Kanazawa Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Kanazawa.
Climate overview of Kanazawa
Temperatures in Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan, vary greatly throughout the year. August is the hottest month at 31°C (88°F), while January is the coldest at 7°C (45°F).
The city receives considerable rain/snowfall, with around 2184 mm (86 in) annually. July is the wettest month. It has a distinct rainy season from June to October, with very warm summers and cold winters. The sunniest month is August, with 6.9 hours of sunshine per day on average.
Kanazawa Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Kanazawa - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Kanazawa
The climate in Kanazawa is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a very warm 31°C (88°F) in August to a chilly 7°C (45°F) in the coolest month, January.
Nights vary from 23°C (73°F) in August to around 0°C (32°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Kanazawa
Kanazawa has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 2184 mm (86 in) of rain/snowfall per year. Kanazawa offers a pleasant mix of wetter and slightly drier months. The difference in precipitation between the wettest month July (241 mm (9.5 in)) and the driest month May (139 mm (5.5 in)) is not too significant. For more details, please visit our Kanazawa 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 Kanazawa
For those who appreciate different seasons, Kanazawa serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in August with an average of 6.9 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in January, offering only 2.1 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Humidity in Kanazawa by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Kanazawa.
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 Kanazawa
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 October
- Warmest weather: August
- Most sunshine: August
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct rainy season from June to October, with very warm summers and cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around 0°C (32°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Kanazawa
What is the best time to visit Kanazawa?
May and October typically offer the most optimal weather in Kanazawa. In contrast, January, February, March and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Kanazawa has a distinct rainy season from June to October, with very warm summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Kanazawa?
Daytime highs range from 7°C (45°F) in January to 31°C (88°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from 0°C (32°F) to 23°C (73°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Kanazawa get?
Annual rainfall is around 2184 mm (86 in). July is the wettest month with 241 mm (9.5 in), while May is the driest with 139 mm (5.5 in).
How sunny is Kanazawa?
Kanazawa 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.
Kanazawa 3-Day Forecast
Kanazawa on the map
Kanazawa is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
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