Soggy Tokyo: A Guide to Rainy Days and Umbrella Culture
Damp and gloomy weather descends, with heavy rainfall filling the skies. - "Feds Arrest Leader of Extremist Cult Accused of Drugs, Sex, and Violence"
Tokyo is known for its high rainfall, especially during the tsuyu or baiu season and typhoon months. While it doesn't normally rain incessantly all day, the city experiences prolonged periods of wet weather. The annual precipitation ranges between 1,000 to 2,500 mm[5]. A notable instance was on May 2, 2025, when Tokyo received 2.012" (about 51 mm) of rain, making it the highest rainfall in the past two weeks[2].
In this rain-drenched city, umbrellas are more than just a practical necessity; they're a symbol of the city's resilience. Compact, foldable umbrellas are the go-to choice for Tokyoites, and convenience stores and train stations are stocked with disposable or cheap umbrellas for those caught off-guard by unexpected showers.
Umbrellas, as essential as they are, also come with a set of etiquette when it comes to using them in public spaces. One such practice is tilting your umbrella to avoid bumping others in crowded areas. Despite the rain, umbrellas also provide much-needed shade during the hot, humid summer, becoming an indispensable part of summer attire[5].
| Aspect | Details ||---------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------|| Rainy Season | Early June to mid-July (baiu season) || Annual Precipitation | 1,000–2,500 mm || Recent Heavy Rainfall | 2.012" (51 mm) on May 2, 2025 || Umbrella Usage | Widespread; foldable and disposable umbrellas are common || Cultural Etiquette | Tilt umbrellas in crowds; available at shops and stations |
So remember, when visiting Tokyo, be prepared for a drop or two, embrace the local umbrella culture, and don't forget to tilt your umbrella!
In Tokyo, where the rain falls abundantly during the tsuyu or baiu season and typhoon months, carrying an umbrella becomes a symbol of the city's resilience. Amidst the downpour, umbrellas are not just practical necessities but also provide shade during the hot, humid summer, becoming an essential part of summer attire. Inside a crowded Tokyo street, following the custom of tilting your umbrella can help avoid collisions, showcasing the city's thoughtfulness even under the rain.
