Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama.
Climate overview of Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama
The climate in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama, Gifu, Japan, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 28°C (82°F) in August to 2°C (36°F) in January.
The city has a wet climate, receiving around 2900 mm (114 in) of rain/snowfall per year. Despite the high annual total, it has warm summers and very cold winters. July is the wettest month. Sunshine peaks in August, when the city sees around 6.9 hours of sunshine per day.
Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama
In Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. On average, daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 28°C (82°F) in August to a very cold 2°C (36°F) in January.
Nighttime temperatures range from 19°C (66°F) in August to -7°C (19°F) in January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama
Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama experiences significant rain/snowfall throughout the year, averaging 2900 mm (114 in) of precipitation annually. The amount of precipitation varies moderately throughout the year. The wettest month, July, sees around 363 mm (14 in) of rainfall, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of rain now and then. The driest month, November, still receives a respectable 189 mm (7.4 in) of rainfall. For more details, please visit our Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama
In Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 6.9 hours in August. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. January sees a soft sun for only 2.1 hours per average day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Humidity in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama.
The city experiences its highest humidity in January, reaching 83%. In April, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 68%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: May and August
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: August
- Seasonal pattern: Warm summers and very cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -7°C (19°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama
What is the best time to visit Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama?
May and August typically offer the most optimal weather in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama. In contrast, January, February, March, April, June, July, September, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama has warm summers and very cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama?
Daytime highs range from 2°C (36°F) in January to 28°C (82°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from -7°C (19°F) to 19°C (66°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama get?
Annual rainfall is around 2900 mm (114 in). July is the wettest month with 363 mm (14 in), while November is the driest with 189 mm (7.4 in).
How sunny is Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama?
Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama receives around 1,660 hours of sunshine per year. August is the sunniest month with 208 hours, while January is the cloudiest with just 64 hours.
Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama 3-Day Forecast
Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama on the map
Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
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