When to go to Uchiko
Seasons, a month-by-month table, local festivals and when Uchiko is busiest.
Uchiko sits in an inland basin, so it is a little colder in winter and mistier in the mornings than the coast. It is a year-round destination, at its prettiest in spring and autumn.
Spring
Mild days and blossom along the river from late March; fresh green hills and the kite battle in early May.
Summer
Hot and humid, but the deep eaves of the old street give shade. The bamboo festival in early August is the liveliest time of year.
Autumn
Clear, comfortable walking weather, with autumn colour in the surrounding hills in November and persimmons drying under the eaves.
Winter
Cold mornings, occasional frost and very few visitors. Sights stay open; days are short.
Uchiko month by month
| Month | High / low | Rain | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10° / 1° | 60 mm | ★★★ Fair |
| February | 11° / 1° | 80 mm | ★★★ Fair |
| March | 15° / 4° | 125 mm | ★★★ Good |
| April | 20° / 8° | 125 mm | ★★★ Best |
| May | 25° / 13° | 150 mm | ★★★ Best |
| June | 27° / 18° | 270 mm | ★★★ Good |
| July | 31° / 22° | 250 mm | ★★★ Fair |
| August | 32° / 23° | 140 mm | ★★★ Good |
| September | 29° / 19° | 200 mm | ★★★ Good |
| October | 24° / 13° | 120 mm | ★★★ Best |
| November | 18° / 7° | 80 mm | ★★★ Best |
| December | 12° / 2° | 65 mm | ★★★ Fair |
Temperatures (°C) and rainfall are rounded long-term averages for this part of the prefecture, for orientation only — check a forecast before you travel.
Festivals & events in Uchiko
- 5 MayIkazaki Kite Battle
Hundreds of large kites duel above the Oda River, each trying to cut the others’ strings with blades fixed to the line.
- Early AugustUchiko Sasa Matsuri
The shopping street is roofed with enormous handmade bamboo-and-paper decorations for the Tanabata season.
- Several times a yearPerformances at Uchiko-za
Bunraku, kabuki and concerts are staged when the theatre is in operation — a memorable way to see it in use.
Crowds & booking ahead
Uchiko is busy only by its own standards: late morning to mid-afternoon at weekends, Golden Week and the August festival. Arrive before 10:00 or stay overnight and you will have the old street almost to yourself.
Ready for Uchiko?
Lock in a guide, a tasting or a day trip for Uchiko now — most GetYourGuide bookings can be cancelled free up to 24 hours before.