Weather and Geography in Japan

Geography

Japan is an island nation, which is separated from the Asian continent by the Sea of Japan. It is close to Korea, Russia and China, and slightly larger than the United Kingdom in size. Over 70 per cent of the country is covered by forest and mountains. 

Volcanoes and Earthquakes

Among the four largest islands — Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku, Kyushu is particularly occupied by active volcanoes as Japan lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire. 

Furthermore, earthquakes are common in Japan as it is located on the fault lines of four tectonic plates. Japan has experienced some catastrophic earthquakes before, for instance, the Great East Japan Earthquake on March 11, 2011. So, be aware of the small earthquakes and prepare yourself before travelling.

For your safety, you are advised  to check the latest news and warningsabout volcanic activity and earthquake during your stay.

Weather through the Seasons

Because of the large North-South extension, the climate is quite different between regions. On the northern island of Hokkaido, the climate is generally colder, and have large snowfall amounts. Meanwhile, on the southern island of Okinawa, the average temperature in winter is about 17 degrees Celsius. You may find the weather forecast useful when travelling across different prefectures.

Spring

When you start noticing pink cherry blossoms blooming everywhere on the streets, you know it is a welcome of spring from the freezing winter. The blossoms bloom between March and May, starting from the south and slowly moving to the north. Enjoy a breezy afternoon with a hanami-bento under the sun is one of the most popular activities in spring. Following in late May and early June when it is closer to summer, the rainy season begins.

Summer

It is quite hot and humid in Japan’s summer. Find the attractive national firework festivals, beautiful beaches and barbecue by the river everywhere. Make sure to keep yourself hydrated if you are heading out to enjoy the sun. By September, reconsider your travel plan as intense typhoons come very often.

Autumn

Japan’s nature completely changes when autumn comes. Dazzling autumn leaves cover all over the mountains create a picturesque view to enjoy. With such a view, hiking-lovers certainly relish this season the most. We highly recommend travellers to explore national treasures in its most fascinating autumn colours and cool weather.

Winter

You will always find the best activity to do when in different seasons in Japan. Don’t miss out the ski season in the mountainous area until February. Warm yourself up with onsen and share a steaming shabu-shabu with your friends.