Kyoto’s rainy season (tsuyu) hits between early June and mid-July. Expect humidity, scattered showers, and occasional heavy rain—but don’t let that stop you. With the right gear and a few insider tips, you can still explore the city comfortably. In fact, some of Kyoto’s most beautiful scenes—moss gardens, temple roofs in the mist, glowing hydrangeas—only shine in wet weather.
Here’s how to prep, what to wear, and where to go when the skies turn gray.
Table of Contents
Why is the Rainy Season in Japan Called Tsuyu?
Tsuyu (梅雨) literally means “plum rain” in Japanese. The name comes from the fact that the season typically coincides with the ripening of plums in early summer. The characters used—梅 (ume, plum) and 雨 (ame, rain)—reflect this seasonal overlap. Historically, it also captures the poetic connection the Japanese make between nature and everyday life.
Tsuyu usually lasts from early June to mid-July across most of Japan, bringing weeks of high humidity, frequent showers, and cloudy skies. While it might sound dreary, it’s a meaningful part of the seasonal cycle—and essential for the growth of Kyoto’s lush summer greenery and iconic hydrangeas.
6 Tips in Rainy Season
Bring (or Buy) the Right Umbrella
Don’t rely on cheap convenience store umbrellas unless you’re in a pinch. They’re fine short-term, but they’re flimsy in wind and fill up trash bins after storms. Get the sturdy one instead.
Best places to buy a quality umbrella in Kyoto:
- Loft (Kawaramachi or Kyoto Station): Good selection of stylish, windproof options.
- Muji: Minimalist, reliable, compact umbrellas that fit easily in your day bag.
- Don Quijote (Shijo-Kawaramachi): Budget-friendly, with fun prints and all sizes.
- Department stores (Daimaru, Takashimaya): If you want a sturdier or more elegant option.
Rental tip:
Some hotels offer free umbrella rentals at the front desk. Many hostels and guesthouses also keep a stash by the entrance—just return it when you’re done.
Wear the Right Shoes (Seriously)
Kyoto streets flood easily and temple paths can get slippery. Sandals might sound smart in the rain—but if you’re walking a lot, go for waterproof sneakers or hiking shoes with grip. If your shoes do get soaked:
- Daiso or Seria (100 yen shops): Sell disposable rain shoe covers and absorbent insoles.
- Uniqlo and ABC Mart: Good if you need to buy fresh socks or backup footwear.
Tip:
Many ryokan and hotels in Kyoto provide a basic shoe dryer or newspaper to stuff inside wet shoes overnight. Don’t be afraid to ask.
Pack Smart for Wet Weather
Here’s what you should always have in your bag during the rainy season:
- Foldable umbrella (or compact rain poncho)
- Small towel or handkerchief: Available everywhere in Kyoto—especially at souvenir shops.
- Plastic bag for wet items: Keep your electronics or a change of socks safe and dry.
- Quick-dry layers: Avoid denim or heavy fabrics—they take forever to dry in humid weather.
Use Covered Walkways and Underground Paths
When the rain really comes down, Kyoto’s underground arcades are your best friend. You can walk long stretches while staying completely dry.
- Kyoto Station Underground Mall (Porta): Tons of food, shops, and access to JR/local lines.
- Shijo-Kawaramachi to Karasuma Underground Walkway: Connects department stores, cafes, and train stations.
- Aeon Mall Kyoto (near Kyoto Station): Good rainy day escape for food, movies, or shopping.
- Shinkyogoku Street or Teramachi Kyogoku Street: In these streets, you can access anything from an antique shop to a modern cafe under the roof.
Choose Indoor-Friendly Attractions
If the forecast looks rough, plan ahead with these reliable indoor spots:
- Kyoto Railway Museum & Kyoto Aquarium: Both fully covered and family-friendly.
- Kyoto National Museum: Excellent rainy-day choice for culture, with modern facilities.
- Traditional tea houses (Gion, Higashiyama): Rain adds to the calm atmosphere.
- Depachika (department store food halls): Sampling Kyoto sweets and bento in comfort.
Don’t Skip the Outdoors Entirely
A drizzle can make Kyoto even more beautiful—especially places like:
- Sanzen-in Temple (Ohara): Lush moss gardens come alive in the rain.
- Mimuroto-ji Temple (Uji): Hydrangeas peak in June—best viewed with a light shower.
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Less crowded and beautifully misty after rain.
Pro tip: Get a rain cover for your phone or camera. You’ll want photos.
Conclusion
Kyoto in the rainy season is less about avoiding the weather and more about adapting to it. With the right gear and smart stops, you’ll avoid crowds, discover quieter corners of the city, and experience temples and gardens at their most serene.
Forget the image of travel being ruined by rain—in Kyoto, it might actually improve it.
The rain can’t stop the Kyoto Insight walking tour! Our local guides walk you through with a bunch of knowledge and insider tips. Book your spot and get the most out of Kyoto’s sacred shrines and temples.
FAQ Section
Q1. Where can I buy a good umbrella in Kyoto?
Loft (in Kawaramachi or Kyoto Station) has a great range of compact, stylish, wind-resistant umbrellas. Muji is another solid choice for minimalist, high-quality designs. Don Quijote is perfect for budget buys or fun prints. Department stores like Daimaru and Takashimaya carry premium, durable umbrellas if you’re looking to splurge. You’ll find one within walking distance in most shopping areas.
Q2. Are rain ponchos better than umbrellas?
It depends on what you’re doing. Ponchos are better for hiking, temple gardens, or when it’s windy—especially since some paths are narrow or tree-covered. Umbrellas are more convenient for urban exploring, as they’re quick to open and close between stops. If you’re carrying a camera or bag, having both on hand gives you options.
Q3. What should I do if my shoes get soaked?
Head to a Daiso or Seria (100 yen shops) for quick fixes like shoe covers, absorbent insoles, or even slipper-like indoor shoes. If you’re near Kyoto Station or Shijo, Uniqlo or ABC Mart will have fresh socks or waterproof shoe options. At night, dry them out using your hotel’s newspaper stash—or ask the front desk for a shoe dryer (many business hotels offer them quietly).
Q4. Is it worth visiting Kyoto in tsuyu?
Absolutely. You’ll experience a quieter, softer version of Kyoto, with lush gardens, moody skies, and far fewer crowds. Temple roofs glisten, hydrangeas bloom, and the mist adds an atmospheric beauty you won’t get in other seasons. Just come prepared with rain gear and flexible plans.
Q5. Do attractions close in the rain?
Almost never. Kyoto’s temples, shrines, museums, cafes, and shops stay open during rain. What may change is access to some outdoor garden paths if they become slippery, but closures are rare. It’s smart to have a mix of indoor and outdoor options in your daily plan.
Q6. Will my photos still turn out well in rainy weather?
Yes—and in many cases, they’ll be even better. Wet stone paths and temple tiles shine under rain. Mist adds depth and drama to landscape shots. Hydrangeas, moss, and bamboo look more vivid. Just protect your phone or camera with a waterproof sleeve or zip bag, and embrace the softer light.
Q7. What should I wear during the rainy season?
Stick to breathable, quick-dry clothes. Avoid heavy denim or cotton—they stay wet for hours. Waterproof sneakers or sandals with grip are ideal. Pack a lightweight raincoat or poncho, and carry a small towel or cloth (you’ll find beautiful ones sold all over Kyoto). Don’t forget a spare plastic bag for storing wet items or socks.
Q8. How can I stay dry while getting around the city?
Use Kyoto’s underground paths and covered arcades. Porta at Kyoto Station connects you to shops, restaurants, and the subway without stepping outside. The Shijo-Karasuma area has underground walkways that link department stores and train lines. You can explore a big chunk of central Kyoto dry if you plan your routes well.
