Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama Rainfall & Precipitation: Monthly Averages and Year-Round Insights

This page shows the average amount of rainfall per month in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama. The numbers are calculated over a 30-year period to provide a reliable average. Let’s explore the details in depth to provide you with a complete overview.

Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama is known for its substantial rain/snowfall, with annual precipitation reaching 2900 mm.

Monthly Precipitation Levels

The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm)

Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama experiences moderate seasonal variation in rainfall, with monthly averages ranging from 363 mm in July, the wettest month, and 189 mm in November, the driest month.

July, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 27°C. The city receives 155 hours of sunshine in this period. During the driest month November you can expect a temperature of 12°C. For more detailed insights into the city’s temperatures, visit our Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama Temperature page.

Annual Precipitation in Japan

The map below shows the annual precipitation across Japan. You can also select the different months in case you are interested in a specific month.

Amsterdam Precipitation Compared World Wide

Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama’s average annual precipitation is 2900 mm. Let’s compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:

In Barcelona, Spain, the average annual precipitation is 644 mm, evenly distributed across the year with no extreme wet or dry seasons.

Beijing, China, receives 560 mm of annual precipitation, concentrated in the summer months.

Melbourne, Australia, has 690 mm of rainfall annually, spread fairly evenly throughout the year.

Bangkok, Thailand, experiences a tropical monsoon climate with 1668 mm of annual rainfall, with the heaviest precipitation occurring during September and October.

How is Precipitation Measured?

Precipitation amounts are measured using specific gauges installed at weather stations, collecting both rain and snow and any other type of precipitation. Rainfall is measured directly in millimeters, while that from snow and ice is obtained by melting it. Automated systems often incorporate heaters to make this easier.

Information from these stations is transmitted via Wi-Fi, satellite, GPS, or telephone connections to central monitoring networks. This information is immediately updated and integrated into weather models and forecasts.

How Does Precipitation Affect Local Climate?

Precipitation has a very strong role in determining the local climate and ecosystem:

• Rainy Seasons: Many parts of the world have well-defined wet seasons where precipitation is distinctly higher. These are normally accompanied by lush vegetation and temperature patterns.
• Dry Seasons: In areas where the climate is either desert or Mediterranean, the amount of precipitation is drastically reduced, leading to a shortage of water and arid conditions.

For more detailed information about Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama’s weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama Climate page.