Japan experiences a distinct rainy season known as tsuyu, and during this time, local weather reports provide detailed forecasts focusing on rainfall patterns across the country.

The rainy season usually continues until late July, bringing frequent rain and high humidity. It's also one of the hottest periods of the year.

As of May 2025, forecasts suggest this year’s rainy season will begin around the average time or slightly later. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, Okinawa's rainy season is expected to begin in mid-May (later than usual). In 2024, it started on May 21. While other regions have yet to be officially announced, local media project the following.

In 2024, the rainy season started later than usual but ended around the average time. For 2025, it’s expected to follow a similar or slightly delayed schedule. Once the rains end, intense heat is likely to persist.

In cities like Tokyo and Osaka, temperatures often exceeded 35°C (95°F) last year. If you're planning to visit in late July or early August, prepare for extreme heat and high humidity.

Japan's Meteorological Agency issues predictions about when the rainy season will end, but these estimates become more accurate only after mid-July.

The rainy season occurs as a stationary front stretches across much of Japan during the seasonal shift from spring to summer. Hokkaido, due to its northern position, typically isn’t affected by this front—meaning it doesn’t experience a true rainy season. However, Hokkaido still sees a roughly two-week stretch of high humidity and frequent rain between June and early July, often called a "false rainy season." If you're planning a trip there, it’s best to aim for mid-July or later.

One of the hallmarks of Japan's rainy season is not just the rain, but the intense humidity. This high moisture content means drugstores like Matsumotokiyoshi and supermarkets stock up on seasonal summer goods. Among the most popular items: cooling wipes. These refreshingly cold wet tissues are a staple for keeping sticky skin feeling clean and dry.

Even as the rainy season tapers off, it’s important not to let your guard down. The frequency of sudden showers and localized downpours—often referred to as guerrilla rainstorms—increases toward the end of tsuyu. If you're traveling during this time, always carry a compact folding umbrella.

With heavy rain during tsuyu, more and more people in Japan are opting for stylish yet practical rain boots. It's not uncommon to see women commuting in sleek, fashionable boots on rainy days.

Among the most popular choices are rain boots from the British heritage brand HUNTER. Known for their seamless construction and excellent waterproofing, these boots rose to prominence during the two World Wars in the UK and later gained worldwide popularity thanks to celebrity appearances at high-profile events.

While they're available globally, picking up a Japan-exclusive pair during your trip could be a fun and practical souvenir. In Tokyo, you can find them on the 1st and 2nd floors of Tokyu Plaza Ginza.

Waterfront is one of Japan’s most popular umbrella brands, known for its lightweight folding umbrellas that are easy to carry and perfect for everyday use during the rainy season. With UV protection, they double as parasols as well.

According to the brand, tourists from abroad especially love designs with a distinct Japanese flair. While Waterfront umbrellas are available online in other countries, limited-edition models found only in Japan make great souvenirs. During tsuyu, it’s common for locals to carry one of these ultra-light umbrellas in their bag at all times.

Weighing just 166g, some models reveal subtle cherry blossom patterns when wet, giving the umbrella a beautiful 3D look.

Waterfront is so popular in Japan that you'll even find their displays in electronics stores—not just umbrella shops or department stores. With designs compact enough to resemble a pencil case and weighing as little as 100g, their umbrellas are available in a wide variety of men's and women's styles.

If your Tokyo itinerary takes you to Jiyugaoka, consider visiting their flagship store—it's often featured in local travel guides. You might score a great deal on limited editions or even pick up a matching pair for couples.

It’s the height of summer—and the peak of the heat. Daytime highs frequently exceed 35°C (95°F), with the sun feeling harsh on the skin. Nights often bring little relief, with lingering heat creating uncomfortable tropical conditions.

One major factor that makes Japan’s summer feel especially intense is the humidity. High moisture levels can push the discomfort index way up. To beat the heat, many travelers opt to duck into department stores or shopping malls for both rest and retail therapy.

If you're visiting in August, checking the morning news at your hotel is a good habit. Even without understanding Japanese, weather maps with temperature icons make it easy to track the day’s forecast.

・Cooling Scarf – Soak it in water and wear it around your neck. Available at 100 yen shops and drugstores.
・Wipes for Sweat – Men’s types often include menthol for an extra-cool feel, while women’s versions come in fruity or soap-like scents.
・Cooling Spray – Instantly refreshing and a daily go-to for many during the summer.

A uniquely popular summer item in Japan is Seirogan, a digestive aid used for stomachaches or indigestion. It’s especially handy during summer, when cold food and drinks are consumed more often—no wonder sales spike during this season!

Late August through September is when typhoons are most frequent. Due to climate change, both the number and intensity of typhoons have increased in recent years. On average, Japan is approached by about three typhoons per month during this period, with one typically making landfall.

For this reason, the ideal window for summer travel in Japan is often considered to be from late July to mid-August—after the rainy season ends, but before peak typhoon activity begins. Of course, weather can never be guaranteed, but historical trends suggest this period offers more stable conditions.

As of May 11, 2025, Japan’s Meteorological Agency has not yet released official rainy season forecasts for the regions listed below. In 2024, the rainy season started later than usual across much of the country. Once this year’s information is announced, we’ll update accordingly.

For reference, here’s a look at last year’s start dates alongside the historical averages.

Some forecasts are already suggesting that the 2025 rainy season could begin around May 16, likely starting in the southern islands such as Okinawa, where the rainy season typically begins first.