Climate in Japan

Japan is a country surrounded by oceans and consists of four major islands (Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu) and many small islands. The climate varies widely from one region to region. Most parts of the country has four distinct seasons. Spring months are March, April, and May. Summer months are June, July, and August. Autumn months are September, October, and November. Winter months are December, January, and February.

According to the 30 year normals (1981-2010) by Japan Meteorological Agency, the average yearly temperatures for central Tokyo is 16.3 degrees C, for Sapporo-city in Hokkaido is 8.9 degrees C, and for Naha-city in Okinawa is 23.1 degrees C. The weather averages are good indicators of what to expect any month. Please refer to the Monthly Mean and Monthly Total Tables by Japan Meteorological Agency.

Japan's rainy season typically begins in early May in Okinawa. In other regions, it usually runs from early June through around mid July. Also, August to October is the peak typhoon season in Japan. It's important to check the weather often during the season. Please refer to weather warnings and typhoon statistics (Japanese site) by Japan Meteorological Agency.

According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, there are 108 active volcanoes in Japan. Please be aware of volcanic warnings and restrictions when you visit any volcanic areas in Japan.