Tochigi Climate

Last updated: January 18, 2025

Tochigi, Japan, falls within the Köppen-Geiger climate classification of Cfa, indicating a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The region experiences a notable temperature range, with minimum lows plunging to -15°C (5°F) in the depths of February, while summer peaks can soar to a sweltering 37°C (98°F) in July. The average annual temperature hovers around 14°C (58°F), reflecting the diverse seasonal changes that influence both the local environment and lifestyle.

Tochigi temperature by month

Tochigi, Japan, showcases a diverse temperature profile throughout the year, reflecting distinct seasonal trends. Winter months, particularly January and February, present chillier conditions with minimum temperatures plunging to -15°C (5°F) and averages around 3-4°C (37-39°F). As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise, with March seeing averages climb to 8°C (47°F) and April reaching 12°C (54°F), signaling the transition toward milder weather. May marks the onset of summer, where average temperatures soar to 18°C (64°F) and maximums can hit 34°C (93°F). The peak of summer occurs in July and August, where temperatures average around 25-26°C (76-80°F) and can reach a sweltering 37°C (98°F). As autumn arrives in September, temperatures begin to cool, tapering off to averages of 22°C (72°F) before descending to 0°C (33°F) in October. The cycle concludes with a return to winter in December, where temperatures reflect the year’s start, averaging around 5°C (41°F) and minimal lows of -11°C (12°F). This rhythm of seasonal variation not only defines Tochigi's climate but also influences its local ecology and lifestyle.

Monthly Temperatures in Tochigi, Japan

The chart illustrates Tochigi's temperature patterns throughout the year, with values aggregated from various locations across the region. It highlights seasonal variations and temperature changes across the months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec373946546470767972625141
Data source: Tochigi temperature data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

Nikko experiences a minimum temperature of -15°C (5°F) in February, with a maximum of 32°C (89°F) in August, while Tochigi has a slightly milder minimum of -12°C (11°F) in January and a peak of 36°C (96°F) in August. Utsunomiya showcases a similar minimum of -12°C (10°F) in January but records a higher maximum of 37°C (98°F) in July. For more details, you can view the monthly temperatures in these locations: monthly temperatures in Nikko, monthly temperatures in Tochigi, and monthly temperatures in Utsunomiya.

Precipitation Patterns in Tochigi

Tochigi, Japan, experiences a varied precipitation pattern throughout the year, with distinct wet and dry seasons influencing the region's climate. The winter months of January and February receive relatively low rainfall, averaging around 41-42 mm (1.6-1.7 in) over approximately six days, providing a brief respite from moisture. As spring advances, precipitation increases markedly, particularly in March and April, with averages soaring to 135 mm (5.3 in) and 130 mm (5.1 in), respectively. This trend continues into May, culminating in a peak of 145 mm (5.7 in) as the region transitions to summer.

The onset of summer heralds the highest precipitation levels, especially in July, which records a significant 269 mm (10.6 in), accompanied by an increase in rainy days—22 days of rainfall on average. This wet pattern persists into August and September, with monthly averages of 184 mm (7.2 in) and 193 mm (7.6 in), respectively. The autumn months from October to December also bring substantial rain, particularly in October, which records 244 mm (9.6 in) over 15 days, before tapering off through November and December where rainfall drops to 60 mm (2.4 in) and 53 mm (2.1 in). Overall, Tochigi's precipitation cycle is a crucial element of its climate, fostering a rich environment and influencing local agricultural practices.

Monthly Average Precipitation in Tochigi, Japan

The average monthly precipitation in Tochigi, providing insights into seasonal rainfall patterns and the region's precipitation trends throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec41421351301451642691841932456153
Data source: Tochigi precipitation data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
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Sunshine Duration in Tochigi

In Tochigi, Japan, the sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, with hours of sunlight steadily increasing from winter into summer. January sees only 186 hours of sunshine, which gradually rises to 234 hours in February. This upward trend continues into spring, where March and April bring 262 and 275 hours of sunlight, respectively. The peak of sunshine duration occurs in May, with 279 hours illuminating the days as the region embraces the warmth and vitality of the season. This accumulation of sunlight during spring serves as a precursor to the lush landscapes typical of summer.

However, as summer transitions to autumn, sunlight hours begin to taper off. July experiences 232 hours, and while August sees a bounce back to 271 hours, the onset of September marks the beginning of a decline with just 227 hours, signaling the impending change of seasons. October further reduces sunshine to 207 hours, followed by a slight increase in November at 230 hours. December rounds off the year with 226 hours, marking a consistent yet diminished exposure to sunlight compared to the vibrant spring and summer months. This fluctuation in sunshine duration not only shapes the region's climate but also affects local flora and agricultural cycles, underscoring the importance of seasonal sunshine in Tochigi.

Monthly Sunshine in Tochigi, Japan

Monthly sunshine duration represents the total hours of direct sunlight Tochigi receives each month, excluding periods when the sun is obscured by clouds or other obstructions.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec186h234h262h275h279h263h232h271h227h207h230h226h
Data source: Tochigi sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

Tochigi UV Index Trends

The UV Index in Tochigi, Japan, exhibits significant seasonal variation, reflecting changes in both sunlight intensity and potential skin exposure risks throughout the year. During the winter months, January shows a moderate UV Index of 4 with a burn time of 30 minutes, gradually increasing to 6 in February, categorized as high. As spring unfolds, the UV Index escalates dramatically, reaching 8 in March and peaking at 9 in April. May continues this trend with an extreme rating of 10, highlighting the need for increased sun protection as outdoor activities become more prevalent.

Summer brings the highest UV Index readings, remaining consistently at an extreme level of 11 from June through August, where the burn time drops to just 10 minutes, necessitating vigilant sun protection measures for those spending time outdoors. As summer wanes, the UV Index begins to decrease; September sees a slight drop to 10 while maintaining a very high exposure risk. The autumn months return to less intense UV levels, with October at 7 (high) and November dropping to 5 (moderate). By December, the UV Index further declines to 3, indicating a lower risk for sunburn. This cyclical pattern underscores not only the importance of seasonal awareness in sun safety but also the varying levels of UV exposure that the Tochigi population faces throughout the year.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Tochigi, Japan

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Tochigi. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46891011111110753
Data source: Tochigi UV Index data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Daylight Hours in Tochigi

In Tochigi, Japan, daylight duration experiences a distinct seasonal progression, reflecting the shifting patterns of sunlight throughout the year. Starting with just 9 hours of daylight in January, the duration gradually increases as winter transitions into spring. By February, daylight extends to 10 hours, further lengthening to 11 hours in March, welcoming the longer days that characterize this season. March ushers in a notable change, culminating in 13 hours of daylight in April and peaking at 14 hours in both May and June, as the region basks in the fullness of spring and early summer.

As summer progresses into autumn, daylight hours begin to recede, with July maintaining 14 hours, before diminishing to 13 hours in August. By September, daylight settles at 12 hours, slowly tapering off into the further months. In October, daylight reduces to 11 hours, and November brings it down to 10 hours, while December sees daylight return to 9 hours. This rhythmic variation in daylight duration not only defines the seasonal characteristics of Tochigi but also influences aspects of daily life and activities, reflecting the natural ebb and flow of sunlight throughout the year.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in Tochigi, Japan

This chart shows the total daylight hours Tochigi receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec597h649h717h787h845h875h860h809h742h673h612h581h
Data source: Tochigi daylight hours, calculated based on aggregated data for various regional locations, determined by the times between sunrise and sunset.

Climate Highlights of Tochigi's Popular Destinations

The climate in Ashikaga, Japan, features cold winters with January temperatures averaging around 4°C (39°F) and experiencing lows of -9°C (16°F). Spring ushers in warmer conditions, with average temperatures in April reaching 14°C (57°F) and significant rainfall in March and April, totaling about 129 mm (5.1 in) and 127 mm (5.0 in) respectively. Summers are hot and humid, peaking in July and August with averages of 25°C (78°F) and 27°C (82°F), and precipitation soaring to 274 mm (10.8 in) in July. The region enjoys ample sunshine, especially in May, with nearly 278 hours of sunlight. For detailed climate information, visit Ashikaga climate.

The climate in Mashiko, Japan, is characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -12°C to 17°C, while summers can reach up to 37°C in July and August. Precipitation is significant, especially in the summer months, with July experiencing the highest rainfall at 219 mm. Despite the rain, sunshine hours peak in May with 274 hours, contributing to a vibrant natural landscape. For more detailed information, visit Mashiko climate.

Motegi, Japan experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasons. Winters are cold, featuring average temperatures ranging from -10°C (15°F) to 16°C (61°F), while summers can be quite hot, with maximums reaching 36°C (97°F) in August. Rainfall peaks in the summer months, particularly in July and October, with precipitation exceeding 225 mm (8.9 in). Despite the rain, Motegi enjoys a significant amount of sunshine, especially in the late spring and summer, with May and August boasting around 283 hours and 288 hours, respectively. For more detailed information, visit Motegi climate.

Nasushiobara, Japan experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of -9°C (16°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F), while July sees much warmer temperatures, averaging around 23°C (73°F). Rainfall peaks in July with 316 mm (12.4 in), contributing to the region's lush landscape. Sunshine is abundant, especially in May with 280 hours, enhancing the outdoor experience. For more details, visit Nasushiobara climate.

Nikko, Japan experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -12°C to 9°C, while July's temperatures peak between 14°C and 31°C. Precipitation is notable, especially from June to August, with July receiving up to 345 mm of rain. The region enjoys a fair amount of sunshine, particularly in May with 284 hours. For more detailed information, visit Nikko climate.

Tochigi, Japan experiences a varied climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from a minimum of -12°C to a maximum of 16°C, while July reaches between 17°C and 35°C. Precipitation is highest in June and July, reaching up to 296 mm, while sunshine hours peak in May with 278 hours. This combination creates a rich, lush environment throughout the year. For more details, visit Tochigi climate.

Utsunomiya, Japan experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and hot, humid summers. January temperatures range from a chilly -12°C to a comfortable 17°C, while July sees highs of up to 37°C. Precipitation peaks in July with 219 mm, and the region enjoys a fair amount of sunshine, particularly in May when it averages 274 hours. Overall, the climate supports a range of seasonal activities, making it an interesting location for visitors. For more detailed information, see Utsunomiya climate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tochigi, Japan, presents a remarkable interplay of climate factors, including temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours, collectively influencing the region's environmental dynamics and lifestyle. With its humid subtropical climate, Tochigi experiences distinct seasonal shifts, from cold winters with limited daylight and moderate UV exposure to warm, sun-drenched summers characterized by heightened UV risks and extended daylight hours. Understanding these climatic patterns and their implications is crucial for both residents and visitors, as it fosters a greater appreciation of Tochigi’s natural beauty while emphasizing the importance of sun safety and adaptability to changing environmental conditions throughout the year.

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