Did you know that Japan has a rainy season called tsuyu (梅雨)? Typically lasting from early June to mid-July, this season brings frequent and often unpredictable showers or even rain that lasts all day. During this humid, soggy time, carrying an umbrella becomes an essential part of daily life.
While it’s not typhoon season (yet), it does mean weeks of gray clouds and sudden downpours, followed by days of blue skies. But don’t worry! With the right mindset and a few essential items, you can stay dry, stylish, and sane. Here are our few tips to stay dry during Japan’s infamous rainy season!
What is Tsuyu in Japan?
In Japan, tsuyu (梅雨), also known as the rainy season, is a period of prolonged rainfall that typically occurs from early June to mid-July.
Written with the kanji 梅 and 雨, respectively plum and rain, the word 梅雨 literally means the “plum rain” as this season coincides with the plum ripening period, giving us the delicious pickled plum (梅干し) and the plum wine (梅酒).
When is Rainy Season in Japan?
The Japanese rainy season starts in late spring and ends in early summer, roughly the beginning of June until mid-July in most part of Japan.
The earliest starts in Okinawa, where rain pours around May. For several weeks, everyone living in Japan will be miserable, waiting for better days. Or escaping to Hokkaido, one region that is lucky enough not to experience 5 or 6 weeks of constant humidity.
With the perspective of tsuyu (梅雨) , shops and convenience store will sell umbrellas (傘), plastic coats, plastic trousers along with towels for the unfortunate victims of a sudden rain or a broken umbrella. If you are going out, you should be prepared with extra socks as the Japanese will tell you: it is nearly impossible not to end up one day walking in soaked clothes and shoes.
Read More: How to Say Winter, Summer, Spring and Autumn in Japanese
What to Expect During Japanese Rainy Season
Although called “rainy”, it does not necessarily rain every day during tsuyu (梅雨). The weather is very unstable and the high level of humidity in the air prevents clothes from drying properly, causing mold and rotten food to grow more easily. At home, be sure to store several pairs of shoes as drying a wet pair for the next day may be quite difficult.
Despite the discomfort, the rainy season is very important for the flora and fauna of Japan and Japanese people do not complain much about it. They know those few weeks are worth enduring as rain is crucial for the rice farmers. They will also indulge in their favorite activity, flower viewing, as the tsuyu’s radiant symbol is the beautiful hydrangea called ajisai (紫陽花).
Rain also means snails and frogs. The tsuyu symbolic creatures are without a doubt the snail, or katatsumori (カタツムリ), whose name in Japanese originally means “the insect wearing an umbrella” and the frog, or kaeru (カエル).
Soon, the tsuyu will start in Tokyo. So be sure to always have an umbrella with you and brace yourself for mosquitoes! After tsuyu comes the summer season in Japan, which means you will have to find ways to beat the heat.
Tips to Survive Rainy Season in Japan
1. Invest in a Good Umbrella
In Japan, umbrellas are a must. You’ll see many people using the clear plastic kind from convenience stores — and you will too, eventually. Some are so cheap they can be found at Daiso or other 100-yen shops. However, they’re not super durable. If you’re staying a while, it’s worth investing in a sturdy, wind-resistant umbrella. Some even come with UV protection for sunny days.
Tip: Unfortunately, umbrella theft is one of the more common petty crimes in Japan, right up there with bicycle theft. Try not to leave your umbrella unattended in public umbrella stands, especially during surprise downpours.
2. Waterproof Your Footwear
Soggy socks? No thanks. Grab some waterproof shoes or rain boots (called reinkutsu). They’re especially helpful if you’ll be commuting or walking long distances. If rain boots are out of budget for now, opt for sneakers over sandals or flats for some protection.
Pro tip: Keep a pair of dry socks in your bag.
3. Upgrade to a Water-Resistant Bag
Carrying a laptop, camera, or important documents? Your canvas tote won’t cut it. Switch to a water-resistant backpack or add a bag cover. You can also protect your valuables using ziplock bags or dry pouches inside your bag.
4. Prepare for the Humidity
It’s not just the rain — it’s the humidity that lingers with it. Think: frizzy hair, sticky clothes, and never-quite-dry shoes. Indoor humidity can also lead to mildew and mold on your clothes if your room is not ventilated right. Try heading to your nearest drugstore or 100-yen shops (some convenience store might even sell them!) and look for:
- Dehumidifiers or moisture-absorbing sheets (除湿削) for your closet and shoes
- Quick-dry towels and clothes
- Cooling wipes or sprays sold in most drugstores
Bonus: Japanese drugstores sell amazing anti-frizz and anti-humidity hair products
5. Stay Informed (and Dry)
Thankfully, Japanese weather forecasts are pretty accurate and are always updated with the latest weekly outlook. You can download dedicated apps, but even built-in ones like the iPhone Weather app usually do a solid job of predicting rain.
Check the weather forecast — constantly. Just a heads-up: rain can be spontaneous, and some days it pours nonstop. Stay updated with these helpful tools:
- Tenki.jp or Yahoo Weather
- LINE Weather plugin
- Rain Alarm for real-time updates
Having a compact umbrella in your bag becomes second nature during this season.
6. Ward Off The Rain with Teru Teru Bozu Charm
Feeling superstitious or just want to bring some good vibes to your rainy days? Try making a teru teru bouzu (てるてる坊主) — a traditional Japanese weather charm made of white cloth or tissue paper. These little ghost-like dolls are hung in windows to wish for clear skies, especially before events like school outings or weekend trips.
You can easily make your own or find cute versions sold in stores during the rainy season. It’s a fun and cultural way to brighten up gray days.
Feeling spooky? Read More: 10 Japanese Superstition You Might Believe
Ready to Start Your Japanese Learning Journey? Join Coto Academy!
While the weather may be a bit damp during tsuyu, it’s the perfect time to dive deeper into your studies, enjoy cozy classroom conversations, and explore how rain and the changing seasons are reflected in Japanese culture and language.
Rain or shine, you can study online or in Tokyo with Coto Academy, where we offer fun, flexible classes designed for people who want to learn practical, everyday conversations at their own pace!
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When is the rainy season in Japan?
Typically from early June to mid-July, though it varies slightly by region. Okinawa starts earlier, while northern areas like Tohoku begin later.
What is tsuyu in Japanese?
Tsuyu, or the rainy season in Japan, refers to a period of continuous wet and humid weather that usually occurs from early June to mid-July. The word “tsuyu” literally means “plum rain” because it coincides with the ripening of plums. While not a typhoon season, tsuyu brings frequent rain showers, high humidity, and cloudy days.
Can I still travel during the rainy season in Japan?
Absolutely! Just pack smart. Rainy season travel can mean fewer crowds and lush green landscapes, especially at temples and shrines.
What clothes should I wear during rainy season in Japan?
Opt for light, quick-drying clothes. Avoid heavy denim or anything that takes long to dry. Quick-dry socks and breathable layers are best.