Akishima Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Japan

Spring and Fall (March-May, September-November):

Spring in Akishima is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 8-18°C (46-64°F). April and May are particularly beautiful, adorned with blooming cherry trees. Autumn also offers comfortable weather, with temperatures typically between 10-17°C (50-63°F). The foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating stunning autumnal landscapes. These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the city’s parks and gardens.

Summer (June-August):

Summer in Akishima is characterized by hot and humid weather. Temperatures often exceed 27°C (81°F), with high levels of humidity. July and August are the warmest months, with average temperatures around 30°C (86°F). It is important to stay hydrated and take precautions to avoid heatstroke during this season. Air conditioning is common in public spaces and buildings to provide relief from the heat.

Seasonal Averages

Akishima, Japan, experiences distinct seasonal temperature variations. During the summer months (July through September), temperatures soar to an average high of around 30°C (86°F), with sweltering humidity levels. The winter months (December through February) bring a stark contrast, with average lows dipping below freezing to around -2°C (28°F). Autumn (October through November) and spring (March through May) offer more moderate temperatures, with average highs ranging from 15-20°C (59-68°F) and average lows around 5-10°C (41-50°F).

Annual Averages

On average, Akishima’s annual temperature hovers around 11.5°C (52.7°F). However, this figure conceals significant fluctuations throughout the year. January is typically the coldest month, with an average temperature of 1.7°C (35.1°F), while August is the warmest at an average of 25.1°C (77.2°F). The city also receives an average of 130 centimeters of rainfall annually, with the majority falling during the summer months.

Cloud Formations and Coverage

Akishima, located in the Tokyo metropolitan area, experiences varying cloud formations and coverage throughout the year. During the summer months, towering cumulonimbus clouds are common, capable of producing thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. In the winter, cirrus clouds dominate the skies, lending a diffuse glow to the landscape. Stratus and altostratus clouds are also frequent, bringing overcast conditions and occasional drizzle or light rain. The average annual cloud cover in Akishima is around 60%, with the highest values observed during the rainy season in June and July.

Influence on Local Weather

The type and extent of cloud cover significantly influence the local weather conditions in Akishima. Thick cumulus or cumulonimbus clouds can block sunlight, causing a drop in temperature and increased wind speeds. Cirrus clouds, on the other hand, allow most sunlight to pass through, resulting in relatively warm and clear conditions. Stratus and altostratus clouds tend to produce overcast and gloomy weather, with minimal temperature fluctuations. The cloud cover also plays a crucial role in precipitation patterns, as it can trap moisture in the atmosphere and lead to rainfall or snowfall.

Distribution of Precipitation

Precipitation in Akishima, Japan, exhibits a clear seasonal pattern. The wettest months are May and September, with average rainfall exceeding 150mm each. Winter months, from December to March, are relatively dry, with average rainfall below 60mm. The summer months, from June to August, are characterized by moderate rainfall, ranging from 80mm to 120mm on average.

Monthly and Hourly Precipitation

January is the driest month, with an average of 53mm of rainfall. March and April experience a slight increase in precipitation, with monthly averages of 70mm and 84mm, respectively. The rainy season, known as tsuyu, typically occurs in late May or early June, bringing heavy rainfall that can exceed 200mm per month. July and August, the warmest months, also witness significant precipitation, with monthly averages of 130mm and 110mm, respectively. September, despite being the second wettest month, features a bimodal distribution of precipitation. The first half of September is usually dry, while the second half experiences a spike in rainfall associated with the passage of typhoons. October and November mark a transition to drier conditions, with monthly rainfall averaging around 80mm. December brings a return to dry weather, with an average rainfall of 55mm.

Annual Distribution of Rainfall

The annual distribution of rainfall in Akishima, Japan, exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern. During the summer months, from June to September, the city experiences abundant precipitation associated with the East Asian monsoon. This period accounts for over half of Akishima’s annual rainfall, with July and August receiving the highest amounts. In contrast, the winter months, particularly from December to February, are relatively dry, with minimal rainfall. The annual rainfall in Akishima typically ranges from 1,500 to 1,800 millimeters, with moderate variations year to year.

Causes of Rainfall Patterns

The seasonal rainfall patterns in Akishima are primarily influenced by the movement of air masses and their interaction with the topography of the region. During the summer, warm, moisture-laden air from the Pacific Ocean rises over the Japanese archipelago, resulting in the formation of cumulonimbus clouds and heavy rainfall. The mountain ranges of Central Japan act as a barrier to this moisture, leading to increased precipitation on the Pacific side of the country, including Akishima. In winter, the prevailing winds shift and bring colder, drier air from Siberia, resulting in a decrease in rainfall. Additionally, the city’s close proximity to Tokyo Bay may contribute to localized variations in precipitation patterns due to the urban heat island effect and the influence of sea breezes.

Seasonal Snowfall

Akishima, located in the western suburbs of Tokyo, Japan, experiences snowfall during the winter months. The snowfall is typically light to moderate, with an average annual snowfall of around 10 centimeters (4 inches). The snow season typically runs from December to February, with occasional snowfall occurring in March.

Factors Influencing Snowfall

The amount of snowfall in Akishima is influenced by several factors, including altitude, proximity to the coast, and the prevailing wind patterns. Akishima is located at a relatively low altitude, which makes it less likely to experience heavy snowfall. Additionally, the proximity to the coast means that the city is more likely to receive moist air from the ocean, which can contribute to snowfall. The prevailing wind patterns also play a role, with cold winds from the north and northwest bringing colder temperatures and snowfall.

Sunrise and Sunset

Akishima, Japan, offers breathtaking views of the rising and setting sun due to its location on the western edge of the Kanto Plain. During the summer months, the sun rises between 4:30 and 5:00 AM, casting a golden glow over the city skyline. As the day progresses, the sun gradually ascends, reaching its highest point at approximately noon. The sunset in Akishima is equally stunning, as the sky transforms into a vibrant palette of orange, red, and purple hues. The setting sun dips below the horizon between 6:30 and 7:00 PM, casting a warm afterglow over the cityscape.

Sunlight Duration

The duration of sunlight in Akishima varies throughout the year, reaching its maximum in the summer months. On the longest day of the year, around June 21st, Akishima experiences approximately 15 hours of daylight. As the seasons change, the sunlight duration gradually decreases, reaching its minimum in December. During the shortest day of the year, around December 21st, Akishima has approximately 9 hours of daylight. The amount of sunlight also fluctuates slightly from year to year due to factors such as the Earth’s elliptical orbit and the tilt of its axis.

Moon Illusion in Akishima, Japan

The moon illusion is an optical phenomenon that makes the moon appear larger near the horizon than it does when it is high in the sky. This illusion is most noticeable when the moon is near the horizon, especially when there are objects in the foreground to compare it to.

In Akishima, Japan, the moon illusion is particularly pronounced due to the city’s location on a flat plain. With no mountains or tall buildings to obstruct the view, the moon appears to rise and set directly from the horizon. This makes the moon illusion even more noticeable, and it is a popular sight for photographers and tourists.

Cultural Significance of the Moon in Akishima, Japan

The moon has long been an important symbol in Japanese culture. It is associated with the goddess Tsukuyomi, who is said to have created the moon from the eye of her father, Izanagi. The moon is also a symbol of fertility and renewal, and it is often depicted in art and literature.

In Akishima, Japan, the moon is particularly important to the city’s identity. The city’s name means “autumn moon island,” and the moon is featured prominently in the city’s emblem. The city also hosts an annual moon-viewing festival, which is a popular time to visit Akishima and enjoy the beautiful views of the moon.

Annual Humidity Patterns

Akishima, Japan experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by high levels of humidity throughout the year. Annual average relative humidity ranges from 55% in February to 80% in August. During the summer months, humidity levels typically remain above 70%, creating a sultry and uncomfortable atmosphere. In contrast, during the winter months, humidity levels drop to around 55%, though occasional cold fronts can bring periods of high humidity.

Seasonal and Diurnal Variations

Seasonal variations in humidity levels are evident in Akishima. Summer humidity is significantly higher than winter humidity, with average levels reaching up to 70-80% from June to September. This is due to the combined effects of warm temperatures and frequent precipitation during the summer monsoon season. In contrast, winter humidity levels remain relatively low, with average levels dropping below 60% from December to February. Diurnal variations in humidity are also noticeable, with humidity levels typically lowest in the morning and increasing gradually throughout the day, reaching their peak in the late afternoon or evening.

Seasonal Wind Patterns

Akishima, Japan, experiences distinct seasonal wind patterns influenced by the region’s geographic location and topography. During the winter months (December to February), strong northwesterly winds prevail due to the Siberian high-pressure system. These cold, dry winds can reach speeds of up to 20 kilometers per hour, bringing frigid temperatures and clear skies. Conversely, in the summer (June to August), southwesterly winds dominate, carrying warm, humid air from the Pacific Ocean. These winds average around 15 kilometers per hour and often bring precipitation in the form of showers or drizzle.

Local Wind Effects

In addition to seasonal patterns, Akishima’s wind conditions are also influenced by local geographical features. The city is located in the Kanto Plain, which is surrounded by mountains to the west and north. These mountains act as natural barriers, channeling and accelerating winds as they pass through. As a result, Akishima frequently experiences strong gusts and turbulence, especially during the afternoon hours. Furthermore, the presence of the Tama River, which flows through the city, creates a local thermal gradient that can also generate localized wind currents.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is an enchanting time to visit Akishima. The city comes alive with blooming cherry blossoms, creating a picturesque canvas of soft pink and white hues. The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 4°C to 20°C. The annual Akishima Sakura Festival is held during this time, offering visitors the opportunity to witness the stunning cherry blossoms and participate in traditional Japanese festivities.

Autumn (October to November)

Autumn in Akishima is characterized by vibrant autumn foliage, transforming the landscape into a kaleidoscope of red, orange, and yellow hues. Temperatures tend to be mild, with average highs of around 18°C and lows of 6°C. The leaves reach their peak color around mid-to-late November, providing a breathtaking spectacle that can be enjoyed from the city’s numerous parks and open spaces. The annual Akishima Momiji Matsuri (Autumn Leaves Festival) celebrates the changing colors and features a variety of cultural performances, food stalls, and craft vendors.

Solar Energy Potential in Akishima

Akishima, located in the Tokyo Metropolitan Area, has a significant potential for solar energy utilization. The city receives abundant sunshine throughout the year, with an average solar radiation of over 4kWh/m2 per day. The relatively clear skies and low humidity levels further enhance the city’s suitability for solar energy generation.

Current Solar Energy Development in Akishima

Akishima has embraced the development of solar energy to meet its energy needs. The city has implemented various measures to promote solar power, including rooftop solar panels on public buildings and private homes. Several solar farms have also been established in the area, harnessing the abundant sunshine to generate electricity for the local grid. These efforts have contributed to Akishima’s growing reputation as a leader in renewable energy in Japan.

Hills and Valleys

Akishima, Japan, boasts a diverse topography characterized by an undulating landscape of hills and valleys. One prominent feature is the Okutama Mountains, a rugged range that borders the city to the west. The mountains rise to heights of over 1,000 meters and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Within the mountains lie several peaks, including Mount Mitake and Mount Otsuka, popular destinations for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

In contrast to the mountainous terrain, Akishima also encompasses vast open plains known as Tama River Floodplain. This fertile lowland is formed by the Tama River, which meanders through the city. The floodplain provides ample agricultural land, with rice paddies and vegetable farms covering significant portions. Along the riverbanks, floodplains feature dense vegetation, creating a picturesque natural environment.

Haneda Airport (HND):

Haneda Airport is the closest airport to Akishima, Japan. It is located approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) northeast of the city center and is easily accessible by train or bus. Haneda Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, handling over 80 million passengers annually. It serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights, with direct service to destinations throughout Japan and around the globe.

Narita International Airport (NRT):

Narita International Airport is another option for travelers flying to Akishima, but it is located further away than Haneda Airport. It is situated approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) east of the city center and takes about 1-2 hours to reach by train or bus. Narita International Airport is a major international airport, handling over 40 million passengers annually. It serves as a hub for long-haul flights to destinations in Europe, North America, and Asia.

History and Culture

Akishima, a city located in the western suburbs of Tokyo, has a rich history dating back to the Edo period (1603-1868). During this time, the city was known as Akishima Village and was primarily an agricultural area. In the Meiji era (1868-1912), Akishima became a major industrial center, with many factories and businesses being established. In 1970, Akishima was incorporated as a city, and today it is home to a diverse population of over 100,000 people.

Geography and Climate

Akishima is located approximately 25 kilometers (16 miles) west of the Tokyo city center. The city is situated in a flat area of the Kanto Plain, and is surrounded by several rivers and canals. Akishima has a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. The average temperature in January is 4.5 °C (40.1 °F), while the average temperature in August is 28.5 °C (83.3 °F). Akishima experiences moderate rainfall throughout the year, with the heaviest rainfall occurring during the summer months. The city is also prone to typhoons, which can bring strong winds and heavy rain.