Japan is a unique place featuring all types of weather. Check out our article on the rainy season of Japan.

Japan is a wonderful island country that has some of the most beautiful weather in the world. The seasons all come in full force and they each bring their wonderful sights and sounds. This is no less true for the rainy season. In the rainy season in Japan, as its name describes, it rains often and sometimes suddenly. There are a few things you should keep in mind when staying in Japan during this specific time of the year.

When

The specific dates of the rainy season are different depending on where you are in Japan. In the southern parts of Japan, the rainy season begins at the end of May and goes through most of June, while in central Japan, it begins in June and ends in early to mid-July. You should make sure to plan your trip accordingly as the frequent rain can cancel events or put a damper on the best outdoor activities.

Where to go

Some areas of Japan show a new beautiful side when it begins to rain. Here a few areas that you may want to visit if you find yourself in Japan during the rainy season.

Koyasan

The area becomes laden with fog and the waterfall there shines during this time. It is a popular sight to visit when the rains come in. You will need to be careful when hiking the mountains there, but you will be rewarded with the wooden temple on Mt. Koyasan. It is a sight that is hard to find anywhere else.

Hakone

Hakone becomes a different area when the rainy season comes along. It gets a greener look while also having a light fog that surrounds it. The hydrangeas bloom during this time and give the area a nice amount of color. The onsen in the area is great during this time as well. Despite the fog, you can still get great views of Mt. Fuji.

Hokkaido

If you want to visit an area of Japan that isn’t affected by the rainy season as much, look no further than Hokkaido. It doesn’t get as much bad weather, but it isn’t ideal for a vacation. You will still get a bit of unwanted bad weather and there isn’t much going on during this time of the year.

Onsen

Onsens tend to have a different look when you enjoy them with rain as your backdrop. This is especially true for outdoor baths. It is extremely soothing to have the sound of rainwater around you while you enjoy a hot soak in a bath that has had salts spread in it. You will have a hard time finding an experience as great as onsen during the rain.

Preparation

If you are still planning to visit Japan during its rainy season, you can do a few things to prepare for the coming weather.

First, make sure to have a good pair of rain shoes. Bring boots or shoes that are water-resistant. You can find shoes in Japan but they usually stock smaller sized shoes. If you wear a US 11 and up, you will have a hard time finding your size.

Second, invest in rain gear, such as ponchos, rain suits, and umbrellas. These are widely available throughout the country and are generally inexpensive. Remember that the sizes will be smaller than you are used to so you may want to purchase these things in your own country. Umbrellas, however, are in plentiful supply and can be bought almost anywhere.

Third, try to find activities or sights that are indoors. This is the best way to avoid the chance of rain altogether. Many places have open areas next to their indoor areas so you still get a chance to enjoy outdoor activities.

Fourth, plan your trip accordingly. Look ahead at the area you will be staying in. You won’t want your hike or park visit to be rained out. Take a few minutes to check the weather and ensure your trip goes smoothly.

It isn’t the best time of year to go to Japan, even though it doesn’t rain every day. There aren’t as many activities during this time as well, which can lead to some disappointment. But, you can find some magical places that can make it all worth it.