Last updated: January 18, 2025
Shiga, Japan, experiences a Cfa climate according to the Köppen-Geiger classification, characterized by a humid subtropical atmosphere. This region exhibits significant temperature variations throughout the year, with a minimum of -11°C (13°F) reached in February, highlighting the winter chill. As the seasons transition, the average temperature settles around 15°C (60°F), indicative of a mild climate favorable for diverse flora and fauna. In contrast, the summer months bring sweltering heat, peaking at a maximum of 38°C (101°F) during August. This dynamic range of temperatures contributes to Shiga's rich natural landscapes and seasonal biodiversity.
Shiga, Japan, exhibits distinct seasonal temperature patterns influenced by its humid subtropical climate. Winter months, particularly January and February, reveal cold conditions, with minimum temperatures dropping to -11°C (13°F) in February and average highs around 20°C (69°F). As spring arrives in March and April, temperatures gradually rise, with March seeing a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and average highs reaching 27°C (81°F) by late April. The transition to summer brings warmth and humidity, peaking in July and August with maximum temperatures soaring to 38°C (101°F), while nighttime lows remain relatively mild. The onset of autumn in September and October marks a cooling trend, with September temperatures averaging 24°C (75°F) before declining to 6°C (43°F) by October. The year closes with winter's return in November and December, where temperatures dip again, particularly in November, which sees minimums around -1°C (31°F). This cyclical variation creates a rich tapestry of climatic conditions throughout the year in Shiga.
Hikone experiences a winter minimum of -11°C (13°F) in February and a summer maximum of 36°C (98°F) in August, while Omihachiman sees a slightly milder winter minimum of -10°C (14°F) and a higher summer maximum at 37°C (99°F) in the same month. Kusatsu, on the other hand, has a winter low of -7°C (19°F) in December, but boasts an impressive maximum of 38°C (101°F) in August. For more details, visit monthly temperatures in Hikone, monthly temperatures in Omihachiman, and monthly temperatures in Kusatsu.
Shiga, Japan, experiences a varied precipitation pattern throughout the year, with distinct wet and dry seasons shaping its climate. The winter months, January and February, bring relatively modest rainfall, with 61 mm (2.4 in) and 66 mm (2.6 in) respectively, and storms occurring over approximately nine days each month. As spring progresses, precipitation begins to increase, peaking in April with 148 mm (5.8 in), contributing to the region's lush landscapes. May and June witness further increases, with rainfall reaching 156 mm (6.1 in) and 167 mm (6.6 in), respectively, as the area prepares for the summer months.
The summer season, particularly July, is marked by significant rainfall, with a striking 299 mm (11.8 in) recorded over approximately 21 days, making it the wettest month of the year. August follows with substantial precipitation as well, totaling 199 mm (7.8 in) across 14 days. As autumn sets in, rainfall remains notable, especially in October at 244 mm (9.6 in). However, in contrast, the months of November and December see a sharp decline in precipitation, with 51 mm (2.0 in) and 77 mm (3.0 in) respectively, bringing cooler, drier conditions and signaling the return of winter.
Shiga, Japan, showcases a noticeable progression in sunshine duration as the seasons change, with a steady rise in hours from winter to summer. January begins the year with a modest 177 hours of sunshine, gradually increasing to 216 hours in February. The arrival of spring brings a more significant boost, as March sees an increase to 259 hours, followed by a further rise to 271 hours in April and 284 hours in May. This upward trend not only signifies the increasing warmth but also highlights a shift toward longer daylight hours, enhancing outdoor activities and contributing to the vibrant blooming of flora.
The peak sunshine month arrives in August, where Shiga enjoys an impressive 293 hours in total. Following the summer months, sunshine duration begins to taper off, with September recording 235 hours and October slightly less at 232 hours. The trend of diminishing sunlight continues into the cooler months of November and December, where sunshine hours drop to 229 hours and 212 hours, respectively. This seasonal fluctuation emphasizes the region's transition from the bright and warm summer days to the more subdued winter light, reflecting Shiga's distinct climatic characteristics.
The UV Index in Shiga, Japan, varies considerably throughout the year, reflecting seasonal changes that significantly affect sun exposure and skin protection needs. In winter, January shows a moderate UV Index of 4, with a recommended burn time of 30 minutes. As February approaches, the Index climbs to 6, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. The arrival of spring brings even greater intensity, with March reaching an Index of 8 and April peaking at 10, both categorized as very high and necessitating vigilant sun protection measures.
The summer months pose the greatest risk, as the UV Index remains at an extreme level of 11 from May through August. During this period, individuals are advised to limit sun exposure to just 10 minutes to avoid skin damage. Even into the early autumn, the UV Index remains elevated, with 10 in September, before gradually decreasing to 7 in October. By November and December, the UV Index drops to 5 and 3, respectively, indicating a return to moderate levels of sun exposure, allowing for more relaxed sun safety strategies as winter sets in.
UV Risk Categories
In Shiga, Japan, daylight duration fluctuates throughout the year, marking the transition through each season with notable variations. During the winter months of January and February, the region experiences about 10 hours of daylight, providing a consistent but shorter period of sunlight. As spring approaches in March, daylight begins to extend, increasing to 11 hours, while April and May see a further boost to 13 hours. This gradual increase not only illuminates the landscape but also heralds the arrival of warmer temperatures and the blossoming of nature.
The summer months of June and July reach their peak with 14 hours of daylight, allowing for extended outdoor activities and ample sunlight. As the season shifts into late summer and early autumn, daylight begins to recede, returning to 13 hours in August, followed by a slight drop to 12 hours in September. This trend continues into the fall, with daylight decreasing to 11 hours in October, and further to 10 hours in November, ultimately culminating in December's shorter days with only 9 hours of daylight. These seasonal shifts in daylight duration reflect Shiga's dynamic climate and provide a rhythm that influences the local lifestyle and activities year-round.
Hikone, Japan experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are cold, with January temperatures averaging around 4°C (39°F), while July and August bring warm, humid conditions, peaking at 36°C (97°F) and 98°F, respectively. Precipitation is abundant, especially during the summer months, with July receiving the highest average rainfall of 345 mm (13.6 in). The region also enjoys a fair amount of sunshine, peaking at 292 hours in August. For more detailed information, visit Hikone climate.
The climate in Konan, Japan, features cold winters and hot, humid summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of -7°C to a maximum of 15°C, while July sees highs reaching up to 37°C. Precipitation is highest in July, totaling 253 mm, with the region experiencing significant rainfall in spring and early summer. Sunshine hours peak in August, providing an average of 292 hours for the month. For more information, visit Konan climate.
Kusatsu, Japan experiences a humid continental climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are cold, with January temperatures ranging from -7°C to 15°C and moderate snowfall, while summers are warm, peaking in July and August with temperatures between 18°C and 38°C. Precipitation is highest during the summer months, particularly in July (253 mm), contributing to lush greenery. The area benefits from ample sunshine, especially in May and August, with up to 282 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Kusatsu climate.
Omihachiman, Japan, experiences a diverse climate, with cold winters and hot, humid summers. January and February see average temperatures around 4°C (39°F) and significant snowfall, while summer months like July and August can peak at 36°C (98°F) and 37°C (99°F), respectively. Precipitation is highest from June to October, with July receiving about 286 mm (11.3 in). Sunshine hours are abundant, especially in August with 292 hours, providing a pleasant summer atmosphere. For more details, visit Omihachiman climate.
In conclusion, Shiga, Japan, experiences a diverse climate characterized by distinct seasonal patterns in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. From the cold winters with limited daylight to the warm, sun-drenched summers, each season presents unique opportunities and challenges for residents and visitors alike. The significant rise in temperatures and sunshine from spring to summer, coupled with the peak UV Index, underscores the importance of sun protection during these months. Conversely, the shorter days and moderate UV levels in winter and fall provide a different atmosphere, encouraging indoor activities and seasonal celebrations. Understanding these climatic fluctuations enriches the appreciation of Shiga's environment and informs sustainable practices for living harmoniously within its diverse weather patterns.