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Weather Comparison

Osaka vs Kyoto

Side-by-side weather comparison for March

Osaka: 13°CKyoto: 12°C43 km apart

March Weather: Osaka vs Kyoto

MetricOsakaKyotoBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer13°C (55°F)12°C (54°F)Osaka
Average LowHigher is milder4°C (39°F)3°C (37°F)Osaka
Rain DaysFewer is drier11 days13 daysOsaka
PrecipitationLess is drier110 mm120 mmOsaka
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier8h/day8h/dayTie
HumidityLower is more comfortable70%65%Kyoto
UV IndexLower is safer66Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better18 km/h17 km/hKyoto

Which City is Better in March?

Osaka and Kyoto are closely matched in March. Neither city has a clear advantage across all metrics. Your decision should come down to personal preference, cultural interests, and travel logistics rather than weather alone.

Osaka is on the cooler side at 13°C, requiring warmer clothing. Kyoto is cooler at 12°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Osaka is the stronger choice in March.

Temperature Comparison in March

Osaka reaches an average high of 13°C (55°F) and drops to 4°C (39°F) at night during March. The daily temperature range is 9°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Kyoto averages 12°C (54°F) for the high and 3°C (37°F) for the low, with a daily range of 9°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in March.

Rainfall Comparison in March

Osaka receives approximately 110 mm of rainfall across 11 rain days during March. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Kyoto sees 120 mm over 13 rain days. That makes Osaka the drier option by 2 rain days and 10 mm of total precipitation.

Humidity also differs: Osaka averages 70% while Kyoto sits at 65%. Osaka will feel muggier, especially at higher temperatures.

What to Pack: Osaka vs Kyoto

Packing for Osaka in March

Highs of 13°C, lows of 4°C, 11 rain days

  • warm layers
  • a mid-weight jacket
  • long trousers
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • a warm scarf

Packing for Kyoto in March

Highs of 12°C, lows of 3°C, 13 rain days

  • warm layers
  • a mid-weight jacket
  • long trousers
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • a warm scarf

Pack for both: warm layers, a mid-weight jacket, long trousers, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, a warm scarf. These items are useful in either destination during March.

Year-Round Comparison: Osaka vs Kyoto

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.March is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthOsakaKyoto
HighRainHighRain
Jan8°C6d8°C8d
Feb9°C8d8°C10d
Mar13°C11d12°C13d
Apr18°C10d18°C12d
May23°C10d23°C11d
Jun26°C13d26°C15d
Jul30°C14d29°C17d
Aug32°C12d31°C13d
Sep28°C12d27°C13d
Oct22°C10d21°C10d
Nov16°C8d16°C8d
Dec11°C7d10°C8d
13°

Osaka Weather in March

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

12°

Kyoto Weather in March

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Osaka warmer than Kyoto in March?
Yes. In March, Osaka is warmer with an average high of 13°C (55°F) compared to Kyoto at 12°C (54°F), a difference of 1°C.
Which city gets more rain in March, Osaka or Kyoto?
Kyoto gets more rain in March with 13 rain days and 120 mm of precipitation. Osaka is the drier option with 11 rain days.
Is it better to visit Osaka or Kyoto in March?
It depends on your preferences. Osaka averages 13°C and 8 hours of daily sunshine with 11 rain days. Kyoto averages 12°C with 8 sunshine hours and 13 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Osaka. For drier weather, Osaka is the better pick.
How far apart are Osaka and Kyoto?
Osaka and Kyoto are approximately 43 km (27 miles) apart. Osaka is located in Japan (Asia) while Kyoto is in Japan (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Osaka and Kyoto?
For Osaka, August tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 32°C. For Kyoto, August is typically ideal with 10 sunshine hours and 31°C highs.

Compare Osaka and Kyoto in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Osaka coordinates: 34.69°N, 135.50°E | Kyoto coordinates: 35.01°N, 135.77°E