Japan’s rainy season (tsuyu) is still underway across most of the country.

From July 8th through the 10th, if you are exploring Western Japan in places like Kyoto, Osaka, or Fukuoka, you are in luck. A ridge of high pressure means you can expect mostly clear, pleasant days. Meanwhile, Northern Japan might see some clouds and rain around the 9th and 10th as a weather front sweeps through the area.

As we head into the 11th and 12th, the sunny skies in the west will start to fade. A low-pressure trough will settle in across most of the country, bringing cloudier and potentially unsettled weather to many regions. It is a good idea to pack a light raincoat or plan to grab a clear umbrella from a local convenience store just in case.

There is also an important travel alert for anyone heading down south to Okinawa or the Amami Islands around July 9th and 10th. Typhoon Bavi is approaching and could bring heavy rain and very rough seas to the area. Depending on the typhoon's exact path, severe weather warnings might be issued. Please keep a close eye on local forecasts, prioritize your safety, and check with your hotel or transport providers before heading to the beach or exploring the islands.

Japan's typhoon season runs from May through October, with most activity from July to September. During a typhoon, transit delays and cancellations can be expected. Be sure to stay updated on the latest weather and flight information. For real-time updates on railways and airports, visit LIVE JAPAN's transport information page.

July in Japan marks the end of the rainy season and the arrival of true summer, bringing hot, sunny days and the sound of buzzing cicadas. It's the perfect time to experience traditional summer festivals (matsuri), with major events like Kyoto's famous Gion Matsuri and Osaka's Tenjin Matsuri taking center stage. July also kicks off the spectacular fireworks (hanabi) season, with massive displays lighting up the night skies across the country.

Looking to beat the heat? Head north to Hokkaido to see stunning lavender fields in full bloom, or hit the beautiful white-sand beaches of Okinawa. For adventurers, the official Mt. Fuji climbing season opens in early July. Whenever you need to cool down, be sure to try seasonal summer treats like fluffy kakigori (shaved ice), chilled somen noodles, and refreshing slices of watermelon.

Tokyo is gearing up for a warm and humid week, starting with some gloomy skies and passing rain before treating you to a few brighter, sunny breaks. While mornings and evenings stay nice and mild with temperatures around 20 degrees, daytime highs are going to climb from the mid-20s all the way into the low 30s. You will definitely feel that summer mugginess, and since rain is most likely at the beginning and end of the week, it is a good idea to pack breathable cotton clothes, comfortable walking shoes, and a compact umbrella. Don't forget a light jacket or sweater just in case the air-conditioned shops or late evenings feel a bit chilly.

Sapporo is looking a bit grey this week as clouds settle over the city, leading into some light rain showers by mid-week. You might catch a glimpse of the sun early on, but the chance of rain will climb to about 50% as the week goes on. Thankfully, temperatures will stay very comfortable and mild, with daytime highs between 23 and 28 degrees and nights dropping to a refreshing 18 or 19 degrees. To stay comfortable while exploring, wear lightweight tops and breathable pants, but keep a sweater or cardigan handy for the cooler evenings. A small umbrella and waterproof shoes will also come in handy to keep you dry during those mid-week showers.

If you are visiting Sendai this week, expect a lot of gray, overcast skies throughout your stay. The good news is that the first few days should remain mostly dry, though you will want to keep an eye out for light showers as we get closer to the weekend. It is also going to get progressively warmer, with afternoon temperatures starting in the low 20s and climbing up toward the high 20s, while nights hover around a comfortable 20 degrees. Breathable cotton tops and lightweight pants are perfect for dealing with the rising humidity, and throwing a travel umbrella into your daypack will ensure you are ready for any weekend rain.

Osaka is starting the week with some leftover rain and cloudy skies, but things are looking up as the days go by. The weather will gradually clear up, bringing plenty of sunshine just in time for the weekend. Keep in mind that as the clouds clear, the heat is really going to turn up, with daytime temperatures soaring from the mid-20s all the way to a sizzling 34 degrees by Friday. Nights will stay warm in the low 20s. We recommend packing lightweight cotton or linen clothes to beat the heat, along with your sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, and a small umbrella to get you through those damp first couple of days.

Fukuoka is kicking off the week under some damp, grey skies, but don't let that fool you because a hot and bright stretch of summer weather is right around the corner. Once the early week showers clear out, you can expect plenty of sunshine, though it might get a bit hazy in the afternoons. Temperatures are really climbing, jumping from a warm 30 degrees early on to a scorching 35 degrees by the weekend, with humid nights staying around the mid-20s. Pack your favorite breathable linen and cotton outfits, some comfortable sandals or sneakers, and a wide-brimmed hat or sunglasses to shield yourself from the intense weekend sun. An umbrella is still a must-have for those first few days.

If you are heading to Naha, you will get to enjoy some beautiful sunny skies at the start of the week before things take a major turn. Around mid-week, the weather will become cloudier and much damper as Typhoon Bavi approaches the region. The second half of the week brings a high chance of heavy rain, strong winds, and very rough seas as the powerful storm nears Okinawa. While temperatures will stay warm and steady, the severe weather could significantly impact travel plans and outdoor activities. Be sure to pack lightweight, breathable clothing for the initial sunny spells, but more importantly, keep a sturdy raincoat and waterproof shoes handy for the stormy conditions. Please monitor local forecasts closely and check with your hotel or airline to stay safe during the typhoon.

Source for forecast and images: Japan Meteorological Agency website (www.jma.go.jp)

Whether you're planning to be in Japan this week or later this year, check out these fun things you can add to your itinerary!