What to Wear for Motorcycle Touring in Japan – Spring & Summer Guide
Motorcycle Touring in Japan | Seasonal Riding Gear Tips
Japan has four distinct seasons, and preparing the right riding gear for each time of year will make your motorcycle tour much more enjoyable.
Temperature differences can be extreme: winter can drop below freezing, while midsummer temperatures may exceed 35°C. From spring to early summer, humidity can be high, which increases physical fatigue.
Because Japan stretches from north to south, the climate varies greatly—Hokkaido in the north can be cool even when Kyushu in the south is hot. For this reason, it’s important to prepare your gear according to the regions you plan to tour.
Below is an overview of the gear I personally use when touring in Japan.
I hope these tips help make your ride more comfortable and enjoyable.
Summer (June–August)
June – Rainy season in parts of Japan
June brings the rainy season to Kyushu and Shikoku, with rising humidity and frequent showers.
Meanwhile, Kanto, Tohoku, and Hokkaido enter ideal touring weather.
A jacket with ventilation AND waterproofing is strongly recommended.
Recommended gear:
- Waterproof jacket with ventilation
- Quick-dry base layers
- Ventilated summer gloves
July – Hot across western Japan
In western Japan, July is full summer. Many regions exceed 30°C.
However, high-altitude areas, Tohoku, and Hokkaido remain cool in the early morning and evening.
A mesh jacket is ideal, but you’ll need a windproof inner layer when riding through cooler mountains.
Wearing a rain jacket on top of a mesh jacket is also effective against wind chill.
Recommended gear:
- Mesh jacket
- Windproof inner layer
- Mesh gloves
August – Extremely hot in most regions
August is extremely hot across Japan—often unsuitable for long touring unless you head north or into the mountains (Hokkaido, Nagano, Tohoku).
Temperatures above 35°C are common in lowlands, so take precautions against heatstroke, and avoid riding during the hottest hours of the afternoon.
Even in hot conditions, avoid riding in only a T-shirt—strong sunlight can cause severe sunburn, and reduced protection increases injury risk.
A light mesh jacket remains essential.
Leather boots may feel too hot, so choose well-ventilated summer riding shoes.
Recommended gear:
- Mesh jacket
- Ventilated riding shoes
- Quick-dry base layers
If you’re unsure about what riding gear to prepare for your motorcycle tour in Japan, Mototourist is here to help.
We can advise you on the best clothing and equipment for each season and region in Japan — from base layers and jackets to gloves and riding boots.
If needed, Mototourist can also arrange and prepare essential riding gear for you in Japan, so you can enjoy your trip safely and comfortably without worrying about equipment.
Feel free to contact us anytime with questions or requests.