Last updated: August 21, 2025
In October, Shirakawa, Japan experiences a striking transition as autumn takes hold. The maximum temperature can reach a comfortable 28°C (82°F), while the average temperature settles around 15°C (59°F), creating a pleasant atmosphere for outdoor activities. However, the month also brings cooler nights, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of 2°C (36°F). Rainfall is frequent, with an impressive 221 mm (8.7 in) of precipitation spread over 13 days, contributing to the season’s lush scenery. High humidity levels at 80% add a certain chill to the air, enhancing the crispness of the fall weather in this picturesque locale.
In Shirakawa, Japan, October marks a delightful transition into cooler autumn weather, with temperatures showcasing a gentle descent. The month begins with minimums around 2°C (36°F), gradually leading to an average of 15°C (59°F), peaking at a comfortable 28°C (82°F). This shift from the warmth of summer’s highs in September signifies an inviting atmosphere perfect for enjoying the breathtaking fall foliage. As the month unfolds, the crisp air emphasizes the beauty of the region’s picturesque landscapes, making October a prime time for exploration and outdoor activities.
October marks a significant shift in Shirakawa's precipitation patterns, showcasing an impressive 221 mm (8.7 in) of rainfall over 13 days. This volume is part of the region’s wetter autumn season, following a notably heavy July, which recorded a peak of 253 mm (10.0 in). As the countryside transitions from the lush greens of summer to the warm tints of fall, October's rain supports the area’s vibrant flora while foreshadowing the heavier snowfalls of winter. With this month featuring some of the highest precipitation levels compared to earlier months—such as September's 163 mm (6.4 in)—it's clear that October plays a critical role in the annual hydrological cycle of Shirakawa, effectively soaking the earth and preparing it for the colder months ahead.
In Shirakawa, Japan, October marks a transition into the cooler months while still holding onto some of the year's lingering humidity, resting at 80%. Following the summer peaks of 92% in July and 90% in August, October's humidity represents a downward trend, signaling the slow departure of the warm, damp air that characterizes the summer season. As autumn unfolds, the humidity starts to mirror the more moderate levels of spring, with November bringing a slight decrease to 77%. This gradual shift indicates the region's move towards drier conditions as temperatures cool, making October a pivotal month for experiencing the balance between lingering warmth and the fresh crispness of impending winter.
As October rolls into Shirakawa, Japan, residents and visitors can expect a high UV Index of 7, indicating a notable shift towards sunnier days as autumn progresses. While the sun's intensity has decreased from the extreme levels experienced over the summer months, which peaked at an alarming UV Index of 11 in June, July, and August, caution is still advised. With a burn time of just 25 minutes, it's essential to be mindful of sun exposure during this transitional month, especially as days may still be pleasantly warm. Comparatively, as we look ahead to November, the UV Index will drop back to moderate levels, reminding us of the changing seasons. For more detailed insights and trends throughout the year, check out the Shirakawa UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In October, Shirakawa basks in a gentle 209 hours of sunshine, offering a delightful transition into the cooler months. This marks a notable dip from the energetic peaks of spring and summer, where sunlight danced for up to 288 hours in May and 283 hours in August. However, October's sunshine still outshines the darker winter months ahead, providing a warm embrace before the chill sets in. As the vibrant hues of autumn envelop the landscape, the decreasing daylight serves as a reminder to savor the fleeting beauty of the season before the harsher winter grips the region.
In Shirakawa, Japan, October brings a moderate 40% chance of sunny weather, signaling a shift as the region transitions from the summer months. This percentage marks an improvement from the lower probability of sunshine seen during the warmer period, especially in June, July, and August, all of which hover below 25%. As autumn advances, the likelihood of clearer skies starts to align more with the brighter months, such as November and February, which boast higher sun chances. This trend suggests that while October may not guarantee sunny days, it offers a refreshing reprieve from the previous season's cloudiness, inviting residents and visitors alike to enjoy the picturesque fall scenery in a pleasantly bright atmosphere.
In Shirakawa, Japan, the month of October marks a subtle transition as daylight begins to wane, offering around 11 hours of sunlight. Following the peak brightness of summer, where daylight stretches a generous 14 hours in June, the decrease is gradual yet noticeable. As autumn sets in, daylight diminishes steadily from August through October, reflecting a natural rhythm of shifting seasons. These shorter days herald a peaceful ambiance, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the beauty of falling leaves and cooler temperatures, before the winter months bring even less sunlight.
In October, Shirakawa experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.3 m/s (5 mph), marking a slight uptick from the summer's calmer months. This shift heralds the transition into autumn, where the air feels crisp, invigorating visitors as they explore the stunning fall foliage. October's wind is more consistent with the early months of the year, suggesting a return to a moderate climate that invites both residents and travelers to embrace the changing season. As the winds swirl through the valleys, they carry the scents of harvest, making October an enchanting time to experience the beauty and tranquility of Shirakawa, where nature's rhythms dance in harmony with the gentle autumn breeze.
Weather in Shirakawa varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares October’s weather to other months in Shirakawa, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In October, temperatures in Shirakawa range from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a pleasant average of 15°C (59°F), peaking at 28°C (82°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, with a total of 221 mm (8.7 in) over 13 days, contributing to an average humidity of 80%. In contrast, January presents a much colder climate, with temperatures dropping as low as -11°C (12°F) and an average of just 1°C (34°F). The maximum temperature reaches only 12°C (54°F), and the month is relatively drier, with 46 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over 9 days and a humidity level of 76%. For more detailed information about January weather, visit Shirakawa weather in January.
October and February showcase distinct weather patterns, highlighting the transition from autumn to winter. In October, temperatures range from a cool 2°C (36°F) at night to a warm 28°C (82°F) during the day, with an average of 15°C (59°F). This month also experiences significant precipitation, totaling 221 mm (8.7 in) over approximately 13 days, while humidity remains relatively high at 80%. In contrast, February presents a much chillier climate, with nighttime lows plunging to -7°C (20°F) and daytime highs peaking at 19°C (66°F), averaging only 2°C (36°F). Additionally, February sees much less rainfall, with just 42 mm (1.7 in) over about 7 days, and a lower humidity level of 75%. For a closer look at February weather specifics, check out Shirakawa weather in February.
When comparing the weather in October and March, we observe notable differences in temperature and precipitation. October typically enjoys milder conditions, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F) and a high humidity of 80%. In contrast, March starts off much colder, with minimum temperatures dropping to -5°C (22°F) and peaking at 23°C (73°F), resulting in a much lower average of 6°C (43°F). Additionally, October experiences more rainfall, with 221 mm (8.7 in) over 13 days, whereas March has 134 mm (5.3 in) of precipitation spread across 11 days. For more details on the weather in this month, you can visit Shirakawa weather in March.
When comparing the weather in October and April, October generally offers warmer temperatures, with daily averages around 15°C (59°F) compared to April's average of 10°C (51°F). Notably, while both months have a maximum temperature peaking at 28°C (82°F in October and 83°F in April), October's minimum temperatures are milder, averaging around 2°C (36°F) versus April's colder minimum of -2°C (29°F). Additionally, October experiences significantly more precipitation at 221 mm (8.7 in) over 13 days, leading to higher humidity levels at 80%, while April sees less rain, totaling 119 mm (4.7 in) but maintains relatively lower humidity at 73%. For a more detailed insight into April weather, check out Shirakawa weather in April.
October and May present distinct weather patterns, each with its own charm. In October, temperatures range from a cool 2°C (36°F) at night to a warm 28°C (82°F) during the day, with an average of 15°C (59°F). This month experiences more rain, with 221 mm (8.7 in) falling over approximately 13 days, keeping humidity consistently high at 80%. In contrast, May brings slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 33°C (91°F), averaging 16°C (62°F). Precipitation is lower at 145 mm (5.7 in) over about 14 days, yet humidity remains the same at 80%. For those curious about experiencing May's weather, details can be found here: Shirakawa weather in May.
When comparing October and June weather, notable differences emerge in both temperature and precipitation. In June, temperatures range from a minimum of 9°C (49°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), offering warm averages of around 19°C (67°F). In contrast, October sees cooler temperatures, with lows hitting 2°C (36°F) and highs reaching 28°C (82°F), resulting in an average of 15°C (59°F). Additionally, while June experiences 139 mm (5.5 in) of precipitation over 15 days, October is significantly wetter, with 221 mm (8.7 in) spread across 13 days. June also has a slightly higher humidity level at 87%, compared to October's 80%. For more details on June weather, you can visit Shirakawa weather in June.
When comparing the weather in October and July, several notable differences emerge. In October, temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), with an average of 15°C (59°F). This month sees around 221 mm (8.7 in) of precipitation across approximately 13 days, and the humidity level is around 80%. In contrast, July boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C (59°F), an average of 23°C (74°F), and a maximum reaching 34°C (94°F). Additionally, July experiences higher precipitation at 253 mm (10.0 in) over about 23 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 92%. For a more detailed look at July weather, you can refer to Shirakawa weather in July.
In comparing the weather in October and August, it is clear that October experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F), as opposed to August's milder minimum of 13°C (56°F) and an average of 25°C (77°F). August is marked by higher maximum temperatures, reaching up to 36°C (96°F), while October peaks at a more moderate 28°C (82°F). Additionally, October sees more rainfall, with 221 mm (8.7 in) over 13 days compared to August's 147 mm (5.8 in) over 16 days. The humidity remains relatively high in both months, at 80% in October and 90% in August, giving a stickier feel to the latter. For a more detailed look at the weather patterns, you can check Shirakawa weather in August.
In September, the weather tends to be warmer and more humid, with average temperatures ranging from a comfortable 20°C (69°F) to a high of 32°C (91°F). This month also experiences slightly more rainfall, totaling 163 mm (6.4 in) over 17 days, along with a humidity level of 84%. In contrast, October sees a notable drop in temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F), peaking at a mild 28°C (82°F). Rainfall increases to 221 mm (8.7 in) over 13 days, but humidity decreases to 80%. Overall, October marks a transition into cooler and wetter conditions compared to the warmer, more humid days of September. For more detailed weather insights, check out Shirakawa weather in September.
October and November showcase a notable shift in weather patterns. In October, temperatures range from a mild 2°C (36°F) to a warm 28°C (82°F), with an average of 15°C (59°F). This month also experiences considerable rainfall, with 221 mm (8.7 in) over 13 days, contributing to a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, November sees cooler conditions, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -3°C (28°F) and averaging 9°C (48°F), peaking at 21°C (70°F). Precipitation decreases significantly to 51 mm (2.0 in) over just 6 days, while humidity slightly lowers to 77%. For a more detailed overview, you can check out Shirakawa weather in November.
In October, the weather is characterized by a broader temperature range, with minimums around 2°C (36°F) and maximums reaching up to 28°C (82°F), resulting in an average temperature of 15°C (59°F). This month also sees significant precipitation, totaling 221 mm (8.7 in) over 13 days, contributing to a humid atmosphere with humidity levels around 80%. In contrast, December offers a chillier climate, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -5°C (24°F) and averaging only 3°C (38°F). Despite the colder temperatures, precipitation is much lower at 55 mm (2.2 in) across 9 days, and humidity decreases slightly to 77%. For a detailed comparison of December's weather, visit Shirakawa weather in December.
October in Shirakawa marks a distinct transition from the warmer months, with temperatures cooling down significantly while still offering occasional sunny days. The blend of cool mornings and mild afternoons creates a refreshing atmosphere, though the notable increase in precipitation—often catching residents off guard—means that light rain can be expected about half the month. The higher humidity levels also contribute to a sense of dampness in the air, forming a stark contrast to the drier summer months. As the vibrant autumn foliage emerges, October becomes a picturesque yet unpredictable time in Shirakawa, making it a unique experience for both locals and visitors. For a deeper dive into the seasonal shifts, check out Shirakawa Climate.