Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Shizuoka, Japan, is classified under the Cfa category of the Köppen-Geiger climate classification, indicating a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The temperature experiences significant variation, with a minimum of −9°C (16°F) recorded in January and an average of 17°C (62°F) throughout the year. In stark contrast, August sees temperatures soar to a maximum of 42°C (107°F), illustrating the region's potential for extreme heat during the summer months. This climatic profile highlights Shizuoka's distinct seasonal transitions and its implications for local ecology and human activities.
Shizuoka, Japan, showcases a diverse range of temperature patterns throughout the year, reflecting the shift from winter to summer and back. The winter months, particularly January and February, are characterized by minimum temperatures reaching as low as -9°C (16°F), with averages around 7°C (45°F), progressively warming by March when averages rise to 11°C (52°F). As spring advances into April and May, daytime temperatures escalate notably, with maximums peaking at 28°C (83°F) and 32°C (90°F) respectively, creating a warming trend. The summer months of June, July, and August bring intense heat, with temperatures soaring to a maximum of 42°C (107°F) in August, accompanied by consistently high average temperatures in the mid- to high 20s degrees Celsius. Following this peak, temperatures begin to soften in September and October, with averages dipping back to around 20°C (68°F) by late autumn, before winter returns in December, bringing a cool average of 10°C (50°F) and minimums that can fall back below freezing. This seasonal cycle illustrates Shizuoka's pronounced climate variability, making it a region of significant temperature contrasts.
Fuji experiences a minimum temperature of -7°C (20°F) in January and a maximum of 34°C (94°F) in August, while both Izu and Atami have slightly higher minimums of -2°C (29°F) in January, with all three locations reaching the same peak of 34°C (94°F) during the summer. For more detailed monthly temperatures, you can explore monthly temperatures in Fuji, monthly temperatures in Izu, and monthly temperatures in Atami.
Shizuoka, Japan, experiences a distinctive precipitation pattern throughout the year, with rainfall peaking during the summer and early autumn months. January begins relatively dry with 64 mm (2.5 in) of rainfall spread over 5 days, but February sees an increase to 86 mm (3.4 in) over 7 days. As spring approaches, March marks a dramatic rise to 193 mm (7.6 in) across 12 days, while April and May follow suit with 185 mm (7.3 in) and 210 mm (8.3 in), respectively. The wettest months are found in the summer, with June leading at 276 mm (10.9 in) and July reaching its peak with a staggering 397 mm (15.6 in) over 20 days, underscoring the region's humid subtropical climate.
The transition into late summer and autumn brings about significant rainfall as well, with August experiencing 203 mm (8.0 in) and September slightly higher at 241 mm (9.5 in). October stands out with 310 mm (12.2 in), contributing to the region's overall average annual precipitation. As the year winds down, November and December see a marked decrease, with 102 mm (4.0 in) and 78 mm (3.1 in), respectively, reflecting fewer rainy days—10 days in November and 7 days in December. This seasonal variation in precipitation plays a crucial role in shaping Shizuoka's lush landscapes and vibrant ecosystems.
In Shizuoka, Japan, the duration of sunshine displays a clear seasonal progression, with a consistent increase from winter into summer. January starts with a modest 190 hours of sunshine, gradually rising as the months advance. By March, sunshine hours reach 262, and this upward trend continues into April and May, where they peak at 274 hours and 292 hours, respectively. This period coalesces into the heart of spring, allowing for longer, sunnier days that contribute to the region's vibrant natural scenery and agricultural productivity.
The peak for sunshine duration occurs in August, with a remarkable 306 hours basking the region in light, providing a contrast to the relatively lower totals recorded in earlier months. Although June and July maintain significant sunshine hours of 266 and 254 hours, respectively, late summer remains the highlight of the year. As autumn sets in, sunshine hours drop notably, with October and September recording 216 and 250 hours, followed by November and December, which both see a modest 232 hours. This cyclical pattern not only emphasizes the seasonal contrasts in Shizuoka's climate but also illustrates the undeniable impact of sunshine hours on the local environment and lifestyle.
The UV Index in Shizuoka, Japan, highlights a significant seasonal variation, with intensity peaking during the warmer months and necessitating careful sun protection measures. Beginning in January, the UV Index stands at 4, classified as moderate, allowing for a burn time of about 30 minutes. As February rolls in, the index escalates to 6, marking a transition to high exposure levels, which further intensifies in March and April when the index reaches 8 and 10, respectively. These months signal a notable shift towards very high UV radiation, significantly reducing acceptable burn times to 15 minutes.
The summer months are characterized by extreme levels of UV radiation, with May and June both recorded at 11, where burn time drops to just 10 minutes. July sees an even higher UV Index of 12, representing the peak of sun intensity, which then slightly decreases to 11 in August and 10 in September. As autumn progresses, the index decreases to 7 in October, followed by moderate values of 5 in November and 4 in December. These fluctuations indicate the need for increased vigilance during the spring and summer months, reinforcing the importance of appropriate sun safety measures as UV exposure can lead to skin damage and other health risks.
UV Risk Categories
In Shizuoka, Japan, daylight duration varies significantly throughout the year, reflecting the changing seasons. During the winter months of January and February, residents enjoy approximately 10 hours of daylight, which provides a consistent yet limited timeframe for outdoor activities. As spring approaches in March, daylight begins to extend to 11 hours, further increasing to 13 hours in both April and May, signaling a transition into longer, sunnier days that encourage outdoor engagement and agriculture.
The summer months of June and July mark the peak of daylight duration, with 14 hours of bright daylight, allowing ample opportunity for recreational pursuits and enhancing the vibrancy of local life. However, as August fades into autumn, daylight begins to decline, dropping to 13 hours in August and 12 hours in September. By October, daylight reduces to 11 hours, continuing its descent through the year until it reaches 9 hours in December. This cyclical pattern of daylight duration not only influences daily activities but also impacts the natural rhythms of flora and fauna in the region, showcasing the profound interplay between light and life in Shizuoka.
Atami, Japan, experiences a temperate climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. In January, temperatures range from -2°C to 18°C, gradually rising to a maximum of 34°C in August. Precipitation is highest in July, with 326 mm, while the sunniest month is May, boasting 282 sunshine hours. This coastal city enjoys a good balance of rainfall and sunshine throughout the year, making it a pleasant destination. For more details on specific weather patterns, visit Atami climate.
The climate in Fuji, Japan, varies significantly throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -7°C (20°F) in January to a warm 34°C (94°F) in August. Precipitation is highest during the summer months, particularly in July, which receives an average of 404 mm (15.9 in). Sunshine is abundant during spring and summer, peaking in August with 285 hours. As the year progresses, temperatures gradually decrease, and rainfall diminishes in winter. For more details, visit Fuji climate.
Fujinomiya, Japan, experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winter months, particularly January and February, can see temperatures drop to lows of -9°C (16°F), while summers, notably in July and August, can rise to highs of 34°C (93°F). The region also receives significant precipitation, especially in July, averaging 550 mm (21.6 in), while enjoying ample sunshine during spring and summer. Notably, April and May offer both warmth and sunshine, making them ideal months to visit. For more detailed information, refer to Fujinomiya climate.
Gotenba, Japan, experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with cold winters and warm summers. January averages around 4°C (39°F) with notable precipitation, peaking at 321 mm (12.6 in) in July. The warmest months, July and August, reach average temperatures of up to 26°C (79°F) and 34°C (93°F), respectively, while maintaining substantial rainfall. Sunshine is plentiful, particularly in May and August, where over 280 hours of sun are recorded. For more detailed information, visit Gotenba climate.
Hamamatsu, Japan experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from -2°C (29°F) in January to 42°C (107°F) in August. The summer months, particularly July and August, are hot and humid, with significant rainfall peaking at 408 mm (16.1 in) in July. Winter months are cooler and drier, with January and February being the coldest months. Sunshine is abundant, especially in August, which receives around 317 hours of sunlight. For more detailed insights, visit Hamamatsu climate.
The climate in Ito, Japan, features mild winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from a chilly -2°C (29°F) to a pleasant 18°C (64°F), while July sees averages between 18°C (65°F) and 33°C (92°F). Precipitation peaks in July with 326 mm (12.8 in), contributing to the region's lush greenery. The area enjoys significant sunshine, particularly in May and August, with up to 285 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Ito climate.
Izu, Japan experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with mild winters and hot, humid summers. January's temperatures range from -2°C to 18°C, while July sees a rise to between 18°C and 33°C. Precipitation is significant, particularly from June to October, with July typically being the wettest month at 326 mm. Sunshine hours peak in August, averaging 285 hours, providing a bright summer contrast to rainy seasons. For more detailed information, visit Izu climate.
Kochi, Japan, experiences a temperate climate characterized by mild winters and warm, humid summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 17°C (63°F), while July sees highs of 30°C (87°F). The region receives significant rainfall, peaking in July with 360 mm (14.2 in) and maintaining relatively high precipitation throughout the year, especially from May to October. Sunshine hours are abundant, particularly in August with 311 hours, providing a bright summer atmosphere. For more details, visit Kochi climate.
Numazu, Japan experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Winters can be cool, with January averages around 8°C (46°F), while summers are warm, peaking in July and August at around 24-26°C (76-80°F). Rainfall is abundant, especially from June to September, where July sees the highest at 437 mm (17.2 in). Despite the precipitation, Numazu enjoys a good amount of sunshine, particularly in May and August, with over 280 hours recorded. For more details, visit Numazu climate.
Shimoda, Japan experiences a mild climate characterized by warm summers and cool winters. Monthly average temperatures range from a chilly 9°C (48°F) in January to a balmy 26°C (79°F) in August, while precipitation peaks in July with 360 mm (14.2 in) and remains significant through the summer months. The city enjoys ample sunshine, especially in August, where residents can bask in 311 hours of sun. For more details on the climate throughout the year, visit Shimoda climate.
Shizuoka, Japan, experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters (January to February) are mild, with average temperatures ranging from 7°C to 8°C and relatively low precipitation, peaking at 98 mm in February. Summers (June to August) bring high temperatures, averaging 21°C to 27°C, and significant rainfall, particularly in July, which sees about 471 mm. The area enjoys ample sunshine, especially in May and August, with sunshine hours reaching up to 297. For more details, visit Shizuoka climate.
In conclusion, Shizuoka, Japan, presents a captivating climatic profile characterized by distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The region transitions from cool winters to hot, humid summers, highlighting the importance of sun safety and adaptation strategies for residents and visitors alike. With significant rainfall concentrated during the summer and autumn, Shizuoka's lush landscapes thrive, creating a rich environment for both agriculture and biodiversity. Overall, the interplay of these climatic factors shapes the experiences of those living in or traveling to Shizuoka, underscoring the need for a deeper understanding of local climatic conditions to appreciate and navigate the natural wonders this region has to offer.