Takayama Weather in August

Season: summer
Overview: hottest month, a lot of rains
Takayama climate suggests that August is the hottest month, as the temperature is rising quickly since the rainy season ends in mid-late July. To hottest mid-August, the highest temperature can go up to 37 degrees Celsius (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit). Throughout the month, you would experience a huge temperature gap too, while the lowest temperature is about 16-17℃ (60.8-62.6℉) at night. UV radiation is strong, so sun protection is necessary, especially in the afternoon. Even so, it’s relatively cooler than in Tokyo, Osaka or other big cities of Japan.

It’s also a rainy month in Takayama, but the rainfall is obviously less than that in July or September averagely. It pours on about 11 days in the month, accompanied by thunders from time to time. Rains often result in mist near or in the mountains.

Takayama in August

Averages of Takayama Weather in August

Temperature: 20-31℃ (68-87.8℉)
Precipitation: 165mm
Rainy Days: 11 days
Sunrise: 04:59-05:21
Sunset: 18:20-18:57
Daylight hours: 13h 30min
Sunshine hours: 9h 1min

Is August in Takayama Too Hot?

August is the hottest month in Takayama, but the heat doesn’t last long every day and the temperature drops fast towards nightfall. In the hottest hours in the afternoon, it is extremely hot at a highest temperature of 37℃ (98.6℉).

Takayama City View

Does it Rain a Lot in August in Takayama?

Yes, there are quite plenty of rains falling in Takayama in August. In one-third or more days of August, there are rain showers or intermittent rainstorms. No more continuous rain falls in August, while it rains heavily but for a short time.

What to Wear in Takayama in August?

Breathable summer clothes are optimal for the Takayama weather in August, such as T-shirt, sweatshirt, shorts, dress, and thin pants. At the same time, you should pack a jacket or other thin outwear when travelling there, as many activities are held in the cool evening.

Sneakers and hiking shoes are great as it is convenient for walking, and some casual shoes like sandals are not suggested. Waterproof ones are better if you encounter a heavy rain there, and a raincoat or umbrella is also very necessary in August.

For strong ultraviolet rays, sunhat, sunglasses, sun cream, etc. are the musts, too.

In particular, you can experience yukata, a kind of summer kimono, while strolling on the ancient streets.

Unique Display of Hand-held Fireworks – August 9th

Apart from the small firework show in Takayama Sky Park on August 3rd, the feast of hand-held fireworks is more wonderful and surprising. Around Santuario Sakurayama Hachiman Otorii – the Great Torii Gate of Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine by Miyagawa River, a few dozen people hold the extra-large firecracker-like fireworks on the stage in the evening of every August 9th. According to local customs, it is to ward off evil spirits and pray for the safety and happiness of their families. How breathtaking it is, as fireworks shot out from the tubes in their hands, which looks like they are dancing with the sparks bravely. If you chase for something different on your travel, the festivity can’t be missed in August.

Miyagawa River

Tips for Sightseeing in Takayama in August

Travel Recommendation: ☆☆☆
Takayama is known for the historical Takayama Jinya and ancient streets. Besides, it offers some special festivals and activities in August. It’s also a great choice to enjoy coolness to Kamikochi or deeper into North Japan Alps.

1. Tanabata Festival on Ancient Streets – August 6th & 7th

In early August, local people celebrate their Tanabata Festival in Takayama according to the old calendar, one month later than in most regions in Japan. It’s a traditional festival, as the most important event of Tanabata Festival is to write down their wishes and tie the wish note on a bamboo tree. It’s a great chance to stroll along the ancient streets, as each shops are decorated in the festive vibe. They would insert a bamboo branch in front of the door, hanging colorful decorations and the notes for making a wish on. Thus, the antique streets turn to be refreshing. At the same time, activities or discounts are available there.

2. Obon Festival Holiday in mid-August

Obon Festival is an important holiday lasting for 5-9 days in Japan, which brings a travel peak all over the country, let alone Takayama. It is likely to encounter a crowd at some most-visited attractions. Bon Odori, the traditional folk dance, is always a highlight of Obon Festival in Japan. In Takayama, tourists can join in the dancing people at multiple sites like Machi no Taiken Koryukan in the evening.

A Large Hall in Takayama Jinya

3. Gattan Go Rail Cycling

Gattan Go is also an interesting activity as you can ride a bike on the rail. The abandoned railway track through the valley is transformed into a popular cycling route with special bicycles. It’s a whole new experience to enjoy the natural beauty from Gattan Go Urushiyama Sta. north to Takayama City, while enjoying cycling and passing through several tunnels on the way.

More to Know:

Luscious peach is a local specialty of Takayama that ripe in late July and the first half of August, so you can buy a few when you go to Miyagawa Morning Market. However, it is quite expensive, at about USD 2.7 per one.