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.

Once the rainy season ends, intense heat is expected to follow.

In cities like Tokyo and Osaka, temperatures often exceeded 35°C (95°F) in 2025. If you're planning to visit in late July or early August, prepare for extreme heat and high humidity.

Japan’s Meteorological Agency predicts when the rainy season will end, and estimates usually become more reliable after mid-July.

The rainy season forms when a stationary front settles across much of Japan during the shift from spring to summer. Hokkaido is generally unaffected and does not have a true rainy season. However, it often experiences around two weeks of humid, rainy weather from June to early July, sometimes called a “false rainy season.” For better conditions, aim to visit from mid-July onward.

Japan’s rainy season is known not only for heavy rain, but also intense humidity. Drugstores such as Matsumoto-Kiyoshi and supermarkets stock plenty of seasonal cooling products, with cooling wipes among the most popular. These chilled wet tissues help keep sticky skin feeling fresh and dry.
Even as the rainy season ends, sudden showers and localized downpours, often called guerrilla rainstorms, become more common. Carrying a compact folding umbrella is strongly recommended.

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 in the UK during the two World Wars and later gained worldwide popularity through 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 GinzaNovo.

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!

Typhoon season in Japan typically peaks from late August through September, with an average of three typhoons approaching the country each month and about one making landfall. In recent years, typhoons have also tended to become stronger, a trend many experts link to climate change.

For summer travelers, late July through mid-August is often considered the sweet spot, falling after the rainy season but before peak typhoon activity. While weather forecasts can never be guaranteed, this period has historically offered some of the most stable conditions of the season.

As of mid-July, all regions across Japan have officially entered the rainy season (tsuyu), and it has already ended in several areas, including Okinawa, Northern Kyushu, Shikoku, Chugoku, and Kinki. We’ll continue updating the chart below as official announcements are made for the remaining regions.