Climate in Japan

Introduction

Japan’s climate varies greatly across its four distinct seasons—spring, summer, autumn, and winter—each bringing unique weather patterns and temperatures. Japan’s geographical diversity, stretching from snowy Hokkaido in the north to the subtropical islands of Okinawa in the south, also contributes to a wide range of seasonal experiences. Here is an overview of typical temperatures and weather for each season in Japan.

1. Spring (March to May)

Spring in Japan is one of the most celebrated seasons, famous for cherry blossoms, or sakura, that bloom across the country. The weather during spring is generally mild, with temperatures starting to warm up from winter.

・Temperatures:
March temperatures range from around 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F), with April warming up to 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F), and May reaching 16°C to 25°C (61°F to 77°F). Northern areas like Hokkaido are still cooler, while southern areas like Kyushu begin to feel warmer.
・Weather:
Spring weather is typically dry and sunny, though some areas experience light rainfall. As the season progresses, the weather becomes more consistently pleasant. By late April, cherry blossoms bloom from south to north, peaking in many areas around early April.

2. Summer (June to August)

Japan’s summer is hot and humid, particularly in July and August. June marks the beginning of the rainy season, known as tsuyu, in most parts of the country (except Hokkaido). This rainy period is characterized by frequent, sometimes heavy, showers and high humidity, lasting until mid to late July.

・Temperatures:
June temperatures average around 20°C to 27°C (68°F to 81°F), but July and August see highs of 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F) across most regions. Coastal areas tend to be cooler, while inland cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto experience intense heat and humidity.
・Weather:
June is typically rainy and cloudy, but July and August are characterized by clear skies, strong sunlight, and high humidity. Heatwaves are common, and the high humidity can make it feel even hotter. Towards late summer, Japan may experience typhoons, especially in coastal areas, which bring strong winds and heavy rains.

3. Autumn (September to November)

Autumn in Japan brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, making it a popular season for sightseeing. The oppressive heat of summer fades, and the weather becomes more comfortable and dry.

・Temperatures:
September remains warm, with temperatures around 23°C to 28°C (73°F to 82°F), but by October, temperatures drop to around 15°C to 23°C (59°F to 73°F). November temperatures range from 10°C to 17°C (50°F to 63°F). Northern areas cool down faster, with Hokkaido seeing autumn foliage by mid-September.
・Weather:
Early autumn is occasionally affected by typhoons, but as the season progresses, clear and sunny days become more frequent. The humidity decreases significantly, making it one of the most comfortable times of the year. In October and November, vibrant autumn leaves, or koyo, paint the landscapes, particularly in mountainous and rural areas.

4. Winter (December to February)

Winter in Japan varies greatly depending on the region. While coastal areas in southern Japan have relatively mild winters, northern areas, especially Hokkaido, experience heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures.

・Temperatures:
December temperatures are cool, averaging 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F), but January and February bring colder weather, with temperatures in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka ranging from 2°C to 10°C (35°F to 50°F). Hokkaido and mountainous regions drop below freezing, while Okinawa remains mild, averaging 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).
・Weather:
The weather is generally dry and sunny on the Pacific coast, including Tokyo, which experiences little to no snow. In contrast, the Sea of Japan side receives heavy snowfall, making areas like Niigata, Nagano, and Hokkaido popular for winter sports. Snow covers the mountainous regions, drawing skiers and snowboarders from around the world.