Ehime Prefecture, located in the northwestern part of Shikoku, boasts a beautiful coastline along the Seto Inland Sea and the Uwa Sea. Many tourists visit Ehime to enjoy swimming during the summer. Influenced by a warm climate, Ehime’s ocean maintains relatively high water temperatures throughout the year. In this article, we’ll explore the monthly average water temperatures in Ehime and discuss how it feels during each season.
Monthly Average Ocean Water Temperatures in Ehime
Here are the monthly average ocean water temperatures in Ehime Prefecture, based on data from the Japan Meteorological Agency:
- January: 16°C (61°F)
- February: 15°C (59°F)
- March: 15°C (59°F)
- April: 17°C (63°F)
- May: 19°C (66°F)
- June: 22°C (72°F)
- July: 25°C (77°F)
- August: 27°C (81°F)
- September: 26°C (79°F)
- October: 23°C (73°F)
- November: 20°C (68°F)
- December: 18°C (64°F)
Ehime’s ocean maintains water temperatures above 15°C (59°F) even during winter and reaches around 27°C (81°F) during summer. The relatively warm water temperature throughout the year is a distinctive feature of Ehime’s ocean.
Ocean Water Temperature and How It Feels by Season
Spring (March to May)
During spring, the water temperature gradually rises. In Ehime’s ocean, it ranges from 15°C to 19°C (59°F to 66°F), which may still feel chilly. However, by May, when the water temperature reaches 19°C (66°F), you can enjoy marine sports with a wetsuit.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the peak of Ehime’s swimming season. With water temperatures ranging from 22°C to 27°C (72°F to 81°F), you can fully enjoy swimming. In August, the water temperature reaches its highest, allowing you to spend extended periods in the ocean without feeling cold. However, don’t forget to protect yourself from the strong sunlight.
Autumn (September to November)
In autumn, the scorching summer heat subsides, and the water temperature begins to drop gradually. From September to November, the water temperature ranges from 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F), providing optimal conditions for enjoying swimming. The sun also becomes milder, making it a comfortable season.
Winter (December to February)
Winter is when Ehime’s ocean water is at its coldest, but it still maintains a relatively warm temperature of 15°C to 18°C (59°F to 64°F). While not suitable for swimming, you can enjoy surfing or diving with a wetsuit.
Recommended Beaches in Ehime
Ehime Prefecture has many beautiful beaches. Here are a few notable ones:
- Shimonada Station Nearby Beach (Iyo City)
- Ryugahama Beach (Niihama City)
- Shirahama Beach (Seiyo City)
- Oura Beach (Ozu City)
- Yawatahama Beach (Yawatahama City)
These beaches are bustling with swimmers during the summer months.
Conclusion
Ehime’s ocean maintains relatively warm water temperatures throughout the year, with summer offering the best conditions for swimming. Spring and autumn provide a good balance between water and air temperatures, making them ideal for marine sports.
To fully enjoy Ehime’s beautiful beaches, pay attention to water temperature, air temperature, and sunlight intensity, and take care of your health. By understanding the characteristics of each season, you can safely enjoy Ehime’s ocean to the fullest.
