Pollen Allergy in Japan and How to Treat It

As spring approaches, many people in Japan are preparing for hay fever season—a time when pollen fills the air and causes sneezing, itchy eyes and runny noses. In 2025, experts have predicted when and where pollen levels will be at their highest. Here’s what you need to know to stay prepared.

When will pollen (hay fever) season start in Japan?

Cedar pollen (the most common cause of hay fever) will start spreading in early February in southern Japan and reach Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya by mid-February. The Tohoku region (northern Japan) will start seeing pollen in early March.

When will pollen season be at its worst in Japan?

Cedar pollen season will peak from late February to mid-March in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka and Sendai. After that, Hinoki (cypress) pollen will take over, peaking from late March to early April.

This year, because of warmer temperatures, the hinoki pollen season might start earlier than usual.

How do you treat pollen allergies in Japan?

1. Pollen allergy medicine in Japan

Many people manage hay fever or pollen allergies with over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medications in Japan. These help reduce allergy symptoms and make daily life more comfortable.

• Nasal sprays (点鼻薬) like Nasaline and Nazal Spray reduce inflammation in the nose, which helps with stuffy or runny noses, sneezing and itching.
• Antihistamines (抗ヒスタミン薬) like クラリチンEX (Claritin EX), アレグラFX (Allegra FX), and アレジオン20 (Alesion 20), block the effects of allergens and help stop sneezing, runny noses and itchy eyes.
• Decongestants (鼻詰まり薬) like Pabron Ace Pro and Stona EX, shrink swollen nasal tissues, helping you breathe more easily.

Photo credit: Tsuganu Local

2.  Immunotherapy (long-term allergy treatment) for pollen allergies in Japan

If medicine is not enough, allergy shots or tablets (immunotherapy) can help your body become less sensitive to allergens over time.

• Allergy shots (injections given regularly over several years)
• Some English-speaking clinics you can visit: Hongo ENT, Allergy and Voice Clinic, Daimon Medical Clinic, International Healthcare Clinic, Roppongi Hills Clinic, and Sanno Hospital. 
• Sublingual tablets (dissolved under the tongue) for certain allergens, like grass pollen. It’s best for severe hay fever that doesn’t improve with medications and it can provide long-term relief.

3. Natural remedies & lifestyle changes for pollen allergies in Japan

• Nasal saline rinses help wash pollen out of your nose.
• Using air purifiers and keeping windows closed reduces indoor pollen.
• Showering & changing clothes after being outside removes pollen from your body and reduces the chance that the pollen would stick to your furniture.
• Wearing a mask when pollen levels are high can reduce exposure.

Photo credit: Tsunagu Japan

Which pollen allergy treatment in Japan is right for you?

• If you need fast relief, try antihistamines.
• If you have stuffy nose problems, steroid nasal sprays work best.
• If you have severe allergies, consider immunotherapy for long-term improvement.
• If you want a natural option, use saline rinses and avoid pollen exposure.

Before trying any kind of pollen allergy treatment in Japan, visiting a doctor/clinic nearby is the best option, as they can assess which type would work best for you.

Stay prepared and comfortable during pollen allergy season in Japan

Pollen season can be tough, but by staying informed and taking the right precautions, you can reduce your symptoms and enjoy spring in Japan. Keep an eye on pollen levels and take care of yourself during the hay fever season.

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