Okayama Weather Today

Climate and Weather in Okayama-ken, Japan

Okayama-ken, also known as Okayama Prefecture, is located in the Chugoku region of Japan. This region experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot and humid summers, mild winters, and a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year. The climate in Okayama-ken is influenced by its proximity to the Seto Inland Sea and the Chugoku Mountains.

Temperature

The average annual temperature in Okayama-ken is around 15.8°C (60.4°F). Summers in the region are hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 31°C (77°F to 88°F) in July and August. The highest recorded temperature in Okayama-ken was 39.8°C (103.6°F) in August.

Winters in Okayama-ken are relatively mild, with average temperatures ranging from 3°C to 9°C (37°F to 48°F) in January and February. The lowest recorded temperature in the region was -6.7°C (19.9°F) in January.

Spring and autumn are transitional seasons in Okayama-ken, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). These seasons are known for their mild and comfortable weather, making them popular times to visit the region.

Rainfall

Okayama-ken receives a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year. The wettest months are June and July, with an average of 200 to 250 millimeters (7.9 to 9.8 inches) of rainfall. The driest months are January and February, with an average of 30 to 40 millimeters (1.2 to 1.6 inches) of rainfall.

The region is prone to typhoons, which can bring heavy rainfall and strong winds between July and October. These typhoons can occasionally cause flooding and disruption to daily activities.

Sunshine

Okayama-ken enjoys a good amount of sunshine throughout the year. The sunniest months are July and August, with an average of 200 to 220 hours of sunshine. The least sunny months are December and January, with an average of 100 to 120 hours of sunshine. The annual average for sunshine hours in Okayama-ken is around 2,200 hours.

Snowfall

Snowfall in Okayama-ken is relatively rare due to its mild winters. On average, the region receives less than 10 centimeters (3.9 inches) of snowfall per year. However, during particularly cold winters, the mountains in the Chugoku region may experience heavier snowfall.

Humidity

Okayama-ken has a fairly high level of humidity throughout the year. The average relative humidity in the region is around 70%. Summers tend to be more humid, with humidity levels reaching up to 80% or higher. The least humid months are usually in winter, with humidity levels dropping to around 50%.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Okayama-ken is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and comfortable. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, especially during cherry blossom season in spring and autumn colors in November.

However, if you enjoy hot weather and vibrant festivals, summer (June to August) can also be a great time to visit. Just be prepared for higher temperatures and occasional rainfall due to typhoons.

Overall, Okayama-ken experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with hot and humid summers, mild winters, and pleasant transitional seasons. Whether you prefer mild weather or enjoy the heat, Okayama-ken offers a range of experiences for visitors seeking to explore this beautiful region of Japan.