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Suwa

Suwa 1
Travel guide
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Travel guide

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Best time to visit Suwa

Data source：Meteostat
Last updated：2025-09

Weather in Suwa throughout the year

  • Spring (March–May): Average 12.7–20.4°C, mild climate but with relatively high rainfall, especially in April. Common activities: Hiking, flower viewing. Recommended clothing: Light jacket, long-sleeved shirt.
  • Summer (June–August): Average 24.0–29.6°C, hot and humid with frequent rainfall; June is the rainiest month. Common activities: Summer resort, water activities (if there are nearby lakes or streams). Recommended clothing: Light and breathable clothing, sun hat.
  • Autumn (September–November): Average 20.9–16.0°C, comfortable and pleasant climate with gradually decreasing rainfall. Common activities: Hiking, maple viewing (if maple leaves are present locally). Recommended clothing: Light jacket, long-sleeved shirt.
  • Winter (December–February): Average 9.1–8.8°C, cold and dry with less rainfall. Common activities: Hot springs, skiing (if there are nearby ski resorts). Recommended clothing: Warm coat, beanie, scarf, gloves.

Weather in Suwa

Annual average temperature: approx. 18.5°C / Annual rainfall: approx. 2118 mm / Summer humidity: 70%–80% / Rainiest month: June

Suwa weather by month

Month
Temperature (°C)
Rainfall (mm)
January
7.8°C
80.5
February
8.8°C
93.5
March
12.7°C
167.9
April
17.1°C
208.7
May
20.4°C
217.5
June
24°C
380.4
July
28.6°C
329.5
August
29.6°C
198.8
September
27.3°C
178.1
October
20.9°C
90.6
November
16°C
118
December
9.1°C
54.7

7-day weather forecast for Suwa

11/8
Sunday
Overcast
18.3°C/7°C
11/9
Monday
Patchy rain nearby
14.7°C/12.1°C
11/10
Tuesday
Sunny
18.2°C/9°C
11/11
Wednesday
Sunny
18.8°C/7.7°C
11/12
Thursday
Partly Cloudy
20°C/8.6°C
11/13
Friday
Overcast
20°C/11.4°C
11/14
Saturday
Light rain shower
19.2°C/15.1°C

Suwa travel FAQs and useful info

What is the significance of Suwa?

Suwa is a prominent location in Japan known for its stunning scenery, especially Lake Suwa. The area is home to important shrines like Suwa-taisha and hosts the spectacular Onbashira festival. The artist Hokusai was inspired by Lake Suwa, featuring it in his famous woodblock print series.

Is Suwa a good place to visit?

Absolutely. Suwa offers a wealth of activities for nature lovers, history buffs, and anime fans alike. You can enjoy nature walks, explore ancient Japanese castles, relax in hot springs, and visit historic shrines. It's also a must-visit for fans of the anime 'Your Name,' as its setting was inspired by Lake Suwa.

What are the main attractions in Suwa?

Suwa's main attractions include the picturesque Lake Suwa, which is central to the region's identity. Visitors can explore the Suwa-taisha shrines, which are among the oldest in Japan. The city also offers opportunities for enjoying hot springs and experiencing the unique culture surrounding the famous Onbashira festival.

What is the cultural importance of Suwa?

Suwa holds significant cultural importance in Japan, particularly through its association with the Suwa-taisha shrines, a complex of Shinto shrines considered very ancient and influential. The annual Onbashira festival, a ritualistic reinstallation of sacred trees, is a major cultural event that draws visitors and showcases deep-rooted traditions.

What can I do in Suwa for independent travel?

For independent travelers, Suwa offers a chance to immerse yourself in Japanese nature and culture. You can rent a bicycle to explore the shores of Lake Suwa, hike to scenic viewpoints, visit local craft shops, and enjoy the tranquility of the shrines at your own pace. Experiencing a traditional ryokan stay is also a popular choice for independent exploration.