Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Shimoda, Japan, is crucial for protecting yourself from harmful ultraviolet rays. With a climate characterized as Cfa, residents and visitors alike should be particularly vigilant, especially during the peak months when UV levels can soar. Awareness of UV levels is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health, as seen in the daily fluctuations ranging from a moderate 2 in the early morning to a blistering high of 12 around noon. As you enjoy Shimoda's beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, staying informed about the UV Index can help you avoid overexposure to the sun and keep your skin safe all year round.
The UV Index today tells a compelling story of the sun's intensity as it climbs and falls throughout the day. Starting off at a modest 2 by 07:00, the UV exposure quickly gains momentum, peaking at a striking 12 between 11:00 and 12:00—a time when sun protection is crucial. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, reaching 10 at 13:00, then tapering down to 5 by 15:00. After that, it continues its descent to a gentle 1 by 17:00 and 18:00, finally resting at 0 by 19:00. Be sure to safeguard your skin during the midday hours when the sun's rays are at their strongest!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variation, with March through September being the high-risk months for sun exposure. March begins the rise with an index of 8 (very high) and only a 15-minute burn time, peaking in July with an index of 12 (extreme) and a mere 10-minute burn time. May through August consistently holds an extreme exposure category, urging increased caution during these months. As summer transitions into fall, the index gradually decreases, with October dropping to 7 (high) and 15-minute burn times for October and September, before returning to moderate levels in winter. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during the high-risk months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly to minimize the risk of skin damage.
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 |
| Shimoda | 4 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Osaka UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |