Nikko Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Nikko.
Climate overview of Nikko
Nikko, located in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan, is a historic mountain town known for its UNESCO-listed shrines, waterfalls, and autumn foliage. The climate shifts noticeably across the seasons. Summers tend to be warm, while winters can get quite cold with regular snowfall. Rain is also common throughout the year, contributing to the area’s green forests and flowing rivers. Let’s take a closer look at the climate to help you plan your visit.
Nikko Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Nikko - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Nikko
Visitors to Nikko can expect significant temperature changes throughout the year. On average, daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 27°C (81°F) in August to a chilly 4°C (39°F) in January.
Nighttime temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) in August to -5°C (23°F) in January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Nikko
Nikko is known for its substantial rain/snowfall, with annual precipitation reaching 2166 mm (85 in). The seasons in Nikko bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, July, receives heavy rainfall, with an average of 328 mm (13 in) of precipitation. This rainfall is distributed across 23 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month, December, experiences much less snow/rainfall, totaling 69 mm (2.7 in) over 18 snowy/rainy days. These distinct seasonal differences provide diverse experiences throughout the year. For more details, please visit our Nikko 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 Nikko
In Nikko, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 6.5 hours in March. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. September sees a soft sun for only 3.3 hours per average day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Humidity in Nikko by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Nikko.
The city experiences its highest humidity in July, reaching 87%. In January, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 65%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit Nikko
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: March and May
- Wettest months: May, June, July, August, September and October, when rainfall is highest.
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct rainy season from May to October, with warm summers and cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -5°C (23°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Nikko
What is the best time to visit Nikko?
May typically offers the most optimal weather in Nikko. In contrast, January, February, March, June, July, August, September, October and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Nikko has a distinct rainy season from May to October, with warm summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Nikko?
Daytime highs range from 4°C (39°F) in January to 27°C (81°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from -5°C (23°F) to 20°C (68°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Nikko get?
Annual rainfall is around 2166 mm (85 in). July is the wettest month with 328 mm (13 in), while December is the driest with 69 mm (2.7 in).
How sunny is Nikko?
Nikko receives around 1,824 hours of sunshine per year. March is the sunniest month with 195 hours, while September is the cloudiest with just 98 hours.
Nikko 3-Day Forecast
Nikko 3-Day Forecast
Nikko on the map
Nikko is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in July - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Osaka
32°C (90°F) Tokyo30°C (86°F) Naha
30°C (86°F) Kyoto31°C (88°F) Hakone28°C (82°F) Hakuba26°C (79°F) Sapporo24°C (75°F) Niseko24°C (75°F) 
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
Chase the autumn leaves in Japan
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The famous bamboo forests of Arashiyama
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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.