How to Prepare for Rainy and Typhoon Seasons on a Cycling Tour in Japan
- takeo52
- May 2
- 4 min read
Japan’s rainy and typhoon seasons may sound intimidating, but with the right preparation and local support, your cycling adventure can go smoothly—even in wet weather. This guide will help you understand what to expect and how to stay safe and comfortable on the road.
Why Weather Awareness Matters in Japan
Japan has distinct rainy periods—the rainy season (June–July) and typhoon season (mainly September). These weather patterns can affect cycling conditions, especially for long-distance tours. Understanding the timing and impact of these seasons helps you stay safe and enjoy the ride.
When to Expect Rain—and Why It’s Not Always a Problem
Japan's rainy season, called tsuyu, typically runs from mi-June to mid-July in most regions. It brings frequent showers, high humidity, and occasional downpours. However, it's usually warm, and there are often dry windows during the day.
The typhoon season peaks around September, mainly affecting southern and coastal areas like Okinawa, Kyushu, and Shikoku. While typhoons can cause strong winds and heavy rain, they are tracked closely and don’t hit all regions equally.
Japan’s weather patterns vary significantly by region.
Hokkaido (Northern Japan)
Rainy season: Minimal to none.
Typhoon impact: Very rare.
Ideal riding window: June–September is usually dry and mild.
Tohoku (Sendai, Aomori, etc.)
Rainy season: Starts mid-June, lighter than central Japan.
Typhoon impact: Occasional, mostly weakened by the time they reach this region.
Kanto (Tokyo, Chiba, Yokohama, etc.)
Rainy season: Mid-June to mid-July. Regular showers, sometimes heavy.
Typhoon impact: Some risk in September, but usually manageable.
Chubu (Nagano, Mt. Fuji area, etc.)
Rainy season: Similar to Kanto.
Typhoon impact: Depends on altitude—mountain areas may get sudden weather changes.
Kansai (Kyoto, Osaka, Nara)
Rainy season: June–July. Humid with intermittent rain.
Typhoon impact: Moderate risk in September.
Shikoku and Chugoku (Hiroshima, Matsuyama)
Rainy season: June–July, often heavier than Kansai.
Typhoon impact: Higher risk due to coastal exposure.
Kyushu (Fukuoka, Kagoshima)
Rainy season: Starts early June, often intense.
Typhoon impact: Frequent in September, especially in the south.
Okinawa
Rainy season: Starts in May—earliest in Japan.
Typhoon impact: Highest risk nationwide.
Riding note: May–October requires flexible planning.
Can You Still Ride in Rainy Weather?
Yes—in most cases, the tour continues even if it rains. Light to moderate rain doesn't stop the ride. Instead, the route may be adjusted to avoid unsafe areas or reduce distance. Our priority is always safety first.
That said, in cases of heavy rain or strong wind, the ride may be shortened, paused, or even canceled if conditions are judged unsafe. While we rarely postpone to another day, we may instead shift to alternative activities such as local sightseeing or cultural experiences to ensure you still enjoy the day.
You won’t have to worry about navigating these changes alone—our guides handle all safety checks, route changes, and logistics, so you can focus on enjoying the experience.
What Should You Bring? Rain Gear Essentials
Riding in the rain is safe and manageable with the right gear. Here’s what we recommend:
Must-Have Items
Lightweight, breathable rain jacket and pants
Gloves with good grip in wet conditions
Clear-lens or anti-fog cycling glasses
Optional but Useful
Small towel or neck gaiter
Waterproof shoe covers or quick-drying shoes
Plastic bags or waterproof pouches
Note: Bicycles are provided by the tour, so no need to worry about preparing your own rain-ready bike. We also give you advance notice of weather conditions and offer packing tips before the tour starts.
What If a Typhoon Hits?
Typhoons are powerful tropical storms that occasionally affect Japan between August and October, especially in southern and coastal areas like Okinawa and Kyushu.
If a typhoon is approaching:
We do not ride. Your safety comes first.
The itinerary is mostly fixed, so rescheduling is difficult. In case of severe weather, we may cancel the ride for the day or switch to alternative activities like sightseeing.
You’ll be informed in advance. We monitor weather updates and communicate any changes clearly and early.
What we do for you:
We help arrange alternate activities (e.g., sightseeing, cultural experiences).
We assist with accommodation adjustments if necessary.
Most typhoons pass quickly—1–2 days of impact is typical. Tours usually resume immediately after conditions clear.
In short: We prepare for it, so you don’t have to worry.
Tips to Stay Safe and Enjoy Your Ride
Riding in wet weather can still be enjoyable if you adjust your habits and stay aware. Here are key tips:
1. Watch the Road Surface
Be extra careful on painted lines, metal covers, and wet leaves—they become slippery when wet.
Avoid sudden turns or hard braking on these surfaces.
2. Increase Your Braking Distance
Wet conditions reduce braking power.
Start braking earlier than usual and apply pressure gradually.
3. Communicate and Follow the Guide
Listen to your tour guide’s signals and updates.
They adjust pace and route based on real-time conditions.
4. Stay Warm and Dry
Wet clothes + wind = cold.
Keep a dry base layer and change clothes as needed during breaks.
5. Enjoy the Unique Atmosphere
Rain transforms landscapes: misty mountains, glistening roads, quiet countryside.
It’s a different kind of beauty—less crowded and more peaceful.
Don’t Let the Rain Stop Your Adventure
Rain and typhoons are part of Japan’s natural rhythm—but they don’t have to derail your cycling tour. With proper gear, flexible planning, and experienced guides, you can ride safely and confidently, even in wet conditions.
We’re here to handle the logistics, monitor the weather, and adjust the plan when needed—so you can focus on the ride and enjoy the journey.
Come prepared, stay flexible, and you’ll discover that some of the most memorable rides happen under cloudy skies.
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