Summer in Matsumoto is a lively mix of warm afternoons, sticky air, and the kind of rain showers that can sneak up on you and then disappear. Tucked into the Japanese Alps, the city’s weather definitely stands apart from Japan’s coastal towns.
You’ll usually see average daytime highs in the low to mid-80s °F (about 28–30°C), and nights cool off to the upper 60s °F (around 20°C).
The temperatures feel comfortable enough for wandering around, but the humidity and rainy season peak in July, so you should expect muggy air and quick showers. Most of the time, these afternoon rains don’t stick around for hours.
Instead, you get a blend of sunshine, misty mountain views, and that fresh, cool air that comes after a good rain.
Longer daylight hours mean you can squeeze in more outdoor adventures, whether that’s castle hopping or hiking in the hills. If you know how the weather shifts through summer, it’s way easier to plan your days and actually enjoy Matsumoto.
Overview of Matsumoto’s Summer Climate
Matsumoto’s summer weather feels unique because of its inland spot, the mountains all around, and its moderate elevation. You’ll notice warm days, cooler nights, and more rain than you might expect—definitely different from Japan’s coastal cities.
Geographical Location and Climate Classification
You’ll find Matsumoto in Nagano Prefecture, right in the middle of Honshu, surrounded by the Japanese Alps. The city sits at about 612 meters (2,007 feet) above sea level.
That elevation and its distance from the ocean cut down on sea breezes, so the area feels more continental.
Depending on who you ask, Matsumoto falls into either the humid subtropical (Cfa) or humid continental (Dfa) category under the Köppen system. Either way, both mean warm, often humid summers with a fair amount of rain.
The mountain ranges sometimes create a rain shadow effect, but summer still packs in plenty of precipitation. July usually brings the most rain, with about 260 mm falling over many days.
The city’s geography also cools off the evenings, especially compared to the lowlands.
With that altitude and inland setting, you’ll notice sharper temperature swings between day and night—kind of a signature of Matsumoto’s summer weather.
General Characteristics of Summer Weather
Daytime temperatures in Matsumoto during summer usually hit 25°C to 28°C (77°F to 82°F), and August tends to be the hottest. At night, things usually drop to around 18°C (64°F), which feels pretty nice after a hot day.
Humidity runs moderate to high, especially in early summer. Rain is frequent, and you’ll probably hear a few thunderstorms in July and August.
You can expect about 20 rainy days per month during the peak. Still, even with all that rain, Matsumoto gets long daylight hours.
On average, you’ll see about 6–7 hours of sunshine per day in June and July. That’s enough to get outside between showers.
The warm weather, rain, and sun keep the landscape lush, which is why hikers love the nearby Alps in summer.
Up here, the heat doesn’t feel as stifling as it does in coastal cities. Cooler nights and lower humidity at elevation really help.
Comparison to Other Japanese Cities
If you compare Matsumoto to Tokyo, Nagoya, or Osaka, you’ll spot the differences right away. Tokyo and Osaka often roast with highs above 30°C (86°F) and crazy humidity, but Matsumoto stays a bit cooler.
Nights here are also far more comfortable, often dropping below 20°C. That’s a big change from coastal cities, where nights can stay sticky.
Matsumoto still gets a lot of rain, but the pattern is different. Coastal cities get hammered by summer monsoons and typhoons, while Matsumoto’s inland location means fewer direct hits.
Instead, you’ll see frequent but usually less intense showers.
Compared to Sapporo up north, Matsumoto comes out warmer and wetter in summer. Sapporo’s summers are milder and less humid, while Matsumoto’s spot in central Japan brings more heat and rain.
So, if you’re traveling, you get a summer that’s warmer than northern Japan but cooler and less humid than most southern spots. The mountain air and steady rain really set Matsumoto apart from the rest.
Average Summer Temperatures in Matsumoto
In Matsumoto, summer means warm or hot days and cooler nights. The shift from June to August is pretty obvious, and you’ll notice the difference in comfort.
Daytime warmth stays steady, peaking in August before it starts to cool off again in September.
Typical Highs and Lows by Month
Summer in Matsumoto usually starts in mid-June and runs through mid-September. During this stretch, high temperatures range from the mid-70s °F (about 24°C) in June to the mid-80s °F (29°C) in August.
Average low temperatures are much more comfortable, starting near 60°F (16°C) in June and reaching about 68°F (20°C) in August.
Nights in July and August tend to stay mild, so evenings are great for a stroll or eating outside.
| Month | Avg. High | Avg. Low |
|---|---|---|
| June | 76°F (24°C) | 60°F (16°C) |
| July | 82°F (28°C) | 67°F (19°C) |
| August | 84°F (29°C) | 68°F (20°C) |
By September, cooler air comes back, with highs around 76°F (24°C) and lows near 60°F (16°C).
Daily Temperature Ranges
You’ll notice a big swing between day and night temperatures in Matsumoto. On a typical summer day, the temperature jumps by 15–20°F from morning to afternoon.
For example, in August, mornings might start near 68°F (20°C) and then climb to the mid-80s °F (29°C) by mid-afternoon.
That range makes mornings ideal for hiking in the Alps, while afternoons can get pretty warm and humid.
After sunset, evenings cool off fast. By 9 PM, temperatures often drop back into the upper 60s °F (around 20°C).
That drop really helps take the edge off the day’s heat, and you likely won’t need much cooling indoors.
Notable Temperature Extremes
Most of the time, summer feels pretty consistent, but sometimes you’ll hit an extreme. The hottest days in Matsumoto can reach 91°F (33°C), though this doesn’t happen often.
Heat waves usually don’t last, but when they show up, the humidity makes them feel more intense.
On the flip side, it’s uncommon for summer nights to dip below 55°F (13°C). Still, in early June or late September, you might run into a chillier evening, especially if you’re up in the hills around town.
If you’re planning to be outside, it’s smart to bring a light layer for cool nights and be ready for the occasional hot spell during the day.
Rainfall and Humidity During Summer
Summer in Matsumoto means steady rain, lots of wet days, and high humidity. These conditions really shape what it’s like to visit, so it’s good to know when it rains and just how humid it gets.
Monthly Rainfall Patterns
Rainfall peaks in June, July, and August. July usually takes the prize for the most rain, with around 250–260 mm falling.
That’s almost double what you see in the winter months. August is still wet, though a bit less so, with about 160–200 mm.
June kicks off the rainy season, bringing totals in the 180–220 mm range.
Rain tends to come in bursts, with heavy showers or the occasional thunderstorm in the afternoon. It’s a typical pattern for central Japan in summer, thanks to the seasonal monsoon.
| Month | Average Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|
| June | 180–220 |
| July | 250–260 |
| August | 160–200 |
Frequency of Rainy Days
You’ll get rain on a lot of summer days, but it’s not always a total washout. In July, rain falls on 20–22 days, making it the wettest month for frequency.
June and August are a bit drier, with about 17–20 days of precipitation each.
Even when it rains, showers might only last a little while, and the sun often pops back out.
If you’re planning to be outside, keep your schedule loose. A light rain jacket is a smart addition to your bag, since sudden showers are just part of the deal.
Despite the frequent rain, sunny breaks are common, so you’ll still get windows of dry weather.
Humidity Levels and Seasonal Changes
Humidity in Matsumoto stays high all summer, usually between 65% and 75%. July is the muggiest, with both heavy rain and warm temperatures making the air feel thick.
In June, humidity starts to climb with the rainy season, averaging around 68–70%. By August, it’s still sticky but sometimes eases a bit compared to July.
The combo of warm temps—often hitting 28°C by day—and high humidity can make it feel hotter than it actually is.
Mornings and evenings usually feel more comfortable, since cooler periods offer some relief.
If you’re traveling, expect sticky conditions, especially outdoors. Light clothes and plenty of water will help you handle the humid air.
Cloud Cover and Sunshine Hours
During summer, Matsumoto often has plenty of cloud cover and moderate sunshine. The city doesn’t get loads of clear days, but you’ll still find enough daylight for outdoor fun.
Average Cloudiness Throughout Summer
Matsumoto’s summer skies lean towards cloudy. On average, about 60–65% of days from June through August are overcast or mostly cloudy.
You’ll see a lot of filtered sunlight, not blazing blue skies.
Cloudiness is most obvious in June, when moisture is high. By July and August, clouds still come and go, but you’ll get more afternoon breaks.
Mornings might start gray, but the sun often peeks through later. Even on cloudy days, visibility stays good, and you can still catch those mountain views.
Sunshine Duration by Month
Sunshine hours in Matsumoto change gradually through summer. In June, you get about 5 to 6 hours of sunshine per day, limited by all that rain.
By July, sunshine ticks up a bit, though humidity and clouds keep things from getting too bright.
August usually brings the most sun, with averages closer to 6 to 7 hours a day. The sun isn’t out all day, since clouds drift in and out.
Here’s a quick look at the average sunshine:
| Month | Avg. Sunshine Hours/Day |
|---|---|
| June | 5–6 hours |
| July | 5–6 hours |
| August | 6–7 hours |
So, you’ll get reliable daylight, but don’t count on endless blue skies.
Wind Speed and Atmospheric Conditions
Matsumoto’s spot in a mountain basin shapes the wind all year. In summer, you’ll feel steady breezes.
Winter brings stronger gusts, and storms or typhoons can shake things up. These changes can affect how comfortable it feels and might impact your travel plans, especially if you’re outdoors.
Average Wind Speed by Month
Wind speeds in Matsumoto change with the seasons. During summer, you’ll usually feel gentle breezes averaging 10–15 km/h (6–9 mph). Sometimes, these winds carry enough humidity to make the air feel even warmer.
In February, average wind speeds drop to about 2.0 m/s (4.6 mph), which is lower than in the summer. From late autumn through spring, you’ll notice average speeds rise above 6.5 mph (10.5 km/h), especially from November to May.
Here’s a quick look at the typical averages:
| Month | Avg. Wind Speed |
|---|---|
| February | ~4.6 mph |
| June–August | 6–9 mph |
| November–May | 6.5+ mph |
These numbers show long-term trends, but sometimes you’ll get short bursts of stronger winds when weather systems sweep through the Japanese Alps.
Seasonal Wind Patterns
Seasonal shifts in Matsumoto create clear changes in wind direction and strength. In winter, cold air pools in the mountains, and downslope winds can suddenly bring strong gusts. Sometimes, these winds hit over 60 mph (100 km/h), especially in December and January.
During summer, winds usually shift southward and bring in warm, moist air from the Pacific. This pattern often leads to cloudy skies and frequent rain.
Late summer and early autumn sometimes bring typhoons, which can hit the region with stronger winds and heavy rain.
Because Matsumoto sits in a valley, winds funnel through mountain passes and make some areas breezier—especially near open fields or along river valleys. If you’re planning outdoor activities, expect calmer mornings and a bit more wind in the afternoons.
Daylight and Sunrise/Sunset Times
In Matsumoto, daylight length and sunrise and sunset times shift steadily through summer. These changes affect how much time you get for outdoor plans, sightseeing, or just wandering around.
Length of Daylight Hours
Summer in Matsumoto brings long days filled with sunlight. In June, near the solstice, you’ll see about 14.5 to 14.6 hours of daylight. Sunrise shows up early, around 4:40 AM, and sunset lingers close to 7:00 PM.
By July, daylight shortens a bit to about 14.4 hours, but evenings still feel long. August brings daylight down to 13.5 hours as sunset gets a little earlier.
For comparison:
| Month | Sunrise | Sunset | Daylight Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| June | ~4:40 AM | ~7:00 PM | ~14.6 hrs |
| July | ~4:41 AM | ~7:04 PM | ~14.4 hrs |
| August | ~5:00 AM | ~6:30 PM | ~13.5 hrs |
This steady change means you can plan early hikes or late visits with plenty of light, especially in June and July.
Seasonal Changes in Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise and sunset times shift quickly as summer moves along. In late June, the sun rises before 5:00 AM and sets after 7:00 PM. By mid-August, sunrise comes closer to 5:10 AM, and sunset drops to around 6:30 PM.
By September, daylight shrinks even more. Sunrise happens around 5:30 AM, and sunset falls before 6:00 PM, giving you just over 12 hours of light.
If you like early morning activities, this seasonal shift matters. Mountain trails around Matsumoto are best started at sunrise in June or July when days are longest. By late summer, you’ll need to adjust your plans to avoid getting caught out after dark.
Tips for Visitors Experiencing Matsumoto’s Summer
Summer in Matsumoto brings warm days, cooler evenings, and sudden weather changes thanks to its spot near the Japan Alps. If you prepare for both heat and rain, you can enjoy outdoor activities in comfort.
What to Pack for the Weather
Bring light, breathable clothing for daytime since temperatures often climb into the high 20s °C (mid-80s °F). At the same time, toss a light jacket or sweater in your bag because evenings cool down fast, especially in higher elevations like Kamikochi or Norikura.
Rain is common in June and early July, so pack a compact umbrella or a lightweight rain jacket. Sudden showers can pass quickly, but sometimes they’re heavy. Waterproof shoes or sandals that dry fast are a good idea for walking around the city or on trails.
If you’re heading into the mountains, wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip. Weather changes quickly up there, so layering is key. Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen—Matsumoto is actually one of the sunniest cities in Japan.
For day trips, carry a small backpack with water, snacks, and a map. It just makes exploring easier, especially in places where shops and facilities are scarce.
Best Outdoor Activities During Summer
Matsumoto’s summer really shines if you love hiking in the Japan Alps. The cooler mountain air feels like such a relief when the city heats up.
People flock to the trails in Kamikochi and Norikura. You’ll find everything from easy riverside strolls to hikes that’ll leave your legs burning (in a good way).
Locals and visitors alike grab a paddle and jump into rafting and kayaking on the nearby rivers. Snowmelt keeps the water crisp, so you stay cool even on the hottest days.
Cycling around the city and out into the countryside? That’s a relaxed way to catch glimpses of rice fields, shrines, and those unbeatable mountain views.
If you’re feeling bold, you might want to try paragliding in the highlands. On clear days, steady winds let both beginners and seasoned flyers take off with confidence.
For something totally different, check out Norikura’s snow walls in early summer. The snow sticks around into July sometimes, which is wild when everything else is turning green.
In the evenings, I always recommend a stroll around Matsumoto Castle. The air cools down, the crowds thin out, and it’s just a peaceful way to wind down after a day outside.