Okayama is known as the “Land of Sunshine,” as it has the highest number of clear days and the highest number of days with rainfall of less than 1 mm in the whole of Japan.

While many associate Japan with its rainy seasons or snowy mountains, several regions are exceptionally sunny, with the title of "sunniest" often contested between Kofu City in Yamanashi Prefecture and parts of the Shikoku and Chugoku regions. Kofu, nestled in a basin surrounded by mountains, frequently records the highest annual sunshine hours in Japan—often exceeding 2,200 to 2,300 hours per year—because the surrounding peaks block many rain clouds. Another top contender is Okayama, famously nicknamed "The Land of Sunshine" (Hare no Kuni), which consistently enjoys more sunny days and lower rainfall than almost any other part of the country. For those looking for tropical sun, the Okinawa islands, specifically Ishigaki and Miyakojima, offer intense sunshine, though they are also prone to sudden typhoons. If you are looking for a sunny city trip, the "Seto Inland Sea" area, including cities like Takamatsu, is known for its mild, Mediterranean-like climate with high visibility and consistent blue skies, making it a favorite for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.