January Weather in Kobe, Japan

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In Kobe, Japan, January offers a captivating blend of winter ambiance and milder temperatures. With a maximum reaching 16°C (61°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), the city experiences a cool but inviting climate. The chill sets in with minimum temperatures dropping to -2°C (29°F). January also sees about 45 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation spread across 5 days, contributing to an 82% humidity level that can make the air feel brisk. Whether you're strolling through the scenic streets or enjoying a warm cup of tea, Kobe in January presents a unique experience for both locals and visitors alike.

January Temperature in Kobe

In January, Kobe, Japan experiences a crisp winter atmosphere, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -2°C (29°F) at night to a mild 16°C (61°F) during the day. On average, the month hovers around 6°C (43°F), providing a refreshing backdrop for winter activities. This transitional period marks the beginning of a gradual warming trend, as February sees only a slight increase in the daily maximum and a consistent average temperature, maintaining the same minimum. As winter gives way to spring, temperatures steadily rise, peaking in April and May with milder averages of 15°C (59°F) and 20°C (68°F), respectively. By the time March rolls around, Kobe's temperatures begin to showcase the promise of spring, making January a pivotal month in this serene coastal city’s climate journey.

January Weather in Kobe: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Kobe, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Kobe, January typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec434350596874818477675747
Data source: Temperature data for Kobe generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

January Precipitation in Kobe

In Kobe, Japan, January brings a relatively modest precipitation total of 45 mm (1.8 in), with rain falling on just five days throughout the month. This sets the stage for a gradual increase in rainfall as winter transitions into spring. The following months see a steady rise, with February slightly higher at 57 mm (2.3 in) over six days, and March experiencing a notable jump to 109 mm (4.3 in) across ten days. The trend continues, peaking dramatically in July with a staggering 317 mm (12.5 in), showing how summer storms contribute to the region's overall wetness. Interestingly, January’s drier conditions give way to a fluctuating pattern of rainfall, indicating a shift from light winter showers to the more intense and frequent downpours of the warmer months.

January Precipitation Trends in Kobe

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Kobe, with values for each month alongside January’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how January’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Kobe, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec45571091371541533172101972354760
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Kobe

In Kobe, Japan, January brings a notable humidity level of 82%, setting the stage for a year marked by fluctuating moisture. As winter gives way to spring, humidity sees a slight dip in February, dropping to 79%, before gradually increasing again in March to 74%. April's warming temperatures raise humidity to 76%, while May ushers in more moisture at 83%, hinting at the approaching summer. The months of June through August experience the peak of humidity, with July soaring to 93%, creating a sultry atmosphere that characterizes Japanese summers. As the year progresses into fall, humidity begins to wane, stabilizing around 85% to 87% in October and September. Through these seasonal shifts, Kobe's humidity fluctuates intriguingly, reflecting the dynamic climate of the region.

January Average Humidity in Kobe

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Kobe, with January’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In January, average humidity in Kobe is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec82%79%74%76%83%87%93%91%87%85%83%83%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Kobe

In January, Kobe, Japan experiences a moderate UV Index of 4, indicating a burn time of about 30 minutes under direct sunlight. As the year progresses, the UV Index steadily rises; by February, it reaches 6, moving into the high exposure category. The trend intensifies through the spring months, peaking at 11 in both April and May, categorized as extreme, with a noticeably reduced burn time of just 10 minutes. This pattern of increasing UV exposure continues into the summer before slightly tapering off in the fall, showcasing a dynamic seasonal shift in sun intensity. For those planning outdoor activities, being mindful of these changes is crucial. For detailed information on each month, you can check the Kobe UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Kobe for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Kobe in January, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In January, the maximum UV index in Kobe typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec468111111111110753
Data source: Kobe January UVI data generated using 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.

January Sunshine in Kobe

January in Kobe, Japan, brings about 182 hours of precious sunshine, marking the start of the year with a gentle glow. As the months progress, a noticeable increase in sunlight can be observed, peaking at an impressive 307 hours in August, the sunniest month. This upward trend highlights the region’s transition from the cool winter to the warm embrace of summer, with each month leading to increasingly longer days. The sunshine begins to recede in the fall, tapering off as winter approaches again, but the gradual climb from January to August serves as a cheerful reminder of the vibrant seasons in this coastal city.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Kobe: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Kobe experiences direct sunlight during the month of January, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of January with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec182h225h262h278h292h271h263h307h245h238h235h217h
Data source: Kobe January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Kobe During January

In Kobe, Japan, January boasts a 51% chance of sunny weather, making it a promising start to the year. While sunlight becomes slightly more prevalent in February with a 54% likelihood, the transition into spring shows a dip in sunny days, particularly in March at 41%. Interestingly, April and May also exhibit a decline, with chances of sunshine at 46% and 30%, respectively. As summer approaches, especially in June and July, the likelihood of clear skies takes a noticeable downturn, hitting a low of 24% in June. However, October shines brightly again, with a 55% chance of sun, followed closely by November and December, both hovering around the 50-56% mark. This pattern suggests that while January offers a solid chance for sunny weather, it's part of a broader trend where winter gradually yields to more favorable conditions as the year progresses.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Kobe

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Kobe throughout the year, with January highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Kobe experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec51%54%41%46%30%24%31%28%30%55%51%56%
Data source: Kobe January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Kobe in January

In Kobe, Japan, January experiences about 10 hours of daylight, a trend that continues into February. As we transition into spring, daylight begins to increase, reaching 11 hours in March and blossoming to 13 hours in both April and May. The longest days occur during the summer months of June and July, where daylight stretches to 14 hours, allowing for ample time to enjoy the vibrant outdoor culture. As the seasons shift toward autumn, daylight gradually declines, with 13 hours in August and tapering to 12 hours in September. The descent continues into October, November, and December, where daylight dwindles, ending the year with 9 hours in December. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight not only marks the passage of time but also reflects the beautiful cycle of nature in Kobe.

Average Daylight Hours in Kobe for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Kobe throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h 5m10h 54m11h 58m13h 3m13h 58m14h 26m14h 12m13h 24m12h 21m11h 16m10h 20m9h 51m
Data source: Kobe daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Kobe

In Kobe, Japan, January greets residents with a gentle average wind speed of 3.2 m/s (7 mph), setting a tone that carries through the winter months. As the calendar shifts to February, the breeze picks up slightly to 3.3 m/s (7 mph), while March and April hold steady at 3.1 m/s (7 mph), creating a consistent airflow that characterizes early spring. However, by the arrival of June, the winds begin to calm, dropping to 2.1 m/s (5 mph)—a trend that continues through the summer months of July and August. Interestingly, as autumn approaches, wind speeds see a slight recovery, with October and November both reaching 2.7 m/s (6 mph), before returning to January's original pace by December. This pattern underscores a rhythmic ebb and flow of winds throughout the year, with notable tranquility during the summer months that seamlessly transitions into invigorating breezes as winter sets in once more.

Average January Wind Speed in Kobe

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Kobe, with values for each month shown alongside January's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how January's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.2 m/s3.33.13.13.12.12.12.92.52.72.73.2
Data source: Kobe January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Kobe Compares to Other Months

Weather in Kobe varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Kobe, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

January and February share similar minimum temperatures, both dipping down to around -2°C (29°F), but February tends to be slightly warmer overall, with an average temperature of 6°C (44°F) compared to January's average of 6°C (43°F). Notably, February can reach a higher maximum temperature of 18°C (65°F), while January peaks at 16°C (61°F). Precipitation levels also rise in February, with 57 mm (2.3 in) over six days, compared to January's 45 mm (1.8 in) across five days. Humidity is slightly lower in February at 79%, compared to 82% in January. For more detailed information on the monthly climate patterns, check out Kobe weather in February.

In January, the weather is typically cold, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F), and an average of 6°C (43°F). Humidity is relatively high at 82%, and the month sees around 45 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over about five days. In contrast, March brings a notable warming trend, with minimum temperatures rising to 1°C (34°F) and maximums reaching 21°C (71°F), giving an average of 10°C (51°F). Precipitation also increases significantly to 109 mm (4.3 in), spread across approximately ten days, while humidity decreases to 74%. For a detailed look at what to expect, check out Kobe weather in March.

When comparing the weather in January and April, we see significant differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. January typically experiences much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), while April warms up considerably, featuring a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and an average high of 15°C (59°F). Additionally, April brings more rainfall, with total precipitation reaching 137 mm (5.4 in) across 9 days, compared to January's 45 mm (1.8 in) over just 5 days. While both months see high humidity, January's average of 82% is slightly higher than April's 76%, suggesting a drier feel in the spring. For a more detailed look at Kobe's April weather, you can check out Kobe weather in April.

In January, the weather is considerably cooler, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -2°C (29°F) at night to a mild maximum of 16°C (61°F) during the day. The month experiences an average of 6°C (43°F) and is characterized by low precipitation, totaling 45 mm over 5 days, along with a humidity level of 82%. In contrast, May brings much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F), peaking at 30°C (86°F). This month is also wetter, receiving 154 mm of rain across 10 days, while the humidity remains high at 83%. For a closer look at May's weather specifics, you can refer to Kobe weather in May.

In January, the weather in Kobe is characterized by cooler temperatures, with an average of 6°C (43°F) and maximums reaching only 16°C (61°F). Precipitation is relatively light, averaging 45 mm (1.8 in) over about 5 days, and humidity levels are high at 82%. In contrast, June brings a much warmer climate with average temperatures around 23°C (74°F) and maximums soaring to 31°C (88°F). However, it also experiences increased rainfall, totaling 153 mm (6.0 in) across approximately 13 days, with humidity slightly rising to 87%. For more detailed information on Kobe's June weather, visit Kobe weather in June.

January and July present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a mild maximum of 16°C (61°F), accompanied by an average temperature of 6°C (43°F). Precipitation is relatively low, with 45 mm (1.8 in) over just 5 days, and humidity sits at a comfortable 82%. In contrast, July brings a dramatic increase in temperature, with minimums starting at 21°C (69°F) and soaring to maximums of 36°C (97°F), averaging around 27°C (81°F). Rainfall becomes much more significant, reaching 317 mm (12.5 in) over 20 days, while humidity rises to a high 93%. For a closer look at the July weather specifics, you can visit Kobe weather in July.

The weather in January and August presents a striking contrast. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -2°C (29°F) at night to a mild 16°C (61°F) during the day, accompanied by relatively low precipitation of 45 mm (1.8 in) over just five days and humidity levels at 82%. In sharp contrast, August is characterized by significantly warmer temperatures, with nighttime lows of 20°C (68°F) and daytime highs soaring up to 37°C (98°F). This month also sees a substantial increase in rainfall, totaling 210 mm (8.3 in) across 14 days, and higher humidity at 91%. For more specific details on summer conditions, you can visit Kobe weather in August.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F), accompanied by an average temperature of 6°C (43°F). This month typically sees about 45 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over 5 days, and the humidity hovers around 82%. In stark contrast, September offers considerably warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) to a sweltering maximum of 35°C (96°F), and an average temperature of 25°C (77°F). The month is also wetter, featuring approximately 197 mm (7.8 in) of precipitation spread across 14 days, with humidity slightly higher at 87%. For more details, check out Kobe weather in September.

In January, the weather is considerably cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C to a maximum of 16°C, and an average of 6°C. The month sees about 45 mm of precipitation over approximately 5 days, along with a relatively high humidity level of 82%. In contrast, October experiences much warmer temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 10°C to a maximum of 31°C, with an average of 20°C. However, it also brings significantly more precipitation, totaling 235 mm over about 12 days, and a slightly higher humidity of 85%. For a more detailed look at the weather in October, you can check Kobe weather in October.

In January, the weather tends to be cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F), and an average of 6°C (43°F). This month also experiences 45 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over about five days, combined with high humidity at 82%. In contrast, November offers a milder climate, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a pleasant maximum of 24°C (75°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 47 mm (1.9 in) across roughly six days, alongside a humidity level of 83%. For a detailed look at November's weather, check out Kobe weather in November.

In January, temperatures tend to be cooler, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), peaking at 16°C (61°F). In comparison, December's temperatures are milder, ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), with an average of 8°C (48°F). Both months experience significant humidity, with January at 82% and December slightly higher at 83%. Precipitation is also more frequent in December, totaling 60 mm (2.3 in) over 6 days, while January sees 45 mm (1.8 in) across 5 days. For more detailed insights, check out Kobe weather in December.

Compare Kobe's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Kobe

January in Kobe presents a striking contrast to the warmer months, with temperatures dipping to an average that often feels chillier than other times of the year. With a maximum of 16°C and a notable minimum of -2°C, this winter month brings a refreshing coolness, complemented by increased humidity levels around 82%. Precipitation is also more noticeable, with rain making an appearance on about five days throughout the month. As the city embraces its winter charm, January invites a unique blend of crisp air and occasional showers, making it distinct from the balmy conditions of spring and summer. For a deeper dive into how January's climate fits into the bigger picture, explore Kobe Climate.