Weather in Osaka

Planning your day in Osaka? Here you will find up-to-date weather updates and forecasts to ensure your time in the city is perfect.

The climate in Osaka, Japan, is characterized as temperate with four clearly defined seasons. The city experiences significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year, allowing tourists to enjoy diverse weather conditions depending on the time of their visit.

Summer in Osaka is typically hot and humid, with peak temperatures in July and August reaching an average of 27-28.5°C, and maximums exceeding 30°C. This period also sees the highest amount of rainfall and rainy days, particularly in June and July. Winters, by contrast, are cool but usually not severe, with average temperatures around 5-7°C and minimal precipitation. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with pleasant, mild weather, making them popular times to visit the city.

Overall, the weather in Osaka offers variety: from warm, sunny days ideal for walking in spring and autumn, to hot summer months and cool, sometimes snowy (though data shows little precipitation) winters. Tourists should consider these seasonal changes when planning their trip and choosing their clothing.

The annual temperature progression in Osaka demonstrates a clear change of seasons and a significant range of values. The hottest month is August, when the average temperature reaches 28.5°C, and daytime highs often rise to 32.0°C. Conversely, the coldest period is considered to be January with an average temperature of just 5.0°C and nighttime lows averaging down to 1.5°C. Thus, the annual amplitude of average temperatures is over 23 degrees, providing diverse climatic conditions for visitors throughout the year.

The summer months, from June to August, bring real heat to Osaka. Already in June, the average temperature is 22.8°C (with maximum values around 26.4°C), gradually rising to peak levels in July (average 27.1°C, maximum 30.2°C) and August. A characteristic feature of summer is the relatively small difference between day and night temperatures, which is approximately 6-7°C. This means that even nights remain very warm, especially at the height of the season.

Winter in Osaka, covering December, January, and February, is characterized by cool weather. In December, the average temperature holds at 6.9°C (maximum 10.5°C), followed by the coldest month — January. February also remains cool with an average temperature of 5.8°C and a maximum daytime high of around 9.7°C. During the winter months, daily temperature fluctuations are more pronounced than in summer, averaging 7-8°C. For example, in January, the daytime temperature can reach 8.5°C, while dropping to 1.5°C at night. The spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) months offer more moderate and comfortable temperatures, serving as pleasant transitional seasons with mild weather.

In Osaka, a clearly defined seasonality in precipitation distribution is observed throughout the year. The wettest period falls during the summer months, forming a sort of rainy season. During this time, both the total amount of precipitation and the frequency of rainy days increase. Winter months, on the other hand, are characterized by significantly less precipitation.

The rainiest month in Osaka is July, when an average of 8 mm of precipitation falls, and the number of rainy days reaches 17. June is also distinguished by high humidity: about 7 mm of precipitation and 14 rainy days. The least amount of precipitation occurs in December (just 1 mm and about 6 rainy days), making it the driest month. January, February, and November also belong to periods with low precipitation levels, amounting to about 2 mm per month.

Given the temperature regime of Osaka, where even in winter average minimum temperatures rarely drop significantly below freezing, the main form of precipitation throughout the year is rain. In summer, rains can be more intense, which is typical for the season of high humidity. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-October) also see a moderate number of rainy days, from 10 to 14 per month, indicating changeable weather during these seasons. In general, Osaka is characterized by more frequent precipitation in the summer period compared to the drier winter.

When planning a trip to Osaka, it is important to choose the right wardrobe to feel comfortable in any weather. Given the distinct change of seasons, the main rule is layering. In summer (June-August), Osaka is hot and humid, with average temperatures reaching 27-28.5°C, and maximums rising above 30°C. This period also sees a significant amount of rainfall, especially in June and July. Therefore, be sure to bring light, breathable clothing made of natural fabrics, a hat, sunscreen, and, of course, a compact umbrella or a light raincoat. Comfortable shoes for long walks will be your best companion at any time of the year.

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) in Osaka offer milder and more pleasant weather, but can also be rainy. In spring, the temperature gradually rises from 10°C to 19°C, and in autumn, it decreases from 25°C to about 13°C. For these seasons, t-shirts, shirts, light sweaters or fleece jackets, as well as a windbreaker or demi-season jacket, are perfect. Don't forget an umbrella, as there are quite a few rainy days. In winter (December-February), Osaka is cool, with average temperatures hovering around 5-7°C, sometimes dropping to 1.5-3°C at night. Although there is less precipitation in winter, it is worth taking a warm jacket or coat, sweaters, a hat, a scarf, and gloves. The principle of layering will help you easily adapt to warmer temperatures indoors.

Regardless of the season, comfortable shoes are an absolute necessity, as Osaka is conducive to long and exciting walking tours. A small backpack or shoulder bag will be useful for daily essentials, water, and an umbrella. An electronics adapter may also be needed if your devices have a different plug. By planning your luggage in advance, you will be able to enjoy your trip to Osaka without unnecessary hassle.