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Ebina, nestled within Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, occupies a strategically important position southwest of Tokyo, acting as a vital gateway between the capital and the Izu Peninsula. Its coordinates (35.4464, 139.3908) place it within a gently sloping terrain, transitioning from the foothills of the Tanzawa Mountains to the flatter coastal plains. The city’s elevation ranges from approximately 50 to 250 meters above sea level, influencing local wind patterns and temperature variations. Ebina’s location is characterized by a distinct urban–rural gradient; while it exhibits a suburban character with residential areas and commercial districts, it’s bordered by agricultural lands and forested slopes, contributing to a mix of rural and urban influences. The Sagami Bay lies approximately 20 kilometers to the south, moderating coastal temperatures and occasionally influencing humidity levels. Historically, Ebina has served as a transportation hub, with the Tōkaidō Shinkansen (bullet train) and National Route 1 passing through, contributing to its development. While not a major industrial center itself, Ebina benefits from proximity to industrial belts in Yokohama and Tokyo, which can indirectly impact air quality through transported pollutants. The surrounding landscape is predominantly composed of rolling hills, rice paddies, and scattered woodlands, creating a relatively green environment that can help filter some pollutants, but also contribute to localized fog formation under certain meteorological conditions. The city’s geography, therefore, presents a complex interplay of factors affecting its air quality, balancing natural filtration with potential pollutant transport.

Ebina’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by Japan’s monsoon climate. Spring (March-May) generally sees improved air quality as winds increase and rainfall washes away accumulated pollutants from winter. However, pollen season can significantly impact respiratory health, creating a separate form of air quality concern. Summer (June-August) is typically the cleanest period, with frequent rainfall and robust sea breezes from Sagami Bay dispersing pollutants. High temperatures and humidity, however, can exacerbate respiratory issues for sensitive individuals. Autumn (September-November) marks a transition period, with decreasing rainfall and a gradual increase in pollutant concentrations. The most concerning period for air quality in Ebina is winter (December-February). Cold, stable air masses frequently lead to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground. These inversions, coupled with reduced wind speeds and occasional fog formation within the valleys, can result in stagnant air and elevated concentrations of particulate matter. January and February are often the months to exercise caution, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. During these months, limiting outdoor exertion during peak morning hours and monitoring local weather forecasts for inversion warnings is advisable. The surrounding agricultural lands can also contribute to localized emissions during this period, particularly from agricultural burning practices, although regulations are increasingly stringent. Overall, Ebina’s air quality is generally good, but seasonal variations demand awareness and proactive health measures.