Japan is a small country located near China and Russia, two huge land masses which have a strong influence on Japan’s climate.
Unlike New Zealand or Australia, Japan is not surrounded by vast open seas. In Japan’s case, two large land masses send hot air in summer, and cold air in winter across Japan causing seasons which are very distinct. Often Japanese people ask foreigners “does your country have four seasons?” This seems a puzzling question to many, what country doesn’t have four seasons? In fact what they are asking is whether or not your country has four distinct seasons like Japan.
Summer is very hot and humid with lots of sunshine, but also typhoons that come up from the tropics bringing with them heavy wind and rain. Autumn is cool, and with it comes ‘Koyo’ – the autumn colours. The stark temperature difference between the heat of summer and the coolness of autumn turns many leaves a bright red. Parks fill with people enjoying their beauty. Winter is extremely cold in all parts of Japan other than Okinawa and some of the most southern areas of mainland Japan such as Kagoshima. Hokkaido, Niigata and Nagano areas receive huge dumps of some of the worlds best snow. This attracts people from all over the world, making Japan one of the best ski and snowboarding locations in the world. Nagano held the winter Olympics in 1998. Last but not least, spring. Spring is perhaps the most iconic season due to the cherry blossoms which bloom throughout the country. The blooming of the cherry blossoms is closely followed on TV, and businessmen, families, and friends gather underneath them to enjoy food, alcohol and conversation – it is one of the most awaited events of the Japanese social calendar, and is called ‘hanami’ in Japanese.
If I had to choose one word to best describe Japan’s climate, I would choose either “variety” or “extremes” High temperatures in summer. The coldness of winter. The cherry blossoms in Spring, and ‘Koyou’ in Autumn. Each so different and unique.
So now when Japanese say they have “four seasons” and ask whether your country does too, you know what they mean. Ask them about their ‘hanami’ parties, that would be a great way to start a conversation.
The great thing about Japan’s climate is that it offers something for everyone! How about working at a Japanese resort to improve your Japanese, and get a better understanding of the culture while you do so? If you like the beach, the hot weather in summer (in particular Okinawa, a tropical island chain south of mainland Japan) provides the ideal place for you to mix study, fun, adventure and work together in a once in a life-time opportunity. If skiing or snowboarding is more your thing, the world class snow starts dumping in late November, and we have winter resort jobs available from December. Come and experience Japanese Ski Resort life this year. You won’t regret it! If it sounds like it might be for you, apply at our website and start working at a resort in Japan this year!