Kobe has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. The city sits between the Seto Inland Sea and the Rokko mountain range, creating a microclimate that is slightly milder than inland Osaka but more humid than coastal towns further west. Summers are hot and sticky, with July and August averaging 31°C (88°F) daytime highs and humidity often exceeding 80%. Winters are cool but rarely freezing, with January lows averaging 3°C (37°F). The city receives about 1,300mm of annual rainfall, concentrated in the June to July rainy season (tsuyu) and the September typhoon peak. If you’re planning a visit, the numbers below will help you pick your dates.
Kobe Weather by Month: Temperature and Rainfall
| Month | Avg High (°C/°F) | Avg Low (°C/°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Sunshine (hrs) | Sea Temp (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9 / 48 | 3 / 37 | 43 | 146 | 16 |
| February | 10 / 50 | 3 / 37 | 55 | 143 | 15 |
| March | 13 / 55 | 6 / 43 | 101 | 170 | 15 |
| April | 19 / 66 | 11 / 52 | 128 | 183 | 17 |
| May | 23 / 73 | 16 / 61 | 141 | 201 | 19 |
| June | 27 / 81 | 20 / 68 | 197 | 150 | 22 |
| July | 31 / 88 | 24 / 75 | 167 | 182 | 26 |
| August | 32 / 90 | 25 / 77 | 113 | 211 | 27 |
| September | 28 / 82 | 21 / 70 | 190 | 150 | 25 |
| October | 22 / 72 | 15 / 59 | 117 | 172 | 22 |
| November | 17 / 63 | 10 / 50 | 68 | 152 | 20 |
| December | 12 / 54 | 5 / 41 | 41 | 154 | 18 |
Kobe Weather in Spring (March to May)
Spring is Kobe’s best season. March starts cool at 13°C (55°F) but warms steadily to 23°C (73°F) by May. Cherry blossoms typically peak in late March to early April, and the weather is ideal for walking the Kitano-cho hillside or hiking Mt. Rokko. Rainfall is moderate, averaging 100 to 140mm per month, with occasional light showers. Pack layers: a light jacket for mornings and evenings, and comfortable walking shoes for exploring. Late April through May offers the best balance of comfortable temperatures and manageable crowds before the rainy season arrives.
Kobe Weather in Summer (June to August)
Summer in Kobe is hot, humid, and wet. The tsuyu (rainy season) runs from early June to mid-July, bringing overcast skies and 190 to 200mm of monthly rainfall. By late July, the rain clears but the heat intensifies: daytime highs hit 31 to 32°C (88 to 90°F) with humidity at 80% or higher. August is the hottest month and also the driest of the summer, with about 113mm of rain and 211 hours of sunshine. The sea temperature peaks at 27°C (81°F) in August, making it swimmable. Thunderstorms are common in the late afternoon. If you visit in summer, book air-conditioned accommodation, carry water, and plan indoor activities for midday.
Kobe Weather in Autumn (September to November)
September is still warm at 28°C (82°F) but marks the peak of typhoon season with 190mm of rainfall, the second-wettest month after June. Typhoons typically bring 1 to 3 days of heavy rain and wind before clearing. By October, temperatures drop to a pleasant 22°C (72°F) and humidity falls sharply. Autumn foliage on Mt. Rokko peaks in mid to late November, and November itself is one of the driest months at just 68mm of rain. October and November are excellent months for outdoor sightseeing, with clear skies and comfortable walking temperatures.
Kobe Weather in Winter (December to February)
Winter in Kobe is mild by Japanese standards. Daytime highs average 9 to 12°C (48 to 54°F) and nighttime lows rarely drop below 3°C (37°F). Snow is unusual in the city center, though the Rokko mountains get occasional dustings. December and January are the driest months, each with about 40 to 55mm of rainfall and 145 to 155 hours of sunshine. The dry, sunny weather makes winter a good time for visiting Arima Onsen hot springs or exploring indoor attractions like the Disaster Reduction Museum. The famous Kobe Luminarie light festival runs for about 10 days in early December, drawing large crowds despite the cold.
For everything else about visiting Kobe, see our complete Kobe travel guide.
For help choosing the best travel dates, see our best time to visit guide.
If you’re wondering what to do once you’re there, check out our things to do.
Plan around major happenings with our annual events calendar.
To understand where to base yourself, see our neighborhoods guide.
For specific hotel picks by area and budget, consult our where to stay.
For airport transfers, transport, and practical advice, read our travel tips and FAQs.
