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Contents
- The climate of Kanazawa
- The best time to visit Kanazawa
- The worst time to visit Kanazawa
- Spring weather in Kanazawa
- Summer weather in Kanazawa
- Autumn weather in Kanazawa
- Winter weather in Kanazawa
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average UV index
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Kanazawa
Kanazawa, Japan, is classified under the Köppen climate classification as Cfa, meaning it experiences a humid subtropical climate with no distinct dry season. Located on the Sea of Japan coast, it comes under the influence of varied air masses, resulting in a rather interesting climatic pattern.
As the year unfolds, Kanazawa encounters a wide spectrum of weather conditions. High temperatures range from 6.8°C (44.2°F) in its coldest months to 30.9°C (87.6°F) during the peak of summer, while the lows span from a chilly 0.9°C (33.6°F) to a balmy 23.7°C (74.7°F). Humidity remains relatively steady throughout the year, showing slight variations between 67% to 77%.
Rainy days are a common feature in Kanazawa's climate, with the city experiencing an average of 139mm (5.47") to 282mm (11.1") of rainfall per month. Furthermore, snowfall plays a crucial part in the winter months with average accumulations ranging from 20mm (0.79") to 1190mm (46.85").
The amount of daylight varies between 10 to 14.6 hours per day during the year. Depending on the time of year, the city receives between 2 to 7.1 hours of sunshine per day, while the UV index swings from a low 2 up to a high 10.
As the year unfolds, Kanazawa encounters a wide spectrum of weather conditions. High temperatures range from 6.8°C (44.2°F) in its coldest months to 30.9°C (87.6°F) during the peak of summer, while the lows span from a chilly 0.9°C (33.6°F) to a balmy 23.7°C (74.7°F). Humidity remains relatively steady throughout the year, showing slight variations between 67% to 77%.
Rainy days are a common feature in Kanazawa's climate, with the city experiencing an average of 139mm (5.47") to 282mm (11.1") of rainfall per month. Furthermore, snowfall plays a crucial part in the winter months with average accumulations ranging from 20mm (0.79") to 1190mm (46.85").
The amount of daylight varies between 10 to 14.6 hours per day during the year. Depending on the time of year, the city receives between 2 to 7.1 hours of sunshine per day, while the UV index swings from a low 2 up to a high 10.
The best time to visit Kanazawa
The most favorable time to visit Kanazawa depends heavily on weather preferences. For those seeking moderate temperatures and vibrant natural scenery, the best option would be between April and June. During these months, daytime temperatures hover around 11°C (51.8°F) to 21.6°C (70.9°F), while the evenings cool down to around 3°C (37.4°F) to 13.1°C (55.6°F). Although rain is present, rainfall levels are relatively lower ranging from 137mm (5.39") to 155mm (6.1") each month.
The worst time to visit Kanazawa
Unless snowy landscapes and cold weather are appealing, Kanazawa's winter months from December to February are best avoided. Low temperatures drop to almost freezing levels, fluctuating between 0.7°C (33.3°F) to 3.4°C (38.1°F), with high temperatures not exceeding 10.2°C (50.4°F). This period also sees the most snowfall, with levels peaking at 1190mm (46.85") in December.
Spring weather in Kanazawa
Spring, extending from March to May, brings a refreshing change to Kanazawa's weather. During this period, days warm up to between 11°C (51.8°F) to 21.6°C (70.9°F) while nights are cooler and range from 3°C (37.4°F) to 13.1°C (55.6°F). Rain is a common feature with precipitation levels ranging from 137mm (5.39") to 159mm (6.26").
Summer weather in Kanazawa
Summer in Kanazawa, from June to August, is characterized by warm to hot conditions. Daytime high temperatures range from 21.3°C (70.3°F) to 30.9°C (87.6°F), while night-time lows are between 13.3°C (55.9°F) to 23.7°C (74.7°F). Despite being the warmest part of the year, summer also brings high humidity and substantial rainfall, peaking at 232mm (9.13") in July.
Autumn weather in Kanazawa
Autumn in Kanazawa spans from September to November. The weather during this season is characterized by gradually cooling temperatures, with highs dropping from 26.6°C (79.9°F) to 15.5°C (59.9°F) and lows reducing from 19.5°C (67.1°F) to 7.7°C (45.9°F). Although rainfall is still significant, the sheer beauty of the changing foliage makes autumn a popular time to visit Kanazawa.
Winter weather in Kanazawa
As December rolls in, Kanazawa transitions into winter that stays through February. This season is known for its cold temperatures, with highs ranging from 6.8°C (44.2°F) to 10.2°C (50.4°F) and lows dropping to between 0.7°C (33.3°F) and 3.4°C (38.1°F). Snow becomes a frequent addition to the cityscape, with the highest accumulation of 1190mm (46.85") recorded in December.
Weather in January
January in Kanazawa experiences cold harsh winter temperatures with the high barely touching 6.8°C (44.2°F) and the low plummeting to 0.9°C (33.6°F). Relative humidity slightly increases, making the cold more dominant. The frequent snowfall gives the city a winter wonderland appearance. Weather in January »
Weather in February
In Kanazawa, February brings slightly improved conditions with the temperature nudging a bit higher than in January. The city still remains in the grip of winter, although the snowfall tapers off considerably. Rainfall amounts decrease, making the weather conditions moderately severe. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March signals the arrival of spring in Kanazawa, with temperatures climbing to 11°C (51.8°F) and snowfall dropping to just 270mm (10.63"). The daylight hours begin to increase, leading to longer periods of sunshine that briefly punctuate the otherwise chilly weather. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in Kanazawa trends towards a warmer scenario, a substantial relief from the preceding winter period. The weather is characterized by a significantly reduced snowfall, replaced by moderate rainfall. This is the time when the city starts to warm up, resulting in vibrant spring colors. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May, in Kanazawa, is a season of new beginnings when the weather warms up to a comfortable 21.6°C (70.9°F). It marks the transition from spring to summer with increasing hours of daylight. The weather becomes more predictable with comparatively limited rainfall. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June brings the summer solstice to Kanazawa, with temperatures reaching 25°C (77°F). This is the time when the city becomes a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with ample sunshine hours. The increase in sea temperature adds a humid touch to the overall climate. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July in Kanazawa sets the stage for hot weather, peaking at 28.8°C (83.8°F) and providing long sunny days. The high temperature promotes outdoor activities, supported by extended daylight hours. Despite a higher temperature, the increased sea surface temperature contributes to the humidity. Weather in July »
Weather in August
Kanazawa, in August, witnesses the hottest temperature of the year, soaring to a peak of 30.9°C (87.6°F). The warm sea water further raises humidity levels, making the air feel hotter. However, longer sunshine hours offer plenty of time for sightseeing tours and get-togethers. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September marks the onset of autumn in Kanazawa, with temperatures falling to a more comfortable 26.6°C (79.9°F). The precipitation goes up significantly, hinting at a cooler future. The city starts shedding its summer-like appearance. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October is a transitional month in Kanazawa, with temperatures dropping considerably from the previous month and the days shortening. Rainfall amounts increase, adding a fresh aroma to the city's autumn palette. The cooling sea waves make beach activities less frequent, contributing to a stark contrast with the hot summer days. Kanazawa's October weather features a mild decline in high-temperatures, reducing from a moderately hot 26.6°C (79.9°F) in September to an agreeable 21.3°C (70.3°F). Weather in October »
Weather in November
November brings a drastic change in the climate of Kanazawa, signaling the start of the cold season as temperatures descend to 15.5°C (59.9°F). Rainfall levels rocket up to 265mm (10.43"), making it one of the wettest months. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December in Kanazawa marks the start of the snowy season with temperatures plummeting to a chilly 10.2°C (50.4°F) and snowfall reaching up to 370mm (14.57"). The ocean temperature subsequently falls, contributing to the overall cold weather. Weather in December »
Updated: Jan 31, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
What is the coldest month in Kanazawa?
January, marked by an average high-temperature of 6.8°C (44.2°F) and a low-temperature of 0.9°C (33.6°F), is the coldest month.
How many days does it rain in Kanazawa?
Throughout the year, there are 193.7 rainfall days, and 2399mm (94.45") of precipitation is accumulated.
When does it snow in Kanazawa?
Months with snowfall in Kanazawa are January through March, November and December.
What is the snowiest month in Kanazawa?
January is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 19.1 days and accumulates 1190mm (46.85") of snow.
How much does it snow in Kanazawa?
Throughout the year, there are 54.6 snowfall days, and 2780mm (109.45") of snow is accumulated.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Kanazawa?
With an average of 2h of sunshine, January has the least sunshine of the year.
What are the months with the lowest UV index in Kanazawa?
The months with the lowest UV index in Kanazawa, Japan, are January and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2.
What months are the sea coldest in Kanazawa?
The months with the coldest seawater in Kanazawa, Japan, are February and March, with an average sea temperature of 11°C (51.8°F).
What is the least humid month in Kanazawa?
The least humid month in Kanazawa, Japan, is March, with an average relative humidity of 67%.
What is the driest month in Kanazawa?
April is the month with the least rainfall in Kanazawa. Rain falls for 13 days and accumulates 137mm (5.39") of precipitation.
When it does not snow in Kanazawa?
April through October are months without snowfall in Kanazawa, Japan.
What is the most humid month in Kanazawa?
The most humid month is June, with an average relative humidity of 77%.
When are the longest days in Kanazawa?
June has the longest days of the year in Kanazawa, with an average of 14h and 36min of daylight.
When is the highest UV index in Kanazawa?
July is the month with the highest UV index, with an average maximum UV index of 10.
What month is the hottest in Kanazawa?
August is the warmest month in Kanazawa, with an average high-temperature of 30.9°C (87.6°F) and an average low-temperature of 23.7°C (74.7°F).
What month is the sea warmest in Kanazawa?
The month with the warmest seawater is August, with an average sea temperature of 26°C (78.8°F).
What month has the most sunshine in Kanazawa?
August has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 7.1h of sunshine.
What is the rainiest month in Kanazawa?
December is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 23.3 days and accumulates 282mm (11.1") of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days in Kanazawa?
December has the shortest days of the year in Kanazawa, Japan, with an average of 9h and 42min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Kanazawa?
Kanazawa does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). JST timezone is used throughout the entire year.
Average temperature
Kanazawa, Japan
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is August (30.9°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (6.8°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is August (23.7°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is February (0.7°C).
Average humidity
Kanazawa, Japan
The month with the highest relative humidity is June (77%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is March (67%).
Average rainfall
Kanazawa, Japan
- Average rainfall in January:
269.6mm - Average rainfall in February:
171.9mm - Average rainfall in March:
159.2mm - Average rainfall in April:
136.9mm - Average rainfall in May:
155.2mm - Average rainfall in June:
185.1mm
- Average rainfall in July:
231.9mm - Average rainfall in August:
139.2mm - Average rainfall in September:
225.5mm - Average rainfall in October:
177.4mm - Average rainfall in November:
264.9mm - Average rainfall in December:
282.1mm
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is December (282.1mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is April (136.9mm).
Average rainfall days
Kanazawa, Japan
- Average rainfall days in January:
24.7 days - Average rainfall days in February:
20.7 days - Average rainfall days in March:
18.4 days - Average rainfall days in April:
13 days - Average rainfall days in May:
11.7 days - Average rainfall days in June:
11.9 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
14.3 days - Average rainfall days in August:
9.8 days - Average rainfall days in September:
13 days - Average rainfall days in October:
14.8 days - Average rainfall days in November:
18.1 days - Average rainfall days in December:
23.3 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is January (24.7 days).
The month with the least rainy days is August (9.8 days).
Average snowfall
Kanazawa, Japan
The month with the highest snowfall is January (1190mm).
The months with the least snowfall are April, May, June, July, August, September and October (0mm).
Average snowfall days
Kanazawa, Japan
- Average snowfall days in January:
19.1 days - Average snowfall days in February:
16 days - Average snowfall days in March:
8.1 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0.6 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0 days - Average snowfall days in November:
1 days - Average snowfall days in December:
9.8 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (19.1 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are May, June, July, August, September and October (0 days).
Average sea temperature
Kanazawa, Japan
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (26°C).
The coldest months (with the lowest average sea temperature) are February and March (11°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Kanazawa, Japan
- Average daylight in January:
10h and 0min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 1min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 1min - Average daylight in June:
14h and 4min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 2min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 3min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 2min - Average daylight in November:
10h and 1min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 4min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 36min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 42min).
- Average sunshine in January:
2h and 0min - Average sunshine in February:
3h and 0min - Average sunshine in March:
4h and 4min - Average sunshine in April:
6h and 1min - Average sunshine in May:
6h and 3min - Average sunshine in June:
5h and 1min
- Average sunshine in July:
5h and 1min - Average sunshine in August:
7h and 1min - Average sunshine in September:
4h and 5min - Average sunshine in October:
4h and 5min - Average sunshine in November:
3h and 3min - Average sunshine in December:
2h and 2min
The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 7h and 6min).
The month with the least sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 2h and 0min).
Average UV index
Kanazawa, Japan
The month with the highest UV index is July (UV index 10).
The months with the lowest UV index are January and December (UV index 2).
