Katsushika-ku Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Japan

Summer (June – August)

Summer in Katsushika-ku is characterized by hot and humid weather, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Humidity levels can reach up to 90%, making the heat feel even more oppressive. The sun often shines brightly, with little rainfall. However, occasional thunderstorms can bring heavy rain and lightning. Nights are typically warm, with temperatures rarely dipping below 20°C (68°F).

Winter (December – February)

Winter in Katsushika-ku is mild compared to other parts of Japan, but it can still get cold. Average temperatures range from 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F), but temperatures can drop below freezing on occasion. Snowfall is rare, but it can occur sporadically. The sky is usually overcast, with frequent periods of drizzle or light rain. Humidity remains high, which can make the cold feel more penetrating.

Seasonal Variation

The average temperature in Katsushika-ku, Japan, varies significantly throughout the year. Summers are hot and humid, with average high temperatures in July and August reaching around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). Winter temperatures are relatively mild, with average lows in January and February hovering around 1-2 degrees Celsius (34-36 degrees Fahrenheit).

Temperature Records

The highest temperature ever recorded in Katsushika-ku was 37.9 degrees Celsius (100.2 degrees Fahrenheit) on July 23, 2018, during a heatwave. The lowest temperature on record is -4.5 degrees Celsius (23.9 degrees Fahrenheit), which occurred on January 25, 1987. These extreme temperatures, though rare, highlight the range of weather conditions possible in the region.

Impact on Daily Life and Economy

The average temperature in Katsushika-ku has a noticeable impact on daily life and the local economy. During the hot summer months, outdoor activities are often curtailed, and air conditioning becomes an essential appliance. Winters, on the other hand, are associated with heating costs and potential snow accumulation, which can disrupt transportation and outdoor events. Furthermore, the weather conditions influence agricultural practices and tourism, with warmer summers benefiting certain crops and attracting visitors to outdoor attractions.

Characteristics of Clouds in Katsushika-ku, Japan

Katsushika-ku, located in the eastern part of Tokyo, experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by distinct seasonal variations. The clouds observed in this area reflect these climatic conditions. During the warm and humid summer months, cumulonimbus and cumulus clouds dominate the sky, often leading to frequent thunderstorms. Cumulonimbus clouds are tall, towering clouds with anvil-shaped tops, while cumulus clouds are puffy, white clouds that appear like cotton balls.

In the cooler winter months, stratus and stratocumulus clouds are more prevalent. Stratus clouds form a uniform gray layer that covers the entire sky, resulting in overcast conditions. Stratocumulus clouds consist of a layer of clouds with rounded shapes arranged in a regular pattern. These clouds often bring drizzle or light rain. Additionally, cirrus clouds, which are thin, wispy clouds made of ice crystals, can be observed throughout the year, especially at higher altitudes.

Average Precipitation

Katsushika-ku, located in Tokyo, Japan, receives an average annual precipitation of around 1,500 millimeters (59 inches). This precipitation is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly higher amounts during the summer monsoon season from June to September. During the summer months, Katsushika-ku experiences frequent thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, sometimes leading to flash flooding. The winter months, from December to February, are generally drier, with occasional snowfall.

Seasonal Variations

The precipitation pattern in Katsushika-ku is influenced by the East Asian monsoon system. During the summer, warm and moist air from the Pacific Ocean is drawn into the region, bringing heavy rainfall. In contrast, during the winter, cold and dry air from the Siberian High prevails, leading to drier conditions. The spring and autumn months typically have moderate precipitation, with occasional showers and thunderstorms. The highest monthly precipitation occurs in September, with an average of 200 millimeters (8 inches), while the driest month is February, with an average of 50 millimeters (2 inches).

Annual Rainfall Patterns

Katsushika-ku, located in eastern Tokyo, experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal rainfall patterns. The annual precipitation averages around 1300 millimeters, with most rainfall occurring during the summer months from June to September. During this period, warm and humid air masses from the Pacific Ocean bring frequent heavy rainfall, contributing to the region’s high humidity. In contrast, the winter months from December to February are typically drier, with less than 15% of the annual rainfall occurring during this time.

Extreme Rainfall Events

While Katsushika-ku generally receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, it is not immune to extreme weather events. Occasionally, tropical cyclones or typhoons pass through the region, bringing torrential rains that can cause flash floods and landslides. These events can lead to significant property damage and infrastructure disruption. In September 2015, Typhoon Etau dumped over 300 millimeters of rain on Katsushika-ku in a 24-hour period, resulting in severe flooding and power outages. The frequency and intensity of such extreme rainfall events are expected to increase in the future due to climate change.

Historical Background and Trends

Katsushika-ku is located in the northern part of Tokyo, Japan, and has a humid subtropical climate. Snowfall is relatively rare in Katsushika-ku, although it does occur occasionally during the winter months. The average annual snowfall in the area is only about 4.5 inches (11.4 centimeters). However, there have been some notable snowfalls in the past. In January 1963, Katsushika-ku received a record snowfall of 23.6 inches (60 centimeters).

Causes and Characteristics

Snowfall in Katsushika-ku is typically caused by cold air masses moving over the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean. As the air masses cool over the ocean, they become saturated with moisture. When the air masses reach land, they are forced to rise, which causes the moisture to condense and fall as snow. Snowfall in Katsushika-ku is often light and powdery, and it usually melts quickly due to the relatively mild temperatures. However, heavy snowfalls can occur on occasion, especially during periods of strong winter storms.

History

The Sun in Katsushika-ku, Japan, is an iconic painting created by Katsushika Hokusai in 1830. Depicting a majestic red orb emerging from behind Mount Fuji, the ukiyo-e print captures the grandeur of the natural world. The composition is dominated by the vibrant interplay between the fiery sun and the serene blue sky, separated by a sharply delineated horizon line. The deep indigo shade of the sky, known as “Berlin blue,” creates a sense of depth and atmospheric perspective, highlighting the sun’s brilliance.

Symbolism

The Sun in Katsushika-ku holds profound cultural and symbolic significance. The rising sun has been a cherished motif in Japanese art since ancient times, representing the birth of a new day, hope, and renewal. Hokusai’s portrayal of the sun as an enormous, radiant orb evokes the mythological sun goddess, Amaterasu, who brings light and prosperity to the world. The print has become a timeless symbol of Japan and its rich artistic traditions, capturing the awe and reverence felt towards the natural wonders of the country. Its enduring popularity has established it as one of the most recognizable and celebrated artworks in the history of ukiyo-e.

Moon in Katsushika-ku, Japan

The Moon has always played a significant role in Japanese culture, and this is reflected in the many depictions of the celestial body in art and literature. One of the most famous examples is Katsushika Hokusai’s “The Great Wave off Kanagawa,” which features the Moon prominently in the background. The moon is a symbol of change, impermanence, and beauty, and it is often used to evoke a sense of nostalgia or longing.

In Katsushika-ku, Tokyo, there is a place called Kameido Tenjin Shrine. This shrine is dedicated to the god of thunder, Susanoo-no-Mikoto, and it is also known for its beautiful moonlit nights. During the summer months, the shrine holds a moon-viewing festival, where people can gather to enjoy the full moon and the beautiful surroundings. The festival is a popular event, and it attracts people from all over Tokyo.

Humidity Levels in Katsushika-ku, Japan

Katsushika-ku, located in eastern Tokyo, experiences varying humidity levels throughout the year. Summers in Katsushika-ku are characterized by high humidity, with average relative humidity ranging from 70% to 90%. The combination of warm temperatures and high moisture content can create an uncomfortable and muggy environment for residents. During the summer months, humidity levels can fluctuate significantly, with occasional spikes above 90%.

In contrast, winters in Katsushika-ku are typically dry, with average relative humidity dropping to around 50%. The cold temperatures and low precipitation contribute to the lower humidity levels. However, during periods of prolonged cold and clear weather, humidity can drop even further, resulting in dry and sometimes chapped skin.

Geography of Katsushika-ku

Katsushika-ku is a special ward of Tokyo and the easternmost part of the ward is located on the Chiba Peninsula. The ward is bordered by Chiba Prefecture to the east and north, Edogawa-ku to the west and south, and Adachi-ku and Sumida-ku to the southwest. Katsushika-ku has a total area of 34.84 square kilometers, which makes it the second largest special ward in Tokyo by area. The ward is home to a population of approximately 450,000 people, which makes it one of the most populous special wards in Tokyo.

Climate of Katsushika-ku

Katsushika-ku has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and relatively cool winters. During the summer, the average temperature is 28°C and the average humidity is 75%. During the winter, the average temperature is 5°C and the average humidity is 60%. The area receives an average of 1,500 millimeters of rain per year, which is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.

Spring (April-May):

Springtime in Katsushika-ku is renowned for its vibrant cherry blossoms, painting the city in a captivating pink hue. The parks and gardens, especially Shinsui Park and Soka Park, transform into picturesque havens where visitors can witness the ephemeral beauty of cherry flowers. The weather is generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from 13 to 22 degrees Celsius, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities like picnics and strolls along the scenic canals.

Summer (June-August):

Summer in Katsushika-ku offers a contrast to the gentle charm of spring. Temperatures rise to an average of 27 degrees Celsius, bringing warm and humid conditions. While the heat can be intense, there are many ways to cool down and enjoy the season. The city hosts several summer festivals, including the lively Kameido Tenjin Kagura Festival and the Edo Kawagoe Festival, where traditional performances, street food, and fireworks create a vibrant atmosphere. The Katayanagi Blue Line Park provides a relaxing respite, with its lush greenery and water features that create a soothing escape from the summer heat.

Solar Potential and Development

Katsushika-ku, a ward in Tokyo, Japan, has significant solar energy potential due to its high levels of insolation. The ward receives an average of approximately 1,500 kWh/m2 of solar radiation annually, providing ample opportunities for solar energy development. The government has recognized this potential and has implemented various initiatives to promote solar adoption. Katsushika-ku is among the top wards in Tokyo in terms of installed solar capacity, with over 10,000 residential and commercial rooftop solar systems.

Benefits and Challenges

Solar energy provides numerous benefits to Katsushika-ku. It reduces greenhouse gas emissions, contributes to energy independence, and lowers electricity costs for residents and businesses. The ward has also leveraged solar energy development for community engagement. For instance, the “Katsushika Solar Energy Project” involves local residents in the planning and construction of rooftop solar systems. Despite its advantages, solar energy development in Katsushika-ku faces challenges. Space constraints and concerns about aesthetics can limit the installation of rooftop solar systems. Additionally, variations in solar insolation throughout the year can affect energy production and grid stability.

Terrain

Katsushika-ku forms a flat alluvial plain situated along the lower reaches of the Edo River. The vast majority of the terrain falls within an elevation range of 0 to 5 meters above sea level. This low-lying landscape is prone to flooding and requires extensive flood control infrastructure to protect the population from potential inundation. The Arakawa and Nakagawa rivers, which border the district, play a crucial role in managing water flow and preventing overflows.

Geology

Geologically, Katsushika-ku is underlain by a thick sequence of alluvial deposits consisting of sand, clay, and silt. These deposits were formed during the Pleistocene and Holocene epochs by the meandering of the Edo River and its tributaries. The area is also known for its occurrence of loess, a wind-blown silt that has accumulated over time. The presence of loess has influenced the local soil conditions, making them generally fertile and suitable for agriculture. Additionally, the district is located on a stable tectonic plate, minimizing the risk of earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.

Narita International Airport

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Katsushika-ku, Narita International Airport (NRT) is the primary gateway to the Greater Tokyo Area and one of the busiest airports in the world. It is a hub for Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways, and numerous other domestic and international carriers, connecting Katsushika-ku to destinations worldwide. NRT features four terminals, including a dedicated terminal for low-cost carriers, and offers a wide range of amenities such as duty-free shopping, restaurants, and currency exchange.

Tokyo Haneda International Airport

Tokyo Haneda International Airport (HND) is situated approximately 25 kilometers south of Katsushika-ku, within the city limits of Tokyo. It is the second-busiest airport in Japan and serves as a base for major domestic airlines, including Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways. HND offers convenient access to domestic destinations and select international flights, particularly within the Asia-Pacific region. The airport features three terminals connected by a shuttle bus service and provides a full range of passenger amenities, including retail stores, dining options, and transportation links to central Tokyo.

History and Culture

Katsushika-ku, situated in the easternmost part of Tokyo, holds a rich history and cultural heritage. The area has been inhabited since ancient times, with archaeological excavations revealing remnants of the Jōmon period. During the Edo period (1603-1868), Katsushika-ku became renowned for its Ukiyo-e prints, which depicted scenes from everyday life and popular culture. The famous artist Katsushika Hokusai, known for his iconic “The Great Wave off Kanagawa,” was born in the district. In the 20th century, Katsushika-ku witnessed rapid urbanization and industrialization, though it has retained some of its traditional charm.

Parks and Recreation

Katsushika-ku boasts a plethora of parks and green spaces, offering tranquility amidst the bustling city. Edo-Tokyo Museum Open-Air Architectural Park showcases traditional Japanese architecture from the Edo period, allowing visitors to stroll through replicas of historical buildings and bridges. Mizumoto Park is a popular destination for cherry blossom viewing during spring, with over 1,000 cherry trees lining its shores. Kasai Rinkai Park, located on reclaimed land, features a concert hall, an aquarium, and a large flower garden. Other notable parks include Horikiri Park, famous for its Iris Festival in June, and Mizue Park, which houses the Katsushika Hokusai Museum of Art, showcasing the works of the celebrated ukiyo-e master.