Kyoto sits around Osaka Bay in Japan’s Kansai region, where the tsuyu rain front in June and July and the typhoon season from August through October together produce most of the year’s rainfall.
Set in a basin surrounded by mountains, the former imperial capital’s rivers, including the Kamo, can rise quickly when heavy rain falls over the surrounding hills. The dense, low-lying urban area around the bay means heavy rain can pool quickly in built-up districts, and radar is widely used alongside the Japan Meteorological Agency’s official warnings to track approaching rain bands in real time. Learn more: Hurricane Season Radar Guide · Open the full Rain Map
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it raining in Kyoto right now?
The live radar map above shows precipitation over Kyoto in real time. Blue shades indicate light rain, while yellow, orange, and red mark heavier downpours. If no colored echoes appear over Kyoto, no significant rain is currently being detected.
How often does the Kyoto rain radar update?
The radar refreshes continuously, typically every few minutes, so the map reflects current conditions rather than an hours-old forecast. Press play to animate the most recent frames.
Can I see if a storm is heading toward Kyoto?
Yes. Press play on the radar to animate the last few hours of rainfall and watch which way rain cells over Japan are moving – the clearest way to judge whether a shower will reach Kyoto or pass by.
Is this Kyoto rain radar free to use?
Yes, completely free – no account, app download, or sign-up required. It works in any browser on desktop and mobile.