Japan's Rainy Season 2025: Status, Forecasts, and Travel Tips

Today, July 18, the Japan Meteorological Agency announced that the rainy season is considered to have ended in the Kanto Koshin, Hokuriku, and southern Tohoku regions. The rainy season ended one day earlier than normal in the Kanto Koshin region, five days earlier than normal in the Hokuriku region, and six days earlier than normal in the southern Tohoku region.

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Today, on the 18th, the Japan Meteorological Agency announced that "the rainy season seems to be over in Kanto Koshin, Hokuriku, and southern Tohoku". It is the end of the rainy season in Kanto Koshin, which is 1 day earlier than normal, 5 days earlier than normal in Hokuriku, and 6 days earlier than normal in southern Tohoku.

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The Japan Meteorological Agency declared that the rainy season ended in western Japan on June 27th. This is the earliest end of the rainy season in the history of Japanese meteorological observations. It looks like this year's hot summer will be long in Japan. Please be careful.

End of the Rainy Season in Okinawa and Amami

On June 19, 2025, the Japan Meteorological Agency announced that the Amami region in Kagoshima Prefecture has reached the end of its rainy season ("tsuyu"). This marks an end to the rainy period about 10 days earlier than average and 3 days earlier than last year. The rainy season in Amami began around May 19, so this year’s tsuyu lasted about one month. Okinawa also exited the rainy season at roughly the same time.

The early end of the rainy season is due to a strong Pacific high-pressure system covering Japan. The weather forecast for the next week predicts mostly sunny days for Okinawa and Amami. Typically, these regions see the end of the rainy season in late June, but this year, it has arrived a bit earlier than usual.

Current Status and Rainfall in Other Regions

Rainy Season Start Dates (2025)

Japan’s rainy season begins in the south and moves northward. Here are the main regions and their 2025 rainy season start dates (with comparison to the average year):

Region	2025 Start	Difference from Avg.	Average
Okinawa	May 22	12 days later	May 10
Amami	May 19	7 days later	May 12
Southern Kyushu	May 16	14 days earlier	May 30
Northern Kyushu	June 8	4 days later	June 4
Shikoku	June 8	3 days later	June 5
Chugoku	June 9	3 days later	June 6
Kinki (Kansai)	June 9	3 days later	June 6
Toukai	June 9	3 days later	June 6
Kanto-Koshin	June 10	3 days later	June 7
Hokuriku	June 10	1 day earlier	June 11
Southern Tohoku	June 14	2 days later	June 12
Northern Tohoku	June 14	1 day earlier	June 15

Rainfall Trends During the Rainy Season

• Okinawa & Amami: In 2025, rainfall was average or slightly below average. The rainy season was over 10 days shorter than usual.
• Kyushu to Tohoku: Rainfall is expected to be average or slightly above average, with the heaviest rains likely from late June to early July.
• Pacific Side of Western & Eastern Japan: Rainfall may be slightly below average, but localized heavy rain is still possible.
• Northern Japan (Tohoku & Hokkaido): Rainfall is expected to be around average, with some heavy rain days, especially on the Sea of Japan side.

Average Rainfall During the Rainy Season (by Region)

• Northern Kyushu: 500–600 mm
• Kanto-Koshin & Tokai: about 300 mm
• Note: There can be significant variation each year, with some years seeing droughts and others experiencing record rainfall.

Weather Forecasts and Outlook for the End of the Rainy Season

Expected End Dates for the Rainy Season (2025)

Region	2025 Expected End	Average
Okinawa	Mid to late June	June 21
Amami	Mid to late June	June 29
Southern Kyushu	Early to mid July	July 15
Northern Kyushu	Mid July	July 19
Shikoku	Mid July	July 17
Chugoku	Mid July	July 19
Kinki (Kansai)	Mid July	July 19
Toukai	Mid July	July 19
Kanto-Koshin	Mid July	July 19
Hokuriku	Mid to late July	July 23
Southern Tohoku	Mid to late July	July 24
Northern Tohoku	Mid to late July	July 28

In 2025, the Pacific high-pressure system is expected to strengthen, so the rainy season may end earlier than usual for regions from Kyushu to Tohoku—possibly in early July. Some areas may see the end of the rainy season as early as late June.

Upcoming Weather Trends

• From late June, sunny and hot days are expected nationwide due to the Pacific high. Extreme heat is likely.
• Just before and after the end of the rainy season, humid air from the south may cause localized heavy rain and thunderstorms. Stay alert.
• At the end of the rainy season, there is a higher risk of torrential rainfall and "linear rainbands," which can cause landslides and river flooding. Be cautious.

Travel Tips for International Visitors

1. Traveling During the Rainy Season:
   • Okinawa and Amami have already exited the rainy season, so now is the perfect time to enjoy beaches and marine activities.
   • For Honshu (especially Kansai, Kanto, and Tohoku), the rainy season is expected to end from early to mid-July. After that, summer will be in full swing.
   • During the rainy season, sudden heavy rain and high humidity are common even in urban areas. Always carry a compact umbrella or raincoat, and check the weather forecast regularly.
2. Heat and Heatstroke Prevention:
   • After the rainy season ends, temperatures will rise rapidly. Stay hydrated, take breaks in the shade, and wear hats or sunglasses to avoid heatstroke.
3. Disaster Preparedness:
   • At the end of the rainy season and just after, the risk of heavy rain, landslides, and river flooding increases. If visiting mountainous or riverside areas, pay attention to the latest weather and evacuation information from local authorities.
4. Flexible Travel Planning:
   • Weather can change suddenly, so have backup plans for indoor activities such as museums or shopping malls in case of rain.

Summary

• In 2025, Okinawa and Amami exited the rainy season earlier than usual, with sunny and hot weather continuing.
• For the rest of Japan, the rainy season is expected to end from early to mid-July, with rainfall amounts around or slightly above average, and the season itself slightly shorter than usual.
• After the rainy season, be prepared for extreme heat and potential heavy rain disasters.
• Travelers should check the latest weather information and plan flexibly according to the weather conditions.

Japan’s rainy season varies greatly by region. For a safe and comfortable trip, make use of weather forecasts and local information, and always stay alert to weather-related risks.

Enjoying Hokkaido’s Rain-Free Season: A Comprehensive Event Guide for International Travelers

Today, July 18, the Japan Meteorological Agency announced that the rainy season is considered to have ended in the Kanto Koshin, Hokuriku, and southern Tohoku regions. The rainy season ended one day earlier than normal in the Kanto Koshin region, five days earlier than normal in the Hokuriku region, and six days earlier than normal in the southern Tohoku region.

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is uniquely free from the rainy season (tsuyu) that affects much of the country from June to July. During this period, visitors can enjoy cool, comfortable weather while exploring vibrant festivals, lush flower fields, and cultural events. This guide highlights key attractions and practical tips for international travelers seeking to experience Hokkaido’s summer charm.

Early June Highlight: YOSAKOI Soran Festival

Historical Roots and Cultural Fusion

Held annually in early June in Sapporo, the YOSAKOI Soran Festival blends Kochi Prefecture’s lively Yosakoi Festival with Hokkaido’s traditional Soran Bushi fishing folk songs17. Originating in 1992, the festival began with just 10 teams and 1,000 participants but has grown into a major event attracting over 2 million visitors17. Its founding philosophy—“The city is our stage! Japan will change”—reflects its mission to revitalize local culture through dynamic performances7.

Experiencing the Festival

The festival’s main stage at Odori Park features teams competing in high-energy dances combining traditional movements with modern flair1. Participants use naruko clappers, originally designed to scare birds from rice fields, adding rhythmic intensity to their routines1. Travelers can join workshops at Waodori Square or watch the grand finale on Sunday night, where teams showcase meticulously choreographed performances1. With Sapporo’s mild early-summer climate (averaging 15–20°C), outdoor enjoyment is effortless compared to mainland Japan’s humid tsuyu7.

Mid-June Cultural and Natural Attractions

Iōyama Festival in Kaminokuni

The Iōyama Festival (June 14–15) in Kaminokuni-cho celebrates the region’s history with a torchlight procession led by children ascending Mount Iō to Iōyama Shrine25. The main event includes folk song performances, local food stalls, and a koto (harp) concert, offering insights into Hokkaido’s rural traditions25.

Kurinso Week in Tsubetsu

From June 14–22, the Kurinso Week festival in Tsubetsu’s Nonno Forest showcases 300,000 pink kurinso (Japanese primroses) blooming across wetlands3. Visitors can stroll wooden pathways while learning about forest therapy—a practice linking nature immersion to reduced stress3. The site’s remote location (24 km from central Tsubetsu) ensures tranquil immersion in Hokkaido’s wilderness3.

Late June to July: Coastal Delights and Flower Fields

Otaru Nishin-Otate Festival

In late June, Otaru’s Nishin-Otate Festival celebrates herring, a fish central to Hokkaido’s maritime history. Travelers grill fresh herring (¥300 each) at waterfront stalls while exploring historic canals and glassblowing workshops4. The event underscores Hokkaido’s identity as a hub of seafood and craftsmanship.

Flower Fields of Tokachi and Furano

From late June to July, Tokachi’s Hinode Park and Furano’s Farm Tomita burst with lavender, poppies, and sunflowers. The Lavender Festa Kamifurano (July 12–21) illuminates fields nightly, creating surreal landscapes perfect for photography6. Nearby, the Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park offers hiking trails amid 400 hectares of blooms6.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Climate and Clothing

Hokkaido’s June–July temperatures range from 10°C (mornings) to 25°C (afternoons). Pack light layers, a waterproof jacket, and insect repellent for outdoor events36.

Transportation

During major festivals like YOSAKOI, Sapporo’s subway system (e.g., Namboku Line to Odori Station) is more efficient than driving due to road closures1. For rural areas like Tsubetsu, renting a car provides flexibility, though shuttle buses to Nonno Forest run on weekdays3.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs: ask permission before photographing performers, dispose of trash properly, and avoid loud noises in residential areas near event venues57.

Conclusion

Hokkaido’s rain-free summer combines cultural vibrancy and natural splendor, offering respite from mainland Japan’s tsuyu. From Sapporo’s electrifying dances to Furano’s lavender-scented nights, the island invites travelers to discover its unique blend of tradition and tranquility. By planning ahead and embracing local customs, visitors can fully immerse themselves in Hokkaido’s seasonal magic.

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1. https://www.japan.travel/en/spot/471/
2. https://hokkaido-michinoeki.jp/michiekiinfo/kaminokuniinfo/20302/
3. https://www.town.tsubetsu.hokkaido.jp/soshiki/sangyoshinko/1/801.html
4. https://otaru.gr.jp/event/nisinnotate2025
5. https://www.town.kaminokuni.lg.jp/hotnews/detail/00002689.html
6. https://www.furanotourism.com/jp/spot/spot_D.php?id=459
7. https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/YOSAKOI%E3%82%BD%E3%83%BC%E3%83%A9%E3%83%B3%E7%A5%AD%E3%82%8A
8. https://www.visit-hokkaido.jp/event/detail_11059.html
9. https://www.town.tsubetsu.hokkaido.jp/soshiki/sangyoshinko/1/3714.html
10. https://www.town.kaminokuni.lg.jp/hotnews/detail_sp/00003208.html
11. https://l-tike.com/event/mevent/?mid=425875
12. https://pitwu.com/2015/05/%E5%A4%96%E5%9B%BD%E3%81%AE%E6%96%B9%E3%81%9F%E3%81%A1%E3%81%AE%E5%89%8D%E3%81%A7%E8%B8%8A%E3%81%A3%E3%81%A6%E3%81%8D%E3%81%9F%E3%82%93%E3%81%A7%E3%81%99%E3%81%91%E3%81%A9%E3%80%81%E3%82%88%E3%81%95/
13. https://www.yosakoi-soran.jp/en/
14. https://www.yosakoi-soran.jp/en/schedule_event
15. https://www.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp/sr/sky/homepage/midori/midori-homepage/kitohana_00.html
16. https://www.kaminokuni.jp/?p=1114
17. https://www.gutabi.jp/event/detail/2385

2025 Japan Regional Rainy Season End (Tsuyu-Ake) Forecast

Today, on July 18, the Japan Meteorological Agency announced that "the rainy season seems to be over in Kanto Koshin, Hokuriku, and southern Tohoku". It is the end of the rainy season in Kanto Koshin, which is 1 day earlier than normal, 5 days earlier than normal in Hokuriku, and 6 days earlier than normal in southern Tohoku.

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According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the rainy season ended in western Japan on June 27th. 

This is the earliest end of the rainy season in the history of Japanese meteorological observations. 

It looks like the hot summer will be long in Japan this year. Please be careful.

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The end of the rainy season (Tsuyu-Ake) in Japan for 2025 is expected to occur on the following dates by region, based on the latest forecasts from the Japan Meteorological Agency and major weather information sites.

Region	Expected End of Rainy Season	Average Year	Last Year
Okinawa	Around June 21	Around June 20	Around June 20
Amami	Around June 29	Around June 22	Around June 22
Southern Kyushu	Around July 15	Around July 16	Around July 16
Northern Kyushu	Around July 19	Around July 17	Around July 17
Shikoku	Around July 17	Around July 17	Around July 17
Chugoku	Around July 19	Around July 21	Around July 21
Kinki	Around July 19	Around July 18	Around July 18
Tokai	Around July 19	Around July 18	Around July 18
Kanto-Koshin	Around July 19	Around July 18	Around July 18
Hokuriku	Around July 23	Around July 31	Around July 31
Southern Tohoku	Around July 24	Around August 1	Around August 1
Northern Tohoku	Around July 28	Around August 2	Around August 2

Please note that these are forecasts and actual dates may vary depending on weather conditions.

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Regional Summer Weather and Temperature Forecasts After the Rainy Season

Okinawa & Amami area

• Weather: After the rainy season, full-fledged summer arrives with many sunny days. This is also the season when typhoons become more frequent, so please pay attention to the latest weather information.

• Temperature: Daytime highs often exceed 30°C (86°F) with high humidity. Heatstroke precautions are essential.

Kyushu, Shikoku, Chugoku area

• Weather: After the rainy season, strong sunshine continues, and consecutive extremely hot days (over 30°C/86°F) are expected. Localized thunderstorms (evening showers) are also likely.

• Temperature: Temperatures may reach around 35°C (95°F), and in urban areas, tropical nights (when temperatures stay above 25°C/77°F at night) are expected.

Kinki, Tokai, Kanto-Koshin area

• Weather: After the rainy season, the Pacific high pressure brings prolonged sunny weather and the peak of summer. Sudden thunderstorms or heavy downpours may occur due to unstable atmospheric conditions in the afternoon.

• Temperature: Major cities like Osaka, Nagoya, and Tokyo may see many days above 35°C (95°F) with high humidity, making it feel even hotter. Frequent hydration and proper use of air conditioning, both indoors and outdoors, are important.

Hokuriku & Tohoku area

• Weather: The end of the rainy season is slightly later here, but once it ends, sunny days increase. On the Sea of Japan side, the Foehn phenomenon can cause extremely high temperatures.

• Temperature: Days over 30°C (86°F) will become more frequent. In inland areas like Yamagata and Niigata, temperatures can approach 35°C (95°F). While northern Tohoku can be relatively cool, recent years have also seen extremely hot days.

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Summer Climate Advice for International Visitors

• Heatstroke Prevention: Japanese summers are very humid, making it feel hotter than the actual temperature. Stay hydrated, replenish salts, and take regular breaks.

• Clothing: Light, breathable clothing is recommended. Since air conditioning can be strong indoors, carrying a light jacket or shawl is helpful.

• UV Protection: The sun is very strong, so use hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

• Be Prepared for Sudden Weather Changes: Sudden thunderstorms or heavy rain can occur in the afternoon, so carrying a folding umbrella is convenient.

• Typhoon Information: From late July through August is typhoon season, so check the latest weather updates before and during your trip.

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Summary

In 2025, the rainy season is expected to end in late June in Okinawa, from mid to late July in regions from Kyushu to Kanto-Koshin, and in late July in Tohoku. After the rainy season, full-fledged summer arrives nationwide, with many days of extreme heat and tropical nights. Japanese summers are hot and humid, so be mindful of heatstroke and sudden weather changes. Please take adequate precautions for a safe and comfortable stay in Japan.

Outlook for Japan's 2025 Rainy Season (Tsuyu)

According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the rainy season ended in western Japan on June 27th. 

This is the earliest end of the rainy season in the history of Japanese meteorological observations. 

It looks like the hot summer will be long in Japan this year. Please be careful.

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The 2025 rainy season in Japan is expected to feature a “shorter duration,” “average to above-average rainfall,” and “increased risk of heavy rain disasters during peak periods.” Below, you’ll find a detailed explanation including the expected timing of the rainy season’s start and end in each region, weather trends, and points to watch.

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Regional Overview: Start and End of the Rainy Season

Okinawa & Amami

• Start: Late May (later than usual)

• End: Mid-June (earlier than usual)

• Duration: More than 10 days shorter than average

• Rainfall: Average or less than average

Southern Kyushu

• Start: Around May 30 (about average)

• End: Mid-July (slightly earlier than usual)

• Rainfall: Average or above average

Northern Kyushu, Shikoku, Chugoku, Kinki, Tokai, Kanto-Koshin

• Start: Early June (about average)

  • Specifically, around June 4–7

• End: Mid-July (about average or slightly earlier)

• Rainfall: Average or above average

Hokuriku & Southern Tohoku

• Start: Mid-June (about average or slightly later)

• End: Mid-July (earlier than usual)

• Rainfall: Average or above average

Northern Tohoku

• Start: Mid-June (about average)

• End: Late July (earlier than usual)

• Rainfall: Average or above average

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Characteristics of the 2025 Rainy Season

General Trends

• Overall, the rainy season will be shorter than usual, especially in Okinawa and Amami, where it may be more than 10 days shorter than average.

• The rainy season will progress from south to north, with both the start and end dates moving up the archipelago.

• Compared to last year (2024), the rainy season will start earlier in many regions. In 2024, the start was generally late, but in 2025, it is expected to be average or slightly early.

Rainfall and Heavy Rain Risks

• Okinawa & Amami: Rainfall will be average or below average. However, from early to mid-June, the rainy front may become active, bringing heavy rain at times.

• Southern Kyushu to Northern Tohoku: Rainfall will be average or above average. Particularly from late June to early July, the Pacific high-pressure system will strengthen, activating the rainy front and increasing the risk of heavy rain and disasters in western and eastern Japan, as well as Hokuriku and Tohoku.

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Meteorological Background

• In 2025, the influence of the La Niña phenomenon is weakening, and sea surface temperatures in the western tropical Pacific remain high. As a result, the jet stream tends to flow further north, and the Pacific high-pressure system is expected to expand strongly.

• In June, the Pacific high will be strong, causing the rainy front to linger around Kyushu and the southern coast of Honshu.

• In July, the Pacific high will extend further north, pushing the rainy front up to the Sea of Japan and Tohoku regions.

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Regional Rainfall Peaks and Precautions

Region	Peak Rainfall Period	Rainfall Trend	Points of Caution
Okinawa & Amami	Early to mid-June	Avg. or below avg.	Watch for heavy rain, river flooding, and landslides
Kyushu–Kanto-Koshin	Late June	Avg. or above avg.	Heavy rain, landslides, urban flooding
Hokuriku & Tohoku	Early July	Avg. or above avg.	Heavy rain, river flooding, landslides

• From late June to early July, warm, moist air will flow into the rainy front, activating it and increasing the risk of heavy rain, especially in western and eastern Japan, Hokuriku, and Tohoku.

• Be prepared for river flooding, house inundation, and landslides.

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2025 Regional Rainy Season Forecast Summary

Region	Start (Forecast)	End (Forecast)	Duration Trend	Rainfall Trend
Okinawa	Late May	Mid-June	Shorter	Avg. to below avg.
Amami	Late May	Late June	Shorter	Avg. to below avg.
Southern Kyushu	Around May 30	Mid-July	Average	Avg. to above avg.
Northern Kyushu	Around June 4	Mid-July	Average	Avg. to above avg.
Shikoku	Around June 5	Mid-July	Average	Avg. to above avg.
Chugoku	Around June 6	Mid-July	Average	Avg. to above avg.
Kinki	Around June 6	Mid-July	Average	Avg. to above avg.
Tokai	Around June 6	Mid-July	Average	Avg. to above avg.
Kanto-Koshin	Around June 7	Mid-July	Average	Avg. to above avg.
Hokuriku	Around June 11	Mid-July	Average	Avg. to above avg.
Southern Tohoku	Around June 12	Mid-July	Average	Avg. to above avg.
Northern Tohoku	Around June 15	Late July	Average	Avg. to above avg.
*Dates are estimates; please check the latest updates from the Japan Meteorological Agency or weather services.

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Summary and Preparation

• In 2025, the rainy season is expected to start late and end early in Okinawa and Amami, while other regions will see average timing.

• The rainy season will be shorter overall, but total rainfall will be average to above average, with a heightened risk of localized heavy rain and disasters, especially from late June to early July.

• Prepare early for river flooding, landslides, and urban flooding, and pay close attention to the latest weather information.

"This year, rainfall during the rainy season is expected to be average or below average in Okinawa and Amami, and average or above average from southern Kyushu to northern Tohoku. There is a heightened risk of heavy rain disasters from late June to early July

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Tips for Rainy Season Preparation

• Confirm evacuation routes and shelters

• Prepare emergency supplies and disaster kits

• Clean gutters and drainage

• Check the latest weather updates frequently

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The 2025 rainy season is expected to be “short but intense,” with a higher risk of heavy rain and disasters during peak periods. Early preparation and staying informed are more important than ever this year.

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