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Gunma Weather by Month
Gunma Prefecture, located in Japan’s Kanto region, is a landlocked area with a varied climate influenced by its mountainous northern regions and flatter southern plains. Its weather patterns shift significantly throughout the year, offering distinct seasonal experiences that impact travel plans, clothing choices, and destination recommendations. Below is a detailed month-by-month breakdown of Gunma’s weather, including minimum and maximum temperatures, precipitation patterns, clothing recommendations, best and worst locations to visit, and record weather events. The best and worst times to visit are also discussed, ensuring travelers can plan effectively for a trip to this diverse prefecture.
January
- Average Temperatures: Min: -5°C (23°F), Max: 3°C (37°F)
- Weather: January is Gunma’s coldest month, with cold, dry conditions dominating. Snowfall is significant in northern mountainous areas like Minakami and Kusatsu, averaging 31 cm annually, with January being one of the snowiest months. Southern plains like Takasaki experience chilly but mostly dry weather with occasional light snow. Sunshine hours are low, around 4.3 hours daily.
- Clothing: Heavy winter clothing is essential, including insulated jackets, thermal layers, scarves, gloves, and hats. In snowy northern areas, waterproof boots and snow gear are necessary.
- Best Locations: Kusatsu Ski Resort and Tanigawadake Ski Resort are ideal for skiing and snowboarding, with excellent powder snow. Kusatsu’s onsens (hot springs) offer a warm retreat amidst snowy landscapes.
- Locations to Avoid: Remote mountain trails can be hazardous due to heavy snow and icy conditions, so avoid high-altitude hiking without proper gear or guidance.
- Record Weather: Record low temperature: -15°C (5°F) in Minakami (estimated from regional data). Record snowfall: Approximately 50 cm in a single day in northern Gunma (historical estimates).
February
- Average Temperatures: Min: -4°C (25°F), Max: 4°C (39°F)
- Weather: February remains cold and snowy, particularly in the north, with about 20 cm of snowfall. Southern areas like Maebashi see chilly, dry days with strong northerly winds (karakkaze). Sunshine is limited, similar to January.
- Clothing: Layered winter clothing, including thermal underwear, fleece, and a windproof jacket, is recommended. Snow boots are crucial in northern regions.
- Best Locations: Minakami for snow monkey viewing at Jigokudani and onsen visits. The Shorinzan Nanakusa Taisai Daruma-ichi festival in Takasaki is a cultural highlight.
- Locations to Avoid: High-altitude areas like Mt. Tanigawa without experienced guides due to snow accumulation and avalanche risks.
- Record Weather: Record low: -14°C (6°F) in northern areas. February holds the record for snowiest conditions, with up to 60 cm in extreme northern events.
March
- Average Temperatures: Min: 0°C (32°F), Max: 10°C (50°F)
- Weather: March marks the transition to spring, with milder temperatures and occasional rain (around 53 mm). Snow decreases significantly, especially in the south, while northern areas may still see light flurries. Sunny days increase, offering pleasant conditions.
- Clothing: Medium-weight jackets, sweaters, and waterproof shoes. A light scarf and gloves are useful for cooler mornings and evenings.
- Best Locations: Ikaho Onsen for the Stone Steps Hina Festival and cherry blossom viewing in late March at lower elevations. Takasaki’s urban attractions are accessible.
- Locations to Avoid: Northern ski resorts may have melting snow, reducing appeal for winter sports.
- Record Weather: Record high: 22°C (72°F) in Takasaki. Rainfall peaks at around 100 mm in wet years.
April
- Average Temperatures: Min: 5°C (41°F), Max: 16°C (61°F)
- Weather: April is comfortably warm, with cherry blossoms in full bloom by early to mid-month. Rainfall averages 63 mm, and sunny days are common, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
- Clothing: Light jackets, long-sleeve shirts, and comfortable walking shoes. An umbrella or raincoat is handy for occasional showers.
- Best Locations: Maebashi’s Shikishima Park for cherry blossoms and Lake Haruna for scenic walks. Kiryu’s textile heritage sites are pleasant to explore.
- Locations to Avoid: None specifically, as April’s mild weather suits most of Gunma.
- Record Weather: Record high: 28°C (82°F) in southern plains. Record rainfall: Up to 150 mm in wet seasons.
May
- Average Temperatures: Min: 10°C (50°F), Max: 21°C (70°F)
- Weather: May is warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 26°C. Rainfall increases slightly (around 63 mm), marking the start of the rainy season’s edge. Sunshine peaks at 209 hours, ideal for outdoor exploration.
- Clothing: Light clothing like t-shirts and shorts, with a light jacket for evenings. Waterproof gear is useful for occasional rain.
- Best Locations: Minakami for rafting and canyoning. The 88 temple circuit is recommended for hiking. Ota’s cultural sites are enjoyable.
- Locations to Avoid: None, as May is universally favorable across Gunma.
- Record Weather: Record high: 30°C (86°F) in Takasaki. Rainfall can hospitality.
June
- Average Temperatures: Min: 15°C (59°F), Max: 24°C (75°F)
- Weather: June is warm, with the rainy season (tsuyu) bringing 180–227 mm of precipitation over 20–24 rainy days. Humidity rises to 79–83%, and sunshine drops to about 4.4 hours daily due to cloud cover.
- Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothing, waterproof jackets, and umbrellas. Quick-drying shoes are practical.
- Best Locations: Lake Haruna for water sports and Numata for nature hikes, though check weather forecasts for rain.
- Locations to Avoid: Mountain peaks like Mt. Akagi, where sudden weather changes can occur.
- Record Weather: Record rainfall: Up to 300 mm in extreme cases during typhoon events.
July
- Average Temperatures: Min: 20°C (68°F), Max: 27°C (81°F)
- Weather: July is hot and humid, with heavy rainfall (213–270 mm) and 22–24 rainy days. It’s the wettest month in many areas, like Takasaki and Maebashi.
- Clothing: Light, moisture-wicking clothing, raincoats, and umbrellas. Hats for sun protection.
- Best Locations: Indoor attractions like Kiryu’s textile museums or Takasaki’s Daruma workshops. Kusatsu’s onsens are cozy during rain.
- Locations to Avoid: Remote hiking trails due to heavy rain and potential landslides.
- Record Weather: Record rainfall: 6966.57 mm in October (an outlier, but July can see 400 mm in extreme years).
August
- Average Temperatures: Min: 22°C (72°F), Max: 30°C (86°F)
- Weather: August is the warmest month, with highs up to 31°C in southern cities like Isesaki. Rainfall remains high (199–244 mm), but sunshine increases to 6.9–7 hours daily, ideal for festivals.
- Clothing: Light, airy clothing, sunscreen, and hats. Rain gear for sudden showers.
- Best Locations: Takasaki for the Fireworks Festival and Numata Festival for cultural immersion.
- Locations to Avoid: High-altitude areas during typhoon risks (June–November).
- Record Weather: Record high: 35°C (95°F) in Takasaki. Typhoon-related rainfall can spike significantly.
September
- Average Temperatures: Min: 18°C (64°F), Max: 26°C (79°F)
- Weather: Warm and humid, with heavy rainfall (224–228 mm) and typhoon risks. Sunshine averages 4.4–6.9 hours.
- Clothing: Light clothing, waterproof jackets, and sturdy shoes for wet conditions.
- Best Locations: Northern areas for early autumn foliage. Onsens like Shima are relaxing.
- Locations to Avoid: Low-lying areas prone to flooding during typhoons.
- Record Weather: Record rainfall: 6966.57 mm (October outlier, but September can see 300 mm).
October
- Average Temperatures: Min: 12°C (54°F), Max: 21°C (70°F)
- Weather: Mild and pleasant, with rainfall (180–228 mm) decreasing. Autumn foliage peaks, especially in the north, with 137–207 hours of sunshine.
- Clothing: Light sweaters, long pants, and a waterproof jacket. Layering is key.
- Best Locations: Northern Gunma for vibrant foliage. Maebashi’s parks are scenic.ogg
November
- Average Temperatures: Min: 7°C (45°F), Max: 15°C (59°F)
- Weather: Cool and dry, with 87–94 mm of rain and 207 hours of sunshine. Ideal for foliage viewing.
- Clothing: Medium-weight jackets and long pants. Comfortable shoes for walking.
- Best Locations: All areas for autumn foliage, especially Minakami and Katashina.
- Locations to Avoid: None, as November is ideal across Gunma.
- Record Weather: Record high: 25°C (77°F) in southern plains.
December
- Average Temperatures: Min: 0°C (32°F), Max: 8°C (46°F)
- Weather: Cold and dry, with 52–69 mm of rain and occasional light snow in the south. Northern areas see increasing snowfall.
- Clothing: Warm layers, including jackets and scarves. Snow boots for northern visits.
- Best Locations: Kusatsu for winter onsen experiences and early ski season.
- Locations to Avoid: Remote northern trails due to early snow.
- Record Weather: Record low: -10°C (14°F) in northern areas.
Record Weather Events
- Record High Temperature: 35°C (95°F) in Takasaki (August).
- Record Low Temperature: -15°C (5°F) in Minakami (January, estimated).
- Record Rainfall: 6966.57 mm in October (extreme outlier, likely typhoon-related).
- Record Snowfall: Up to 60 cm in a single day in northern Gunma (February, historical estimate).
- Record Wind: Strong karakkaze winds in winter, with gusts up to 60 km/h in southern plains (exact records unavailable).
Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit Gunma are late March to early May for cherry blossoms and mild weather, and mid-October to early November for vibrant autumn foliage and comfortable temperatures. These periods offer pleasant weather, minimal rainfall, and stunning natural scenery, ideal for hiking, onsen visits, and cultural festivals.
Worst Time to Visit
The worst time to visit is July to early September, particularly during the rainy season (June–July) and typhoon season (August–September). Heavy rainfall (up to 270 mm in July) and high humidity can disrupt outdoor plans, and typhoon risks may pose safety concerns, especially in low-lying areas.
Conclusion
Gunma’s climate offers a range of experiences, from snowy winter adventures to vibrant spring and autumn scenery. By understanding monthly weather patterns and preparing appropriate clothing, travelers can choose the best time and locations to enjoy Gunma’s natural beauty, onsens, and cultural attractions while avoiding weather-related challenges.
Paul (Poison Fish) Manjyu Woodman
