Temperatures and seasons in Japan

If a year is divided into 12 months spread over 4 seasons, Japan can boast of bringing subtlety: its old calendar included no less than 72 micro-seasons lasting 5 days!

Today, numerous events punctuate the year and are often accompanied by dishes enjoyed specifically for the occasion. Nature is the best marker of these changes: plum blossoms at the end of winter, cherry trees in bloom in April, cicadas singing in summer, and maple trees adorned with orange and red in autumn.

Therefore, to say that the Japanese pay attention to the seasons is an understatement!

The country's elongated shape, its status as an archipelago, and the presence of mountain ranges blocking the cold also give it very different temperatures from one place to another in the country.

So, what should you wear and what should you expect when you come to Japan? It depends on the season, but also on the regions you'll be visiting. Ayumi gives you her tips for a pleasant trip 365 days a year!

The average temperature per region throughout the year:

Japan uses degree Celsius like in most countries. Americans will have to get used to it.

Traveling to Japan in winter (December, January, February)

Winter is cold and dry, with very little rain across the country. The forests lose their color, and the landscapes are more subdued than in autumn. But Japan has beautiful ski resorts, ideal for winter sports enthusiasts. It's also a magical time to admire the many Christmas lights, both in large cities and in certain flower parks, renowned for their spectacular light displays. Thanks to the early plum and cherry trees ( kawazu zakura ) that bloom as early as February, the end of winter is very pleasant and offers a taste of spring.

💡 Average temperature in January at:

• Sapporo: -4°

• Tokyo: 2°

• Osaka: 5°

• Fukuoka: 5°

• Okinawa: 15°

Ideally, wear warm clothing and layer your garments, allowing you to adapt to the temperature of your surroundings or your level of physical activity. Be careful with accessories like gloves, scarves, or hats: they're often taken off and put back on, increasing the risk of losing one. Those who are particularly sensitive to the cold can try two Japanese essentials:

• " Heat tech " or " thermo-heating " clothing is effective at creating and retaining heat. The UNIQLO brand is particularly known for its wide range of adult and children's clothing.

• " Hokkairo " are heating patches that can be stuck onto clothing, slipped into a pocket, or even placed in shoes.

Traveling to Japan in the spring (March, April, May)

Spring is an ideal time: the weather is often beautiful, and while March can rain regularly, April and May offer perfect temperatures. This is accompanied by nature awakening and the much-anticipated cherry blossom season, which transforms the streets into magical landscapes. The Japanese organize picnics under the cherry trees, an almost sacred ritual. Be aware of "Golden Week," at the end of April and beginning of May, a period when the Japanese travel extensively.

Average temperature in April:

• Sapporo: 10°

• Tokyo: 12°

• Osaka: 14°

• Fukuoka: 16°

• Okinawa: 23°

The mornings are still cool, but the afternoons are mild. It's best to wear several layers to adapt your outfit. A compact, lightweight down jacket that can be packed into a bag can be a great companion to keep you comfortable all day.

Traveling to Japan in the summer (June, July, August)

Many travelers dread the Japanese summer! The season begins in June with the rainy season, a period that usually lasts from mid-June to mid-July, characterized by heavy and frequent downpours throughout the day. On the other hand, the hydrangeas offer magnificent colors. Temperatures remain pleasant, but humidity soars. In July and August, heat and humidity combine: a temperature of 28°C at 75% humidity feels like 31°C. The perceived temperature is therefore often much higher than it actually is.

Average temperatures in July at:

• Sapporo: 17° ～ 22°

• Tokyo: 25° to 33°

• Osaka: 26° to 34°

• Fukuoka: 29°～34°

• Okinawa: 28° ～ 32°

To travel comfortably, pack clothes for:

• Protect yourself from the rain : waterproof clothing and enough spare clothes to avoid daily laundry.

• Protect yourself from the sun : opt for short-sleeved clothing and long, loose-fitting trousers rather than tank tops and shorts, which expose more skin to the sun.

• Let your skin “breathe” : opt for natural materials such as linen, cotton or even bamboo.

• Staying cool : certain clothing ranges like UNIQLO's "AIRism" provide a very pleasant feeling of freshness

Traveling to Japan in the autumn (September, October, November)

Autumn is marked by typhoon season, with the highest number occurring in August and September. Their paths are closely monitored, and it's easy to find information about their passage. Autumn remains quite warm until mid-October, when temperatures begin to drop. The air cools, and the days are sunny. In Tokyo, the magnificent autumn scenery reaches its peak from mid-November to mid-December.

Average temperature in October:

• Sapporo: 7°

• Tokyo: 17°

• Osaka: 17°

• Fukuoka: 19°

• Okinawa: 24°

As in spring, autumn mornings are rather cool, but the afternoons are mild. It's ideal to wear several layers to adapt your outfit. A compact and lightweight down jacket that can be packed into a bag can be a great companion to keep you comfortable all day.