UV Index in Matsue, Japan

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Matsue, Japan, to ensure skin health and prevent sunburn. With its Cfa climate characterized by hot summers, the UV levels can reach their peak around midday, often hitting 10—a level that demands proactive protection. By being aware of the daily UV Index, you can better plan outdoor activities to minimize harmful exposure and maintain healthy skin. Given Matsue's typical climate, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen is key to enjoying the sun safely.

Hourly UV Index in Matsue

The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic pattern of sun exposure. Starting gently at 07:00 with a UV Index of 2, it climbs steadily, peaking at 11:00 with a strong 10, indicating that it's essential to take sun safety precautions. The intensity remains high until 13:00, ensuring ample time for outdoor activities, but then the index begins to decline. By 15:00, it drops to 5, and as the sun sets, it falls to a softer 1 by 18:00. This data highlights the importance of sunscreen and protective measures during the peak midday hours when UV radiation is at its most potent.

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	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	6	high	25 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	10	very high	15 min
12:00	10	very high	15 min
13:00	10	very high	15 min
14:00	8	very high	15 min
15:00	5	moderate	30 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 Matsue

Throughout the year, the UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, with elevated levels during the warmer months from March to September. High-risk months for UV exposure include April to August, where the index peaks at 10-12, indicating very high to extreme exposure levels and a drastically reduced burn time of only 10-15 minutes. During this period, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take precautions by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly to minimize the risk of skin damage. Conversely, the winter months of January, February, November, and December see a moderate UV index, allowing for a safer level of outdoor activity with a longer burn time of 30 minutes.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Matsue, Japan

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Matsue. 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 Matsue, 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 Matsue UV Index with Other Japan Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Matsue 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.

Matsue'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
Matsue	3	5	7	10	10	11	12	11	10	7	5	3
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