Chikuma Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Chikuma.
Climate overview of Chikuma
The climate in Chikuma, Nagano Prefecture, Japan, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 29°C (84°F) in August to 3°C (37°F) in January.
The city has a wet climate, receiving around 2119 mm (83 in) of rain/snowfall per year. Despite the high annual total, it has a distinct rainy season from June to October, with warm summers and cold winters. July is the wettest month. Sunshine peaks in May, when the city sees around 7.0 hours of sunshine per day.
Chikuma Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Chikuma - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Chikuma
In Chikuma, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. On average, daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 29°C (84°F) in August to a chilly 3°C (37°F) in January.
Nighttime temperatures range from 19°C (66°F) in August to -6°C (21°F) in January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Chikuma
Chikuma experiences significant rain/snowfall throughout the year, averaging 2119 mm (83 in) of precipitation annually. The seasons in Chikuma bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, July, receives heavy rainfall, with an average of 279 mm (11 in) of precipitation. This rainfall is distributed across 21 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month, November, experiences much less rainfall, totaling 125 mm (4.9 in) over 16 rainy days. These distinct seasonal differences provide diverse experiences throughout the year. For more details, please visit our Chikuma 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 Chikuma
Chikuma enjoys sunny spells year-round. May sees up to 7.0 hours of daily sunshine, perfect for a sunny trip. January, the least sunny month, still offers a generous 4.3 hours of sun despite this cloudier time of the year.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Humidity in Chikuma by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Chikuma.
The city experiences its highest humidity in January, reaching 78%. In April, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 61%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit Chikuma
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: May
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: May and August
- Fewer rainy days: April, May, August, October and November
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct rainy season from June to October, with warm summers and cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -6°C (21°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Chikuma
What is the best time to visit Chikuma?
May typically offers the most optimal weather in Chikuma. In contrast, January, February, March, July, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Chikuma has a distinct rainy season from June to October, with warm summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Chikuma?
Daytime highs range from 3°C (37°F) in January to 29°C (84°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from -6°C (21°F) to 19°C (66°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Chikuma get?
Annual rainfall is around 2119 mm (83 in). July is the wettest month with 279 mm (11 in), while November is the driest with 125 mm (4.9 in).
How sunny is Chikuma?
Chikuma receives around 1,951 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 209 hours, while January is the cloudiest with just 128 hours.
Chikuma 3-Day Forecast
Chikuma on the map
Chikuma is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in August - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
Chase the autumn leaves in Japan
Japan is one of these cases which turns into a gold, yellow and orange fairy tale starting from September. And we can honestly say: We cannot imagine a more beautiful season to visit Japan.
Walk the 88 temple circuit
We recommend walking the 88 temple circuit from April til October. Although June, July and August can be a bit wet, hot and humid.
The famous bamboo forests of Arashiyama
The famous bamboo forests of Arashiyama lie just outside the city center of Kyoto and is unique in the world. If you look at photos of this bamboo forest, it looks like you have landed in a fairy-tale world.
10 reasons why you should visit Japan in winter
Here are 10 reasons why you should plan a winter trip to Japan. During this period, popular sights are less busy and prices for flights and hotels much cheaper.