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🌤 Kyoto Prefecture Weather
Kyoto Prefecture, located in the Kansai region of Japan, is renowned for its historic temples, shrines, and cultural heritage. The prefecture experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters, hot humid summers, and mild transitional periods in spring and autumn. This report provides a detailed month-by-month overview of Kyoto’s weather, helping residents and travelers prepare for seasonal changes. For daily updates, reliable resources include Japan Weather and BBC Weather.
Understanding Kyoto’s weather patterns is essential for planning activities such as visiting Kiyomizu-dera Temple, enjoying cherry blossom season, or exploring the Arashiyama bamboo forest. Each month brings unique conditions, from snowy winters in the northern mountains to humid summers in the city. This report outlines the lowest and highest temperatures, common weather types, and clothing recommendations for each season, ensuring comfort and safety throughout the year.
📅 Monthly Weather Overview: Winter to Early Spring
❄ January
January in Kyoto is cold, with temperatures ranging from -1°C in northern areas to 8°C in the city. Snowfall is common in the northern mountains and occasionally dusts the city, while winds are moderate. Thick coats, thermal layers, insulated boots, and gloves are essential. For precise forecasts, consult Japan Weather or BBC Weather.
🌨 February
February remains chilly, with temperatures between 0°C and 9°C. Snow continues in mountainous areas, while the city experiences cold winds and occasional rain. Heavy coats, scarves, and waterproof footwear are recommended, especially for those traveling to northern Kyoto where snow activities are popular.
🌱 March
March marks the beginning of spring, though temperatures still range from 4°C to 13°C. Snow gradually melts in the mountains, and rainfall increases, creating damp conditions. Windy days are common, and cherry blossoms begin to bloom toward the end of the month, attracting visitors to temples and gardens. A combination of light jackets and layered clothing is advisable, along with waterproof shoes for rainy days.
📅 Monthly Weather Overview: Winter to Early Spring
❄ January
January in Kyoto is cold, with temperatures ranging from -1°C in northern areas to 8°C in the city. Snowfall is common in the northern mountains and occasionally dusts the city, while winds are moderate. Thick coats, thermal layers, insulated boots, and gloves are essential. For precise forecasts, consult Japan Weather or BBC Weather.
🌨 February
February remains chilly, with temperatures between 0°C and 9°C. Snow continues in mountainous areas, while the city experiences cold winds and occasional rain. Heavy coats, scarves, and waterproof footwear are recommended, especially for those traveling to northern Kyoto where snow activities are popular.
🌱 March
March marks the beginning of spring, though temperatures still range from 4°C to 13°C. Snow gradually melts in the mountains, and rainfall increases, creating damp conditions. Windy days are common, and cherry blossoms begin to bloom toward the end of the month, attracting visitors to temples and gardens. A combination of light jackets and layered clothing is advisable, along with waterproof shoes for rainy days.
🌞 Monthly Weather Overview: Summer to Early Autumn
🏖 July
July is hot and humid, with temperatures between 21°C and 30°C. Rain showers continue, but sunny days dominate, making it ideal for festivals such as Gion Matsuri. Lightweight clothing, hats, and sunscreen are essential to stay comfortable in the heat.
🌻 August
August is the hottest month in Kyoto, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 32°C. Humidity is high, and occasional thunderstorms occur. Breathable fabrics, sun protection, and plenty of hydration are recommended. It is a popular month for exploring Kyoto’s summer festivals and enjoying evening walks along the Kamo River, so sturdy footwear is also useful.
🍂 September
September signals the transition to autumn, with temperatures cooling to between 18°C and 27°C. Rainfall is moderate, and winds increase, especially in open areas. Autumn foliage begins to appear toward the end of the month. A light jacket or sweater is advisable, along with rain gear for sudden showers.
🍁 Monthly Weather Overview: Autumn to Winter
🎃 October
October in Kyoto is cool and refreshing, with temperatures ranging from 11°C to 20°C. Rainfall decreases, and the air becomes crisp, while autumn foliage begins to appear in temple gardens and mountains. Winds are moderate, and evenings can feel chilly. A medium-weight jacket, layered clothing, and comfortable shoes are ideal for enjoying the outdoors. For detailed updates, consult Japan Weather or BBC Weather.
🍂 November
November signals the onset of winter, with temperatures dropping to between 6°C and 15°C. Snow is rare in the city but chilly winds and rain showers are common. The weather is unpredictable, alternating between sunny days and sudden showers. Warm coats, scarves, and gloves are recommended, along with waterproof footwear.
❄ December
December is firmly winter, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 11°C. Snowfall blankets the northern mountains, while central Kyoto remains cold and windy. Winds can be strong, especially near open plains. Thick winter coats, insulated boots, and thermal layers are essential for staying warm. Festive lights brighten Kyoto’s streets, making outdoor strolls enjoyable despite the chill.
🌤 Kyoto Prefecture Weather Report
⭐ 10 Famous People
- Oda Nobunaga
- Sen no Rikyū
- Tokugawa Ieyasu
- Prince Shotoku
- Kūkai
- Ken Watanabe
- Masaharu Fukuyama
- Ayaka Hirahara
- Koji Yakusho
- Shunji Iwai
📘 20 Facts
- Kyoto Prefecture is located in the Kansai region of Japan.
- Kyoto city was Japan’s capital for over 1,000 years.
- It is famous for temples, shrines, and gardens.
- Kyoto has a temperate climate with four seasons.
- Summers are hot and humid.
- Winters are cold with occasional snow.
- It is home to the Gion Matsuri festival.
- Autumn foliage is spectacular in temple gardens.
- It has many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Kyoto produces traditional crafts like kimono and pottery.
- It is known for matcha (green tea).
- Rail links connect it to Osaka and Tokyo.
- It has many hot springs (onsen).
- Tourism is a major economic driver.
- It hosts cultural festivals year-round.
- It has national parks and reserves.
- It is famous for kaiseki cuisine.
- It produces sake and miso.
- It is less urbanized than Osaka nearby.
- Kyoto dialect is distinct from standard Japanese.
😂 20 Funny Facts
- Locals joke that Kyoto has “four seasons and four thousand temples.”
- Festival floats are decorated with giant lanterns.
- Some ramen shops serve matcha-flavored noodles.
- Tourists race to spot geisha in Gion.
- Green tea ice cream is sold everywhere.
- Locals joke that summer lasts only two months.
- Some vending machines sell hot matcha tea.
- Festival parades include giant fans
