In Tokyo this week, it seems we're in for a mix of rain and clouds at the start, with temperatures dipping to the lower teens on Tuesday. You'll definitely want a light jacket and umbrella at hand for these cooler, wetter days. As we move into Wednesday, conditions will start to warm up and brighten with a mix of sun and clouds. Temperatures will linger around the mid to high 20s for the rest of the week, so get ready for some warm days. Partly cloudy skies are to be expected from Thursday through Sunday, ideal for sightseeing.

May marks the beginning of Japan's festival season, a colorful and dynamic celebration of the country's rich cultural heritage that attracts both locals and visitors from abroad.

With events like the mesmerizing Aoi Matsuri in Kyoto (May 15) and the Sanja Matsuri (May 19-21) in Tokyo, visitors can experience a vibrant mix of ancient customs and modern flair that exemplify Japan's unique character. Tokyo's next giant festival will be the Sanno Matsuri, held from June 7-17.

Also, for those who enjoy flowers, the beautiful 2023 Fuji Shibazakura (moss phlox) Festival will be wrapping up at the end of May.

Looking at the forecast for Japan, it seems we're in for some varied weather. A low-pressure system moving to the northeast will affect the southern regions on the 24th, while a high-pressure area will be situated near Western Japan. From the 25th to the 27th, that high pressure moves eastward, extending a pressure ridge over Japan, yet the north will be under a pressure trough on the 27th. By the 28th, a low-pressure system is headed for the far western part of Japan. Please note Typhoon #2 is expected south of Okinawa, so keep an eye on the latest typhoon updates.

Northern Japan is predicted to be mostly clear from the 24th to the 26th, but expect more clouds on the 27th and 28th. Eastern Japan will see clouds on the 24th but should enjoy clear skies from the 25th to the 28th. Western Japan is looking sunny throughout the week. As for Okinawa and Amami, anticipate cloudy skies for the entire week.

Let's take a look at the weather forecast for Sapporo for the week ahead! The weather will be a mix of cloudy, partly cloudy, and mostly cloudy days. On Monday, expect cloudy skies with temperatures reaching the upper 20s. Tuesday will start off cloudy, but it will clear up later in the day with temperatures in the mid-teens. Wednesday and Thursday will have a mix of sun and clouds, and temperatures will be in the low to mid-20s. By Friday, it will become mostly cloudy, and the temperatures will remain in the mid-20s. Both Saturday and Sunday will be cloudy, and the temperatures will be around the mid-20s as well.

Based on this forecast, it's a good idea to pack a range of clothing options. Since the weather will vary from cloudy to partly cloudy, it's recommended to bring layers such as t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, and lightweight jackets.

Let's check out the weather forecast for Sendai for the upcoming week! You can expect a mix of mostly cloudy, cloudy, and partly cloudy days. Monday will be mostly cloudy, and temperatures will reach the mid-20s. Tuesday will continue with cloudy skies and slightly cooler temperatures around 17°C. Wednesday will be mostly cloudy again, but with slightly warmer temperatures reaching around 20°C. Thursday and Friday will have some sunshine as it becomes partly cloudy, and temperatures will be in the low to mid-20s. Saturday and Sunday will also have partly cloudy skies, and temperatures will rise to the mid-20s.

Osaka is greeting us with a mostly sunny week ahead, with the temperature hovering in the mid to upper 20s°C. Clear skies on Monday give way to a few clouds, and scattered showers might make an appearance on Tuesday. The rest of the week looks fairly consistent, with partly cloudy skies from Wednesday through Sunday. It's a typical warm spring week in Osaka, so pack light clothing for the day but don't forget a light jacket or umbrella for those scattered showers.

In Fukuoka, the weather is showing off its spring charm, with temperatures largely staying in the mid to upper 20s°C. Monday starts the week a bit cloudy, but don't worry, as clear skies are set to grace us on Tuesday. For the remainder of the week, we're looking at a mix of sun and clouds, creating a lovely backdrop for your adventures. With warm days and mild evenings, packing light layers should serve you well. Toss in a couple of warmer pieces for the slightly cooler days and evenings.

Naha is set for a week, with the clouds playing a significant role. Starting the week, we've got occasional showers on Monday and Tuesday, with a mostly to partly cloudy rest of the week. Temperatures are keeping consistent in the upper 20s°C. Despite the cloudiness, it's quite warm out, so breathable clothing should be your go-to. An umbrella or a rain jacket would be wise to pack for those scattered showers early in the week.

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!