Osaka Weather

Located in the central region of Honshu Island, Japan, Osaka is in the temperate maritime climate zone which is often affected by monsoons and warm currents. Especially affected by the South China Sea and Pacific warm currents, the annual rainfall is pretty high, reaching about 1,648mm (64.9in). And the rainfall is mainly concentrated in the plum rainy season from June to mid-July and typhoon season in August and September. Osaka has very distinct four seasons. The summer in Osaka is super torrid, making it one of the hottest places in Japan. Winter is relatively cold and dry. Although the four seasons vary greatly, Osaka generally has ample sunshine and humid climate throughout the year.

 

Spring (March – May)

Weather: Warm & Pleasant
Average temperature: 10-20℃ (50-68℉)

In spring, the weather is generally warm, pleasant, and sunny; and the temperature is in an increasing trend. However, although the daytime temperature is fine, the big temperature difference in a day still needs your attention. For visitors who are planning to travel early in the morning or come back late in the evening, a thick coat is pretty necessary. The most anticipated thing in Spring in Osaka is to appreciate the oriental cherry, called sakura in Japanese. During this time, it is advisable for visitors to wear the kimono, Japanese traditional clothing to enjoy the atmosphere of spring.

Best things to do:

1. Appreciating the sakura in Osaka Castle Park and Expo '70 Commemorativ Osaka Castle Park.
2. Watching the sumo competition in March in Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium, Namba.
3. Enjoying the beautiful scenery of nemophila in Osaka Maishima Seaside Park in April.

• Read more: Cherry Blossom Season in Japan 

The Blooming Sakura in Osaka Castle in Spring

Summer (June – August)

Weather: Torrid & Humid
Average temperature: 25-30℃ (77-86℉)

After entering summer, there’s a month and a half of plum rainy season from June to mid-July. People may feel uncomfortable in this humid environment. After the plum rainy season, the weather turns to be super torrid which is nearly unbearable for people. In summer, light and breathable clothes are highly recommended. It is also a good choice to bring a small fan with you when you are outdoors. To prevent getting heatstroke, please remember to take sunglasses, sunhat and parasol while traveling.

Best things to do:

1. Experiencing the Japanese traditional customs in Otaue Rice Planting Festival in June, Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine.
2. Enjoying one of the three major traditional festivals in Japan, Tenjin Festival, which is held in Osaka Tenmangu Shrine in July.
3. Appreciating the fireworks show in Naniwa Yodogawa in August.

• Read more: Everything You Need to Know about Rainy Season in Japan 

Shitennoji Temple Street Scene in Summer

Autumn (September – November)

Weather: Cool & Pleasant
Average temperature: 15-25℃ (59-77℉)

Autumn is one of the best time to travel in Osaka because of the cool and pleasant weather. Especially the October and November in autumn, they are the peak time of red leaves. But one thing should be noted is that September is the peak season of typhoon; visitors who travel in September should check the weather forecast and avoid traveling in typhoon days. In autumn, the weather generally gets colder day by day so visitors should wear long-sleeve clothes plus a coat to prevent getting cold from the sudden temperature drop.

Best things to do:

1. Experiencing the festive atmosphere in Suito Kurawanka Fireworks Festival in September.
2. Appreciating the red leaves especially in Osaka Castle and Ushitakisan Daiitoku-ji Temple. 
3. Having picnic in Expo '70 Commemorative Park is also a good choice.

Osaka Castle Park With Autumn Atmosphere

Winter (December – February)

Weather: Chill & Dry
Average temperature: 5-10℃ (41-50℉)

In early winter, the weather is still suitable for traveling. But after entering the mid and late winter, the weather becomes pretty cold. However, it is less unbearably cold than before because of the global warming. The average rainfall and humidity is low so visitors need to take good moisturizing measures. What’s more, clothes should be thick too. Woolen overcoat and padded overcoat can greatly keep you warm. The scarf, gloves and hat are also important. Although the weather is cold, most indoor places have heating system so visitors don’t need to worry too much.

Best things to do:

1. In winter, don’t forget to experience Japan’s hot springs, called onsens in Japanese.
2. There are many light shows in Osaka in winter and visitors can experience the charm of the light shows.
3. Experiencing the culture of hatsumode, means making first prayers at temples at the beginning of the year.

Lively Isshinji Temple in Cold Winter