Climate and monthly weather forecastNaha, Japan

The climate of Naha

Naha, the capital of Okinawa Prefecture in Japan, falls under the Köppen climate classification of Cfa, denoting a humid subtropical climate with no noticeable dry season. This southernmost city of Japan experiences considerable weather variation throughout the year, ranging from warm winters to hot summers.

The yearly average temperatures range from lows of 14.6°C (58.3°F) to highs of 31.8°C (89.2°F). Naha also undergoes considerable humidity fluctuations throughout the year, with relative humidity ranging from 66% to 83%. As for precipitation, Naha registers significant rainfall year-round, reaching its peak at 261mm (10.28") in September and displaying the least amount of precipitation at 103mm (4.06") in December.

The maritime influence of the East China Sea contributes to the warmth of the seawater throughout the year. The sea temperature hovers from 20.9°C (69.6°F) in February to 28.7°C (83.7°F) in August. With 10.5 hours of daylight in December to 13.8 hours in June, daylight hours also vary noticeably. Naha achieves the highest average number of sunshine hours, 7.7 hours per day, in July, while the lowest count is 3 hours per day in January.

The UV index, a crucial indicator of the sun's radiation intensity, peaks at 12, a very high level exposing visitors to a substantial risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, between May and August.

The best time to visit Naha

For those desiring warm temperatures combined with lower humidity and rainfall, spring and winter present the most favourable conditions for visiting Naha. March to May, with daily high temperatures ranging from 19.5°C (67.1°F) to 26.7°C (80.1°F), promises a pleasant escape. Similarly, December to February, with temperatures fluctuating between 19.8°C (67.6°F) and 21.2°C (70.2°F), offers mild weather that attracts tourists.

Thanks to the forgiving conditions, spring and winter allow for various outdoor activities, especially exploring the city's remarkable historical sites and beautiful parks without the worry of heat exhaustion or sudden rain showers. During the spring months, visitors also get to witness the captivating beauty of cherry blossoms in full bloom.

The worst time to visit Naha

The summer months, from June to August, represent the most challenging period for trips to Naha. With high temperatures ranging from 29.4°C (84.9°F) to a peak of 31.8°C (89.2°F) coupled with high relative humidity values ranging from 78% to 83%, these months experience intense heat. The heat is further exacerbated by the elevated sea temperatures, from 26.6°C (79.9°F) to 28.7°C (83.7°F), and high UV index values peaking at 12 in this period.

Moreover, high levels of precipitation, notably the rainfall of 247mm (9.72") in June and 141mm (5.55") in July, add an extra level of discomfort. Experience shows that these conditions deter tourists, making it the least ideal time for a visit.

Spring weather in Naha

Spring in Naha, stretching from March to May, is characterised by increasing warmth coupled with a gradual rise in precipitation levels. Day temperatures fluctuate from 19.5°C (67.1°F) to 26.7°C (80.1°F), warming up as the season progresses. Nights, too, grow warmer from 14.6°C (58.3°F) in March to 21.8°C (71.2°F) in May.

Rainfall levels also increase through spring, from 107mm (4.21") in March to a considerable 232mm (9.13") in May. Despite the increasing precipitation, the relative humidity stays relatively low, ranging from 67% to 79% over the course of the season.

Summer weather in Naha

In Naha, the summer months from June to August are marked by continuous warmth and high humidity levels. Temperatures hover around a high 29.4°C (84.9°F) to 31.8°C (89.2°F), while night temperatures are also high, ranging from 24.8°C (76.6°F) to 26.8°C (80.2°F).

Rainfall in summer varies with a peak of 247mm (9.72") in June and a reduction to 141mm (5.55") in July. However, the high humidity, ranging from 78% to 83%, combined with the warming sea surface temperature, from 26.6°C (79.9°F) to 28.7°C (83.7°F), contributes a tropical climate feel.

Autumn weather in Naha

Autumn sees a gradual cooldown in Naha, with daily temperatures ranging between 30.4°C (86.7°F), in the transition month of September, and easing down to 24.6°C (76.3°F) by November. Night temperatures also dwindle from 25.5°C (77.9°F) down to 19.9°C (67.8°F) in November.

Rainfall levels also diminish over the season but remain substantial, from 261mm (10.28") in September to 110mm (4.33") in November. Relative humidity decreases from 76% to 69% during this period, creating slightly more comfortable conditions.

Winter weather in Naha

Winter in Naha, although milder compared to other locations, can still be chilly with daily temperatures from 21.2°C (70.2°F) in December to 19.8°C (67.6°F) in January. Night temperatures also decrease, recording 16.3°C (61.3°F) in December and 14.8°C (58.6°F) in January.

Despite the cool temperatures, winter does not escape rainfall, recording 103mm (4.06") in December and 120mm (4.72") in January. However, the relative humidity is low during this period, shifting between 66% and 70%, creating a comfortable environment. Daylight hours are the shortest of the year, ranging from 10.5 hours in December to 11.3 hours in February, while sunshine hours are also fewer, from 3.7 hours in December to 3.1 in February.

Weather in January

In Naha, Japan, January marks the beginning of the year with moderate temperatures and noticeable humidity. The temperatures range from 14.6°C (58.3°F) to 19.5°C (67.1°F) readily inviting a moderate climate suitable for light clothing. Weather in January »

Weather in February

Weather conditions in February in Naha, Japan, show a subtle increase in average temperatures, continuing the trend from January. Slight fluctuations in climatic conditions do not markedly differ, maintaining a balanced environment. Weather in February »

Weather in March

March brings notable changes to the city of Naha. The transition from winter to spring heralds an increase in temperatures, accompanied by increasing humidity and rainfall. An upwards swing in rainfall amounting to 161mm (6.34") indicates a wetter month. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April in Naha signifies the zenith of spring. There is a marked increase in average high and low temperatures indicating the onset of warmer times. The month, characterized by moderate humidity and rainstorms, experiences the same level of rainfall as March, registering 161mm (6.34"). Weather in April »

Weather in May

Moving into May, Naha is in the throes of a warm and humid climate. A significant leap in temperatures and substantial rainfall indicates the city's preparation for the upcoming summer. May carries the honor of being the month with the most significant increase in rainfall, a leap from 161mm (6.34") to 232mm (9.13"). Weather in May »

Weather in June

In June, Naha, Japan, welcomes the summer season with heightened temperatures and increased humidity levels. Despite a rise in temperatures, the city sustains a reasonable climate suitable for typical summer activities. Coincidentally, the pattern of incremental increases in rainfall persists with a total downpour of 247mm (9.72"). Weather in June »

Weather in July

July in Naha marks the peak of the summer season. The city experiences heightened temperatures adding a distinct fervor to the city's vibrant summer fiesta. Interestingly enough, July experiences a decrease in rainfall to 141mm (5.55"), providing a much-needed respite from June's heavy downpour. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August weather in Naha, Japan, maintains a consistent pattern with that of July. The city continues to revel in the charm of the summer month with high temperatures and humid conditions. However, August stands out with a significant increase in rainfall, a jump to 241mm (9.49"). Weather in August »

Weather in September

September in Naha, brings about a subtle shift in weather conditions, signaling the end of summer. Gradual decline in temperatures becomes evident, indicating the approach of autumn. However, precipitation peaks this month with rainfall of 261mm (10.28"), making September the month with the highest rainfall. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October sees Naha transitioning into the cooler and drier climate of autumn. The average temperatures experience a noticeable drop, providing relief from the summer heat. Along with declining temperatures, there is a reduction in rainfall with the total precipitation amounting to 153mm (6.02"). Weather in October »

Weather in November

During November, Naha experiences a further decline in temperature, accompanied by a drop in rainfall. A clear demarcation from the wetter months, November brings semi-dry conditions and a comfortable climate. The month notices a sharp drop in rainfall to 110mm (4.33"), indicating drier days ahead. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December enhances the cooler climate in Naha, Japan, with the sharp fall in temperatures establishing the onset of winter. As the temperature goes down, there is a simultaneous drop in rainfall levels, closing the year on a drier note of 103mm (4.06"). Weather in December »