After enjoying really great weather over the past few weeks, things are looking quite different now. As is typical for this month, the rainy season has begun, and will be with us for a few weeks. Fortunately, it doesn’t usually rain quite as much in our part of the country, but the beautiful blue skies we’ve been enjoying lately will now be hidden behind thick clouds for a while.
The rainy season in Japan, called “Tsuyu” (梅雨), can last from early June to mid-July, depending on the region. During this time, warm, humid air from the south moves across the country, leading to frequent, prolonged rainfall, high humidity, and hot, muggy weather. The rainy season particularly affects the regions of Honshū, Shikoku, and Kyūshū in the south of the country, while Hokkaidō in the north is usually spared.
Of course, the rainy season also has its positive aspects. It is quite important for agriculture, as it ensures a water supply for the rice paddies. However, the heavy rain can also lead to flooding and landslides, which are often made worse by the first typhoons that begin to hit Japan during these weeks.
During this time of year, many Japanese people are out and about wearing rain gear, carrying umbrellas, and wearing special shoes, with the umbrella in particular being an essential item. Mother Nature in contrary is showing off her lush, green side right now, and seems to be enjoying the warm, humid weather.
Hydrangeas, in particular—which are currently in full bloom—are thriving thanks to the abundant rain and the current warm temperatures, and their thick fluffy blossoms can be seen glowing not only in parks and gardens but also along the roadsides.
Once the Tsuyu season ends, summer really kicks off, and it gets quite hot for several weeks. Many travelers to Japan who visit the Land of the Rising Sun for the first time in the height of summer quickly seek refuge in air-conditioned buildings to escape the sweltering summer heat.
But we’re not quite there yet—summer is only just beginning. Compared to last week, it’s actually gotten cooler today. Which is quite pleasant, at least at night and in the mornings. We still don’t need air conditioning at home, though things are quite different at work. Like everyone else, I’ve gotten used to this blessing of modern technology, and I’m glad that we humans come up with something useful every now and then.
Let’s see how long the rainy season lasts this year. As far as I’m concerned, things can move a little slower, and I would be happy if the sun comes out from time to time. But in the end, it all will go by way too fast, and we’ll be looking back longingly. Some things just do repeat themselves...
