Weather in Japan

Cherry blossom season comes in the spring, autumns are comfortable with beautiful foliage and winters get snowy in the north with an incredible ski season in January and February.

The heat waves can throw some people off guard, but dressing accordingly in light, breathable clothing and planning some indoor activities can help you beat the heat. It’s important to know what to pack for each season to have the most pleasant visit.

The typhoon season in Japan runs from May through October, bringing occasional heavy rains and strong winds, but even severe typhoons move slowly, so there is little chance of being caught unaware. The same tips for heat waves apply to typhoon season, emphasising appropriate clothing and planning some optional indoor activities.

Spring (March to May) is one of the most pleasant times of the year in Tokyo, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20°C and cherry blossoms starting to bloom.

Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temps often climbing above 30°C, but the humidity makes it feel even hotter. June brings the rainy season with frequent showers, then July and August turn into full-on heat with bright sun and sticky air. Tips for heat waves include staying hydrated, wearing sun protection, and planning indoor activities, so this is a good time to hop between museums and shops.

Autumn (September to November) is another sweet spot, with early autumn still feeling a bit like summer before things gradually cool down. By October and November, you get crisp air, clear skies and colourful leaves – arguably the most comfortable weather of the year.

Winter (December to February) is cool in Tokyo but not harsh, with daytime temps usually around 5 to 12° C. It’s chilly with light, ocassional snowfall.

Osaka’s climate is similar to Tokyo, with comfortable spring and autumn seasons, hot and sticky summers and mild winters. Spring brings cherry blossoms and a mix of sunny and slightly rainy days, though the heavier rain usually arrives in June. Summers are hot and humid with temperatures comparable to Tokyo.

June kicks off the rainy season, making the city’s parks especially lush and green. Autumn offers a welcome relief from the heat, starting with a warm September and transitioning into crisp, comfortable air in October and November. Winters are cool but relatively mild, with snow being rare and dry and sunny days are the norm.

Kyoto’s climate is similar to Osaka and Tokyo, but being inland and surrounded by mountains, it experiences slightly bigger temperature swings, especially in winter and summer.

Spring is beautiful and mild, with cherry blossoms adding a dose of magic to the temple and shrine scenes. Temperatures range from 8 to 20°C and some days can be rainy, but generally the air is fresh and comfortable. Summers are also hot and humid but because it’s inland, the heat can feel a little more intense than in coastal cities like Tokyo.

Autumn is crisp with clear skies and vibrant foliage, making it one of the best times to explore Osaka’s temples and historic districts. Temperatures settle around 15 to 22°C. Winters are cooler than Osaka and Tokyo, and snow is rare but occasionally dusts temples and mountains for photo-worthy scenes with temps hovering around 2 to 10° C.

Hiroshima sits on the coast, which gives it a milder, more temperate climate than inland cities like Kyoto. It’s still subtropical, but the sea helps moderate extreme temperatures. Spring is mild and pleasant, with temps around 10 to 20°C. Summers are hot but slightly more manageable thanks to the sea’s influence. It's common for days in June to be overcast and rainy, and July and August are warm and sunny. The humidity can still make it feel sticky, but the breeze gives a welcome break.

Autumn is comfortable and scenic with lower humidity and clear skies. Autumn foliage along rivers and parks is especially beautiful. Winters are mild and daytime temps usually sit around 5 to 10° C with snow being rare.

Sapporo has cold, snowy winters and cool summers with much more dramatic seasonal changes than in southern cities. Spring arrives late with March still being quite cold and snow lingering. By April and May, temps gradually rise (5 to 15° C) and the snow starts to melt. Cherry blossoms bloom much later than Tokyo – usually in late April.

Summers are cool and comfortable, a big contrast to southern Japan. Temps usually range from 18 to 25° C with low humidity and pleasant weather perfect for outdoor activities like hiking or sightseeing without melting in the heat. Autumn is also cool and colourful, but the temps start to drop later in the season and snow can appear as early as late November.

Winter is cold and snowy, which is Sapporo’s signature season. The Hokkaido winter weather brings daytime temps typically ranging from –2 to 2° C and heavy snow is common, especially in January and February, so these are the best times to ski in Japan. Sapporo is famous for its snow festivals and powdery snow, making it a top winter destination.