Must-See for Travelers! Information on Japan’s Seasons and Regional Climates
Japan has Seasons
Japan has four distinct seasons, each with its own unique beauty. The climate also varies greatly depending on the season, so it is important to pack the appropriate clothing.
Spring (Mar.～May)
Spring is a beautiful season in Japan, when cherry blossoms, wisteria, and azaleas burst into bloom. The weather is warm and pleasant, making it a perfect time to enjoy the outdoors. There are many events to celebrate the arrival of spring, such as entrance ceremonies and cherry blossom viewing.
While the mornings and evenings can be chilly, the days are warm. Layered clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and light sweaters, is recommended.
Summer (Jun.～Aug.)
Summer is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities in Japan, such as swimming and hiking. There are also many events held all over Japan to enjoy the night, such as summer festivals and fireworks festivals.
The temperature and humidity are high. It is recommended to wear light clothes made of breathable materials, such as short sleeves and shorts. The sun is strong, so don’t forget to take sun protection measures such as hats and sunglasses.
Autumn (Sep.～Nov.)
Autumn is a beautiful season in Japan, with colorful leaves and mild weather. It is a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. It is also known as the “appetite of autumn” in Japan, and you can enjoy seasonal ingredients such as sanma (mackerel pike) , chestnuts, and matsutake mushrooms.
The weather is warm during the day, but it can get cold in the morning and evening. It is a good idea to bring something to wear, such as a cardigan or jacket.
Winter (Dec.～Feb.)
Winter is a beautiful season in Japan, with snow-covered landscapes and opportunities to enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. Many events are also held, such as Christmas and New Year’s, which are perfect for spending time with family and friends.
It can be cold, especially in areas where it snows. Be sure to dress warmly with a down jacket, scarf, and gloves.
Japan stretches from north to south.
Japan is a long country from north to south, so there are big differences in climate depending on the region. The north is cold and the south is warm. It is recommended to research the climate of the region before you travel.
I have compiled a table of the average temperatures for each season in some Japanese cities below. Please use this as a reference.
You can buy clothes locally.
If you come to Japan and find that the climate is different from what you expected, don’t panic! Japan has many stores that sell high-quality, affordable clothing. You can buy clothes, winter clothes, rain gear, etc. as needed.
Be aware of the rainy season and typhoons.
In areas other than Hokkaido, there is a rainy season called “tsuyu” from June to mid-July. Typhoons are also more likely to occur from July to October. Be especially careful of the weather during this season.
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