Japan is well known for its cold climate with lots and lots of rain all throughout the year, and the summer here is a rare occasion, when temperatures range from the mid to high 30s with good amount of humidity. This lasts for just 3-4 weeks and gets over in a flash. But 2022 has been a record year for summer in Japan, not only did it come 2 months in advance from the usual August, but the rainy season of June was also cut short to just a week long if at all there was one. Temperatures even reached into the 40s in some parts of Japan, a phenomenon which rarely happens even in the hottest summer days in August.
Summer in Japan came around 20th June with temperatures soaring to 30 and almost touching 40 in Tokyo by the end of the month. Rain looks less plausible with a few tiny droplets in the coming weeks. This is very rare in Tokyo when rain has not bossed the whole month, and it is a great chance to step outside in the clear weather, go to the beach, drink lots of summer drinks and have fun with your friends and family. It has come at the best timing when the corona wave is subsiding and government has unofficially announced to free oneself from the cage of the masks while outside.
Beaches in Japan
Please check out the beaches in Japan, there are so many options to choose from when you are in the south or Okinawa, but if you are not, and belong to the Kanto region, there are still some good options for you. Atami and Shirahama beach in the Izu peninsula, Kujukuri beach, Onjuku and Tateyama beaches in the Chiba prefecture are some good options for you.
Precautions to tackle the summer in Japan
Also, please do not forget to put screen lotion and wear rash guards. Look for SPM 50 or above as the heat is really strong these days. Also, keep hydrated with lots and lots of water/electrolytes like Pocari Sweat. Acquarius among others. One thing that I always do when going to the beach or anywhere outside in this heat is to take breaks from the outside sun and enter the many convenience stores which are plenty even near the beaches. Do not hesitate to go in these for a cool down and may be buy a drink or 2 and spend at least 5-10 mins inside. Plus, never forget your cap/hat, sun can be brutal to your head and cause an instant heat stroke. In a nutshell, remember the following when stepping out –
- Sunscreen with SPM 50+
- Rash guards or full sleeves to cover skin to protect from tanning
- Caps/hats
- Periodic breaks of 10 or more mins with hydration
Also, check out my personal favorite beach near Atami to enjoy the summer in Japan:
https://residentinjapan.com/hidden-gem-nagahama-beach-atami/