Zao Onsen Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Zao Onsen.
Climate overview of Zao Onsen
The climate in Zao Onsen, Yamagata, Japan, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 28°C (82°F) in August to 3°C (37°F) in January.
The city receives considerable rain/snowfall, with around 1470 mm (58 in) annually. July is the wettest month. The sunniest month is April, with 6.5 hours of sunshine per day on average.
Zao Onsen Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Zao Onsen — and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Zao Onsen
In Zao Onsen, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 28°C (82°F) in August to a chilly 3°C (37°F) in the coolest month, January.
Nights vary from 20°C (68°F) in August to around -5°C (23°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Zao Onsen
Zao Onsen experiences significant rain/snowfall throughout the year, averaging 1470 mm (58 in) of precipitation annually. The climate in Zao Onsen shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect heavy rainfall in July, the wettest month, with an average of 192 mm (7.6 in) of precipitation over 21 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month November offers drier and sunnier days, with around 86 mm (3.4 in) of rainfall over 22 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Zao Onsen 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 Onsen
Zao Onsen 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 Onsen by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Zao Onsen.
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 Onsen
Be prepared for heavier rainfall during July and August, the wettest period of the year. Planning your next adventure but unsure where to go? Our climate tool suggests perfect locations tailored to your preferred weather conditions. Discover your ideal travel destination with our weather planner.
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Zao Onsen
What is the best time to visit Zao Onsen?
May typically offers the most optimal weather in Zao Onsen. In contrast, January, February, March and December tend to have less optimal conditions.
What temperatures can I expect in Zao Onsen?
Daytime highs range from 3°C (37°F) in January to 28°C (82°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 Zao Onsen get?
Annual rainfall is around 1470 mm (58 in). July is the wettest month with 192 mm (7.6 in), while November is the driest with 86 mm (3.4 in).
How sunny is Zao Onsen?
Zao Onsen 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 Onsen 3-Day Forecast
Zao Onsen 3-Day Forecast
Zao Onsen on the map
Zao Onsen 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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