significantly, particularly in March and April, with totals climbing to 120 mm (4.7 in) and 142 mm (5.6 in) over 12 and 10 days, respectively. May follows suit with 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, further emphasizing the gradual onset of wetter conditions as the region transitions into the summer months. Autumn also brings considerable rainfall, particularly in October, which records 232 mm (9.1 in) of precipitation over 12 days. In contrast, November experiences a marked decrease, with only 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain across 6 days, rounding out the year with drier conditions.
In Kyoto, the duration of sunshine exhibits a clear seasonal trend, characterized by a steady increase from the cold, muted days of winter towards the vibrant brightness of summer. January begins with 176 hours of sunshine, but as February unfolds, there is a notable uptick to 215 hours. This gradual ascent continues through the spring months, culminating in April and May, where the city enjoys 275 hours and 288 hours of sunshine, respectively. These longer, sun-filled days not only enhance the beauty of Kyoto’s landscapes but also encourage outdoor activities amidst the blooming cherry blossoms.
As summer peaks, August emerges as the sunniest month, boasting an impressive 297 hours of sunshine. This is followed closely by September, which experiences a slight decrease to 237 hours but remains well above the winter totals. Autumn sees sunshine hours tapering off again, with October and November recording 232 hours and 229 hours respectively, yet still eclipsing the figures from the early months of the year. The end of the year brings back the shorter days; December dips to 211 hours, embracing the transition back to winter. This cyclical pattern reveals how Kyoto's climate allows for a rich tapestry of seasonal experiences, each offering unique opportunities for sunlight appreciation and outdoor exploration.
In Kyoto, the UV Index presents a distinct seasonal pattern that reflects the changing intensity of sunlight throughout the year. Starting with a moderate UV Index of 4 in January, residents and visitors can enjoy winter activities with a relatively lower risk of UV exposure. However, as February approaches, the UV Index rises to 6, categorized as high, reducing the safe burn time to 25 minutes. The index continues to soar during the spring months, reaching 8 in March and climbing to 11 in both April and May, indicative of extreme exposure risk, with safe burn times dropping to just 10 minutes. This dramatic increase highlights the need for diligent sun protection as the days grow longer and brighter.
The summer months are characterized by peak UV levels, with the UV Index hitting 12 in both July and August, maintaining an extreme exposure category and a reduced burn time of 10 minutes. After the summer, September sees a slight decrease to 10, but risk remains very high, necessitating caution. As autumn transitions in, the UV Index drops to 7 in October, then further to 5 and 3 in November and December, returning to moderate levels with burn times extending back to 30 minutes. This fluctuation underscores the importance of understanding seasonal UV exposure in Kyoto to ensure adequate sun safety measures throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
In Kyoto, the duration of daylight exhibits a clear seasonal cycle, beginning with 10 hours of daylight in both January and February. As spring approaches, a gradual increase occurs, with daylight extending to 11 hours in March and further increasing to 13 hours during the months of April and May. This surge in daylight hours not only heralds the arrival of warmer weather but also offers residents and visitors more opportunities to engage in outdoor activities amidst the blossoming scenery of the cherry blossoms and lush landscapes.
The summer months bring the longest days, with daylight reaching a peak of 14 hours in both June and July, creating ideal conditions for leisurely pursuits and exploration. However, as August transitions into September, daylight gradually decreases to 12 hours. The decline continues through the autumn months, with October seeing 11 hours of daylight, followed by a reduction to 10 hours in November. By December, daylight dwindles to 9 hours, marking the return to shorter winter days. This rhythmic fluctuation in daylight highlights the changing seasons in Kyoto, providing a dynamic backdrop to the city's cultural and natural beauty throughout the year.
Arashiyama, Japan experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with cold winters and hot, humid summers. January sees minimum temperatures drop to -9°C (17°F), while July and August can reach highs of 37°C (98°F). Precipitation peaks in summer, particularly in July with 324 mm (12.7 in), while sunshine reaches its maximum in August at 295 hours. The region's mild spring and fall seasons offer comfortable temperatures, averaging around 12°C (53°F) to 18°C (64°F). For more detailed information, visit Arashiyama climate.
Kamigyo-ku, Japan experiences a diverse climate throughout the year. Winters are cold, with January temperatures ranging from -7°C to 16°C and significant snowfall, while summers can be hot and humid, with July temperatures soaring up to 37°C. Rainfall peaks in July at 324 mm and remains relatively high until October. Despite the precipitation, sunlight hours are plentiful, especially in August, reaching up to 295 hours. For more detailed information, visit Kamigyo-ku climate.
Kyoto, Japan experiences a distinct climate with cold winters and hot, humid summers. Temperatures range from a minimum of -9°C (17°F) in December to a maximum of 37°C (98°F) in July and August. Precipitation is highest during the summer months, particularly in July (324 mm) and July (228 mm), while January and November are relatively drier. The city enjoys ample sunshine, especially in August (295 hours). For more details, check out Kyoto climate.
Miyazu, Japan experiences a varied climate characterized by cold winters and hot summers. January temperatures range from a chilling -3°C (27°F) to a mild 17°C (63°F), while July sees averages between 20°C (68°F) and 37°C (99°F). Precipitation peaks in the summer months, particularly in July with 321 mm (12.6 in), while sunshine is abundant in August, offering 295 hours. Overall, Miyazu's climate features distinct seasonal transitions, making it a fascinating destination year-round. For more details, visit Miyazu climate.
Uji, Japan experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and hot, humid summers. January temperatures range from a chilly -7°C to a mild 16°C, while July and August peak at around 37°C. Rainfall is abundant during the summer months, particularly in July, with around 324 mm of precipitation. Sunshine is moderately high, particularly in August, which boasts 295 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Uji climate.
In conclusion, Kyoto's climate exhibits a captivating interplay of temperature, precipitation, sunshine, UV Index, and daylight duration throughout the year. The city experiences a range of weather conditions, from the chill of winter to the warmth of summer, alongside notable increases in sunshine hours and UV exposure during the warmer months. This dynamic climate not only enriches Kyoto's stunning seasonal landscapes but also influences outdoor activities and cultural events, allowing residents and visitors to experience the city's unique charm year-round. Understanding these climatic patterns is essential for appreciating Kyoto's natural beauty and for ensuring appropriate preparations for seasonal changes, ultimately enhancing the overall experience of this historically and culturally rich destination.