Wakayama Climate

Last updated: January 18, 2025

Wakayama, Japan, is characterized by a Cfa climate under the Köppen-Geiger classification, reflecting its humid subtropical conditions. The region experiences a temperature range that highlights its seasonal diversity, with minimum temperatures plummeting to -6°C (21°F) during the chilly month of January, while soaring to a maximum of 36°C (96°F) in the peak of August. An average annual temperature of 17°C (63°F) illustrates the overall mildness of the climate, making Wakayama a unique location that experiences pronounced seasonal changes, influenced by both the Pacific Ocean and surrounding topography.

Wakayama temperature by month

Wakayama, Japan, exhibits a distinct seasonal temperature pattern characterized by cold, brisk winters and warm, humid summers. January and February present the coldest months, with minimum temperatures dropping to as low as -6°C (21°F), gradually rising in March as spring approaches. By April, a noticeable warming trend begins, with average temperatures climbing from 15°C (59°F) in April to a pleasant 19°C (66°F) in May. As the summer months arrive, June through August showcase a peak, with average highs reaching up to 28°C (82°F) in August, making it the warmest month. The transition into fall brings a gradual cooling, with temperatures tapering from 34°C (94°F) in September down to 14°C (58°F) by November. As winter re-emerges, December wraps up the year with cooler averages around 9°C (49°F). Overall, Wakayama's climate reflects a rich tapestry of seasonal shifts, making it a region of marked temperature variability throughout the year.

Monthly Temperatures in Wakayama, Japan

The chart illustrates Wakayama'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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec454552586672798276685849
Data source: Wakayama 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.

In January, Shirahama and Kushimoto experience mild winters with minimum temperatures of 1°C (34°F), while Wakayama can dip to a colder -1°C (30°F). Contrastingly, by August, all three locations enjoy warm summers, with Shirahama peaking at 31°C (89°F), Kushimoto reaching 34°C (94°F), and Wakayama experiencing the highest maximum at 35°C (95°F). For more detailed monthly temperatures, visit monthly temperatures in Shirahama, monthly temperatures in Wakayama, and monthly temperatures in Kushimoto.

Precipitation Patterns in Wakayama

Wakayama, Japan, experiences distinct precipitation patterns over the year, with rainfall peaking during the summer months. January and February start the year relatively dry, with January recording 70 mm (2.8 in) of rainfall over 8 days, while February sees a slight increase to 87 mm (3.4 in) over 9 days. As spring unfolds, March and April witness notable rises in precipitation, reaching 138 mm (5.4 in) and 139 mm (5.5 in), respectively. By May, rainfall escalates significantly to 186 mm (7.3 in), paving the way for the wetter summer season.

The summer months are characterized by increased rainfall and humidity, with June observing a substantial 227 mm (8.9 in) of precipitation across 14 days. July emerges as the wettest month, delivering a remarkable 329 mm (13.0 in) over 18 days, contributing to the region's lush vegetation. Although August experiences a reduction to 210 mm (8.3 in), September continues with 232 mm (9.1 in), further sustaining high moisture levels. The autumn months, particularly October, also see elevated rainfall with 303 mm (11.9 in), before tapering off in November and December to 69 mm (2.7 in) and 81 mm (3.2 in) respectively. This precipitation trend underscores Wakayama’s climate as dynamic and diverse, significantly influenced by seasonal changes.

Monthly Average Precipitation in Wakayama, Japan

The average monthly precipitation in Wakayama, providing insights into seasonal rainfall patterns and the region's precipitation trends throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec70871381391862273292102323036981
Data source: Wakayama precipitation data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
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Sunshine Duration in Wakayama

Wakayama, Japan, experiences a marked seasonal variation in sunshine duration, showcasing a steady increase as winter transitions into spring and peaks during the summer months. Starting the year with 188 hours of sunshine in January, daylight gradually increases, with February recording 232 hours and March rising to 269 hours. This upward trend continues into April, where sunshine reaches 283 hours, setting the stage for a vibrant May with 295 hours of sunny weather. This period of increased sunlight reflects the awakening of nature as warmer temperatures encourage outdoor activities.

The summer months reveal a spectacular highlight in Wakayama’s climate, with August standing out as the sunniest month, boasting an impressive 318 hours of sunshine. Although June and July maintain strong sunshine records of 274 hours and 277 hours respectively, August’s peak showcases the height of summer. As the year progresses into autumn, sunshine hours begin to taper off, with September recording 256 hours followed by October and November which see 242 hours and 241 hours respectively. December's 227 hours marks the year’s conclusion with less sunlight, but overall, the seasonal trajectory illustrates how Wakayama enjoys robust sunshine, fostering a rich environment for both residents and travelers.

Monthly Sunshine in Wakayama, Japan

Monthly sunshine duration represents the total hours of direct sunlight Wakayama receives each month, excluding periods when the sun is obscured by clouds or other obstructions.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec188h232h269h283h295h274h277h318h256h242h241h227h
Data source: Wakayama sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

Wakayama UV Index Trends

Wakayama, Japan, exhibits a notable fluctuation in UV Index levels throughout the year, reflecting the seasonal changes in sunlight intensity. Starting with a moderate UV Index of 4 in January, residents enjoy a longer safe exposure time of 30 minutes before risking sunburn. As the season progresses into February, the index rises to 6, classified as high, reducing safe exposure times to 25 minutes. The arrival of March ushers in significant increases, with a very high UV Index of 9 and a burn time of just 15 minutes, highlighting the need for sun protection as spring approaches.

The summer months present the highest UV risks, peaking at an extreme Index of 12 from June through August, maintaining a burn time of just 10 minutes. Even in September, as summer wanes, the UV Index remains elevated at 10, classifying it as very high. As autumn sets in, the index begins to decline, with October and November seeing values of 7 and 6 respectively, both categorized as high. By December, the UV Index returns to 4, allowing for extended exposure once more. These shifts illustrate the crucial importance of ongoing sun safety awareness in Wakayama, particularly during the peak summer months when skin protection becomes vital.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Wakayama, Japan

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Wakayama. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec469111112121210764
Data source: Wakayama 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 Wakayama

In Wakayama, Japan, the duration of daylight varies significantly throughout the year, aligning closely with the seasonal transitions. At the start of the year, both January and February offer a consistent 10 hours of daylight, providing a stable though somewhat limited amount of sunlight. As March arrives, daylight increases to 11 hours, signaling the beginning of a gradual rise that continues into the spring months. In April and May, the daylight extends to 13 hours, creating an inviting environment for outdoor activities as nature comes alive.

The trend towards longer days peaks during the summer months, with June and July enjoying 14 hours of daylight, which fosters vibrant and active lifestyles amid the warm temperatures. August sees a slight decline to 13 hours, while daylight begins to taper off in September to 12 hours. The autumn months of October and November witness a return to 11 hours and 10 hours respectively, ultimately leading to December, where daylight decreases to 9 hours. This cycle of daylight duration in Wakayama exemplifies the region's clear seasonal rhythms, emphasizing the importance of sunlight in shaping daily life.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in Wakayama, Japan

This chart shows the total daylight hours Wakayama receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h 8m10h 56m11h 58m13h 1m13h 54m14h 21m14h 8m13h 21m12h 20m11h 17m10h 22m9h 54m
Data source: Wakayama daylight hours, calculated based on aggregated data for various regional locations, determined by the times between sunrise and sunset.

Climate Highlights of Wakayama's Popular Destinations

Kushimoto, Japan experiences a temperate climate characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers. January temperatures range from 1°C to 17°C, while July sees highs up to 33°C. Precipitation peaks in July with 361 mm, contributing to a distinct wet season that spans from May to October. Despite the rain, sunshine is abundant, particularly in August, which boasts 323 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Kushimoto climate.

Shirahama, Japan, experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations. In winter months, temperatures are mild, ranging from 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), while summer brings warmer weather, with highs reaching up to 31°C (89°F) in July and August. Precipitation is significant, particularly in June and July, with July alone receiving 353 mm (13.9 in). Despite the rain, summer features ample sunshine, with August boasting the highest at 323 hours. For more detailed information, visit Shirahama climate.

Wakayama, Japan experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Winters are cool with January temperatures ranging from -1°C to 17°C and moderate precipitation, averaging 63 mm. Summers are hot and humid, particularly in July and August, with temperatures soaring up to 35°C and higher rainfall of up to 302 mm in July. Sunshine is abundant, especially in August, accumulating about 315 hours, making it one of the sunniest months. For more detailed information, visit Wakayama climate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Wakayama, Japan, presents a captivating climatic profile characterized by its diverse temperature ranges, distinct seasonal shifts in precipitation, and notable variations in sunlight and UV exposure throughout the year. The region experiences a pronounced transition from chilly winters to vibrant summers, with significant rainfall supporting lush landscapes. The substantial sunshine hours during the warmer months enhance outdoor experiences, while the UV Index highlights the necessity for sun protection—particularly in the summer and early fall. These climatic elements underscore the importance of understanding Wakayama's environment for both residents and visitors, as they navigate the dynamic interplay of weather patterns, daylight duration, and seasonal activities that shape life in this beautiful part of Japan.

Discover the Climate of Wakayama's Places

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