Typhoons are a natural part of Japan’s weather cycle, affecting millions of visitors and residents each year. But because they’re so regular, Japan is very well prepared for these extreme weather events. After reading this guide, you will be too.
Remitly is here to make international living and travel easier than ever. In this article we’ll take a look at what you need to know about typhoon season in Japan, including when it happens and what it’s like, and provide some practical advice for safe travel planning.
What is typhoon season in Japan?
Japan’s typhoon season runs from May through November, with activity usually peaking between August and October.
It happens when warm ocean waters and atmospheric conditions in the Pacific Ocean create powerful tropical storms. When the storms hit the mountainous landmass of Japan, they bring heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding.
Japan’s location in the Northwestern Pacific puts it directly in the path of many typhoons. On average, around 18 typhoons at least come close to Japan each year.
Awesome power
To give you a sense of what the storms are like, keep in mind that typhoons, hurricanes, and cyclones are all the same kind of storm. They’re all technically tropical cyclones, and while in the Northwest Pacific they’re called typhoons, they’re called hurricanes in the Atlantic.
The storms can be powerful. In 2024, the Kong-rey Typhoon hit Taiwan and the Philippines before moving on to South Korea and Japan. Winds were measured at almost 160 mph, and nearly 190,000 residents were evacuated from Matsuyama.
Thankfully, occurrences like that are relatively rare. But typhoons are a fact of life in this part of the world and knowing how to prepare for them is important for travelers and Japanese natives alike.
Month-by-month breakdown of typhoon activity
Early season (June and July)
Typhoon season begins in May. However, storms that early in the year are not common compared to later months, so at that time of year Japan usually only experiences a handful of typhoons. Having said that, the effects of climate change are making themselves felt here, and Japan’s typhoon season is lengthening. There are no guarantees about when and how hard they’ll hit.
Typically, the storms build in the Pacific and lose strength before reaching land. This, though, is also Japan’s rainy season, and even a fairly weak storm can intensify that rainfall, leading to flooding.
Peak season (August to October)
The summer is the heart of typhoon season—this is when sea surface temperatures are at their warmest, and that fuels more powerful storms. During this period, Japan is affected by two to three typhoons per month on average, roughly 70% of all the typhoons that hit Japan. These are the strongest storms of the year and are more likely to make direct landfall.
Late season (November)
As ocean temperatures begin to cool, storms become less frequent and less powerful, though they can still happen even in this late season. Indeed they sometimes catch people unprepared because they’ve assumed the season is over.
When do typhoons hit Japan?
From May, typhoons begin to form. However, the number that actually approach Japan is very low through May and June, with almost none actually making landfall. That changes in July, with the risk of landfall risking, peaking in August and September before falling away again in October.
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, on average around three typhoons actually make landfall in Japan each year.
Regional differences across Japan
Your risk of being caught up in a typhoon isn’t the same across the whole country. Just like with hurricanes, some regions are more at risk than others.
Southern Japan (Okinawa, Kyushu)
These regions are right in the typhoon zone. Okinawa endures multiple storms each year, with powerful winds and storm surges that can disrupt transport and utilities. The western coastline of Kyushu is also often impacted because many typhoons turn northward from the Philippines and Taiwan.
Central Japan
If a typhoon survives the southern islands, it’ll often move into Honshu, Japan’s main island and home to many of the largest cities. Usually, the typhoons are weakened by the time they get there, but they’re still capable of causing heavy rain, flooding, and even landslides. The period between August and October, when storms are at their strongest, is the worst time for this.
Northern Japan (Tohoku, Hokkaido)
The northern region is further away from where the storms start, so usually, storms have lost a lot of power by the time they get to this part of Japan. Sometimes, though, late-season storms in September or October will move further north and affect these regions, too.
The typical path for a typhoon is to form in the Western Pacific, to the south of Japan. Then they curve northwest toward Okinawa and Kyushu, weakening as they bend northeast toward Honshu. Often, they turn away from northern Japan. And if they do reach Hokkaido, they’ve usually lost a lot of their power and are downgraded to tropical storms.
Planning your travel during typhoon season
Japan is very good at both predicting and preparing for typhoons, so you don’t necessarily need to change your travel plans. However, it’s something to be aware of when you’re booking your trip.
Best time to visit
If you want to avoid typhoons altogether, the best time to travel to Japan is some time between November and June; the chances of experiencing one at that time of year are extremely low.
If you’re looking for better weather but with a lower typhoon risk, consider early summer and late fall; as we’ve mentioned, typhoons are uncommon in June and tend to be weaker by November. The weather will certainly be better than during the depths of winter, but you should hopefully avoid these powerful storms.
Travel during peak season
Sometimes, you don’t get to choose when you travel; a business trip, for example. If you’re traveling to Japan during peak typhoon season, there are some preparatory steps you can take to lower your risk of problems.
- Keep your plans as flexible as you’re able. Flights, ferries, and trains often get delayed or canceled during severe weather. Booking refundable tickets can help you get your money back if that happens. A flexible itinerary helps reduce stress if your schedule has to change.
- Consider travel insurance. Getting a policy that covers weather-related disruptions can give you peace of mind and help you save money if something does go wrong.
- Choose safe accommodations. Modern reinforced hotels in urban areas are built to withstand strong winds and heavy rainfall.
- Avoid high-risk areas. Island destinations like Okinawa are vulnerable to typhoon impacts. If you’re visiting during peak months, consider inland activities and metropolitan areas where you’ll be more protected.
- Stay informed. Follow local advisories from the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) so you know what’s coming.
With the right preparation, you can feel safe to explore Japan, even during typhoon season.
What to expect during a typhoon
If a typhoon makes landfall in Japan, you can expect heavy rain, extremely strong winds, and widespread transportation delays. Trains and flights will often be canceled, and outdoor attractions and theme parks may close. Floods and power outages are also possible, especially in coastal areas that tend to be hit harder.
Luckily, Japan’s infrastructure is designed to withstand the storms. Newer buildings are reinforced, drainage systems are advanced, and coastal defenses reduce the risk of storm surges. Urban areas, especially in Tokyo and Osaka, are well prepared for typhoon season.
Japan also has one of the world’s most advanced early warning systems. The JMA issues detailed forecasts and alerts—often days in advance. You’ll have plenty of time to prepare or change your plans.
Typhoons can certainly be disruptive. But in Japan, they’re a fact of life, and the country is extremely good at handling these storms. Keep an eye on weather forecasts and notifications, and you should be able to ride out any potential storm on your trip to Japan.
Japan travel; typhoon safety
If a typhoon warning is issued while you’re in Japan, your top priority should be your personal safety.
- Stay indoors. Remain inside study buildings and avoid going out unless you have to. Strong winds and flying debris can make walking hazardous.
- Avoid coastal areas. Places near the coast are vulnerable to high waves and potential flooding. If you’re on the coast, try to get to higher ground.
- Follow local guidance. Listen for announcements in your hotel and in public places. The JMA website offers information in English as well as Japanese. The NHK World app can also provide real-time notifications.
Emergency supplies
If you know a typhoon is coming, try to get hold of:
- Bottled water and light snacks.
- A fully charged phone and a portable charger.
- A flashlight.
- A basic first aid kit.
- Copies of your travel documents in a waterproof pouch.
Transportation and typhoons
Transportation in Japan is famously efficient, but typhoons can have a big impact even on the best-organized systems. Knowing what to expect can help you plan ahead.
- Airlines often cancel flights or reschedule them 12 to 24 hours in advance of a typhoon’s arrival. If you have a ticket booked, your carrier will notify you by email or app, and usually allow free rebooking or refunds if the weather is the cause of interruptions.
- Trains like the famous Shinkansen bullet train and regional rail services may suspend operations during high winds and heavy rain. Japan Railways (JR) will announce service reductions or cancellations in advance, with updates posted in stations and online.
- Ferries and buses are often suspended during a storm warning. Keep an eye on your carrier’s website so that you know what’s going on.
When a typhoon hits, Japanese transportation companies prioritize safety above everything else. Delays and cancellations are certainly inconvenient, but they’re sometimes unavoidable to keep everybody safe. Stay patient and try to be flexible. After all, everyone’s in the same boat.
Travel safety in Japan’s typhoon season
Typhoons can cause a lot of disruption, but they don’t have to derail your trip. If you’re worried about the storms, remember that they peak from August to October, but are possible any time from June to November. Traveling outside of these times means you can almost certainly avoid them.
Even if you do travel in peak typhoon season, some planning and awareness can keep you safe. Be as flexible with your plans as you can, and prioritize safety first. The truth is, Japan gets hit by these storms every year and they know exactly how to deal with them. Follow local guidance, don’t take any unnecessary risks, and you can enjoy this unique country even in typhoon season.
FAQs
When exactly is typhoon season in Japan?
Typhoon season in Japan runs from May to November, with peak season between August and October. August and September have the highest risk of typhoons and the strongest storms. Storms are rarer in November and in June, but they can still happen.
Is it safe to travel to Japan during typhoon season?
Yes. Japan is very well prepared for typhoons, especially in the big cities. Follow local guidance and keep your travel plans flexible, and a typhoon may be nothing more than a nuisance, even if you are unlucky enough to encounter one.
What should I do if a typhoon hits during my visit?
Stay indoors in a substantial, modern building wherever possible. Stay away from the coast and islands, as they’re often the worst-hit. Listen to local guidance, stay away from exposed areas, and wait for the storm to pass.
How far in advance are typhoon warnings issued?
The Japan Meteorological Agency issues warnings up to five days ahead. The long-range forecasts can even help predict typhoons 10 days or more in advance.
Do I need special insurance for typhoon-related travel disruptions?
Sometimes. Check your policy carefully. Some will cover you for injury or illness that’s due to an extreme weather event, while more comprehensive policies may even cover you for travel delays due to extreme weather.