Climate and monthly weather forecastYamagata, Japan

The climate of Yamagata

Located in the northern Honshu, Yamagata is characterized by a humid continental climate, according to the Köppen climate classification. This signifies a climate with no dry season and hot summers, commonly referred to as Dfa. Observing the weather parameters throughout the year, a distinct progression of weather conditions is noticeable.

The typical temperatures in Yamagata vary significantly by season. Average high temperatures range from 3°C (37.4°F) in the coldest winter months to a peak of 30°C (86°F) in the height of summer, while average lows range from a biting -4°C (24.8°F) in winter to a comfortable 20°C (68°F) in summer. This marked fluctuation in temperature underscores the diversity of Yamagata's climate.

Rainfall in Yamagata is relatively consistent throughout the year. Monthly averages tend to stay between 67mm (2.64") in the spring to a slightly elevated 149mm (5.87") during the peak of summer. It tends to rain an average of 18 to 29 days per month. The highest rainfall in the city occurs in July and August.

Regarding snowfall, Yamagata experiences significant measures of this weather phenomenon, particularly between November to March. Peaks can be as high as 1630mm (64.17") in January. Coupled with longer daylight hours in the summer, from 14.2 to 14.8 hours, and shorter hours in the winter, from 9.6 to 10.1 hours, the city experiences varied weather conditions, making it a unique travel destination.

The best time to visit Yamagata

Considering not only rain, but also daylight, UV index, and temperature, the best time to visit Yamagata is during the spring and autumn months. In the spring, between March and May, the average high temperature climbs from 8°C (46.4°F) to 22°C (71.6°F). Simultaneously, the average low increments from -1°C (30.2°F) to 10°C (50°F). With 17 to 24 rainy days in these months, a visit to Yamagata can be mostly sunny and warm, offering moderate UV indexes from 4 to 8.

In autumn, October and November offer a blend of pleasant temperatures and decreased rainfall. The high temperatures downturn from 19°C (66.2°F) to 12°C (53.6°F) while the low averages drop from 9°C (48.2°F) to 3°C (37.4°F), creating an excellent climate for outdoor activities.

The worst time to visit Yamagata

The least favorable period to travel to Yamagata is during the peak winter months from December to February. The temperatures plunge to average highs of 6°C (42.8°F) and 3°C (37.4°F), and average lows of -1°C (30.2°F) and -4°C (24.8°F), respectively, in these months. Additionally, the daylight duration reduces to 9.6 to 10.1 hours, offering limited time for sightseeing. The snowfall also reaches remarkably high levels, from 120mm (4.72") to 1630mm (64.17"), making it challenging for travel.

Spring weather in Yamagata

From March to May, Yamagata experiences comfortable average high temperatures, from 8°C (46.4°F) to 22°C (71.6°F). The average low temperatures oscillate between -1°C (30.2°F) to 10°C (50°F). The city receives modest rainfall amounts, from 67mm (2.64") to 81mm (3.19"), spread over 17 to 24 days. Public parks and gardens flourish under spring’s moderate UV index and ample sunshine hours of 5 to 7.

Summer weather in Yamagata

Greeting the months from June to August is the summer with its climatic extremes. Average high temperatures fluctuate from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F), with average lows between 15°C (59°F) and 20°C (68°F). This period sees the highest rainfall levels, from 103mm (4.06") in June up to 149mm (5.87") in August over 19 to 21 days. Sunny hours decrease to 4 to 5 hours, and a high UV index of 9 to 10 underscores the need for sun protection.

Autumn weather in Yamagata

Autumn in Yamagata spans September through November with pleasant average high temperatures from 25°C (77°F) to 12°C (53.6°F) and mild lows from 16°C (60.8°F) to 3°C (37.4°F). Rainfall begins to decrease, with about 134mm (5.28") to 81mm (3.19") scattered over 19 to 22 days. Daylight hours remain between 11.2 to 12.4 hours, making it a perfect time for sightseeing.

Winter weather in Yamagata

Winter descends upon Yamagata from December to February. The average highs fall appreciably from 6°C (42.8°F) to 3°C (37.4°F), and the lows range from -1°C (30.2°F) to -4°C (24.8°F). Although rainfall levels are moderate, from 77mm (3.03") to 75mm (2.95"), snowfall soars from 920mm (36.22") in December to an intense 1630mm (64.17") in January. Although the daylight durations are at the shortest, the clear skies often result in impressive landscapes.

Weather in January

Kicking off the year, January sees the harshest winter conditions in Yamagata, Japan. Possessing the shortest daylight duration of any month, the sun luxuriates above the horizon for 9.9 hours only. Snow is a persistent feature in the landscape during January with snowfall reaching 1630mm (64.17"), making it the snowiest month in the year. Weather in January »

Weather in February

Moving into February, Yamagata leans slightly towards milder weather. Despite the continued presence of snow, February’s peak temperatures outstrip those of January. It is a time when the city starts to witness a gradual increase in daylight hours, totaling 10.8 hours on average. Weather in February »

Weather in March

The dawn of spring beckons in March. Weather in Yamagata begins its transition from cold winter temperatures, and snowfall drops significantly from 1470mm (57.87") in February to 710mm (27.95") in March. As the city thaws, hiking trails begin to appear, and cherry blossoms begin their annual bloom. Weather in March »

Weather in April

In Yamagata, April brings a distinct change in seasons. Patchy white landscapes give way to vibrant blooming cherry blossoms, heralding the arrival of spring. The transition from the last snowfall in March to no measurable snowfall in April paves the way for outdoor activities. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May presents itself as a truly spring month in Yamagata. The thawed land flourishes under moderate rainfall, greenery is vibrant, and temperatures are comfortably temperate. Additionally, days stretch even longer, lasting for 14.2 daylight hours. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June signals the onset of summer in Yamagata. The weather turns noticeably warmer, and a marked increase in rainfall from 81mm (3.19") in May to 103mm (4.06") in June dominates the weather pattern. This co-existence of warmth and moisture define June's character. Weather in June »

Weather in July

The height of summer arrives in July in Yamagata. The lush green landscapes become more vibrant under temperatures peaking at 30°C (86°F) along with the high UV index of 10. July is the wettest month, seeing an impressive 144mm (5.67") of rainfall, reinforcing Yamagata’s reputation for verdant summer vistas. Weather in July »

Weather in August

Literally following the heat, August proudly holds the title for the warmest month in Yamagata, with temperatures soaring to an average of 30°C (86°F). Along with this comes a stimulating increase in rainfall at 149mm (5.87"), the highest in the year. Weather in August »

Weather in September

Transitioning from summer to autumn, September’s weather in Yamagata is noticeable for its average temperature drop to 25°C (77°F). Days in September start to gradually become shorter, signaling the approaching autumn. Though the rainfall of 134mm (5.28") remains high, it is significantly less than that in August. Weather in September »

Weather in October

Yamagata falls fully into the embrace of autumn in October. As warmth subsides, the city boasts a display of brilliant crimson and golden hues from the turning leaves. Temperatures continue their gradual descent from September's relatively mild weather. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November is a transition month in Yamagata, shifting from the cool autumn to the biting cold of winter. Temperatures take a noticeable dip, and the rainfall amount of 81mm (3.19") adds a crispness to the air. Leaves fall, creating a carpeted landscape of rust and gold. Weather in November »

Weather in December

In December, Yamagata plunges into the depth of winter. As daylight dwindles to 9.6 hours, snowfall returns with an average of 920mm (36.22"). The city transforms into a winter wonderland with snowy landscapes and frosted trees. Weather in December »