Yokohama Weather by Month: Temperature, Rain & Packing Guide
Yokohama Climate Overview: Coastal Subtropical Weather
Yokohama sits on the western shore of Tokyo Bay in Kanagawa Prefecture, about 30 km south of central Tokyo. The city has a humid subtropical climate — four distinct seasons with hot, humid summers and mild winters. If you know Tokyo's weather, Yokohama is similar, with one notable difference: the coastal position moderates temperature extremes slightly while increasing wind.
According to Japan Meteorological Agency data, Yokohama's annual temperature range runs from winter lows of 4°C to summer highs above 30°C. The waterfront areas (Minato Mirai, Red Brick Warehouse, Yamashita Park) are more exposed to bay winds than inland neighborhoods — a factor that affects comfort year-round.
For broader weather context across the prefecture, see our Kanagawa weather guide.
Month-by-Month Weather Table
Based on JMA historical data for Yokohama:
| Month | Avg High °C (°F) | Avg Low °C (°F) | Rainfall mm | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 10 (50) | 4 (39) | 55 | Cold, dry, clear |
| Feb | 11 (52) | 4 (39) | 60 | Coldest month, occasional frost |
| Mar | 14 (57) | 6 (43) | 110 | Warming, cherry blossoms late month |
| Apr | 19 (66) | 11 (52) | 120 | Cherry blossoms, mild |
| May | 24 (75) | 16 (61) | 130 | Warm, comfortable, pre-tsuyu |
| Jun | 26 (79) | 19 (66) | 170 | Tsuyu begins, wettest month |
| Jul | 30 (86) | 23 (73) | 150 | Tsuyu ends mid-month, heat builds |
| Aug | 32 (90) | 25 (77) | 120 | Peak heat and humidity |
| Sep | 28 (82) | 22 (72) | 200 | Typhoon risk, autumn rain |
| Oct | 23 (73) | 16 (61) | 160 | Cooling, comfortable |
| Nov | 18 (64) | 10 (50) | 80 | Clear, autumn foliage |
| Dec | 13 (55) | 5 (41) | 45 | Cool, dry, clear |
The wettest months are June (tsuyu) and September (typhoon season). December through February are the driest and clearest — ideal for waterfront walks and Fuji views from the harbor.
Tsuyu (Rainy Season): What to Expect in June and July
Yokohama's tsuyu (梅雨, rainy season) typically runs from early June to mid-July, aligned with the broader Kanto region timing. The JMA officially announces the start (梅雨入り, tsuyu-iri) and end (梅雨明け, tsuyu-ake) dates each year.
June averages approximately 160-180 mm of rainfall — the highest of any month. But tsuyu is not continuous rain. Showers alternate with overcast but dry periods, and some days are bright. The issue is more humidity than rainfall — moisture levels reach 70-80%, making even non-rainy days feel sticky.
For practical tips on checking forecasts and adapting your plans during tsuyu, see our Yokohama weather forecast tips.
Sightseeing during tsuyu is entirely feasible. Yokohama has strong indoor attractions — Chinatown, Cup Noodles Museum, Ramen Museum, and the shopping complexes around Minato Mirai — that make rainy days productive. Carry a compact umbrella and plan flexible itineraries.
Best Time to Visit Yokohama
October-November: The sweet spot. Comfortable temperatures (15-23°C), low rainfall, clear skies, and autumn foliage in Sankeien Garden. This is when the waterfront is most pleasant — warm enough for outdoor dining but without summer's oppressive humidity.
Late March-May: Cherry blossom season (late March to mid-April) followed by warm, pleasant spring. May offers some of the year's best weather before tsuyu arrives. The waterfront is busy but manageable.
December-February: Cold but clear. Winter is Yokohama's driest season, and clear days offer the best views of Mount Fuji from the harbor area. Temperatures stay mild (4-13°C) compared to northern Japan, but the bay wind makes it feel colder. Christmas illumination at Minato Mirai adds atmosphere.
Avoid if possible: Late June to mid-July (tsuyu humidity), mid-August (extreme heat), and late September (typhoon risk). These periods are manageable but not optimal for outdoor sightseeing.
What to Pack by Season
Spring (March-May): Layers and Light Rain Gear
- Light jacket or cardigan for morning/evening (10-15°C swings)
- Compact umbrella — spring showers are common
- Comfortable walking shoes — Yokohama's waterfront is pedestrian-friendly
- Sunscreen from April onward
Summer (June-September): Heat, Humidity, and Rain
- Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing — cotton absorbs humidity and stays damp
- Compact rain jacket or umbrella (essential during tsuyu)
- Portable fan and hand towel (sensu/tenugui culture)
- Sun hat and sunscreen
- Indoor activity backup plan for the hottest afternoons
Autumn (October-November): The Sweet Spot
- Light layers — days are warm, evenings cool
- Windbreaker for waterfront areas
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Minimal rain gear needed
Winter (December-February): Mild but Windy
- Medium-weight coat — not heavy winter gear
- Windbreaker or wind-resistant outer layer for waterfront
- Scarf and light gloves for evening walks
- Yokohama rarely sees snow, but see our Yokohama snow guide for the rare occasions it does
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best month to visit Yokohama for good weather?
- October and November offer the best balance — comfortable temperatures (15-22°C), low rainfall, clear skies, and autumn foliage. Late March through May is also excellent for cherry blossoms and mild conditions. These months provide the best outdoor sightseeing weather.
- When is Yokohama's rainy season?
- Tsuyu (梅雨) runs from approximately early June to mid-July. June averages 160-180 mm of rain — the wettest month. Rain comes in showers rather than continuous downpours, so sightseeing is still possible with an umbrella. Humidity is the bigger challenge.
- How hot and humid is Yokohama in summer?
- July and August average 29-32°C with humidity reaching 70-80%. The combination makes extended outdoor sightseeing tiring — plan indoor activities for midday hours. Moisture-wicking clothing, a portable fan, and staying hydrated are essential.
- Does it snow in Yokohama?
- Rarely — Yokohama's coastal position on Tokyo Bay moderates winter temperatures, keeping them above freezing most days (average 4-10°C in winter). Snow events are occasional and light, typically melting within hours. For details, see our Yokohama snow guide.
- Is Yokohama windier than Tokyo?
- Yes — Yokohama's position on Tokyo Bay means average wind speeds are roughly 10-15% higher than inland Tokyo. The waterfront areas (Minato Mirai, Red Brick Warehouse) are particularly exposed. Bring a windbreaker even in mild seasons — a sunny day can feel much cooler at the harbor than in the shopping streets.