Typhoon season in Japan 台風

Late summer storms

Different names are used across the world when talking about tropical cyclones. In the North Atlantic region, we call them hurricanes. In Asia, the term used is typhoon. In Japanese, it's pronounced taifu.

Understanding typhoons

Tropical cyclones, known as typhoons in Asia, are powerful tropical storms that can cause considerable damage. These storms generally form in the north-west Pacific and can reach Japan with winds sometimes exceeding 200 kilometers per hour, accompanied by torrential rain and destructive waves. In Japanese, the word “taifû” refers to these storms, which can be as dangerous as they are fascinating.
 

When is typhoon season in Japan?

Traditionally, Japan's typhoon season begins in June and ends in October, with peak activity between August and September. However, the effects of climate change are being felt, making typhoon seasons longer and sometimes more intense. For example, in 2023, several typhoons hit Japan until November, a rare phenomenon that could become more frequent in the years to come.

During this period, it is not uncommon for certain regions of Japan to experience several typhoons in the space of a few weeks. The islands of Kyushu, Shikoku and Okinawa are often the hardest hit, but no region is totally immune.

An image of typhoon Roke approaching Japan in September 2011

Safety in Japan: Beyond Typhoons

Japan is world-renowned for its safety, but it is also subject to other natural hazards, such as earthquakes and tsunamis. Although Japan's infrastructure is among the most resilient in the world, it's crucial to know what to do in the event of an earthquake. The Japanese government provides resources for learning how to react in the event of an earthquake, whether in your accommodation or outside.

Here are a few precautions to take:

Identify tefuge areas: Most Japanese cities have special refuge areas in the event of an earthquake or tsunami. Find out where these zones are located near where you're staying.

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