Expect a mix of cloudy and partly sunny skies early this week, but as we head toward the weekend, look out for persistent cloud cover and occasional light rain across much of Japan. Temperatures will range from pleasantly warm up north in Sapporo, to hot in central areas like Tokyo, all the way to very hot in southern spots like Naha.

Between August 19th and 20th, a low-pressure system will sweep from near Sakhalin toward the Kamchatka Peninsula, pulling a weather front right through Northern Japan. Meanwhile, a high-pressure system positioned far east of Japan will stretch over Honshu before shifting south between the 21st and 23rd. Be prepared for another low-pressure system moving near Hokkaido toward the Kuril Islands on August 21st and 22nd, bringing a front through Eastern and Western Japan. During this time, Northern, Eastern, and Western Japan can expect mostly cloudy or rainy conditions, while Okinawa and Amami will enjoy mostly cloudy skies.

No typhoons are currently approaching Japan.

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.

August brings the peak of summer in Japan, characterized by hot, sunny days and the lively sound of buzzing cicadas. It's the ultimate time to experience massive summer festivals (matsuri), with iconic events like Aomori's Nebuta Matsuri and Tokushima's Awa Odori taking center stage.

August is also the height of the spectacular fireworks (hanabi) season, with dazzling displays lighting up the night skies across the country. Mid-August brings the Obon holiday, a traditional time filled with local Bon Odori street dances.

Looking to beat the heat? Head north to Hokkaido for cooler breezes and vibrant sunflower fields, or hit the beautiful white-sand beaches of Okinawa. For adventurers, the Mt. Fuji climbing season is in full swing. 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 in for a warm and mostly overcast stretch! The week opens with some lovely sunny breaks, but cloud cover will gradually thicken, bringing a growing chance of showers later on. Daytime highs will start in the sultry low 30s Celsius (around 86°F–90°F) before easing slightly to around 30°C (86°F). Nighttime temperatures will hold steady in the mid-20s Celsius (mid-70s Fahrenheit) throughout the week.

Sapporo greets travelers with a pleasant mix of sun and clouds before shifting to an overcast mid-week with a likelihood of light, scattered showers. As the week draws to a close, skies will gradually clear up, returning to brighter, drier conditions. Daytime highs will linger comfortably between 26°C and 29°C (79°F–84°F), while nighttime temperatures will gradually taper down from 23°C (73°F) to a crisper 20°C (68°F) toward the weekend.

Sendai greets visitors this week with predominantly overcast skies and mild, comfortable warmth. Daytime highs will consistently hover between 27°C and 29°C (81°F–84°F), while nighttime lows will settle comfortably around 21°C to 23°C (70°F–73°F). Sun-dappled clouds will gradually give way to passing showers as the week progresses, making occasional rain more likely toward the latter half of the week.

Osaka faces a warm, muggy week characterized by persistent cloud cover. Brief sunny spells will eventually give way to a higher chance of passing showers as the week progresses. Afternoon highs will peak in the mid-30s Celsius (mid-90s Fahrenheit) before settling into the low 30s Celsius (low 90s Fahrenheit). Sultry nighttime lows will hover between 25°C and 27°C (77°F–81°F).

Fukuoka welcomes travelers with a warm, cloud-filled week and steady summer heat. High temperatures will climb from the low 30s Celsius (low 90s Fahrenheit) to a peak near 35°C (95°F) before settling back around 32°C (90°F). Nighttime lows will remain consistently muggy at 26°C to 27°C (79°F–81°F). Mostly overcast skies will dominate, though occasional sunny breaks will offer bright moments early on, accompanied by a gentle chance of rain peaking mid-week.

Naha welcomes visitors with brilliant sunshine early on before transitioning to softer, cloud-dappled skies. Warm, subtropical air will keep temperatures consistently high, hovering comfortably warm around the clock with muggy daytime highs and balmy nights. While bright, dry conditions dominate the start of the week, mid-week brings a gentle bump in humidity and a modest rise in the chance of light, passing showers.

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!