Kanazawa sits on the Sea of Japan coast and has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. What sets it apart from Pacific-side cities like Tokyo and Osaka is the heavy winter snowfall , Kanazawa receives up to 1.5 meters of snow in January alone, driven by cold Siberian winds picking up moisture over the Sea of Japan. Summers are hot and humid, with the rainy season (tsuyu) bringing persistent rainfall from mid-June through mid-July. Annual precipitation averages 2,400mm, making Kanazawa one of Japan’s wettest major cities. For detailed climate data, see our best time to visit Kanazawa guide.
Kanazawa Weather by Month: January
January is Kanazawa’s coldest and snowiest month. Average high temperatures reach 6°C (43°F) while overnight lows drop to 1°C (34°F). Snowfall averages 150cm, and you’ll see snow-covered streets almost daily. On clear days, the snow-capped roofs of Higashi Chaya and the white gardens of Kenroku-en are spectacular. The city deploys its famous snow-melting water pipes along major roads, keeping sidewalks passable. Humidity sits at 77% and you’ll get about 3 hours of daily sunshine. For detailed climate data, see our things to do in Kanazawa guide.
Kanazawa Weather by Month: February
February remains cold with average highs of 7°C (45°F) and lows around 1°C (34°F). Snowfall decreases to about 110cm, though heavy dumps are still common. The famous yukitsuri , rope supports protecting Kenroku-en’s pine trees from snow damage , remain in place through mid-March. February sees slightly more sunshine (4 hours/day) and humidity of 74%. Sea temperature off the Ishikawa coast is a frigid 10°C (50°F). For detailed climate data, see our Kanazawa events and festivals guide.
Kanazawa Weather by Month: March
Temperatures climb to an average high of 11°C (52°F) with lows of 3°C (37°F) in March. Snowfall drops sharply to about 25cm, mainly in early March. By late March, plum blossoms appear in Kenroku-en and along the Asano River. Rainfall increases to 150mm spread across 18 rainy days. Sunshine improves to 5 hours per day. This is the transition month , you can experience snow, rain, and mild sunny days all in one week. For detailed climate data, see our Kanazawa neighborhoods guide.
Kanazawa Weather by Month: April
April brings Kanazawa’s famous cherry blossoms, typically peaking in the first week (April 3-10). Average highs reach 17°C (63°F) with lows of 8°C (46°F). Rainfall is moderate at 140mm over 14 days. Snow is extremely rare after the first week. The Kenroku-en cherry blossom illumination draws crowds despite cool evenings. Sunshine increases to 6 hours daily. Pack layers , morning temperatures can still feel chilly at 6-8°C. For detailed climate data, see our where to stay in Kanazawa guide.
Kanazawa Weather by Month: May
May is one of Kanazawa’s most pleasant months with average highs of 22°C (72°F) and lows of 13°C (55°F). Rainfall sits at 135mm over 12 days. Humidity is comfortable at 68%. Sunshine peaks at 7 hours per day , among the sunniest months of the year. The fresh green of Kenroku-en’s moss gardens and the iris blooms at Kanazawa Castle are at their best. This is the window between cherry blossoms and the rainy season, offering excellent sightseeing conditions. For detailed climate data, see our Kanazawa travel tips and FAQ.
Kanazawa Weather by Month: June
June marks the start of tsuyu (rainy season), typically from mid-June through mid-July. Average highs climb to 25°C (77°F) with lows of 18°C (64°F). Rainfall jumps to 205mm over 16 days, with frequent grey skies and drizzle. Humidity rises sharply to 79%. Despite the rain, hydrangeas bloom beautifully around Kenroku-en and the castle grounds. The Hyakumangoku Matsuri in early June is Kanazawa’s biggest festival , you might catch it before the heaviest rain sets in. Sunshine drops to 5 hours daily.
Kanazawa Weather by Month: July
July is hot, humid, and rainy. Average highs reach 29°C (84°F) with lows of 22°C (72°F). The first half of July is still in tsuyu territory, with 230mm of rainfall over 17 days. Humidity peaks at 82%. After the rainy season breaks around July 20, the heat intensifies. Sunshine recovers to 5 hours per day. Sea temperature reaches 22°C (72°F), swimmable at nearby beaches like Uchinada. Carry an umbrella and wear breathable fabrics.
Kanazawa Weather by Month: August
August is Kanazawa’s hottest month with average highs of 31°C (88°F) and lows of 24°C (75°F). Heat index values often feel like 35-38°C due to high humidity (76%). Rainfall moderates to 170mm over 14 days, often as intense afternoon thunderstorms. Sea temperature peaks at 26°C (79°F). The annual Kanazawa Fireworks Festival lights up the Saigawa River in early August. Expect 6 hours of daily sunshine. Museums and indoor activities offer welcome air conditioning.
Kanazawa Weather by Month: September
September brings a gradual cooldown with average highs of 27°C (81°F) and lows of 20°C (68°F). It’s Kanazawa’s wettest month with 260mm of rainfall over 17 days, driven by typhoon season in the Pacific. While direct typhoon hits are less common on the Sea of Japan side, the outer bands bring heavy rain. Humidity remains high at 79%. By late September, evenings feel cooler. The Kenroku-en autumn light-up sometimes begins in late September.
Kanazawa Weather by Month: October
October is a sweet spot with comfortable temperatures: average highs of 21°C (70°F) and lows of 14°C (57°F). Rainfall drops to 175mm over 13 days. Humidity falls to 72%. Sunshine averages 5 hours per day. The autumn foliage begins in late October at higher elevations like Mount Haku. In the city, ginkgo trees along the castle approach turn golden. This is an excellent month for walking the samurai and geisha districts without summer heat or winter cold.
Kanazawa Weather by Month: November
November brings the peak of autumn colors to Kanazawa, usually between November 10 and 25. Average highs drop to 15°C (59°F) with lows of 7°C (45°F). Rainfall is moderate at 200mm over 16 days, often as light, persistent drizzle. Kenroku-en’s autumn illumination event runs through late November, with the maples around Kasumigaike Pond turning brilliant red. Humidity drops to 72%. Pack a warm jacket for evenings. Sunshine averages 4 hours daily.
Kanazawa Weather by Month: December
December sees winter settle in with average highs of 9°C (48°F) and lows of 3°C (37°F). Snow begins in mid-December, averaging 60cm for the month. Rainfall (including melted snow) totals 280mm over 21 days , the highest precipitation count of the year. Sunshine drops to just 3 hours per day, the gloomiest month. The winter illuminations around Kanazawa Station and Korinbo bring festive light to the long nights. The snow crab season is in full swing at Omicho Market.
Kanazawa Weather by Month: Quick Reference
| Month | High (°C/°F) | Low (°C/°F) | Rain (mm) | Snow (cm) | Sun (hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 6 / 43 | 1 / 34 | 260 | 150 | 3 |
| Feb | 7 / 45 | 1 / 34 | 185 | 110 | 4 |
| Mar | 11 / 52 | 3 / 37 | 150 | 25 | 5 |
| Apr | 17 / 63 | 8 / 46 | 140 | 0 | 6 |
| May | 22 / 72 | 13 / 55 | 135 | 0 | 7 |
| Jun | 25 / 77 | 18 / 64 | 205 | 0 | 5 |
| Jul | 29 / 84 | 22 / 72 | 230 | 0 | 5 |
| Aug | 31 / 88 | 24 / 75 | 170 | 0 | 6 |
| Sep | 27 / 81 | 20 / 68 | 260 | 0 | 5 |
| Oct | 21 / 70 | 14 / 57 | 175 | 0 | 5 |
| Nov | 15 / 59 | 7 / 45 | 200 | 5 | 4 |
| Dec | 9 / 48 | 3 / 37 | 280 | 60 | 3 |
Data: Japan Meteorological Agency, 1991-2020 averages for Kanazawa Local Meteorological Observatory.
