The climate of Sendai
Located on the northeastern coast of
Japan's largest island, Honshu,
Sendai experiences a Cfa Koppen climate classification, or Humid subtropical climate that sees no dry season. This coastal city's geography combined with the Pacific Ocean’s influence results in seasonal variations of weather conditions throughout the year.
A study of the temperature data reveals distinct seasons evidenced by the fluctuation in maximum and minimum temperatures. The warmest months are
July and
August, with peak average temperatures of 27.8°C (82°F) and 26.3°C (79.3°F) respectively, accompanied by the highest average minimum temperatures, reaching upward of 21.4°C (70.5°F) and 19.8°C (67.6°F). Contrasting this, the coldest months—
January and
February—see maximum temperatures of 3.3°C (37.9°F) and 4.1°C (39.4°F) respectively, with minimum averages falling below freezing to -1.7°C (28.9°F).
Humidity remains relatively constant throughout the year, but a subtle increase is seen in the summer months from
June to August, reaching a peak of 84% relative humidity in July. On the other hand, snowfall is observed from
December to
March, peaking in January and February with accumulations of 62mm (2.44") and 63mm (2.48") respectively.
When it comes to precipitation, Sendai does not have a dry season. The overall wettest months are July and
October, both experiences approximately 111mm (4.37") of rainfall. The city demonstrates consistent daylight hours varying from 9.6 hours in December to 14.8 hours in June.
The best time to visit Sendai
Taking into account the temperature, humidity, and rainfall, the best time to visit
Sendai would be from late spring to early summer, specifically from
May to
June, when weather conditions are optimal. During this period, temperatures hover between 13.6°C (56.5°F) to 22.7°C (72.9°F) and humidity is reasonable at 72% to 80%. Mornings can begin with an appreciable dew, and evenings invite a calming air. Daylight hours are generous at more than 14 hours, offering ample time to enjoy outdoor activities, explore local attractions or just admire the blooming cherry blossoms.
The worst time to visit Sendai
Visitors may find
January and
February least favorable for a trip due to frigid conditions. During these months, average high temperatures barely rise above freezing and snow is commonplace with up to 63mm (2.48") falling in a month. In addition, these months witness fewer daylight hours, falling as low as 9.9 hours.
Spring weather in Sendai
Spring in
Sendai, from
March to
May, reveals rising temperatures from 8.3°C (46.9°F) to 19.8°C (67.6°F) that bring a sense of renewal with blooming flowers and trees. Although rainfall begins to increase reaching 71mm (2.8") in
April there are fewer rainy days, ensuring that precipitation is not a continuous disruption. At the same time, sunshine hours increase to a generous nine hours per day in May.
Summer weather in Sendai
Summer, from
June to
August, is the warmest period with maximum temperatures ranging from 22.7°C (72.9°F) to 27.8°C (82°F). With sea temperatures also reaching favorable conditions (from 17.8°C (64°F) to 23.9°C (75°F)), activities such as beach outings and sea bathing are popular. Although this period has the highest rainfall, it maintains less rainy days, diffusing the precipitation over an extended period without large disturbances.
Autumn weather in Sendai
From
September to
November, the autumn season offers mild temperatures ranging from 23.9°C (75°F) to 12.5°C (54.5°F), with a pleasant decrease in rainfall after a potentially wet summer. While
October may record higher rainfall levels, it is spread over fewer days, providing periods of cooler weather and less humidity which are perfect for walks and sightseeing in comfort.
Winter weather in Sendai
Winter months, from
December to
February, bring a drastic change in weather conditions with chilly temperatures dipping to a low of -1.7°C (28.9°F). Snowfall is a common phenomenon with highest accumulations seen in
January and February. Despite the cold and lesser daylight hours clocking in around 10 hours, winter offers the unique experience of snow-dusted landscapes and winter-specific festivities.
Weather in January
The year commences with chilly and relatively dry conditions in
Sendai,
Japan, quite different from what will ensue in the months to come. Rare is a day without some incipient signs of snow, a characteristic that adds a unique touch to
January in Sendai.
Weather in January »Weather in February
February sees a continuation of the cold, brisk pattern marked by a noticeably cold wind. As the month progresses, there is a slight respite from the
January chill as daytime temperatures increase, albeit marginally. Sunshine hours extend, bestowing the landscape with a somewhat cheerier disposition.
Weather in February » Weather in March
Weather in
March reflects a season in flux as winter slowly hands over the reigns to spring. This transition brings with it a palpable shift in various conditions such as humidity, daylight hours, and temperature. In contrast to
February, rain becomes more prevalent with rainfall reaching 48mm (1.89").
Weather in March »
Weather in April
By
April, spring is in full bloom in
Sendai and the weather substantially diverges from that of the preceding winter months. The transformation witnessed in the city's landscape is spectacular, mirroring the profound alterations in temperature.
Weather in April »Weather in May
Throughout
May, the climate in
Sendai is defined by steadily rising temperatures. Consequently, the sea temperature acclimatizes, complementing the warm weather on land. The city embraces the warmth, shifting from the blossoms of spring to the verdant growth of early summer.
Weather in May »Weather in June
Against the backdrop of an average temperature, ranging from 15.1°C (59.2°F) to a comfortable 22.7°C (72.9°F),
June in
Sendai represents the arrival of summer. The increase in temperature is complemented by a substantial increase in humidity and rainfall.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
In
July, the weather in
Sendai is distinctly hot and humid, with 84% average relative humidity. The sunlit days stretch even longer, inviting locals and visitors to partake in a plethora of outdoor activities. This combination of heat and humidity results in sporadic periods of heavy rainfall, making an umbrella an essential accessory.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August is a stark contrast from its immediate predecessor in terms of rainfall in
Sendai. Despite the reduction in rainfall, the city does not lose its humid, sweltering characteristics. There is an apparent dip in sunshine hours; however, daylight hours remain generously long.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September in
Sendai offers an invite to the autumn season with nature's vibrant displays coloring the cityscape. As September progresses, temperatures become more weather-friendly, encouraging more outdoor adventures. However, the temperate climate does not signify the cessation of rainfall.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October marks a consistent reduction in
Sendai's temperature as autumn permeates the city. The decrease in temperature is accompanied by an increase in the frequency of rainfall events. Majestic autumn foliage becomes the highlight of this month, providing picture-perfect frames across Sendai.
Weather in October » Weather in November
By
November, the cooling trend in
Sendai's climate continues unabated. The mercury variations, from 6.8°C (44.2°F) to 12.5°C (54.5°F), adequately describe the city's tryst with cold, yet not freezing temperatures during this month.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December proffers a chilly embrace as
Sendai is ushered into the winter season. With temperatures plunging from 1.5°C (34.7°F) to 6.4°C (43.5°F), it provides a stark contrast to the warmer months. Snowfall returns to further imprint the December landscape with a wintery touch with an average of 22mm (0.87").
Weather in December » [Resources]