Yakushima Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Yakushima.
Climate overview of Yakushima
Yakushima, in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan, experiences a broad range of temperatures over the year, from warm and humid summers to milder, cooler winters. The island is especially known for its heavy and frequent rainfall, which supports its ancient cedar trees. The climate plays a central role in shaping the island’s green environment, making it a destination for hiking, nature watching, and exploring Japan’s oldest forests. Now, let’s explore all the climate details to give you a complete picture.
Yakushima Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Yakushima - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Yakushima
Visitors to Yakushima can expect significant temperature changes throughout the year. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 29°C (84°F) in August to a moderate 16°C (61°F) in the coolest month, January.
Nights vary from 27°C (81°F) in August to around 12°C (54°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Yakushima
Yakushima is known for its substantial rainfall, with annual precipitation reaching 2467 mm (97 in). The climate in Yakushima shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect heavy rainfall in June, the wettest month, with an average of 474 mm (19 in) of precipitation over 22 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month December offers drier and sunnier days, with around 130 mm (5.1 in) of rainfall over 21 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Yakushima 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 Yakushima
For those who appreciate different seasons, Yakushima serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in August with an average of 7.7 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in January, offering only 3.6 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Humidity in Yakushima by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Yakushima.
The city experiences its highest humidity in June, reaching 84%. 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 Yakushima
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: August, October and November
- Warmest weather: July, August and September
- Most sunshine: July and August
- Wettest months: March, April, May, June and July, when rainfall is highest.
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct rainy season from March to July, with warm summers and mild winters
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Yakushima
What is the best time to visit Yakushima?
August, October and November typically offer the most optimal weather in Yakushima. In contrast, March and June tend to have less optimal conditions. Yakushima has a distinct rainy season from March to July, with warm summers and mild winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Yakushima?
Daytime highs range from 16°C (61°F) in January to 29°C (84°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from 12°C (54°F) to 27°C (81°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Yakushima get?
Annual rainfall is around 2467 mm (97 in). June is the wettest month with 474 mm (19 in), while December is the driest with 130 mm (5.1 in).
How sunny is Yakushima?
Yakushima receives around 1,842 hours of sunshine per year. August is the sunniest month with 230 hours, while January is the cloudiest with just 109 hours.
Yakushima 3-Day Forecast
Yakushima 3-Day Forecast
Yakushima on the map
Yakushima 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) 
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