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What's Japan Like in Summer? Tokyo Weather & What to Wear for June, July and August 2019!

What's Japan Like in Summer? Tokyo Weather & What to Wear for June, July and August 2019!
What's Japan Like in Summer? Tokyo Weather & What to Wear for June, July and August 2019!

In Japan's summer, which is from June through August, the weather gets fairly hot right after the rainy season in June finishes up. Although summer in Tokyo is not as hot as some of the other areas around Asia, temperature differences between day and evening can be fairly great, and it's necessary to protect yourself from the sun while walking outside.

Here we'll take a look at summer in Tokyo, plus what clothes, accessories and items you should pack for your Japan trip.

What is Japan's rainy season about? (And when is rainy season in Japan?)

Known as "Tsuyu" ("Plum Rain") in Japan, rainy season is known as the time when plums ripen - in June and July. Although during Japan's rainy season (also from the beginning of June to the end of July) it does not rain every day, the air can be quite humid. It can be a rather oppressive time to be outdoors as a result. In addition, sudden air pressure changes can trigger headaches in sensitive people, so be sure to bring a pain reliever in your suitcase.

After Tokyo enters summer, you'll find sweaty days ahead.

How to Survive Japan's Rainy Season

June average temperature: 22°C (72°F) / maximum temperature 26.4°C (80°F) / minimum temperature 18.5°C (65°F)

In early summer, Tokyo is not particularly hot - it can be somewhat humid, but breezy and still somewhat cool. As a result, if you are accustomed to a tropical climate, you may still wish to bring a spring jacket or light flannel.

During the daytime, it is warm and pleasant, however in the evenings you may feel it's a bit cool.

What to pack for Japan in June - Women:
-Thin coat, short-sleeved top, thin long skirt, jeans
-Comfortable sneakers, sandals, sunscreen, antiperspirant, umbrella

What to pack for Japan in June - Men:
-Thin flannel, t-shirt, light pants or jeans
-Comfortable sneakers, sandals, sunscreen, antiperspirant, umbrella

July average temperature: 27.3°C (81°F) / maximum temperature is 31.8°C (89°F) / minimum temperature is 24°C (75°F)

While not quite yet in the thick of summer, temperatures in July are getting hot and somewhat uncomfortable. Humidity levels are also starting to climb. Be sure to bring lighter tops that wick away sweat, but which can shield against UV. A summer dress, shorts or light hiking pants are especially convenient.

In addition, if you have sensitive skin, be sure to bring a parasol, sunscreen and/or hat.

What to pack for Japan in July - Women:
Tops: Loose tops, light jacket with UV guard
Lower body: loose trousers, shorts, skirt
Accessories & Footwear: Sneakers, sandals, sunhats, handkerchiefs, wet wipes, sunscreens, antiperspirants

What to pack for Japan in June - Men:
Top: light t-shirt, thin shirt
Lower body: jeans, cotton shorts, breathable trousers
Accessories & Footwear: Sneakers, sandals, sunhats, wet wipes, antiperspirant

August average temperature: 26.4°C (80°F) / maximum temperature 30.4°C (87°F) / minimum temperature 23.4°C (74°F)

August is when the furnace of summer finally smothers Tokyo. Hot sun and sweltering temperatures mix with high humidity, making it very soupy indeed! As a result it's very important to remember to stay hydrated and replenish electrolytes so as to avoid heatstroke.

As for clothes, bring light summer clothes that are breathable and which wick sweat. Lighter colors which will reflect light are also recommended, as are shorts. If you are concerned about sunburn or tanning, be sure to bring a parasol, sunhat and/or sunscreen.

What to pack for Japan in August - Women:
Tops: loose tops, sleeveless tops
Lower body: loose trousers, shorts, skirt
Accessories & Footwear: Sneakers, sandals, sunhats, handkerchiefs, wet wipes, sunscreens, antiperspirants

What to pack for Japan in August - Men:
Top: light t-shirt, thin shirt
Lower body: cotton or linen shorts, breathable shorts
Accessories & Footwear: Sneakers, sandals, sunhats, sleek wet wipes, antiperspirant

More than 1,000 people die from heatstroke in Japan every year in the hot and humid summer. It's important to stay hydrated - water or sports drink - to prevent this.

Being located where it is, Japan is also affected by typhoons and sudden rains from the end of August until September end. As a result, keep an eye on weather forecasts and plan to expect transportation delays.

If you'll be traveling at this time of year, you'll have a wonderful time, but be prepared for the weather in order to really enjoy your vacation fully!

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