When you’re planning a trip to Hiroshima, the weather really shapes your whole experience. The city cycles through four distinct seasons, each with its own vibe—from cherry blossoms in spring to those fiery autumn leaves.
If you want the most comfortable and enjoyable weather, go in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). Temperatures stay mild, and it’s just perfect for wandering around.
You’ll notice summers get pretty humid and there’s a rainy season, while winters here are milder than a lot of other places in Japan. That makes it easier to pick your season, depending on whether you like cool strolls through historic sites or warm days by the water.
If you get a handle on Hiroshima’s seasonal changes, you can really line up your trip with what you want—maybe you’re after those peak cherry blossoms, that crisp fall air, or you just want to dodge the heavy rain. This guide covers weather patterns, seasonal highlights, and a few practical tips to help you plan.
Overview of Hiroshima Weather Patterns
Hiroshima sits in a humid subtropical climate, thanks to its spot inland and by the Seto Inland Sea. The city cycles through four seasons—hot, humid summers, mild autumns, cool winters, and a rainy season that can really affect your travel plans.
Climate Classification and Seasonal Variation
Hiroshima’s climate falls under the humid subtropical (Köppen Cfa) category. Summers drag on—hot and sticky. Winters? They’re short and not too harsh.
January usually brings the coldest days. Lows drop to about 2°C (35°F), and highs might hit 10°C (50°F). You’ll rarely see snow downtown, but the northern mountains sometimes get a dusting.
August flips the script, bringing the heat with average highs around 32°C (90°F) and plenty of humidity. Spring and autumn, though, are just right—highs between 15°C and 24°C, and the air feels much less muggy.
Cherry blossoms show up in March and April, and those autumn colors peak in October and November. Both draw plenty of visitors.
Impact of the Seto Inland Sea on Local Climate
The Seto Inland Sea really softens Hiroshima’s weather. Winters don’t get as cold as up north, and while summers are still hot, they’re not as brutal as places farther from the coast.
The sea keeps heavy snow away from the city. Sure, the mountains get some, but downtown Hiroshima almost never sees it pile up.
You’ll also notice there are quite a few sunny days—definitely more than cities like Tokyo or Kyoto. That makes sightseeing outdoors a safer bet, even when it’s cooler.
But, humidity sticks around in summer because the sea pumps extra moisture into the air. July and August can feel pretty oppressive, even if there’s a breeze now and then.
Rainfall and Typhoon Considerations
Rain doesn’t fall evenly throughout the year. The rainy season (tsuyu) starts in June and hangs on until mid-July. Hiroshima can get over 200 mm of rain in a single month, usually in sudden, heavy bursts.
July tends to be the wettest month. December, on the other hand, dries out. If you’re coming in early summer, you’ll want an umbrella or a light raincoat.
Typhoons sometimes hit between late August and October. The Seto Inland Sea helps weaken them compared to Japan’s Pacific coast, but strong winds and heavy rain still happen.
Flooding can be a problem in low-lying areas, and sometimes trains or buses get delayed during big storms. If you’re traveling then, keep an eye on the weather and maybe plan a few indoor activities.
Best Time to Visit Hiroshima for Ideal Weather
You’ll find the best weather in Hiroshima during spring and autumn. Temperatures stay mild, and the weather’s pretty steady.
These seasons also bring out the cherry blossoms and autumn colors, making sightseeing even better.
Spring: Cherry Blossom Season
Spring in Hiroshima runs from March to May. Temperatures climb from cool to warm—March highs are around 14°C, and by May, you’ll see 25°C.
Rain falls now and then, but most days invite you outside.
The main event is cherry blossom season, usually peaking in early April. Parks, riversides, and temple grounds burst with blooms.
Crowds gather at places like Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, but honestly, the atmosphere is fun and festive.
If you’re coming in April, pack layers. You’ll want a jacket for the evenings. Spring gives you a nice blend of comfy weather, local events, and natural beauty.
Autumn: Mild Temperatures and Foliage
Autumn stretches from late September through November. Highs start around 23°C in September and drop to about 17°C by November.
Humidity finally backs off, and you’ll get lots of clear days—perfect for exploring.
This is when autumn foliage really shines, peaking from late October to early November. Maple and ginkgo trees turn wild shades of red, orange, and yellow.
Shukkeien Garden and Miyajima Island become hotspots for leaf-peeping.
Crowds pick up during peak foliage, but the weather makes it worth it. If you like it cooler, November brings crisp mornings and mild afternoons. Just remember a warm layer for evenings.
Other Recommended Months
Spring and autumn are the sweet spots, but a few other months work too. December is usually dry and sunny, with highs between 6–13°C. You’ll dodge crowds and maybe get cheaper hotels.
February is another good bet if you want fewer tourists. It’s cool but not harsh, and there’s barely any snow. By late February, you’ll spot hints of spring.
If you’re set on summer, skip June because of the rain. July and August are hot and humid—highs over 30°C—but you can still visit if you’re ready for the heat. Carry water, for sure.
September sometimes brings typhoons, but you’ll still get plenty of clear, pleasant days after storms move on.
Seasonal Breakdown: What to Expect Each Season
Hiroshima works through four clear seasons, each with its own weather patterns. Temperatures, rainfall, and local events change things up, so when you visit can really affect your experience.
Spring in Hiroshima
Spring runs from March to May and feels like the city’s best season. Daytime highs climb from about 14°C (57°F) in March to 24°C (75°F) in May. Nights can still be chilly.
Cherry blossoms pop up all over—usually from late March to early April. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Shukkeien Garden fill with locals and visitors for hanami (flower viewing).
Rain is moderate, and humidity stays lower than in summer. Pack layers, maybe a light sweater or jacket for evenings. Daytime calls for lighter clothes.
Summer in Hiroshima
Summer hits from June through August, and it’s the hottest, stickiest time of year. August often brings highs around 33°C (91°F), and humidity makes everything feel warmer.
Rainy season kicks off in June and hangs on until mid-July. Expect steady showers and the odd downpour. After that, it just gets hotter, and late August sometimes brings typhoons.
If you’re here in summer, stick to light, breathable clothes and drink plenty of water. Museums and shopping centers offer a break from the heat. Try to do outdoor stuff early or late in the day.
Autumn in Hiroshima
Autumn runs from September to November and is another great time to visit. September can still feel muggy, with leftover summer heat and some typhoons.
By October, things cool off and the weather stabilizes.
Daytime highs drop to around 22°C (72°F) in October, and it gets cooler in November. This is prime time for fall foliage, especially in spots like Miyajima and Hiroshima’s parks.
Leaves turn bold reds and golds from mid-October through mid-November.
Bring a light jacket or sweater for evenings. Daytime stays comfy for walking. Rain falls less than in summer, so it’s easier to plan outdoor adventures.
Winter in Hiroshima
Winter sticks around from December to February. It’s cool but not freezing, with daytime highs around 8–10°C (46–50°F) and lows near 2°C (36°F) in January.
Snow almost never sticks downtown, though the mountains up north might get a bit. The air feels dry, and skies are usually clear—nice for sightseeing.
If you’re into winter sports, you can hit the ski areas in the nearby mountains. For city trips, bring a warm coat, sweater, and gloves. Fewer crowds make it easy to take your time at popular spots.
Monthly Guide: Weather Highlights and Travel Tips
Hiroshima’s climate shifts a lot through the year. Spring and autumn are mild, summer is hot and humid, and winter stays cool but not too harsh.
Knowing what to expect each month helps you pack right, avoid weather hassles, and catch the best seasonal highlights.
April in Hiroshima
April stands out as one of the best times to visit. Highs hit about 18–20°C (64–68°F), and evenings cool down to around 10°C (50°F). Rain happens, but most days feel pretty nice.
Cherry blossoms are at their peak, especially in early April. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Shukkeien Garden become the go-to spots.
Crowds are bigger now, so if you’re after photos or a quieter visit, plan ahead.
Bring layers—a light jacket or sweater for mornings and evenings, and a long-sleeved shirt for daytime. You’ll want comfy walking shoes since you’ll probably be on your feet a lot.
August in Hiroshima
August is the hottest month here. Highs hover around 32–33°C (90–91°F), and humidity makes it feel even warmer. Nights stay above 25°C (77°F), so don’t expect much relief after sunset.
This is also when you’ll see the most rain, especially early in the month. Sudden downpours are common, and late summer typhoons might mess with your plans.
If you’re visiting, pack a small umbrella or light rain jacket.
Stick to light, breathable clothes—T-shirts, shorts, and dresses work well. Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen. Museums and shopping centers offer cool escapes from the heat, and evening river walks can be surprisingly pleasant.
November and Other Key Months
November is easily one of the most comfortable and scenic months in Hiroshima. Highs reach about 16–18°C (61–64°F), and evenings drop to 8–10°C (46–50°F). Rain doesn’t fall much, and the skies usually stay clear.
Autumn foliage is at its best, with maples and ginkgo trees glowing red and yellow. Miyajima Island and Hiroshima Castle grounds are especially popular for leaf viewing from mid to late November.
May brings warm but not hot weather, and October mixes mild temps with colorful landscapes. Winter months like January and February stay cool but manageable, especially downtown where snow is rare.
For November, pack a light coat or jacket and layers for the cooler nights. Comfy shoes are a must, especially if you want to enjoy parks or take day trips.
Weather-Related Activities and Attractions
Hiroshima’s climate really shapes how you experience the city’s sights and traditions.
Mild springs mean cherry blossoms, humid summers kick off lively festivals, and cooler months are perfect for exploring cultural landmarks at your own pace.
Cherry Blossom Viewing Along the Motoyasu River
Cherry blossom season in Hiroshima usually hits its peak in early April. Trees line the Motoyasu River near Peace Memorial Park, and they turn this area into one of the city’s favorite spots for cherry blossom viewing.
The blossoms stick around for about one or two weeks, but that really depends on the weather.
Locals gather for hanami picnics under the trees, and you can join them if you want. Bring a blanket, grab some snacks, and show up early if you’re hoping for a good spot, since weekends get packed fast.
People also enjoy evening viewing. Soft lights along the river reflect on the water, creating a calm vibe that feels different from the busy daytime crowds.
If it rains, petals tend to fall quickly, so timing your visit matters more than you’d think.
Exploring Miyajima in Different Seasons
Miyajima Island sits about 30 minutes from central Hiroshima, and each season brings something new. In spring, cherry blossoms frame the famous Itsukushima Shrine and its “floating” torii gate.
Summer on the island feels humid, for sure, but shaded trails and sea breezes help. You’ll probably spot more deer wandering near the shrine and along the coast during this time.
Fall makes hiking the most pleasant. Maple trees in Momijidani Park turn bright red and orange, and the weather stays pretty mild.
In winter, the island gets quieter, with fewer tourists around. Clear skies often mean you’ll catch the best views of the Seto Inland Sea.
| Season | Highlights | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Blossoms at Itsukushima Shrine | Visit early morning |
| Summer | Festivals, lush greenery | Carry water, avoid midday heat |
| Fall | Peak foliage in October | Ideal for hiking |
| Winter | Calm atmosphere, clear views | Dress warmly |
Seasonal Festivals and Events
Hiroshima’s weather shapes when the big festivals happen. In May, the Hiroshima Flower Festival fills the city with parades, music, and food stalls. Spring weather makes it easy to enjoy everything outside.
Summer brings its own mix of challenges and fun. June and July get hot and humid, but festivals like Toukasan, which is one of the area’s biggest yukata celebrations, still attract crowds. Fireworks shows light up the coast, even if the evenings feel sticky.
In autumn, the Saijo Sake Festival in October pairs cool weather with local food and sake tastings.
Winter’s highlights include the Hiroshima Dreamination light displays in December and oyster festivals in February, when oysters are at their best.
Each season brings its own events, and your experience will shift depending on when you visit.
Tips for Planning Your Hiroshima Trip Based on Weather
When you plan a trip to Hiroshima, weather really shapes what you pack, how you get around, and what kind of time you’ll have. If you prepare for the seasons, you’ll stay comfortable and avoid a lot of hassle.
Packing and Preparation Advice
Spring and autumn are easily the best times to visit Hiroshima for mild temperatures and low humidity. For these months, pack light layers like a sweater or jacket for cooler evenings, and wear comfortable shoes for walking around parks and memorials.
If you come in summer, get ready for hot, humid weather and sudden rain. Bring breathable clothing, a small umbrella, and a hat for shade. A refillable water bottle really helps, since it’s easy to get dehydrated.
Winter stays pretty mild, but nights can get chilly. Pack a warm coat, gloves, and a scarf if you’ll be out after dark. Snow doesn’t fall often, but waterproof shoes might come in handy just in case.
Travel Crowds and Accommodation
Weather doesn’t just affect your comfort, it changes how crowded Hiroshima feels. Cherry blossom season in late March to early April and autumn foliage in November bring big crowds. Hotels and guesthouses fill up quickly, so book early if you plan to visit during these peak months.
Fewer international tourists visit in summer because of the heat, but domestic travel spikes during school holidays in August. Accommodation prices often go up around this time, especially near Miyajima Island and in central Hiroshima.
Winter is quieter, so you’ll find affordable rooms more easily. If you want fewer crowds, try visiting in January or February, when attractions are less busy and the city feels much calmer.
Weather Safety and Comfort
Hiroshima’s climate usually feels pretty safe, but you’ll want to keep an eye out for the risks that come with each season. The rainy season in June and early July can hit with some heavy downpours, so it’s smart to carry waterproof gear. You might also want to give yourself a little extra time since travel delays happen.
Summer in Hiroshima can get really hot, and heat exhaustion sneaks up on people. Try to walk in the shade when you can, and take breaks indoors during the hottest parts of the day. Don’t forget sunscreen—it makes a difference.
If you’re here in winter, those icy mornings can turn sidewalks into a bit of a hazard. Grab shoes with good traction, and don’t rush if you don’t have to.
Extreme weather doesn’t show up too often, but a little preparation goes a long way for a comfortable trip.