Every spring, Tokyo's cedar and cypress pollen sets off sneezing, itchy eyes and stuffy noses for nearly half the city. Here's what kafunsho is, when it peaks, and the everyday things that make it bearable.
If you suddenly start sneezing, your eyes itch and your nose won't stop running every spring in Tokyo, you're not alone — and you're probably not catching a cold. This is kafunsho (花粉症), Japan's famous hay fever. It's so common that close to half of Tokyo residents are affected, and plenty of newcomers get it for the first time after moving here, even if they never had allergies back home. The good news: while there's no magic cure, a few simple habits make a real difference.
Kafunsho is an allergy to pollen. In and around Tokyo the main culprits are sugi (スギ, Japanese cedar) and hinoki (ヒノキ, Japanese cypress), both planted heavily in the surrounding mountains after the war. The season runs roughly from February into early May: cedar pollen tends to be heaviest in March, and cypress pollen takes over and peaks around April. Counts are usually worst on warm, dry, windy days — and often spike the day after rain. Typical symptoms are sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, and itchy, watery eyes.
Before you head out, it helps to know how much pollen is in the air that day. The Japan Meteorological Agency (気象庁) explains how forecasts work and points to the weather data behind them, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government runs an allergy information site with measured pollen counts for the city. Many weather apps and TV forecasts also show a daily pollen level for your area in spring. Use it to plan: on a high-pollen day, you might keep the windows shut and save errands for after rain.
Japanese drugstores (ドラッグストア) stock a wide range of over-the-counter hay fever products in spring. Staff often include a licensed pharmacist who can listen to your symptoms and point you to something suitable — tell them it's for kafunsho (花粉症), and don't hesitate to ask. If your symptoms are heavy, last for weeks, or aren't controlled by what you buy over the counter, see a doctor. An 耳鼻科 / 耳鼻咽喉科 (ENT clinic) or an allergy clinic can assess you and discuss stronger or longer-term options. National and Tokyo health guidance suggests it's worth getting set up before the season really ramps up, rather than waiting until you're miserable. It's also worth knowing that seeing a doctor — especially an 耳鼻科 (ENT clinic) — and getting medication through national health insurance can sometimes work out cheaper than buying over-the-counter products at a drugstore, so it can be worth being seen by a professional rather than relying on OTC options alone.
Information, not advice
This guide is general information only — not legal, administrative, tax or other professional advice, and not a filing service. Rules and procedures can change; always confirm with the official window or website. For your specific situation, consult a licensed professional or contact the relevant government office directly.
This article is general information, not medical advice, and is not a substitute for a doctor or pharmacist. In an emergency, call 119.
