Adapting to the climate in Japan

Hello everyone,

Adjusting to new climatic conditions is key in any expatriation process. Moving to Japan is no exception.

What are the climate characteristics of Japan?

How does the local weather impact your daily life, mood or health?

What are the pros and cons of the climate in Japan?

Share you advice and help people adapt quickly to their new weather environment.

Thanks in advance,

Priscilla

Hi Priscilla,

Japan has a really nice climate with four seasons much like in the west. You can expect to see snow in the winter and very hot temperatures in the summer, with very pleasant temperatures for most of the year.

However, due to the large variance in Latitude between the different islands that make up Japan, you will see more snow in the north where you can practice winter sports, while in places like Okinawa in the south the climate is subtropical and somewhat humid.

Expats moving to Japan from places like Europe or North America can expect a similar type of climate to which they are used to. And those expats from hotter countries will have the opportunity to experience the four seasons, especially snow and autumn.

Regards,
Hansson

Yes, Japan has four seasons, which apart from summer I enjoy. But summer, like at the moment, is very hot and humid which is somewhat uncomfortable, especially when one is walking outside. But, as mentioned I enjoy the other seasons, especially Spring with beautiful cherry blossom. In winter it snows, which makes the surronding mountains look beautiful. Autumn has beautiful colours. Anayway, generally Japan is a good place seasonal wise. Although, there is heavy rain at times causing flooding and housing damage in some places. Also earthquakes here and there. But must look on the brightr side.

Yes I agree. Spring and autumn are the best seasons in Japan.

Japan has distinct seasons each with their own activities, events and food to enjoy. The temperature varies greatly from Hokkaido up in the north to Okinawa down in the south. Winter can be very cold and harsh in Hokkaido and the Japan Sea side of the country with heavy snow falls. January and February are typically the coldest months, with March chilly, overcast and very changeable. Spring is one of the best times to be in Japan with mild cool weather and beautiful cherry blossoms and seasonal flowers. The Cherry Blossom season typically starts in January in Okinawa and sweeps up the mainland to Hokkaido in May. Summer can be really hot and unpleasant throughout most of Japan. The summer starts with the gloomy rainy season in early June to mid July. Once the rainy season is over the heat really kicks in, especially in central Japan. July and August are typically the hottest months but they are also the best time to experience one of Japan's many traditional summer festivals and fireworks. September is still quite hot, but the mornings and evenings tend to be a lot cooler and it is also the typhoon season in Japan. Autumn or Fall is my favorite time of the year with cooler weather, delicious fall food and the amazing colors of the changing leaves. It is a popular time to travel in Japan and enjoy the beautiful weather before winter approaches.