Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for staying safe and healthy in Tokyo, Japan, where the potential for sunburn and skin damage is significant, especially during the peak hours of sunlight. With a Cfa climate, Tokyo experiences hot summers that can lead to elevated UV levels, particularly around midday when the UV Index can reach a maximum of 11. Being aware of these levels helps you take proactive steps to protect your skin, ensuring you enjoy the vibrant outdoor life without the risk of harmful effects from UV radiation. Stay informed, plan your day, and embrace the sun responsibly!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, reaching a gentle 2 by 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to a moderate 5, signaling the start of a day to be mindful of sun exposure. The intensity peaks at 11 from 11:00 to 12:00, marking the golden hours when protective measures are crucial. As the afternoon unfolds, the value dips to 9 at 13:00 and continues its descent to 7 by 14:00. By the late afternoon, the UV Index relaxes significantly, falling to 4 at 15:00 and tapering off to 2 by 16:00. As the sun sets, it becomes a safe 1 at 17:00, finally reaching a calm 0 after 19:00. This data highlights the importance of sun safety practices during peak hours, especially between 10:00 and 14:00.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 5 | 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, the UV Index fluctuates significantly, influencing the risk of sun exposure throughout the year. January and February start with a moderate UV Index of 3 and 5, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. However, by March, the UV Index jumps to 8, which is categorized as very high, reducing safe exposure to just 15 minutes. The peak months for UV radiation are May through August, where the Index reaches an extreme level of 11, necessitating a mere 10 minutes of exposure before risking sunburn. September begins a gradual decline to a very high index of 10, while October and onward return to moderate levels. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious from March to August—wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade to minimize UV damage during these high-risk months.
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 |
| Tokyo | 3 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Yokohama 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 |