UV Index in Kobe, Japan

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Kobe, Japan, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels allows residents and visitors alike to enjoy the beautiful sunny days while minimizing their risk of skin damage. With a Cfa climate, Kobe experiences high UV exposure, particularly around midday when the index peaks at 11, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Stay informed and protect yourself to enjoy everything this vibrant city has to offer!

Hourly UV Index in Kobe

The UV Index data paints a clear picture of a sun-soaked day, starting with a gentle maximum of 2 at 7:00 AM. As the sun rises higher, the intensity builds, peaking at an impressive 11 around 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. This period of extreme UV exposure underscores the importance of sun safety, urging everyone to seek shade or apply sunscreen. As afternoon sets in, the index gradually declines, dropping to 8 at 2:00 PM, followed by a gentle slide to 6 at 3:00 PM, before winding down to a calmer 1 by 6:00 PM. Overall, it’s a day to enjoy the sunshine while being mindful of its powerful rays!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	2	low	45 min
08:00	4	moderate	30 min
09:00	7	high	25 min
10:00	9	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	8	very high	15 min
15:00	6	high	25 min
16:00	3	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Kobe

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. The high-risk months for UV radiation are typically from March to August, where the UV Index reaches an extreme level of 11, suggesting a burn time as short as 10 minutes. Notably, April through August presents the highest risk, when protective measures are particularly crucial. As such, it is advisable for both visitors and residents to take precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours, especially in these summer months. Conversely, during the cooler months of January, December, and November, the UV Index drops to moderate levels, allowing for more relaxed sun exposure. Overall, staying informed about the UV Index is essential for enjoying the outdoors safely year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Kobe, Japan

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

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Kobe, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

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.

Compare Kobe UV Index with Other Japan Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Kobe compares to other major locations across Japan. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Kobe's solar exposure compared to other cities in Japan. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Sapporo UVI	2	3	6	7	9	9	9	10	8	5	3	2
Yokohama UVI	3	5	8	9	11	11	11	11	10	7	5	4
Tokyo UVI	3	5	8	9	11	11	11	11	10	7	5	4
Nagoya UVI	4	6	8	10	11	11	11	11	10	7	5	3
Kobe	4	6	8	11	11	11	11	11	10	7	5	3
Osaka UVI	4	6	8	11	11	11	12	11	10	7	5	3