The Elegant Beauty of Japan’s Rainy Season

The early summer rain season, known as “Tsuyu” in Japan, offers a uniquely enchanting experience among Japan’s four seasons. While rain seasons elsewhere might be viewed with reluctance, the Japanese have long embraced this period as a time of exceptional aesthetic beauty and cultural significance.

・Hydrangeas: Nature’s Jewels of the Rainy Season

From June to July, distinguished gardens come alive with spectacular displays of hydrangeas in full bloom. At the historic Hamarikyu Gardens and Rikugien Gardens in Tokyo, rain-kissed hydrangea petals shimmer with heightened vibrancy. These beautiful flowers, perfectly integrated into Japan’s urban scenery.
Our staff’s particular favourite is the hydrangeas that bloom around Sangenjaya Station on the Setagaya Line—the very route that leads to Gōtokuji Temple, renowned for its beckoning cats. When captured alongside the charming two-carriage trains that serve as beloved symbols of this neighbourhood, these blossoms create photographs of remarkable atmospheric beauty.

・Exceptional Rainy Season Experiences

Experience the whimsical charm of ‘Teru-teru-bozu’ at RISONARE Yatsugatake, where colourful traditional Japanese rain dolls create a mesmerising display. These enchanting figures, deeply rooted in Japanese culture, are traditionally hung to wish for clear skies during the rainy season. At RISONARE, these charming dolls are crafted sustainably from reclaimed umbrellas, creating an artistic installation that perfectly blends tradition with modern environmental consciousness.

For those seeking an authentic artisanal experience, Tsujikura, a prestigious umbrella maker in Kyoto, offers exclusive workshops where you can craft your own traditional Japanese umbrella (‘wagasa’). This centuries-old establishment provides a rare opportunity to create a bespoke piece under the guidance of master craftsmen. Your handcrafted umbrella becomes not just a practical accessory, but a unique work of art, perfect for elegant strolls through Japan’s atmospheric rainy season.

The rainy season embodies Japan’s sophisticated aesthetic sensibility and harmonious relationship with nature. We invite you to discover the distinctive charm of this season, where every raindrop enhances the refined beauty of Japanese culture.