About Japan’s Climate

About the Four Seasons

Japan’s four seasons — spring, summer, autumn, and winter — each has its own characteristic climate and scenery.

Spring (March to May) is the season when cherry blossoms and rapeseed flowers bloom, and the weather becomes warmer. In particular, the blooming of cherry blossoms is a national event that attracts attention.

Summer (June to August) is hot and humid, with heavy rainfall due to the rainy season and typhoons. This is the time for beach activities and fireworks festivals.

Autumn (September to November) is a cooler season, characterized by beautiful landscapes of autumn leaves and Japanese silver grass. Autumn festivals and sporting events are held during this time.

Winter (December to February) brings harsh cold weather and snow, with snowscapes and hot pot dishes being enjoyed. Christmas and New Year’s events are also celebrated.

Throughout the changing seasons, Japan’s nature and culture are vividly expressed.

About the Temperature

The territory of Japan extends about 3,000 km from Hokkaido to Okinawa, and the temperature varies greatly, depending on the terrain and climate zones. Generally, Japan’s climate has distinct seasons, with cold winters and hot summers.

In cold regions, such as Hokkaido and the Japan Sea side of Honshu, temperatures often drop below freezing during the winter. On the other hand, summer brings many days with temperatures exceeding 30°C (86°F), resulting in a hot and humid climate. In urban areas, like Tokyo and Osaka, temperatures also tend to be high in summer, but sea breezes and mountain winds can make some days more comfortable.

The southwestern islands, including Okinawa, have a subtropical climate with an annual average temperature above 20°C (68°F) and are not very cold even in winter. However, during the rainy season, there is frequent heavy rainfall due to long-lasting rains and typhoons, and typhoon damage may occur.

Japan is prone to natural disasters, such as earthquakes, typhoons, and heavy rains, so it is essential to pay close attention to weather and disaster prevention information. Attention to temperature changes is also necessary, as health hazards like heatstroke can occur, especially during the summer months.

雨About the Rain

Japan experiences a significant amount of rain throughout the year, and concentrated heavy rainfall during the rainy season and typhoon season can sometimes lead to disasters. The rainy season, which occurs from June to July, is a period when moist air flows into the Japanese archipelago due to the collision between the Pacific high-pressure system and the tropical low-pressure system from the Asian continent, causing prolonged rainfall. In addition, heavy rains from typhoons are common in the summer, which can lead to disasters, such as landslides and river flooding. On the other hand, while snow does fall in winter, rain is more prevalent.

Japan is a country blessed with water, and appropriate measures against rain are necessary to protect its abundant nature.

About the Snow

Japan has distinct seasons, and in the winter months, snow falls in many regions. Japan’s snow is especially abundant in cold regions, such as Hokkaido and mountainous areas, and its beauty and abundance have gained worldwide fame.

Japan’s snow, being located in a cold climate zone close to the Arctic Circle, is characterized by its dry, powder-like texture, making it very soft and lightweight. Additionally, due to the low humidity, even when there is a large amount of accumulated snow, it doesn’t stick together, making roads and sidewalks less slippery.

Japan’s snow is influenced by seasonal winds, and during the winter months, Siberian cold air masses blowing from the west bring snow to regions such as the Sea of Japan side and Hokkaido. Occasionally, moist air from the Pacific side flows in, bringing heavy snowfall across the country.

Japan’s snow offers many attractions, such as beautiful landscapes and winter sports. However, caution is necessary due to severe natural disasters, like heavy snowfall and blizzards. In particular, it is crucial to be vigilant for accidents and avalanches in mountainous areas.