Zao Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Zao.
Climate overview of Zao
Temperatures in Zao, Miyagi, Japan, vary greatly throughout the year. August is the hottest month at 28°C (82°F), while January is the coldest at 5°C (41°F).
The city receives considerable rain/snowfall, with around 1441 mm (57 in) annually. July is the wettest month. It has a distinct rainy season from July to September. Sunshine peaks in April, when the city sees around 6.5 hours of sunshine per day.
Zao Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Zao — and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Zao
The climate in Zao is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 28°C (82°F) in August to a chilly 5°C (41°F) in the coolest month, January.
Nights vary from 21°C (70°F) in August to around -3°C (27°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Zao
Zao has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 1441 mm (57 in) of rain/snowfall per year. The climate in Zao shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect heavy rainfall in July, the wettest month, with an average of 195 mm (7.7 in) of precipitation over 21 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month February offers drier and sunnier days, with around 69 mm (2.7 in) of snow/rainfall over 23 snowy/rainy days. For more details, please visit our Zao 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 Zao
Zao offers a pleasant mix of sunny and slightly overcast days. The difference in sunshine hours between April (6.5 hours daily) and July (4.1 hours daily) provides a bit of variety for visitors and residents.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Humidity in Zao by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Zao.
The city experiences its highest humidity in July, reaching 84%. In March, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 62%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit Zao
The wettest months are July, August and September, when precipitation is at its highest. Ready to plan your travels but need destination ideas? Our smart tool recommends places based on the climate conditions you prefer. Start planning with our destination weather tool.
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Zao
What is the best time to visit Zao?
May, June, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Zao. In contrast, January, February, March and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Zao has a distinct rainy season from July to September.
What temperatures can I expect in Zao?
Daytime highs range from 5°C (41°F) in January to 28°C (82°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from -3°C (27°F) to 21°C (70°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Zao get?
Annual rainfall is around 1441 mm (57 in). July is the wettest month with 195 mm (7.7 in), while February is the driest with 69 mm (2.7 in).
How sunny is Zao?
Zao receives around 1,843 hours of sunshine per year. April is the sunniest month with 195 hours, while July is the cloudiest with just 124 hours.
Zao 3-Day Forecast
Zao 3-Day Forecast
Zao on the map
Zao 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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