Otsu Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Otsu.

Climate overview of Otsu

The climate in Otsu, Shiga, Japan, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 33°C (91°F) in August to 9°C (48°F) in January.

The city has a wet climate, receiving around 1597 mm (63 in) of rain/snowfall per year. July is the wettest month. May is the sunniest month, averaging 6.2 hours of sunshine per day.

Otsu Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Otsu — and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Otsu

In Otsu, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. On average, daytime temperatures range from a very warm 33°C (91°F) in August to a chilly 9°C (48°F) in January.

Nighttime temperatures range from 23°C (73°F) in August to 0°C (32°F) in January.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Otsu

Otsu experiences significant rain/snowfall throughout the year, averaging 1597 mm (63 in) of precipitation annually. The seasons in Otsu bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, July, receives heavy rainfall, with an average of 214 mm (8.4 in) of precipitation. This rainfall is distributed across 19 rainy days.

In contrast, the driest month, December, experiences much less rainfall, totaling 68 mm (2.7 in) over 18 rainy days. These distinct seasonal differences provide diverse experiences throughout the year. For more details, please visit our Otsu Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Otsu

Otsu enjoys sunny spells year-round. May sees up to 6.2 hours of daily sunshine, perfect for a sunny trip. February, the least sunny month, still offers a generous 4.0 hours of sun despite this cloudier time of the year.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Data from: Kyoto, Japan (10 KM, 6 Miles).

Daily hours of sunshine

Data from: Kyoto, Japan (10 KM, 6 Miles).

Humidity in Otsu by Month

Best Time to Visit Otsu

The best time to visit Otsu is during April, May, October and November, when the weather provides comfortable temperatures between 17°C (63°F) and 24°C (75°F). With rainfall of 80 mm (3.1 in) to 156 mm (6.1 in), you can expect pleasant weather during your visit in these months.

Be prepared for heavier rainfall during June, July and September, the wettest period of the year.

Seeking the perfect travel destination for this year? We've created a tool that suggests locations matching your desired weather. Let our weather planner guide your travel decisions.

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Otsu

What is the best time to visit Otsu?

May and October typically offer the most optimal weather in Otsu. In contrast, January, February, July and August tend to have less optimal conditions.

What temperatures can I expect in Otsu?

Daytime highs range from 9°C (48°F) in January to 33°C (91°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 Otsu get?

Annual rainfall is around 1597 mm (63 in). July is the wettest month with 214 mm (8.4 in), while December is the driest with 68 mm (2.7 in).

How sunny is Otsu?

Otsu receives around 1,805 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 185 hours, while February is the cloudiest with just 120 hours.

Otsu 3-Day Forecast

Otsu 3-Day Forecast

Otsu on the map

Otsu is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.

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