Kamakura Weather Guide: Coastal Breezes & Seasonal Rhythms

Kamakura experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by four distinct seasons, heavily influenced by its unique geography. Nestled between the mountains on three sides and Sagami Bay on the south, the city acts as a natural amphitheater that captures oceanic moisture and tempers seasonal extremes.

Typical Weather Patterns and the Daily Cycle

The city’s weather is a constant dialogue between the sea and the hills. A typical day often begins with a soft coastal mist, particularly in spring and summer, which usually burns off by mid-morning.

• Coastal Air: Unlike the concrete heat islands of nearby Tokyo, Kamakura benefits from an afternoon sea breeze that can make temperatures feel several degrees cooler than the inland capital.
• Evening Transitions: As the sun sets, the cool air from the forested hills (Yato) descends into the narrow valleys, creating a refreshing drop in temperature that locals call a "natural air conditioner."

Seasonal Trends

Spring (March - May)

Spring is a period of rapid awakening. March can still feel wintry with brisk winds (known as Haru Ichiban), but by April, the weather becomes mild and stable. This is the sunniest time of year, ideal for viewing cherry blossoms in parks like Genjiyama. Humidity remains low, making the air feel crisp and clear.

Summer (June - August)

Summer in Kamakura is defined by two phases: the rainy season (Tsuyu) and the high summer heat.

• The Plum Rain (June - mid-July): This period is characterized by persistent drizzle and high humidity (often exceeding 75%). While the sky is often gray, this is when the city's iconic hydrangeas bloom across temple grounds.
• Man-Natsu (Late July - August): Once the rain clears, the heat becomes intense and "oppressive." Temperatures frequently reach 30°C (86°F) and can feel much higher due to the humidity. Sudden late-afternoon thunderstorms (Yudachi) are common, providing brief, intense relief from the heat.

Autumn (September - November)

September remains hot but is the peak season for typhoons, which can bring heavy rain and strong winds. By October, the air dries out, and the skies turn a deep, brilliant blue. November is considered the most pleasant month, with cool, stable temperatures and the "deepening" of autumn colors in the mountain temples.

Winter (December - February)

Winters are surprisingly sunny and dry. While temperatures hover around 5°C–10°C (41°F–50°F), the lack of humidity makes it feel colder when the wind blows from the sea. Snow is extremely rare; if it falls, it usually melts by noon. This season provides the clearest views of Mount Fuji across the bay.

Microclimates and Local Phenomena

Kamakura’s topography creates significant microclimates. The horizontal valleys, known as Yato, trap humidity and remain cooler and tamer than the exposed beach areas of Shichirigahama or Yuigahama.

• The Salt Breeze: Those staying near the coast will notice the "Shio-kaze" (salt wind). This wind can make the air feel "heavier" and stickier in summer, but it also prevents the temperature from plummeting too far below freezing in winter.
• The Laundry Forecast: Locals obsessively check the wind and humidity levels before hanging clothes outside. In the deep valleys, the damp air can linger, making laundry days a strategic community effort.

Historical and Cultural Context

Historically, Kamakura’s climate made it a favored retreat for the nobility and literati during the Meiji era to escape the stifling heat of Tokyo. Locals have adapted to the humidity through architecture—traditional homes feature raised floors and sliding doors (Shoji) to maximize cross-ventilation from the sea breeze.

In the winter, the community shifts to a "warmth culture," utilizing Kairo (disposable heat packs) and gathering for Nabe (hot pot) festivals, while the ubiquitous vending machines switch their labels from blue (cold) to red (hot) to provide warm canned drinks for walkers.