Kyoto, Japan Clear Sky Chart

Kyoto, Japan (35.01°, 135.77°) · Updated 14:31 JST
45
Mixed
high confidence
high · Forecast lead time

Based on how far ahead tonight is, forecasts are most reliable within 24–48 hours.

Confidence reflects how trustworthy the forecast is, it doesn't change the score.

Marginal, check the window
Partly cloudy with some clear gaps with very low moonlight. High dew risk, so optics will fog without dew heaters.
Sunset
18:05
Sunrise
05:39
Usable Hours
0/10
Moon
10%
Visible Planets
♀ Venus15° SW
♂ Mars39° E
♃ Jupiter16° E
♄ Saturn58° S
⛢ Uranus75° SE
♆ Neptune55° S
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Stargazing in Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, nestled in a basin ringed by mountains, has Bortle 7 city skies but very quick access to darker conditions — the surrounding hills and the mountains of northern Kyoto Prefecture reach Bortle 4 within an hour, with Bortle 3 deeper into the Tamba highlands and toward the Sea of Japan coast. Japan's humid summers and rainy season limit clear nights, while autumn and winter high pressure brings crisp, transparent skies. At 35°N, the southern sky is well placed for the summer Milky Way. The temple-dotted mountains make atmospheric foregrounds for night photography.

Kyoto, Japan Stargazing FAQ

Where can I stargaze near Kyoto?
The mountains ringing the city and the highlands of northern Kyoto Prefecture reach Bortle 4 within an hour. The Tamba highlands and the route toward the Sea of Japan coast offer Bortle 3 darkness deeper in.
Is Kyoto good for stargazing?
The city basin has moderate Bortle 7 light pollution, but the surrounding mountains give quick access to darker skies. The humid summer climate brings haze, so clear autumn and winter nights are best.
When is the best time to stargaze near Kyoto?
Autumn and winter high-pressure systems bring the clearest, driest skies and best transparency. Summer is humid with a rainy season. The Milky Way core is best in summer from a dark mountain site despite the haze.

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