Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Beppu, Japan is crucial for everyone who enjoys the sun-drenched beauty of this coastal city. With UV levels peaking at a staggering 12 around noon, awareness of these readings is vital to prevent sunburn and protect skin health. As Beppu is characterized by its Cfa climate, featuring hot, humid summers, the risk of UV exposure can be high. By staying informed about the daily UV index, you can enjoy the stunning beaches and natural hot springs while ensuring your skin remains safe and healthy.
The UV Index begins its rise at 7:00 AM with a low of 2, gradually climbing to a moderate 3 by 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches 6, but it's at 10:00 AM when the sun truly bears down, peaking at a high of 9. The intensity continues to soar, hitting a maximum of 12 at 12:00 PM, making it the most UV-active hour of the day. From there, it subtly declines, dropping back to 11 at 1:00 PM, and 9 at 2:00 PM. The afternoon brings relief as the index falls to 6 by 3:00 PM and continues to decrease, settling at 4 by 4:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index dips to 2 by 5:00 PM and further to a safe 1 by 6:00 PM and stays consistent through 7:00 PM. Stay sun-smart and avoid peak UV hours for your skin's safety!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with the highest risk months emerging from March to September. During this period, the UV Index peaks at 12, indicating an extreme exposure category from May to August, requiring only 10 minutes of sun exposure before risking skin damage. Conversely, January and December feature a moderate UV Index of 4, allowing for about 30 minutes of safe exposure. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during high-risk months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours, particularly in the summer months when the potential for sunburn is acute. As the UV Index starts to decline in October and November, a return to more moderate sun safety measures becomes appropriate.
UV Risk Categories
| 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 |
| Osaka UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Beppu | 4 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 7 | 6 | 4 |