Okinawa Weather

Okinawa, located in the most southwest region of Japan in the Pacific Ocean and 1,600 km (994 miles) far away from Japan’s mainland, enjoys the humid subtropical maritime weather, which features warm climate throughout the year, and abundant rainfall, particularly in summer. 

Peaceful Beach

Temperature 

Okinawa’s weather is warm and has no severely cold days, averaging around 15-32°C (59-90°F). Even in winter, temperature rarely drop below 10°C (50°F), while days with temperature exceeding 30°C (86°F) account for over 100 days each year on average. In Naha, the capital of Okinawa, the average monthly temperature stays above 20°C (68°F) for an impressive eight months in a row, from April to November. 

What is the hottest month in Okinawa?

July is typically the hottest month, when midday highs can reach up to 34°C (93°F). After sunset, it cools only slightly, often remaining around 29°C (84°F). Even rainy days don’t bring much relief as temperatures usually fall by just one or two degrees Celsius (34-36 degrees Fahrenheit). 

What is the coldest month in Okinawa?

Thanks to its subtropical maritime climate, Okinawa is quite mild even in winter from December to February. January is the coldest month in Okinawa, with daytime temperature ranging from 17-20°C (63-68°F). Based on the data from the previous five years, the midday temperature in coldest days hovers around 14°C (57°F). But it’s worth noting that strong winds can make the weather much colder than the prediction. 

Rainfall 

Okinawa enjoys abundant rainfall throughout the year, with monthly averages ranging from about 103 mm to 260 mm. In Naha, the annual precipitation reaches roughly 2,040 mm, and no month records less than 100 mm of rainfall on average. 

The rainy season typically lasts from mid-May to late June, about a month earlier than in mainland Japan. Different from the rainy season in Japan’s mainland, Okinawa’s rainy season features short and intense downpours, which means skies tend to become clear soon after. It hardly rains all day long, so you don’t have to worry that the rain interrupts your trips seriously. 

Typhoons

Okinawa is attacked by an average of seven or eight typhoons each year. July to September is the peak season for typhoons, bringing heavy rainfall. Plus, the islands lie close to many typhoon formation zones, so storm tracks in this region are more erratic and harder to forecast. Travelers are advised to make wise arrangements - accommodation with good indoor facilities can help you feel not boring and safer if you get stuck there. 

Humidity 

As a region surrounded by the sea, Okinawa’s weather is quite humid, with the average humidity level ranging from 65% to 79%. During the rainy season and typhoon months - from May to September, Okinawa experiences an even higher humidity level. Also because of the high temperature, visitors would feel muggy and sticky. 

Strong Ultraviolet Rays

Okinawa’s sunshine is no joke: The UV Index here is much higher than that of most parts of Japan, and it stays strong all year round. Even on overcast days, the ultraviolet rays remain quite intense because of the reflection from the ocean and beaches. 

So whatever the season or the weather is, sun protection is a must: sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, and a light sun-protective jacket. Otherwise, your skin might get sunburned. 

Best Time to Visit Okinawa

The best times to visit Okinawa are from the second half of March to the first half of May, and October to November. During these period, typhoons attack less frequently, the islands’ climate is mild, travel costs are more affordable, and beaches are more peaceful. Besides, Okinawa still offers diverse and vibrant activities, including firework festivals, exciting water explorations, and traditional performances. 

If you are more into sea water activities, the most popular among visitors, you are recommended to visit the island in July and August, the best time of the year for ocean views and the peak season for sea activities. The disadvantages are frequent typhoons, so you are advised to check the forecast regularly. Besides, you are also advised to book the hotel and flights early as it is the summer holiday, peak travel season. 

Okinawa Climate - Seasons & Travel Recommendations

Spring: March to May 

 Average Temperatures: 16-27°C (61-81°F)
 Average Precipitation: 161mm - 247mm and 10-12 days per month

 Weather overview: Okinawa experiences one of the most pleasant times of the year in spring, with mild temperatures. Despite of occasional sudden downpours, they rarely disrupt travel plans. Mornings and evenings can be a little cool. After Japan’s Golden Week in early May, the rainy season arrives, bringing more downpours, though you can still catch sunny weather between some rainy periods. 

 Clothes Guidance: Pack T-shirts and shorts in breathable fabrics, beach dresses and swimsuits. Don’t forget to pack a light jacket or mid-weight coat to keep cozy. Sandals or sneakers are both fine, and an umbrella for both strong sunshine and rain is essential. 

 Travel Advice: 
1. The beach-opening ceremonies marking the starting of sea activities in Okinawa, is usually in late March and early April. Only after that, visitors are allowed to enjoy swimming, diving, snorkeling or other water activities in the sea. But the water temperature is still a bit cold until May.  
2. March is the best month for whale watching. You can witness the spectacular sight of humpback whales and their calves swimming freely in the ocean. 
3. Okinawa offers a great opportunity to appreciate the sakura blossoms twice a year. In March, you can admire rare white cherry blossoms in northern Okinawa.
4. Seasonal cultural events include Ryukyu Kaiensai Fireworks Festival in April and Naha Dragonboat Race during the Golden Week.

Summer: June to August 

 Average Temperatures: 25-32°C (77-90°F)
 Average Precipitation: 141mm - 247mm and 9-12 days per month

 Weather overview: Okinawa’s summer is hot and humid overall. June still remains in the rainy season. Entering July, Okinawa experiences a relatively dry climate, and a quick rise in temperature - but it’s still milder than Tokyo. August is hot, humid, often cloudy, and frequently rainy. Sea temperatures are pretty warm in summer, around 28°C (82°F). 

 Clothes Guidance: It’s advised to dress primarily in summer clothing: T-shirts and shorts in lightweight and quick-dry fabrics. Air-conditioning indoors can be strong, so a light long-sleeve layer helps. Remember to bring rain gear, too. 

 Travel Highlights: It is the prime season for sea view and beach activities. But be aware of taking precautions for typhoons. Ocean Expo Park Summer Festival in each July provides lovely beachside events and one of Okinawa’s largest fireworks shows: with over 10,000 fireworks shooting over Emerald Beach. As for local traditional art, don’t miss Eisa City Declaration, featuring eisa dances on the main streets. 

Jet Ski

Banana Boat

Autumn: September to November

 Average Temperatures: 20-30°C (68-86°F)
 Average Precipitation: 110mm - 260mm and 8-11 days per month

 Weather overview: Okinawa’s climate in autumn features fluctuating temperatures in an overall downward trend. Summer still lingers in September, with warm sea waters, and typhoons are more prone to occur. October and November are more stable, with many sunny days. Visitors would feel a bit hot in the daytime but cooler in mornings and evenings. Rainfall eases a bit.  

 Clothes Guidance: Short sleeves and shorts work well in September and October, but bring a light jacket for cooler times. By November, a cardigan or light coat is useful. Comfortable walking shoes are ideal for outdoor explorations, and an umbrella should be handy. 

 Travel Advice: 
1. In September and October, visitors can still enjoy island hopping and sea activities, with fewer tourist but still amazing sea scene. 
2. October is the last month allowing sea activities. After that, the sea temperature gradually drops; and with no one around to keep watch, going in the sea can be risky.  
3. In November, the Remote Island Fair brings together food, crafts, and art performances from across Okinawa’s islands. 
4. Autumn is the ideal season to experience mangrove kayaking due to stable and warm weather conditions. 

Exciting Beach View

Winter: December to February

 Average Temperatures: 15-21°C (59-70°F)
 Average Precipitation: 103mm - 120mm and 8-10 days per month

 Weather overview: This is the coolest and driest time of a year. Okinawa experiences brisk winds, making it feel colder than the thermometer suggests, though it remains much milder than mainland Japan. Evenings become cool quickly after sunset. 

 Clothes Guidance: Long-sleeves with moderate thickness plus a jacket or windbreaker are usually enough for your outings. Scarves help against the wind, and long pants keep you warm. Avoid leaving skin exposed in the air on windy days. 

 Travel Highlights: Early-blooming sakura blossoms appear in spots like Nakijin Castle and Nego Central Park. This is also the season for whale-watching cruises and evening light shows. Another unmissable event is the Ryukyu Lantern Festival, where the traditional architecture of the Ryukyu Kingdom glows under the warm light of 3,000 handcrafted lanterns, offering a stunning scene.