Blog

#92

Surviving Japan’s August Weather Rollercoaster

by Rachel Anne

If you're an OFW in Japan, you already know : August doesn’t play fair.

One day it’s scorching like an oven, the next it’s pouring rain like there's a typhoon auditioning for drama queen. And in between? That sticky, heavy feeling like you're being slow cooked in your own uniform.

Welcome to August in Japan—a true test of your patience, your wardrobe, and your deodorant.

So how do we survive this chaotic weather without losing our cool (literally and emotionally)? Here’s how I’ve been navigating this rollercoaster, maybe it can help you too :

Learn to Dress Like a Local

Japanese summer fashion isn’t just cute—it’s strategic.

Light, breathable fabrics (hello linen and cotton).
UV-blocking sleeves and hats (yes, even if it looks like you're from Naruto).
Umbrella that doubles as sunshade.
A small fan or uchiwa in your bag (because girl, it's survival).

Pro tip : Uniqlo’s AIRism line is basically a lifesaver.

Image Reference : https://www.japanfortwo.travel/best-japanese-summer-outfits-2024-tiktoks-latest-style-obsession

Never Trust the Sky-Check the App!

Japan’s weather changes FAST. One minute it’s sunny, then boom—ulan na parang may drama.

Use weather apps like :

Yahoo Weather (Japanese but accurate)
Tenki.jp
Or even just Google Weather with your city

Always carry a foldable umbrella in your bag. Trust me—it's not just rain, it's WET-WET.

Fight the Natsubate (Summer Fatigue)

Ever felt super tired even if you’re not doing much? That’s natsubate, a.k.a. summer fatigue.

Stay hydrated (Japanese barley tea or Pocari Sweat is your friend).
Eat lighter meals (cold noodles, tofu, fruits).
Don’t skip meals, kahit na tinatamad ka. Your body’s using extra energy to cope with heat.

Self-care is a must. Even if it's just staying indoors with the A/C and your favorite P-pop playlist.

Image Reference : https://rotacloud.com/blog/why-natsubate-might-soon-be-a-common-workplace-term

Beat the Heat Without Breaking the Bank

Japan’s heat can tempt you to turn on the aircon 24/7—but hello, electric bill.

Use cooling sheets or body wipes from Daiso.
Invest in a portable fan or cooling towel (Lazada Japan, Amazon, or Don Quijote).
Open your windows early morning for natural cool air before the heat kicks in.

Watch Your Mood-Weather Affects Your Mind Too

Rainy days + extreme heat = grumpy OFW mood activated.

It’s okay to feel tired, irritated, or lonely during this season.
Find small joys : a trip to the konbini, cold coffee, a funny TikTok, a clean room
Talk to friends. Or write it out. Or hey—comment here. You're not the only one feeling this.

August in Japan is a strange mix of beauty and struggle—summer festivals, fireworks, and flowers... and also sweat, rain, and that smell on the train.

But we adapt. We learn. We hydrate.

To my fellow OFWs out here : you’re doing amazing, even if the weather isn’t.

We might be in different prefectures, but we’re riding the same rollercoaster.

Hold on tight—and bring your umbrella.

Posted : 04 August 2025