Typhoon Shanshan is advancing toward the Tokyo area and is projected to reach it toward the middle of the week. While this will be bringing somewhat lower temperatures (upper 20s°C/lowers 80s°F), expect a fair amount of wind and rain. If you will be visiting Tokyo during this time, consider purchasing a rain cover for your suitcases (or large plastic bag that will fit over them) as well as a waterproof carry bag. Keep in mind that you can also purchase certain rain equipment, such as ponchos and umbrellas, at convenience stores when you arrive.

If you will be staying for the week, be sure to pack lighter clothes that can wick away sweat, with shorts and t-shirts preferable. Sunblock, summer hat and sunglasses are also highly recommended items to bring or buy, and staying hydrated with water or sports drinks is vital. Keep in mind that the sun in Japan might be more aggressive than to what you’re used to, and wearing clothing that blocks UV rays is highly recommended.

Looking at the weather forecast for the rest of Japan, high temperatures are expected everywhere from Okinawa to Tokyo. However in the north Hokkaido will be seeing a mixture of sun and clouds, with daytime temperatures in the upper 20s°C (high 70s°F) predicted for the coming week, as the typhoon advances in that direction. Meanwhile, the greater Osaka and Kyoto area as well as Fukuoka and northern Kyushu are expected to see hazy and partly cloudy skies as well, with highs in the lower 30s°C (mid 80s°F). As for Okinawa (Naha), sunny and hazy skies are expected, with daytime highs also in the lower 30s°C (mid 80s°F).

This past weekend saw a variety of summer festivals, with the popular Edogawa Fireworks Festival on Saturday and various neighborhood Bon Odori festivals held, where community members come together to enjoy traditional dances. Some kind of festivities around town will be held practically each weekend now through early September, so be sure to keep your eyes out when you’re visiting!

If you are concerned about what to do on a rainy day in Tokyo, worry not: the city has a wide variety of indoor events and things to do.

Source for forecast and images: Japan Meteorological Agency website / http://www.jma.go.jp/jma/indexe.html