UV Index in Matsue, Japan

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Matsue, Japan is essential for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. As the UV rays intensify throughout the day, awareness of these levels can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. With Matsue's humid subtropical climate (Cfa), residents and visitors face unique UV exposure risks, especially in the peak hours when the index can soar to 11—signifying very high UV radiation. Staying informed about the UV Index not only helps safeguard your skin but also encourages fun and safe outdoor activities in this beautiful city by the lake.

Hourly UV Index in Matsue

The UV Index paints a vivid picture of the sun’s strength throughout the day. Starting at a modest 2 at 07:00, the index gradually climbs as the sun ascends, reaching 4 by 08:00. By 09:00, it spikes to 6, and before long, it peaks at an impressive 11 at 12:00, marking the most intense exposure. The afternoon starts to cool slightly, with the index dropping to 10 by 13:00 and then tapering off through 8 at 14:00, 6 at 15:00, and back to 4 at 16:00. As the sun begins its descent, the UV Index falls to 2 by 17:00, lingering at 1 through the evening hours, creating a gentle reminder to enjoy the sun but also to stay mindful of its intensity during peak hours.

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:002low45 min
08:004moderate30 min
09:006high25 min
10:008very high15 min
11:0010very high15 min
12:0011extreme10 min
13:0010very high15 min
14:008very high15 min
15:006high25 min
16:004moderate30 min
17:002low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:001low45 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec357101011121110753
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.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Sapporo UVI2367999108532
Yokohama UVI35891111111110754
Tokyo UVI35891111111110754
Matsue357101011121110753
Nagoya UVI468101111111110753
Osaka UVI468111111121110753