Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Koya, Japan, where the climate presents unique sun exposure challenges. With the UV levels peaking at an intense 11 during midday hours, being aware of these fluctuations is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. Koya's Cfa climate means that even on cloudy days, harmful UV rays can penetrate, making it vital to prioritize sun safety. Whether you're exploring the serene temples or hiking scenic trails, knowing the UV Index helps you enjoy the outdoors while protecting your skin.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a mild 2 by 07:00. It steadily escalates, reaching 4 at 08:00, and then surges to a peak of 11 between 11:00 and 12:00—this is when the sun is most intense. Vigilance is essential during these hours, as the risk of skin damage increases significantly. As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels gradually decline; 10 at 13:00, followed by a decrease to 8 at 14:00, a more manageable 6 at 15:00, and finally tapering off to 3 by 16:00. By 17:00, the index drops to 2, and the evening settles in with a minimal 1 by 18:00 and 19:00. It's a day of high UV exposure, urging outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions during peak hours.
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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with the highest risk occurring during the late spring and summer months. From April to August, the UV Index peaks at 11 to 12, representing an extreme exposure category, with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. Notably, March and September are also high-risk months, with UV Index levels of 8 and 10, respectively. To protect against harmful UV radiation, it is essential for both visitors and residents to take precautions during these peak months: seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM. In contrast, during the winter months (January, December), UV levels drop to moderate, offering lower risk for skin damage, with longer burn times of 30 minutes.
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 |
Koya | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 6 | 4 |