Karatsu Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Japan

Summer (June – August)

Summer in Karatsu is hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C. The humidity levels are high, making it feel even warmer. The rainfall is moderate, with occasional thunderstorms. The average number of rainy days per month is around 10, and the total precipitation during the summer is about 200mm. The summer is a popular time for tourists to visit Karatsu, as the beaches are open and the weather is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Autumn (September – November)

Autumn in Karatsu is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The humidity levels are lower than in summer, making for a more comfortable climate. The rainfall is also less frequent, with the average number of rainy days per month decreasing to around 5. The leaves on the trees start to change color in autumn, creating a beautiful spectacle. The autumn is a great time to visit Karatsu for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the 紅葉 (kouyou) or autumn foliage.

Summer Temperatures in Karatsu, Japan

Karatsu, Japan experiences warm and humid summers, with average temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius (77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). The hottest month is August, with average temperatures reaching up to 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). During the summer months, the humidity levels are high, making it feel even warmer. However, the city does receive occasional afternoon showers, which can provide some relief from the heat. Overall, the summer months in Karatsu are pleasant, with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures, making it an ideal time to visit the city and enjoy its many attractions.

Winter Temperatures in Karatsu, Japan

Karatsu, Japan experiences mild winters, with average temperatures ranging from 5 to 10 degrees Celsius (41 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit). The coldest months are January and February, with average temperatures dropping to 5 degrees Celsius (41 degrees Fahrenheit). Snowfall is rare in Karatsu, but it can occasionally occur during the winter months. The city receives moderate rainfall throughout the winter, which can make the air feel damp and chilly. Despite the relatively mild temperatures, it is important to dress warmly during the winter months to protect against the cold and wind. Overall, the winter months in Karatsu are generally pleasant, with occasional cold snaps and rainfall.

Clouds in Karatsu, Japan

Karatsu, a coastal city in Japan, is known for its dramatic cloudscapes that often grace the skies. The city’s unique geography, nestled between the Genkai Sea and the mountains of Kyushu, creates a meteorological hotspot that fosters the formation of diverse cloud formations. The prevailing winds from the sea carry moisture inland, which condenses to form clouds as it encounters the cooler air from the mountains.

The clouds in Karatsu are a photographer’s dream. The interplay of light and shadow, coupled with the ever-changing shapes and textures of the clouds, creates a canvas that is both dynamic and ethereal. Stratus clouds, with their uniform and often gray appearance, dominate the skies on overcast days. Cumulus clouds, with their puffy and fair-weather appearance, dot the sky on sunnier days. Cirrus clouds, wispy and feathery, are often scattered high in the sky.

Seasonal Distribution

Karatsu, Japan, experiences a humid subtropical climate with distinct seasonal variations in precipitation. During the summer months (June-August), Karatsu receives the bulk of its annual rainfall, with monthly averages exceeding 200 millimeters. This is largely due to the influence of the East Asian monsoon, which brings warm and moist air from the Pacific Ocean. In contrast, the winter months (December-February) are relatively dry, with monthly precipitation averaging around 50 millimeters. This is because the monsoon winds weaken during this time, and Karatsu is influenced by continental air masses from Siberia.

Extreme Precipitation Events

While Karatsu typically receives moderate precipitation throughout the year, it is susceptible to extreme precipitation events, particularly during the summer months. These events are often associated with tropical cyclones or the passage of frontal systems, which can bring heavy rainfall over a short period of time. In August 2020, Karatsu experienced record-breaking rainfall, with over 400 millimeters falling in a single day. Such events can cause significant flooding and landslides, disrupting transportation and infrastructure. To mitigate the risks associated with extreme precipitation, Karatsu has implemented various flood control measures, including the construction of levees and drainage systems.

Annual Rainfall

Karatsu, Japan receives an annual rainfall of approximately 1,600 millimeters (mm). This rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with average monthly precipitation ranging from about 110 mm in August to 130 mm in September. The rainy season, known as tsuyu, typically occurs from late June to mid-July. During this period, rainfall can be heavy and persistent, leading to occasional flooding.

Seasonal Rainfall Patterns

Summer in Karatsu (June-August) is characterized by frequent thunderstorms and occasional typhoons. These storms can bring intense rainfall, sometimes exceeding 200 mm in a single day. In contrast, winter (December-February) tends to be relatively dry, with average monthly precipitation below 100 mm. However, snowfall is not uncommon during the cold months, and can occasionally accumulate to several centimeters. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are typically moderate, with moderate rainfall and occasional light snowfall.

Historical Snowfall Records

Karatsu, a coastal city in southwestern Japan, experiences moderate snowfalls during the winter months. The average annual snowfall in Karatsu is approximately 10-15 centimeters (4-6 inches). However, there have been notable exceptions, such as the heavy snowfall in January 2021, which accumulated approximately 25 centimeters (10 inches). Historically, the heaviest snowfall recorded in Karatsu occurred in February 1951 when over 40 centimeters (16 inches) of snow fell.

Impact of Snowfall

Snowfall in Karatsu can cause disruptions to daily life. Heavy snowfall can lead to road closures and delays in public transportation. It can also create hazardous conditions for pedestrians and vehicles. Additionally, snowfall can damage crops and vegetation, particularly if the snow is accompanied by strong winds or freezing temperatures. However, snowfall can also bring positive benefits. It can provide a scenic winter landscape and support skiing and other winter sports activities in nearby areas. Furthermore, the melting snow in the spring helps replenish water resources and soil moisture.

Sunrise and Sunset Times

Karatsu, Japan, experiences significant variations in sunrise and sunset times throughout the year due to its location in the Northern Hemisphere. During the summer months, the sun rises earlier and sets later, resulting in longer daylight hours. The earliest sunrise occurs around 5:30 AM in late June, while the latest sunset takes place around 7:30 PM in mid-July.

In contrast, during the winter months, the sun rises later and sets earlier, leading to shorter daylight hours. The latest sunrise occurs around 7:00 AM in late December, while the earliest sunset happens around 5:00 PM in mid-December. These seasonal variations in sunrise and sunset times significantly impact daily life in Karatsu, affecting activities such as outdoor work, recreation, and transportation.

Sunlight Hours and UV Index

The average daily sunlight hours in Karatsu vary throughout the year, with the highest number of hours occurring during the summer and the lowest number during the winter. On average, Karatsu receives approximately 7.5 hours of sunlight per day over the course of the year. However, this number can fluctuate depending on factors such as cloud cover and the time of year.

The UV index, which measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, is generally higher in Karatsu during the summer months when the sun is at its strongest. During this time, it is important for individuals to take appropriate precautions to protect themselves from UV exposure, such as wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats.

Karatsu’s Lunar Heritage

Karatsu, a coastal city in Saga Prefecture, Japan, is renowned for its historic connection to the moon. In the late 16th century, a Korean potter named Yi Sam-pyeong was shipwrecked on the shores of Karatsu and introduced local craftsmen to the art of making moon jars. These large, irregularly shaped vessels were inspired by the moon’s surface and became a specialty of Karatsu ceramics.

The connection between Karatsu and the moon was further strengthened in 1969 when the Apollo 11 mission landed on the lunar surface. A piece of moon rock brought back by the astronauts was gifted to the city of Karatsu in recognition of its contributions to ceramic art. This moon rock is now on display at the Karatsu City Space Science Museum, serving as a symbol of the city’s unique lunar heritage.

Seasonal Humidity

Karatsu, Japan experiences notable seasonal variations in humidity. During the summer months (June to August), humidity levels soar, often reaching 80% or higher. This high humidity, combined with the warm temperatures, creates a muggy and uncomfortable environment. In contrast, winter (December to February) brings much drier conditions, with humidity levels typically ranging between 50% and 60%. This lower humidity makes the cold temperatures more tolerable and creates more pleasant outdoor conditions.

Factors Influencing Humidity

Several factors influence humidity levels in Karatsu. The city’s proximity to the ocean plays a significant role. As warm, humid air from the ocean flows inland, it raises the humidity levels in the coastal area, including Karatsu. Additionally, the surrounding mountains can affect humidity levels by blocking moisture-carrying air masses from moving inland. During the summer, when the mountains experience heavy rainfall, humidity levels can increase as the moisture evaporates and is transported inland by prevailing winds.

Wind and Dune Formation in Karatsu

Karatsu, a city located in the Kyushu region of Japan, is renowned for its unique geological formations known as the Karatsu Kacho no Sato Dunes. These dunes were primarily formed by the strong wind patterns that have shaped the region over time. The prevailing westerly winds, known as the “makaru,” are particularly powerful and responsible for the transportation and accumulation of sand along the coastline. These winds carry sand from the beaches and nearby river mouths, creating sand dunes that reach impressive heights of up to 15 meters.

Ecological Significance and Tourism

The Karatsu dunes are not only geologically fascinating but also ecologically significant. They support a diverse flora that has adapted to the harsh coastal environment, including dune grasses, shrubs, and rare wildflowers. The dunes also provide habitat for various bird species, including the black-faced spoonbill, a globally endangered migratory bird. The Karatsu Kacho no Sato Dunes are a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the country and abroad. The scenic beauty of the dunes, combined with their unique geological and ecological characteristics, makes them a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Best Time to Visit for Nature and Scenery

To witness Karatsu’s picturesque landscapes at their most vibrant, consider visiting during spring (March to May) or autumn (October to November). In spring, the Karatsu Castle grounds and nearby parks burst forth with an explosion of colors, as thousands of cherry trees and azaleas transform the area into a breathtaking tapestry. The scenery is equally captivating in autumn, when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a stunning backdrop for exploring the city’s temples and shrines.

Best Time to Visit for Festivals and Events

Karatsu comes alive with cultural festivities throughout the year, but two events stand out for their grandeur and significance. The Karatsu Kunchi Festival, held in November, is a UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage that attracts visitors from far and wide. The festival showcases elaborate floats, vibrant costumes, and captivating performances that showcase Karatsu’s rich history and traditions. In May, the Karatsu Kokeshi Festival celebrates the iconic kokeshi dolls, featuring a wide array of these traditional crafts from around Japan. Visitors can admire the dolls’ intricate designs and purchase unique souvenirs to commemorate their visit.

Potential for Solar Energy in Karatsu

Karatsu, a city in the Saga Prefecture of Japan, holds significant potential for solar energy development. The city benefits from ample sunlight throughout the year, with an annual average of approximately 1,800 kWh/m2. Furthermore, Karatsu faces minimal cloud cover and precipitation, resulting in optimal conditions for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. The city has recognized this potential and has implemented several initiatives to promote solar energy utilization.

Solar Energy Development Initiatives

In line with Japan’s goal to reduce carbon emissions, Karatsu is actively pursuing solar energy development. The city has established a municipal solar energy subsidy program to incentivize the installation of solar PV systems for both residential and commercial properties. Additionally, Karatsu has designated specific areas for solar farm development, including the Karatsu Solar Park, which is one of the largest solar parks in Japan with a capacity of 200 MW. The city’s commitment to renewable energy is evident through these initiatives, which aim to diversify the energy mix and promote sustainable development.

Uplands

Karatsu is characterized by an extensive upland region that dominates the northern and central parts of the city. These uplands are formed primarily by a series of hills and valleys known as the Karatsu Plateau. The plateau is composed of sandstone and shale dating back to the Cretaceous period. The highest point in Karatsu, Mount Hizen (409 meters), is located within the Karatsu Plateau. The uplands are characterized by steep slopes and rugged terrain, with elevations ranging from sea level to over 200 meters.

Coastal Plains

In contrast to the uplands, Karatsu also possesses narrow coastal plains along its western and northwestern shores. These plains are formed by alluvial deposits and are generally flat and low-lying. The plains are utilized for agriculture, particularly for rice cultivation. The coastal plains are home to several major population centers, including the city of Karatsu itself. The plains are also characterized by numerous small islands and inlets, which create a picturesque coastline.

Saga Airport (HSG)

Saga Airport is the closest airport to Karatsu, Saga, located approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) southwest of the city center. The airport serves a small number of domestic destinations, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka.

Saga Airport is a convenient option for travelers seeking direct flights to Karatsu. The airport offers a variety of transportation options, including buses, taxis, and rental cars. The journey time to Karatsu city center by bus is approximately 45 minutes, while the taxi ride takes about 30 minutes.

Fukuoka Airport (FUK)

Fukuoka Airport is the largest airport in Kyushu, located approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) northwest of Karatsu. The airport has a wide range of domestic and international destinations, making it a suitable option for travelers with a variety of itineraries.

Although further away from Karatsu than Saga Airport, Fukuoka Airport offers a greater choice of flights and airlines. The journey time to Karatsu from Fukuoka Airport by train is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, while the bus ride takes about 2 hours.

History and Culture

Karatsu, a coastal city located in the northwestern part of Kyushu, Japan, has a rich history and culture that spans centuries. The city’s origins can be traced back to the Kamakura period (1185-1333) when it served as a trade port and a naval base. During the Edo period (1603-1868), Karatsu flourished as a commercial center and became famous for its ceramics, known as Karatsu ware. Today, Karatsu remains a vibrant city with a strong sense of community and a thriving cultural scene.

Natural Beauty

Karatsu is blessed with stunning natural beauty, including scenic coastline, picturesque mountains, and tranquil lakes. One of the city’s most famous landmarks is the Matsubara Coastal Terrace, a 4-kilometer-long stretch of coastline known for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a grove of 300,000 pine trees that create a breathtaking landscape. Other popular natural attractions in the area include the Karatsu Castle Ruins, which offer panoramic views of the city and the sea, as well as the Nabeshima Wheat Field, a vast field of golden wheat that transforms into a sea of flowers during the spring and summer months.