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Tokyo's Rainy Season Begins: What Tsuyu Really Means (and How to Enjoy It)


On June 10th, Japan’s Meteorological Agency announced that the rainy season — known as tsuyu (梅雨) — has officially begun in Tokyo and the surrounding Kanto-Koshin region. If the pattern follows the historical average, the rainy season will likely end around July 19.

If you're planning a trip to Tokyo or living in Japan, you may have heard of tsuyu. But what exactly is it? Should you be worried about constant rain? Let’s take a closer look at what this season really means and how to enjoy your time, even if the skies are gray.

What Is Tsuyu?

Tsuyu — often translated as "the plum rain" — is Japan’s rainy season. It typically lasts from early June to mid-July, depending on the region. It's caused by a seasonal weather front that brings moist air and frequent rainfall.

But here’s the good news:
Tsuyu does not mean non-stop rain. Many days are cloudy with only light rain, and there are often breaks of sunshine between showers.

How Often Does It Rain?

In Tokyo during tsuyu:

·         There’s about a 40–60% chance of rain on any given day.

·         It rains around 20–25 days over a 6-week period.

·         Most rain is light or moderate — not all-day downpours.

So, while you may need an umbrella, you won’t be stuck indoors every day.

What About Sudden Rain?

In summer, especially from July to early September, Tokyo also experiences evening showers called yuudachi (夕立). These are short, intense thunderstorms that appear suddenly, usually after a hot day. Mornings may be sunny, but by late afternoon, dark clouds can roll in fast — it’s a good idea to carry a foldable umbrella.

How Does Tsuyu Differ Across Japan?

Japan stretches from snowy Hokkaido in the north to subtropical Okinawa in the south — so the rainy season doesn’t look the same everywhere.

Here’s a quick look at how tsuyu varies by region:

Tokyo & Central Japan (Kanto, Kansai)

Most well-known pattern of tsuyu: starts in early June, ends in mid-July. Frequent light rain, humid but not extremely hot.
Cities: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nagoya

Kyushu & Shikoku (Southwestern Japan)

Tsuyu begins earlier — often in late May. Rain tends to be heavier, and these areas are more prone to flooding during severe weather.
Cities: Fukuoka, Kagoshima, Kochi

Okinawa (Southern Islands)

The earliest rainy season in Japan — starts in early May, ends by mid-June. Rain can be heavy, but the season is short and often followed by sunny beach weather.
City: Naha

Tohoku (Northeastern Japan)

Rainy season arrives a little later than Tokyo — starting in mid to late June and ending in late July. Cooler temperatures compared to Tokyo.
Cities: Sendai, Aomori

Hokkaido (Northern Japan)

No true rainy season. Hokkaido stays mostly dry in June and July, making it a popular escape from tsuyu for domestic travelers.
Cities: Sapporo, Hakodate

Should You Be Worried About Rain?

It’s completely natural to feel concerned about rain ruining your travel plans. But in Japan, rain is part of the rhythm of life — and people adapt to it with stylish umbrellas, covered sidewalks, and flexible plans.

Here’s how you can do the same:

·         Check hourly forecasts — Japanese weather apps like Tenki.jp or Yahoo Weather are very detailed.

·         Watch the sky — Light gray clouds usually mean passing drizzle, while dark, low clouds suggest longer rain.

·         Stay flexible — Plan outdoor activities in the morning and leave museums or shopping for rainy afternoons.


Rainy Day Tokyo: A Few Fun Hints for Where to Go When It Pours

Rain in Tokyo doesn’t have to ruin your plans — in fact, it can be the perfect excuse to explore the city’s indoor treasures. From covered shopping streets to food havens and quirky subcultures, here are a few hints for where to go when the skies turn grey:

Shop & Stroll Without Getting Wet
Covered arcades like Ameya-Yokocho in Ueno or Sunshine Street in Ikebukuro offer plenty of shelter while letting you browse quirky shops and snack on street food. For something unique, head to Nakano Broadway — a labyrinth of anime goods, collectibles, vintage toys, and subculture curiosities, all indoors and all unforgettable.

Get Lost in Giant Complexes
Rainy days are perfect for getting cozy inside massive multi-purpose buildings. Tokyo Midtown in Roppongi, Shibuya Scramble Square, or KITTE near Tokyo Station offer everything: restaurants, shopping, rooftop views (weather permitting), and even art spaces — all under one roof.

Eat Your Way Through the Rain
Tokyo is a paradise for food lovers, and rainy days are ideal for exploring underground gourmet spots. Try Shinagawa’s ecute dining zone, Tokyo Station’s Ramen Street, or cozy izakayas under the tracks in Yurakucho. Want a longer break? Head to Tsukiji Outer Market for fresh sushi and grilled snacks — many stalls are semi-covered.

Art, Culture, and Calm
Escape the drizzle and dive into Tokyo’s rich cultural scene. The Mori Art Museum in Roppongi, teamLab Planets in Toyosu, and The National Museum of Western Art in Ueno are all great rainy-day options. Many of these museums have cafés with panoramic windows — perfect for watching the rain while sipping coffee.

Final Tip: Read the Rain

Some rain is brief and passes quickly. Others may settle in for hours. Learning to “read the sky” — or checking a local radar app — can help you adjust your plans with confidence. Rain doesn’t have to ruin your day in Japan — it can be a gentle rhythm to move with, not fight against.

So bring your umbrella, keep an open mind, and enjoy Tokyo — rain or shine!

 


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