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Best (and Worst) Time to Visit Japan 2024, Cherry Blossom Time

Japan is a year-round popular destination with four distinct seasons. Each season offers a variety of charming scenery and culture-rich events for you to enjoy.

The best times to visit Japan are in spring (March to May) for cherry blossoms and in autumn (September to November) for colorful foliage. Both periods have pleasant weather.

Japan Weather and Climate

The worst time to visit japan.

• Best Time for Cherry Blossoms

Best Time for Pleasant Weather and Fewer Crowds

• Best Time for Cheapest Prices
• Travel Guide by Month

The first trip to Japan mainly includes visits to the central three cities: Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. The following two weather and rainfall infographics are based on these three cities.

• Sharon Huang (Japan Expert)
• 6 years of travel advisor experience
• Has helped 5,000+ clients

Summer (June to August) is the rainny season in Japan. It is hot and humid, with an average high temperature of about 31°C (88°F), which can feel like 41°C (106°F). It is considered to be the worst time to visit Japan, but it doesn't rain every day so it doesn't really hinder travel.

Plenty of indoor activities, such as ninja experiences and sushi-making, also minimize the impact of rainfall and humid heat. Additionally, July and August are the festival seasons in Japan, making it a good time for families with kids to immerse themselves in authentic Japanese traditions.

June is a better time to travel for families compared to July and August, as it offers slightly cooler weather and fewer crowds (the official summer vacation in Japan begins in July).

Just contact us if you are thinking of a trip to Japan. We'd like to create a wonderful trip based on your needs and interests, whatever the weather.

Best Time for Cherry Blossoms in Japan

• March to April: 10–18°C (50–64°F)

Cherry blossoms in spring (March to May) are Japan's most beautiful scenery, and you can admire them almost everywhere in Japan. They usually reach full bloom from late March to early April (March 24th to April 2nd), making the spring or Easter vacation the perfect time to travel to Japan.

If you want to avoid the large crowds and enjoy slightly lower prices in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka , the week before full bloom (around March 16th to 23rd) is your best time. Except for some trees where the cherry blossoms have not yet fully opened, the scenery during this time is almost as stunning as it is when the blossoms are in full bloom.

If you want to appreciate the cherry blossoms in April to early May with fewer crowds and lower costs , Hokkaido, the northernmost part of Japan, is an excellent destination for you. It is also the perfect place to experience Japanese indigenous culture. The best time to view cherry blossoms in Sapporo is in mid to late April (around April 15th to 20th).

Suggested reading: How to Plan a Japan Cherry Blossom Trip

Hotels around popular attractions are always booked up quickly, contact us at least 3 months in advance to have the best chance of room availability and choice.

1) May is the transitional month from spring to summer in Japan. It's warmer and has clear days, with an average temperature of 15–23°C (58–73°F). It is advisable to avoid Japan's "Golden Week" public holiday from April 29th to May 5th. After May 7th, it is a perfect time to travel as the crowds and travel costs decrease.

2) September and October are cooler months in Japan , the average temperature range from 18-25°C (64-77°F). While there are about ten rainy days in September, there are very few visitors during this time. In October, the number of sunny days increases, and it is also when the maple leaves start turning red, creating beautiful autumn scenery.

Get more ideas about best time to visit Tokyo , Kyoto , and Osaka >>>

Best Time for Cheapest Prices in Japan

Winter (December to February) is considered the cheapest time to visit Japan, except during Christmas and New Year. It is cold and dry, with an average daily high of 10°C (50°F). It is not too cold to travel, making it the ideal time to relax in the hot springs at a Japanese-style ryokan inn and take in the unique scene of snow monkeys.

Just let us know your interests and requirements , and we can help make it happen.

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Japan Weather Guide by Months

Click the sign of each month to check the travel guide information.

January and February: Cold and Dry

• Average temperature: 2–10℃ (36–50°F)
• Average rainfall: 70 mm (3 in)

January and February in Japan have cold weather with more clear days, but it is not too cold to travel. Top experiences in Japan in winter include soaking in hot springs, watching snow monkeys bathing in onsen hot springs, appreciating gassho-zukuri farmhouses (their steep thatched roofs named after 'praying hands' are extremely charming when covered in snow and illuminated during winter nights), and skiing in Hokkaido.

Festivals and events: New Year is the most important festival in Japan in January. You could experience a bell-ringing ceremony at a shrine to pray for luck in the coming year in a traditional Japanese way.

Get more ideas about plan a winter trip to Japan >>>

March and April: Best of Cherry Blossoms

• Average temperature: 7–19℃ (45–66°F)
• Average rainfall: 110 mm (4 in)

March and April, the cherry blossom season, is one of the best times to travel to Japan, thanks to the comfortable weather, clear days, and the most attractive scenery.

The cherry blossoms are generally in full bloom from late March to early April. Imagine wearing a kimono to take pictures or having a picnic under the cherry trees with your family/partner and watching the petals flutter in the breeze. It would definitely make some memorable moments.

Festivals and events in March and April: Hanami is a traditional term for viewing cherry blossoms, and it is the most popular activity in spring in Japan. Many traditional ryokans and excellent guides are also fully booked in advance, so we recommend you make your decision at least 3 months in advance. Our Japan expert would customized the trip based on your group size, budget, and requirements.

May: Warm and Sunny

• Average temperature: 15–23℃ (59–73°F)
• Average rainfall: 140 mm (6 in)

May is warmer and the skies are clear. The Golden Week (typically from April 29th to May 5th) is a public holiday in Japan and many Japanese choose to travel during this time. The crowds and costs tend to decrease after May 10th, making it a perfect time to visit Japan.

June: Coolest Summer Month

• Average temperature: 19–26℃ (66–79°F)
• Average rainfall: 178 mm (7 in)

June is the start of summer and the plum rain season. Rainfall is sometimes in the form of a steady drizzle, and it doesn't rain every day. It's suitable to wear both long sleeves and short sleeves to cater to the varying weather conditions.

June is a better month to spend your summer vacation, especially for families with school-age children. You could enjoy cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and favorable prices compared to July and August.

Check more details about plan a summer trip to Japan >>>

July and August: Best Time for Festivals and Fireworks Celebrations

• Average temperature: 24–31℃ (75–88°F)
• Average rainfall: 163 mm (6 in)

July and August are hot and humid in Japan. Japan offers abundant indoor activities inside air-conditioned buildings , such as ninja experiences, pottery making, and Pokémon Center fun. This helps to minimize worries about the heat and rain. Additionally, taking a private tour in a private air-conditioned car could help to minimize the inconvenience caused by rainfall.

Festivals and events in July and August: Both months host culture-rich festival celebrations and grand fireworks celebrations, such as the Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival in Tokyo, the Gion Festival in Kyoto, and Tenjin Matsuri in Osaka. These lively and amazing celebrations allow you and your kids to experience authentic float parades, enjoy the colorful fireworks in the cool summer breeze, and feel the cultural atmosphere deeply.

September and October: Cooler Weather with Fewer Crowds

• Average temperature: 17–24℃ (63–75°F)
• Average rainfall: 164 mm (6 in)

The weather becomes cooler in September and October, and typhoons sometimes hit Japan, bringing heavy rain and strong winds, especially in September. It does not rain every day (about 10 days a month) and it tends to be drier in October.

It's the low season to travel to Japan so you could expect fewer crowds and cheaper costs. If you are traveling in September, it is important to keep your itinerary flexible in case of flight delays or cancellations.

November: Best Time to Visit for Colorful Autumn Foliage

• Average temperature: 9–17℃ (48–63°F)
• Average rainfall: 86 mm (3 in)

November in Japan is one of the best times to travel due to the pleasant weather and many dry days. During this month, the whole country explodes with colors. You could appreciate red, orange, and golden autumn foliage scenery throughout Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and other parts of Japan.

December: Perfect for Soaking in Hot Springs and Celebrating Christmas

• Average temperature: 5–11℃ (41–52°F)
• Average rainfall: 65 mm (3 in)

Japan in December is not too cold. It's the best time for you to experience unique winter activities , such as soaking in the hot springs to enjoy the snow scenery, watching the snow monkeys bathe in their own "onsen" (hot spring bath), and appreciating the gassho-zukuri farmhouses' lighting at night.

Festivals and events in December: Japan is an excellent destination for families to celebrate Christmas in. Eye-catching Christmas illuminations and a fancy Christmas feast would help to make a Japan vacation a great experience for you and your family.

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The Best, Worst, and Most Affordable Times to Visit Japan

Whether you want to see the cherry blossoms or avoid the crowds, these are the best times to visit Japan.

A snowy getaway in Hokkaido, a beach vacation in Okinawa, or a photography trip to capture cherry blossoms in Tokyo — the best time to visit Japan depends entirely on what you want to do when you arrive.

As a country with a seemingly endless amount of activities and festivals on offer throughout the year, there really isn't a bad time to visit. But if you're interested in shrine-hopping in Kyoto, seeing the pink hues of cherry blossoms, or gazing at fall foliage, you'll want to carefully time your visit. Here are the tourist seasons to be aware of when planning your trip.

• High Season: March to May and September to November
• Shoulder Seasons:  June to August and December
• Low Season:  January to March

Use this guide to find the perfect time for your dream trip to Japan.

Best Times to Visit Japan for Smaller Crowds

Travelers from all over the world come to Japan to admire the cherry blossoms, so it should come as no surprise that sakura season (late March to April) marks the busiest time for tourism. Domestic travelers also take advantage of Golden Week (a series of four national holidays in Japan) from the end of April to the beginning of May. You'll want to avoid visiting during that time, unless you meticulously plan ahead, since trains, hotels, and sightseeing spots can often be overcrowded or booked out entirely. Stunning foliage tends to draw crowds in the autumn, especially when the leaves reach their colorful peak between mid-October and early November.

If you're looking to avoid the crowds, plan your visit during the rainy season, which typically begins in June and lasts until mid-July. Though this period tends to be humid and drizzly, it's one of the best times to enjoy the popular tourist spots without the crowds. Japan is also quieter between January and March, making it a perfect time to pair sightseeing with snow sports and onsen visits.

Best Times to Visit Japan for Good Weather

Japan, while not especially large, is surprisingly varied when it comes to weather. Frigid winters at the northernmost tip of Hokkaido make the subtropical islands of southern Okinawa seem worlds away. The rainy season typically runs from early June to mid-July throughout most of the country — Tokyo included — except in Okinawa where showers begin in early May. Meanwhile, in Hokkaido, summertime brings mild temperatures and blue skies.

If you aren't hitting the ski slopes, March to May and September to November are generally considered the best times to visit the country for pleasant weather. That's when travelers can find the iconic cherry blossoms that seem straight out of a postcard, or, on the other hand, vivid autumnal leaves. During these seasons, rainfall is minimal, skies are clear, and temperatures are mild, ranging from 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit most days.

For those not averse to heat and humidity, summer brings a different tempo to Japan. It's a time of year perfect for exploring nature — ideally, somewhere cool up a mountain or as far north as possible. The lusciously cooler climes of Hokkaido are heaven in the summer, with rainbow-bright flower fields and countless outdoor activities, from hiking to horseback riding.

In the winter, the northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido is undeniably the best place to ski or snowboard, but areas outside of Tokyo, such as Niigata, are only a Shinkansen ride away and boast great alpine resorts. Those who prefer the warmth would do best to fly south to Okinawa during the winter for a more subtropical climate.

Best Times to Visit Japan for Lower Prices

Japan has a reputation for being a pricey destination, but there are times of year when it's less expensive to visit. During the low season, between January and March, you may be able to find deals on airfare and hotel rooms. Prices tend to spike during the holiday season, especially around the New Year, so it's best to avoid the beginning of January if you're trying to save money.

Costs rise again in late March and April for the peak cherry blossom season and remain high throughout the spring and summer. For your best bet of scoring reasonably priced accommodations while also enjoying mild weather, aim to visit in September or October.

Best Times to Visit Tokyo Disneyland

Spring and autumn are generally the best, most temperate times of year to visit Tokyo Disneyland. It's worth avoiding weekends and national holidays — particularly Golden Week, which is one of the busiest periods at the theme park. The extreme heat in July and August can make it difficult to enjoy outdoor attractions. On the other hand, the temperatures rarely exceed 50 degrees in January and February, making those months less popular.

The period from mid-September through the beginning of December offers a combination of pleasant weather, thinner crowds, and seasonal entertainment. Spooky decorations and fall-themed events can be enjoyed in the weeks leading up to Halloween. Starting in November, the theme park celebrates the holiday season with its Christmas at Tokyo Disney Resort programming, which includes magical parades, characters in festive costumes, and heart-warming decorations that help offset the chill in the air.

Best Time to Visit Japan for Cherry Blossoms

If you're hoping to time your visit to Japan with the peak cherry blossom season, bear in mind that the bloom dates vary depending on the weather. The cherry blossom front — meticulously studied and broadcasted across the country — edges its way up, starting at the southernmost tip of Japan as early as January. The best times for cherry blossoms in Kyoto, Tokyo, and the surrounding regions are often from the last week of March to the first week of April. And for more northerly cities such as Sapporo? Don't expect to see any pink at least until May.

Best Times to Visit Japan for Food Lovers

Japan is a great destination for food lovers year-round — but it's also seasonal. So, if you have a favorite Japanese cuisine or ingredient, it's worth finding out when to visit to avoid missing out completely. Summertime treats include light, cool sōmen noodles, kakigōri shaved ice, and delicious unagi (eel); autumn is heaven for matsutake mushrooms, sweet potatoes, and sanma (Pacific saury); winter is all about warming nabe hot pots, citrus fruits, and kaki (persimmon); and spring goes hand in hand with sea bream, takenoko (bamboo shoots), and sakura mochi rice cakes.

Worst Times to Visit Japan

While there's no bad time to visit Japan, some months are worse than others, depending on your goals. If pleasant weather is a priority, avoid the rainy season, which typically runs from early June to mid-July throughout Japan (except in Okinawa, where it begins in May). This period is often preceded by extreme heat and humidity, with cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto being especially unbearable during the peak summer months of July and August.

Those looking to save money and avoid crowds should steer clear of Golden Week, which runs from the end of April to the beginning of May. This is when many domestic travelers take their holidays, so expect higher prices, less availability at hotels, and larger crowds.

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Best Time to Visit Japan: When to Go & When to Avoid!

Home » Blog » Travel Tips » Best Time to Visit Japan: When to Go & When to Avoid!

Choosing the best time of year to visit Japan can be downright overwhelming. Each of Japan’s 4 distinct seasons has its draws and drawbacks (some more than others!). We’re going to break down exactly what to expect during winter, spring, summer, and fall so you can choose the best time to visit Japan based on your travel style and interests.

Japan has four distinct seasons: You’ve got the famed cherry blossoms in the spring, festivals in the summer, vibrant foliage in autumn, and powdery snow come wintertime.

So this begs the question: 

What time of year is best to visit Japan?

In short, you’ll have the best chance of comfortable weather and fewer crowds in early spring (March – early April) and in autumn (late October – November). Our personal pick would be to visit Japan during November; but more on that later…

Let me backup… Truthfully there is no correct answer, as each season has its own unique draws (and drawbacks too).

But we’re not going to just leave ya there, hangin’.

We’re going to go over the pros and cons of visiting Japan during each season to help you decide which time of year is ideal for YOU.

Just staying in Tokyo? We have another article about the best time to visit Tokyo , specifically!

Answer these questions to get started:

• Do you mind hot weather?
• What about cold weather?
• Are you easily bothered by crowds?
• How much of your time do you want to spend outdoors?
• Which would you rather see: cherry blossoms or colorful fall foliage?

Thinking about your answers to these questions is going to help you start to determine when to visit Japan.

Best time to visit Japan guide

Our experience, japan geography overview, weather in japan.

• Rainy season in Japan
• Typhoon season in Japan
• Best time of year to view Mt. Fuji
• Seasons in Japan
• Holidays and festivals in Japan
• Best time to travel based on activity
• How many days to spend in Japan
• What to pack for Japan

Overall BEST time to visit Japan

Want a quick recommendation? Jump down to see our personal advice for the best time to visit Japan. Plus, we’ll share what times of year we’d avoid visiting!

• Our Recommendation…

The ultimate Japan packing list

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This  FREE   PDF download  includes  everything  you’re going to want to pack for your Japan trip, including what NOT to bring, plus tons of insider tips!

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We visited Japan in summer, fall & winter

When: mid-August (2019) 

Our experience:

• Very hot and humid in most places
• Lots of Japanese tourists and international travelers in the popular places
• We had a few days of typhoon weather
• Mount Fuji wasn’t on our route, but she was only visible for a handful of days of our trip, due to clouds.
• Felt too hot to be able to enjoy onsens as much as other times of the year

Would we recommend visiting Japan in August? 

It wouldn’t be my top recommendation, honestly. I found it very hot and muggy, and I would much prefer visiting when the temps are more comfortable.

When: mid-November (2023) 

• Comfortable temperatures and no humidity
• Colorful foliage in some areas (it differs quite a bit throughout the country)
• During our 3-week trip, we had a little light rain , but not much
• Clear views of Mount Fuji
• Perfect weather for soaking in onsen
• Crowds in popular areas for foliage viewing, but nothing overwhelming

Would we recommend visiting Japan in November? 

Absolutely! Autumn is perhaps my all time favorite time to travel anywhere — and Japan is no different. I think autumn will always be my favorite time to visit Japan!

When: early February (2015)

• Mild winter temperatures (we’re used to very cold winters, and this wasn’t bad for us)
• Snow in the mountains was magical
• Even though winter is said to be the best time to view Mount Fuji , she was covered in fog when we visited
• Onsens were very enjoyable (we had a private outdoor onsen while it was snowing, which was amazing!)
• Obviously the cities are still busy (because they’re highly populated), but the amount of tourists was lower than other seasons
• Good deals on accommodation since it was outside of peak season
• We saw a few plum blossoms in Tokyo that were blooming early, which was a pleasant surprise!

Would we recommend visiting Japan in February?  Yes! I think winter is one of the best times to visit Japan and it’s very underrated. Next time we visit in the winter, I want to add more outdoor onsens and a snowboarding trip in the legendary Japanese powder!

While not a large country exactly, Japan spreads more than 1,800 miles (2,900+ kilometers) north to south, from the island of Hokkaido in the northeast all the way down to the island of Okinawa in the southwest.

A distance that large means the weather from north to south varies quite a lot. Hokkaido can be freezing while the subtropical island of Okinawa can be experiencing a beach day.

For the purpose of this article, we’ll mostly be discussing the weather on the island of Honshu. 

Located in the middle of the country, Honshu is where Tokyo , Osaka and Kyoto are all located, and is where most international travelers will start and end their trip, especially if it is your first time in Japan .

Another thing to take into consideration is that Japan is a very mountainous country. Common sense tells us that when you venture to higher elevations, you’ll find colder temperatures.

Fun Example: We went up into the Japanese Alps in August and found a drastic temperature swing: 95°F (35°C) at sea level to 65°F (18°C) in the mountains. This same area has snow until as late as early July. Crazy, huh?!

Psst! If you’ll be traveling more throughout the country, be sure to check out our bucket list of crazy fun things to do in Japan !

Let’s chat about the sun, the snow, the rain, and those dreaded typhoons. We’ll go over what type of weather you should expect throughout the year and describe our experience with a typhoon.

We’re also going over some important information if you are interested in viewing Mount Fuji.

Spoiler alert: You won’t be able to see this iconic mountain for much of the year.

Stats on Japan weather & seasons:

• Hottest month in Japan: August (average 80°F/41°C)
• Coldest month in Japan: January (41°F/5°C)
• Rainiest months in Japan: June and September
• Driest months in Japan: December and January
• Most crowded month in Japan: late April – early May (aka “Golden Week”, explained in the section about Spring )
• Least crowded months in Japan: January – early March are the least popular times to visit, which can mean cheaper prices and less crowds

Note: Again, these stats are for the central island of Honshu. If you are planning to visit the northernmost island of Hokkaido, or Okinawa in the very south, be sure to look up their specific weather, as they vary from the rest of the county.

Rainy season in Japan: Early Summer

The majority of the country experiences a rainy season from June through mid-July.

The good news is that during the rainy season, there’s a roughly 45% chance of precipitation each day (data from Tokyo), meaning you’ll have some dry days too! Some of those rainy days will be heavy, while others will be sunny before or after the rain.

Interesting Fact: Tokyo is one of the rainiest big cities on earth! In fact, it has more than double the amount of annual rainfall as London. Say whaaaat?!

Despite rain, you’ll find life goes on as usual in Japan, as locals are used to it. Do as the Japanese do and buy an umbrella to stay dry!

Typhoon season in Japan: Late Summer

Late May through October is known as typhoon season in Japan, with the majority of typhoons occurring in August and September. Data from the last 30 years show that an average of 11 typhoons approach the coast per year.

What is a typhoon?

A typhoon is a tropical cyclone. They are formed in the same way a hurricane forms, and the only real difference is the location at which they occur .

What is a typhoon like in Japan?

We visited Japan during the month of August, which as you now know is the peak of typhoon season. And one typhoon made landfall during our visit.

So how bad was it, really?

This was our experience: 

The entire day leading up to the typhoon was sunny with blue skies, and we both had this feeling that it wouldn’t be that bad.

But everyone was talking about it and how strong it would supposedly be. There was talk about trains shutting down, and we had a food tour cancel on us because restaurants were closing up shop.

But it’s beautiful outside, we thought naively. We put on rain jackets, grabbed our one umbrella and headed into town just as a drizzle began to start.

Soon, the winds increased and the rain started really coming down. But the trains still ran, and we decided to go catch a movie. By the time we got out of the show, the streets were mostly empty and the rain was really pounding, so despite our umbrella and rain jackets, we got completely soaked.

By the next morning, blue skies started peeking out from behind clouds and by the afternoon you would never know what had happened the previous night.

What to expect: Heavy rainfall and high winds, canceled and/or delayed trains, canceled tours. In some cases, it may only interrupt a day or two, and in others it might have longer-lasting effects. You should expect some plans to change since Japanese people take typhoons very seriously.

Best time of year to view Mount Fuji

Many visitors to Japan will want to glimpse the country’s most famous mountain, and for good reason — it’s absolutely stunning, and seeing Mount Fuji in person will be one of the highlights of your trip. That is, if you see her .

One thing many first-time visitors to Japan may not realize (ourselves included) is that Mount Fuji is notoriously shy. This means there is much of the year where your chances of seeing her are rare. Instead, this shy mountain will stay cloaked behind clouds and haze, only occasionally peeking through.

So what time of year will you have the best chance of seeing Mount Fuji?

• Best chances of seeing Mount Fuji: Based on data from years past, you will have the highest chance of seeing Mount Fuji between the months of November and February.
• Worst chances of seeing Mount Fuji: Alternatively, between April and August, you will have a slim chance of glimpsing this iconic mountain.

That said, nothing is promised when it comes to weather. 

We visited Japan for the first time during early February, when we should have had a good chance of seeing Fuji. We spent the night in Hakone and bought the (not so cheap!) Hakone Day Pass to get close to the mountain, yet we only saw WHITE FRICKIN’ CLOUDS.

And on the other hand, we’ve known people who have seen Fuji peek out during July and August, supposedly bad months for viewing the mountain.

But if you’re looking to get that iconic shot of a clear sky day and the mountain towering in the background in her famous symmetrical grandeur, late autumn through early spring will be your best bet at capturing this sight.

Psst! Check out our list of the most beautiful places in Japan you’ll have to see to believe!

Japan’s seasons at a glance

Japan has 4 distinct seasons: The winter is cold and the summer is hot. If either of those would bother you, it’s easy to eliminate a season right off the bat.

Spring is famously known for stunning displays of cherry blossoms around the country . But when we say famous, we mean it. Japan gets very busy this time of year with domestic and international travelers, so if crowds bother you, this is another easy elimination.

Fall comes with spectacular autumn foliage , and while not as crowded as cherry blossom season, it’s not an unpopular time to travel.

Jump to the season you’re interested in to read more about what to expect:

Winter in Japan

Spring in japan, summer in japan.

• Autumn in Japan

We’re going to go over what to expect during each season in detail so you can better plan your trip to Japan.

But before we dive in…

Did you know there are 72 “seasons” in Japan?

The traditional Japanese calendar was split up into 24 sections, and each of those were further divided into 3 subsections, creating 72 “micro seasons” .

These micro-seasons last 5 days, and the names of some of them are poetic:

• Frogs start singing (May 5th – 9th)
• Great rains sometimes fall (August 3rd – 7th)
• Dew glistens white on grass (September 8th – 12th)
• Insects hole up underground (September 28th – October 2nd)
• Maple leaves and ivy turn yellow (November 2nd – 6th)

While this isn’t necessarily something people go by in modern times, it’s a good reminder that the weather and atmosphere changes very often in Japan and it’s important to be prepared for it all.

During the winter months, major cities like Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto tend to enjoy mild temperatures, but you can find snow and colder temps in the mountains and on Hokkaido (the northernmost island in Japan).

Crowds tend to be fewer during the winter season, except for at the ski resorts where outdoor enthusiasts will be spoiled with some of the best powder in the world.

Winter comes with sunshine and blue skies that are statistically the clearest they’ll be all year long.

While winter may not be the first season you think of traveling, there’s actually a ton to do, and we think it is a great time to visit Japan .

• When is winter in Japan?  December – February
• Typical weather in Japan during the winter:  Dry, cold, & sunny
• Average winter temperatures:  35 ° F – 55 ° F (Tokyo) (2 ° C – 13 ° C)
• least crowded season, great for visiting Japan’s iconic landmarks
• Japan has great snow for skiing and snowboarding
• great time for onsens, snow monkeys and seeing scenic landscapes & villages dusted in snow
• cold weather, averaging around 43°F (6°C)
• some outdoor activities, like hiking and biking may be more difficult in the winter

Winter months at a glance

• December:  Third coldest month of the year, lots of Bonenkai (“forget the year”) parties and celebrations. Ski season begins in Sapporo.
• January:  Coldest month of the year, clear and sunny skies, snowy in the northern part of the country, best month for skiing and winter activities.
• February:  Second coldest month of the year, still great for skiing in the mountains, yet you can start seeing spring plum blossoms further south in the country.

Best things to do in the winter in Japan

We have a huge list of all the best things to do during winter in Japan , but here are some highlights:

• Go skiing or snowboarding
• Visit traditional villages like Shirakawa-go , which is stunning after a fresh show
• Go to the Sapporo Snow Festival (held for one week in February)
• Soak in an onsen (natural hot spring)
• Fill your belly with hot ramen noodle soup
• See “snow monkeys” at Jigokudani Monkey Park
• View Mount Fuji
• Photograph famous sights with a blanket of snow
• Check out some of Tokyo’s best activities that take place indoors

Best times and places to ski in Japan

• Sapporo:  December – March
• Nagano:  January – February

Winter is the best season to travel to Japan if…

• …you don’t mind colder temperatures
• …you want to ski or snowboard
• …you want to avoid the crowds
• …you want to save money and travel during off-peak season

What to pack for winter in Japan

• Lots of layers, including a versatile jacket, gloves and a hat
• Warm and comfortable footwear and socks
• Sunglasses (remember, this season has the sunniest days!)
• Hand warmers (you can buy these pretty much everywhere in Japan)
• Ski gear (if needed)

With stunning  sakura  (cherry blossoms) popping up all around the country and temperatures warming, it should come as no surprise that spring is a popular time to visit Japan. A  very  popular time, indeed.

If you travel to Japan in the spring, you’ll be rewarded with comfortable temperatures, beautiful blossoms, and  crowds .

• When is spring in Japan?  From March – May
• Typical weather in Japan during the spring:  Nice during the day, but chilly at night. Mostly sunny days with a more showers near the end of May.
• Average spring temperatures:  40 ° F – 70 ° F (Tokyo) (4 ° C – 21 ° C)
• comfortable temperatures
• beautiful cherry blossoms
• crowded (make travel plans far in advance!)
• things may be more expensive since it is peak season

What is Golden Week in Japan?

“Golden Week” is a series of four national holidays that all fall within the same week from April 29th – May 5th every year.

• April 29, Showa Day:  birthday of Emperor Showa, who ruled the country during World War II.
• May 3, Constitution Day ( Kenpo kinenbi ):  called  ,  this is the celebration of the Japanese constitution ratification in 1947.
• May 4, Green Day ( Midori no hi ):  similar to Earth Day, this holiday honors the environment.
• Pssst! For everyone else out there wondering why they don’t include young girls in this, there is a “Girls’ Festival” (Hina Matsuri) on March 3rd.

Many Japanese people have holiday from work during this time, so it is a popular time to travel for both international and domestic visitors.

If your trip falls during these dates (or even a bit before and after), you’ll have the unique opportunity to see some celebrations and mingle with lots of Japanese travelers.

But be warned, you should start booking your accommodation well in advance because rooms sell out in popular places, like Kyoto, for example. You’ll also want to reserve seats on trains ahead of your trip, otherwise you’ll be out of luck.

Should you avoid visiting during Golden Week in Japan?

I’m going to be honest, I don’t think we would travel to Japan during Golden Week because of the insane crowds.

If you want to see Cherry Blossom but aren’t excited about the prospect of crowds, we’d urge you to avoid Golden Week, and instead travel to Japan during early March.

When and where can you see cherry blossoms?

Cherry blossoms are only in bloom for roughly one week per location. They bloom at different times throughout the country, so if you want to extend the length of time you can view them, it’s best to travel south to north so you can see them for a longer period of time.

We have an entire guide to how you can see the cherry blossoms during Spring in Japan , but in short, here are some of the best times to go:

• Fukuoka: Late March – Early April
• Hiroshima: Late March – Early April
• Kyoto: First Week of April (very popular)
• Osaka: First Week of April (very popular)
• Tokyo: Late March – Early April (very popular)
• Kanazawa: 1st – 2nd week in April
• Matsumoto: 2nd- 3rd week in April
• Sapporo: Late April – Early May

Spring months at a glance

• March:  Temperatures are still cool, but it noticeably warms throughout the month. Skiing season in the mountains is starting to wind down, and toward the end of the month the first cherry blossoms start to reveal themselves.
• April:  This is the prime month for cherry blossom viewing, though many Japanese people have a whole week off from work (Golden Week), so most major cherry blossom sites will be incredibly crowded.
• May:  Very nice weather during the month of May — warm temperatures and sunny skies. Though it is technically the start of typhoon season, strong storms are very rare during the month of May.

Best things to do in the spring in Japan

• Head to Kyoto to photograph sakura (aka cherry blossoms) of course!
• Catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji
• Try some interesting new foods in Japan
• Take a day trip from Osaka to Hiroshima to check out some of the city’s super important historical sites

Spring is the best season to travel if…

• …you don’t mind crowds
• …you want comfortable temperatures (not too cold or too hot)
• …you want to see the famous cherry blossoms
• …you can make your bookings well in advance
• …you don’t mind paying a bit more for hotels and tours during peak season

What to pack for spring in Japan

• Thicker layers if traveling in March
• Light jacket for April and May
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Hiking attire if you plan to hit the trails

Summer in Japan is the time for festivals and celebrations. The summer spans from June to August, with August being the busiest travel month because school is out and many Japanese people travel over the Obon holiday (August 13-15).

(Unlucky for us, we unknowingly decided to visit Japan for our second time in August…whoops!)

Be prepare on ways to beat the humidity because it can get pretty sticky. Also it’s rainy season and the start of typhoon season, so don’t forget your rain jacket and umbrella

• When is summer in Japan?  June – August
• Typical weather in Japan during the summer:  Hot, humid, sticky, and rainy. But not as bad as everyone makes it out to be.
• Average summer temperatures:  70 ° F – 90 ° F (Tokyo) (21 ° C – 32 ° C)
• Festivals throughout the country during the summer months
• Prime season for outdoor activities like hiking
• great time to try scuba diving in Japan
• can get very humid
• rain is common at the beginning of summer (June – mid-July), and typhoons are common at the end of summer (August – September)

How bad is the heat in summer, really?

Over the last few years, I’ve realized I don’t handle extreme heat very well. I get tired and crabby much more quickly in the heat. Needless to say, I was very nervous about traveling to Japan during August — the hottest month of the year!

So what was it like?

Well, it did get pretty hot, like 98°F hot (37°C). And it did rain on us a few times but typically it would only last for 20-30 minutes and the rain would stop.

Some days were worse than others. After a rain, for example, it was actually pretty comfortable.

We’ve heard that summer in Tokyo is similar to summer in NYC, hot and humid. And Osaka in summer is similar to Washington D.C. in the summer, which is even more hot and humid. 

Knowing what to expect is half the battle , and this way you can prepare yourself for it.

All of our accommodation (even in tiny villages) had strong AC, so we never had an issue with being comfortable at night.

Summer months at a glance

• June:  The beginning of the month is quite nice, comparable to the weather in May. However,  tsuyu  (rainy season) starts around mid-June and last for about a month. It’s not rainy all day but there is a June gloom feeling that hangs around. Temperatures get warmer and the humidity increases as the month progresses.
• July:  Starts out rainy because of  tsuyu  (rainy season), this only lasts until mid-July. Temperatures and humidity continue to rise as this is typically the second hottest month of the year. Great time to see festivals including Kyoto famous Gion Matsuri festival.
• August:  The hottest month of the year in Japan. August is a good time to venture into the mountains to escape the heat. Many Japanese have August 13th-15th off because of Obon holiday, so try to avoid this time because it can get busy.

Best things to do in the summer in Japan

We have another guide to things to do during summer in Japan , but here are some top recommendations:

• Check out Tokyo’s digital art museum on a day that’s too hot or rainy to be outside
• Enjoy festivals including Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri and Osaka’s Tenjin Matsuri
• Go hiking through the Japanese Alps or venture up to Hokkaido
• Scuba diving (apparently the diving is actually really good in Japan!)
• Head to the beach
• Watch a baseball game

Ever thought of going  scuba diving in Japan ?  Being an island nation, the diving in Japan is actually quite good, and being an off the radar scuba destinations means less crowded dive sites! If you are visiting Japan in the summer time, you’ll have the best conditions for diving all over the country.

Summer is the best season to travel if…

• …you don’t mind humidity and a bit of rain
• …you like outdoor activities like hiking and biking
• …you want to experience cultural festivals

What to pack for summer in Japan

• Anti-chafing cream
• Hand-held fan (you can buy these all over and they make a nice Japanese souvenir )
• Deodorant, finding quality deodorant in Japan is very difficult (we switched to natural deodorant several years ago and will never go back!)
• Light, loose clothing that wicks sweat
• Umbrella for rain and shade

Fall in Japan

With typhoon season peaking at the beginning of September, the start of fall in Japan is typically rainy depending on where you are. However, the weather starts to clear up in October and by November the leaves are changing.

We visited Japan in November 2023 and put together this guide to autumn in Japan that’s full of useful info.

• When is autumn in Japan?  September – November
• Typical weather in Japan during the autumn:  Rainy in September and beginning of October because of typhoon season
• Average autumn temperatures:  50 ° F – 80 ° F (Tokyo) (10 ° C – 27 ° C)
• nice temperatures
• beautiful fall foliage in countryside
• September can be a pretty humid and rainy month, but it starts to get better in October

When can you see fall foliage in Japan?

The colorful leaves peak a bit later than other places in the Northern Hemisphere, like North America and Europe. The best display of autumn colors can typically be seen toward the end of November and even through the beginning of December.

You can find past and current reports of fall foliage here .

Autumn months at a glance

• September:  peak of typhoon season in the southern prefectures, there can be airport and train delays. But it is the month with the least amount of visitors so it will be less busy.
• October:  rainy in the beginning of the month but the temperatures start to drop making going outside more manageable.
• November:  cool, crisp and dry time of year. Autumn foliage peaks near the end of November

Best things to do during the fall in Japan

• Hike the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail
• Sneak some views of Mount Fuji
• See the fall foliage on the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
• Eat sweet treats like deep fried maple leaves in Minoo Park
• Travel to Osaka for leaf peeping in the parks

Autumn is the best season to travel if…

• …you are seeking comfortable temperatures
• …you would like to see (and photograph!) fall foliage
• …you want to explore the major cities
• …you like to avoid crowds
• …you enjoy cool and crisp air

What to pack for fall  in Japan

• Umbrella just in case it rains
• Light jacket for November

Holidays & festivals in Japan

It’s a good idea to check the calendar before booking your flight to Japan, as there are many national holidays that can affect your travels.

Some of these festivals will be fun to observe, but they can also mean trains book up quickly and hotels mark up their rates for peak times.

Here are some of the (not all!) big holiday dates to know:

• January 1:  New Year’s Day (people often travel on the days before and after)
• February 11:  Foundation Day
• Around March 20 – 21:  Vernal (Spring) Equinox Day
• April 29 – May 5:  Golden Week
• 3rd Monday in July:  Marine Day
• August 11:  Mountain Day
• August 13 – 15 : Obon
• 3rd Monday in September:  Respect for the Aged Day
• Around September 22 – 23:  Autumn Equinox Day 
• October 1:  Citizens Day 
• 2nd Monday in October:  Health and Sports Day
• November 3:  Culture Day
• November 23 : Labor Thanksgiving Day 
• December 23:  Emperor’s Birthday

Festivals in Japan

In Japan, festivals are called  matsuri  and they take place all year long. This is a list of some of the more unique festivals in Japan.

• Jan 15:  Nozawa Fire Festival , in Nagano, Japan
• Feb 5-12:  Sapporo Yuki Matsuri  (Snow Festival), Sapporo, Hokkaido
• Late March:  Sumo Wrestling Spring Basho , Osaka
• Early June:  The Kaiko Kinenbi , Yokohama Port Opening Ceremony (Boat Races)
• July:  Shonan Hiratsuka Tanabata Matsuri  (Star Festival), Hiratsuka
• Late July:  Tenjin Matsuri  (Festival of the Gods), Osaka
• October:  Warai Festival  (Laughing Festival), Wakayama

Best time of year to travel to Japan based on activity

Check the list below to find the activities you’re most interested in doing while in Japan. See what time of year is best to help you decide when to plan your trip.

• Photography:  Spring or Fall
• Beating the crowds:  Winter
• Hiking:  Spring, Summer or Winter
• Skiing/Snowboarding:  Winter
• Onsens:  Winter, Spring or Fall
• Scuba Diving:  Summer
• Beach Hopping:  Summer
• Spotting Mount Fuji:  Late Fall, Winter, early Spring
• Festivals and Celebrations:  All year!

In our opinion…

We’ve traveled to Japan in both the summer and the wintertime, and each had its own pros and cons.

Summer was hot and humid—like really humid—so we found ourselves sweating through our shirts daily. But we’ve been in hot and humid climates before, so honestly, it wasn’t anything we hadn’t dealt with before. But still, it wasn’t all that pleasant, and it wouldn’t be our season of choice.

The wintertime was picturesque in the countryside where the snow stuck to the ground. And in the big cities, we actually got many sunny, blue sky days which was a surprise. The cold temperatures made it fun to pop into cozy noodle shops or soak in hot onsens, whereas those activities were not quite so pleasant in the August heat.

We preferred winter over summer, because the crowds were fewer and we’re accustomed to cold weather, so we found it to be quite mild actually.

However, if we were able to choose, we would without a doubt, travel to Japan in the fall: early November, specifically.

November has a smaller chance of rain than October, and more comfortable temperatures than December.

The temperatures will have cooled off from the crazy summer humidity, yet it wouldn’t be too cold for hiking. It wouldn’t have quite the same crazy crowds as cherry blossom season brings. And fall foliage in Japan is something we’ve been dreaming about seeing!

Alternatively, early March would offer the beginnings of cherry blossom season, comfortable weather, and less crowds than those you’ll find late April and early May during Golden Week.

How many days do you need in Japan?

There’s so much to see and do in Japan that it can be overwhelming trying to decide how long your trip should be. Ideally, 2-3 weeks  will give you enough time to see iconic and lesser-known sights as well as recover from a long travel day and potentially a big time difference.

But the ideal duration for your trip depends on several factors, including destinations you want to visit and your travel style. Our guide to how many days to spend in Japan will help you figure out how much time you need based on what you want to do.

What to pack for traveling to Japan

We know it can be overwhelming packing for a trip to a new destination. That’s why we spent hours creating these super helpful guides full of  packing hacks and tips for traveling in Japan  that you won’t find anywhere else:

• Our  Japan packing guide  lists all the essentials (many of which you might not think about), as well as what you should NOT pack for a trip to Japan.
• This article on  what to wear in Japan  will help you create a perfect capsule wardrobe for every season and let you in on some cultural taboos so you can be sure to dress appropriately.
• With this  FREE Japan packing list PDF download , we’ll send checklists straight to your inbox for everything from clothing and toiletries (for both women and men!) to what shoes to pack and extra stuff you may want to have on-hand just in case. Click the image below to get your free copy!

More resources for traveling in Japan

We have TONS of resources on travel in Japan and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Japan Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below!

• Japan Rail Pass: Where to Buy & Is It Worthwhile?
• Trip to Japan Cost: Tips for Budget Travel in Japan
• Japan Pocket Wifi vs. Japanese SIM Card: Review & Comparison
• Best Japan Travel Apps
• Expert Tips for Visiting Japan (Dos & Don’ts!)
• Ultimate Japan Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know for Your First Trip to Japan
• Helpful Japanese Words & Phrases to Know for Traveling in Japan 

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We’d love to hear from you!

What season sounds best to you? Why? Do you have any more questions after reading this article? We’ll try our best to bet back to you!

Comments (11) on “ Best Time to Visit Japan: When to Go & When to Avoid! ”

Such a nice article. Thanks for sharing

Thanks, buddy, I really want to visit Japan, and your post makes me more excited about the Japan tour

Thank you so much!! Love the recommendations and help!! Will Use this to Plan my trip

It was a nice post. Pictures were overwhelming !!!!!!

I want to travels Japan

Thanks for sharing

Awesome tips! 👌 My question would be, is there any pro or cons going the last week in May to beginning of June. Looking at 2 weeks. Fukuoka & Tokyo. 😊 TIA!

Did you end up going during that time? We’re going this year in that exact time; late My early June for two weeks.

Want to visit Japan for a conducted tour of 15 days and am thinking of mid September to early October.

Very well article. Thank you very much. This is the first article I read for the trip we are planning. The details were amazing. 🙂

Where was the picture under “summer months at a glance” (with Katie walking up the steps) taken? It’s absolutely beautiful, and I’d love to go there when I visit!

At first, all your pictures are Wonderful. Nice interpretation?

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When Is the Best Time to Visit Japan?

By Amber Port

When is the best time to visit Japan?

It depends on what type of trip you’re looking to take. However, spring and autumn tend to be the most beautiful weather-wise. We’d recommend a trip between March and May or September and November. If you’re looking to steer clear of crowds, then a trip in May after Golden Week is for you.

When is the best time to visit Japan for cherry blossoms?

Cherry blossom season is one of the most popular times to visit Japan . Crowds of people excitedly welcome spring with the blooming of the beautiful Sakuras, with various festivals popping up across the country to celebrate.

The blooming timeline does depend on what region of Japan you’re in. For example, the bloom time in southern Japan is slightly earlier than the other regions, while the middle of April is the peak month for Tokyo. We recommend checking out the cherry blossom forecast via the Japan Meteorological Corporation if you want more information on the regions you’ll visit.

Need more inspiration? We've rounded up all the best reasons to visit Japan in 2024 after it was voted the best country in the world in our 2023 Readers' Choice Awards .

When is the best time to visit Japan for good weather?

The weather is the most mild and sunny during the spring months between March and May or autumn from September to November. The summer months see higher, humid temperatures with increased rainfall.

What is the cheapest time to go to Japan?

It’s always cheapest to travel during the off-season, which would fall between mid-January and March. The winter months see a decrease in the number of tourists, meaning airlines and hotels are eager to greet visitors.

When is the busiest time to visit Japan?

Cherry blossom season and Golden Week are the busiest times to visit Japan. The Sakura season sees many international tourists arrive, while Golden Week (a collection of four national holidays) at the beginning of May shows increased domestic tourism.

A version of this article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller .

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When is the best time to visit Japan?

Mar 26, 2024 • 8 min read

Find out more about Japan's distinct seasons and when is the best time for you to visit © anek.soowannaphoom / Shutterstock

Japan may be small, but with its captivating blend of tradition and modernity – and bustling cities and stunning countryside – it offers a mighty experience to visitors. No matter when you choose to visit, you'll be on a trip of a lifetime in Japan .

In spring, the blossoming of the sakura (cherry blossom trees) creates a beautiful natural display that transforms the country into a vision in pink, luring travelers from all over the globe. Fall ushers in the resplendent koyo (autumn foliage) season, while summer opens the two-month window for summiting Mt Fuji. Winter is a great time for skiers, as Japan’s slopes are dusted with some of the finest powder on the planet. 

Whether you’re looking to dive into the crowded streets of downtown Tokyo or find zen-like peace amongst tree-cloaked mountains, there’s a season that’s right for you in Japan.

Here’s a guide to choosing the perfect time to visit Japan.

April and May is the time for cherry blossoms and art

The cherry blossom season from April to May is the peak travel period in Japan. Locals and tourists flock to parks, gardens, tree-lined brooks and castle moats to partake in hanami , the annual ritual of observing the spring blossom. Picnicking under a canopy of cherry blossoms is a top bucket-list experience, and popular seasonal foods range from cherry blossom-flavored desserts and pastries to burger buns and noodles infused with earthy cherry notes.

This is a popular time to visit Japan with good reason, but you should also weigh up the undeniable beauty with the drawback of the vast crowds and the increased prices.

The cherry blossoms arrive and depart over a two-week period, dictated by weather patterns and local geography, and the exact timing can be tricky to predict in advance . Along Japan's so-called “Golden Route” – a popular tourist trail running along the east coast in the center of the country – the flowers typically emerge between late March and early April, so April is a fairly reliable month to book a trip.

Save this guide to the best places for cherry blossom viewing in Japan.

As the last petals fall, there is little reprieve for crowd-weary travelers. Golden Week arrives in early May, with warm and sunny weather and a string of national holidays. Hotel and flight prices soar as the crowds surge into Japan's cities, and public transport, city streets, shrines, temples, museums and other tourist attractions are crammed with sightseers. 

In mountainous areas, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, rafting and camping are popular activities, though high-altitude trails may not open until July. 

In the cities, it’s the season for exploring by bike, on parkland strolls or sitting out in rooftop beer gardens – the Omohara Forest on the 6th floor of Omotesando’s Tokyu Plaza mall is a recommended spot for a tipple.

Tokyo’s spring sumo tournament also takes place in May, as well as the explosion of culture that is the Roppongi Art Night.

June and July are great for alpine hikes and Tokyo fireworks

June and July are the best months for hiking in the Japanese Alps, and nature enthusiasts flock to the great outdoors. Mountain escapes are perfect for adventurous travelers looking to escape the cities as the summer heat brews. 

Early June is lovely, but by the end of the month, tsuyu (the rainy season) sets in. Many Japanese hikers will call off a day in the mountains at the slightest threat of rain, meaning hiking trails usually escape the mid-summer crowds. For the same reason, June is a good time to take advantage of cheaper hotel and flight prices.

The rainy season passes in July, though the damp weather can linger for the first couple of weeks, bringing gray and gloomy skies. Firework festivals are big business in Japan in July, launching tens of thousands of rockets into the night skies over major cities, while Tanabata, the festival of star-crossed lovers, sees locals don traditional kimono and yukata robes and head out in search of romance.  

Taking a yakatabune (riverboat) tour during the 300-year-old Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival in Tokyo is strongly recommended; it's well worth the high price tag to avoid the gargantuan crowds (which can reach up to one million people).

It gets very hot and humid as July draws to a close; savvy travelers head to cooler Hokkaidō or the Japanese Alps or hit the slopes of Mt Fuji, which opens to hikers in the middle of the month.

August can mean blistering temperatures in Japan

Mid-August is the start of the busy O-Bon (Festival of the Dead) season – the summer counterpart to Golden Week. National holidays, colorful festivals and blistering temperatures (over 38°C/100°F) keep sights crowded and accommodations expensive (and often fully booked). 

Many Japanese return to their hometowns or go on domestic vacations, so transport is hectic, and hotel prices soar. For a slightly calmer experience, head to the Okinawa Islands in the far southwest, where it's peak scuba diving season. The world's largest cosplay festival draws huge crowds to Nagoya City – book well in advance to secure accommodations.

Cooler mountain destinations are also popular in August, and Mt Fuji hosts hundreds of thousands of hikers during the mid-July to mid-September climbing season. Overnight summiteers should book mountain lodges well before starting the ascent. As August gives way to September, there's a brief lull before things pick up again during the fall foliage season.

September to November is best for hiking through fall foliage

In September, days are still warm – hot even – but less humid. Though the odd typhoon rolls through at this time of year, major cities are well-equipped to deal with bad weather, and this is generally a great time to travel in Japan.

Coastal towns such as Kamakura and Shimoda on the Izu Peninsula provide the perfect combo of sunny afternoons, beachfront Airbnbs and temperate waters, making this a great time to hit the beach .

In late September, autumn colors start to paint the mountains and the north in vivid tones, and the wave of color moves slowly south across the country. The radiant foliage of deciduous trees, from golden ginkgos to vermillion Momiji trees, lures crowds to ancient gardens and well-worn mountain trails. Jazz music fills the streets of Sendai City and lures devoted fans during the  Jōzenji Street Jazz Festival .

Pleasantly warm days and cool evenings make October an excellent time to be in Japan. Fall foliage brings a blaze of color to the Japanese Alps, providing a stunning backdrop to its myriad mountain trails. Alternatively, stroll idly along Yokohama ’s fetching harbor before draining a few steins at the city’s annual Oktoberfest.

Late November is the most scenic time for hiking through the forests of Mt Takao and Mt Mitake on the outskirts of Tokyo, though early mornings and weekdays are recommended to avoid the weekend crush. The autumn leaves linger much longer than the cherry blossoms, so there’s less urgency among locals to charge up, and it's a quieter experience than the spring melee to view sakura .

In old daimyo (feudal lord) gardens, such as Rikugi-en in Tokyo and Kenroku-en in Kanazawa, the fiery leaves are illuminated after nightfall.

December to March is the best time for snow and winter festivities

In winter, most sights are uncrowded and accommodation is at its cheapest – except in Japan's ski resorts. Snow bunnies insist that Japan has some of the finest powder on the planet, particularly on the slopes of Hokkaidō in the far north. 

December brings blue skies and cold temperatures across most of Japan. Bonenkai (year-end parties) fill city bars and restaurants, commercial strips are decorated with seasonal illuminations, and small Christmas markets sell mulled wine and festive trinkets.

Stick to the cities for New Year – many Japanese businesses shut down from December 29/30 to between January 3 and 6, but temples get busy. Local celebrations include Toshikoshi Soba, where locals eat soba noodles to usher in the New Year, and Joya-no-kane, the ringing of New Year bells.

Japan comes to life again in the second week of January, after the lull of the New Year holidays. Snow blankets the mountains of Hokkaidō and the country’s northern reaches. Major resorts such as Hokkaidō’s Niseko and Hakuba in Nagano host Olympic-quality slopes and are well set up for non-Japanese-speaking tourists. Be sure to finish off the day with a rejuvenating dip in one of Japan’s many onsens (hot spring bathhouses). 

February is the coldest month of the year, and this is the time to warm your insides with hot sake and steaming bowls of ramen noodles. It's still high season on the ski slopes, but if you prefer admiring the snow to slaloming down it, head to Hokkaidō for the annual Sapporo Snow Festival (Yuki Matsuri) – where enormous, intricately crafted snow and ice sculptures are showcased throughout Sapporo City.

In central and southern parts of Japan,  ume (plum trees) start to blossom. Seek them out in gardens such as the legendary Kairaku-en in Mito.

Winter stumbles to a close in March. The month usually lives up to the old Japanese saying, sankan-shion – three days cold, four days warm. When the haru-ichiban (first spring wind) arrives, you can sense in the air that better days are just around the corner.

Meanwhile, the festival season gets into full swing from the Omizutori Fire Festival at Nara’s Tōdai-ji temple to the curiously translocated "I Love Ireland" Festival and St Patrick’s Day parade in Tokyo in mid-March.

Keep planning your trip to Japan:

Start writing your Japan bucket list with these the top things to do .  Plot your route around the best places to visit .  Find the best value options for getting around in Japan . Do you need a visa? Find out more with our simple to follow guide .  And don't accidentally put your foot in your mouth with this expert's  tips on local etiquette . 

This article was first published February 2021 and updated March 2024

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The best times to visit Japan

Editor's Note

There are many reasons visitors flock to Japan , the Land of the Rising Sun.

Here, you can immerse yourself in ancient traditions intertwined with modern innovation while appreciating majestic temples that coexist with bustling city streets. Each season paints a different picturesque landscape, creating something new to admire with every visit.

Given all the unique aspects of this captivating country, deciding on the best time to visit Japan can seem daunting. Fortunately, there are several times that stand out, whether you wish to witness the magical cherry blossom season, visit Tokyo Disney Resort or take advantage of flight and accommodation deals .

Here's everything you need to know about the best times to visit Japan so you can plan a memorable trip based on your priorities.

When to go to Japan for good weather

Japan's weather pattern exhibits four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter. Each season offers its own unique attractions and experiences to enjoy.

Spring (March to May) is renowned for its cherry blossoms and comfortable temperatures. With most days hovering between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, you'll generally find perfect conditions for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

Japan's summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, often exceeding 80 degrees. Even with the heat, the season draws visitors keen on trekking the country's stunning mountains and lounging on its beaches. Also, summer's long daylight hours allow ample time to get outside and experience all the country has to offer, including numerous vibrant festivals.

Autumn (September to November) brings a refreshing break from summer's humidity. The temperatures range from 50 to 70 degrees, making it possible to comfortably enjoy various outdoor activities. The changing colors of fall foliage , known as koyo ("red leaves" in Japanese) or momiji (the Japanese word for the red-tinted maple leaves in the fall), transform Japan's landscapes into riotous red, orange and gold hues.

Lastly, winter (December to February) can be cold, especially in the northern regions with heavy snowfall. Despite the chilly conditions — average temperatures sit between 40 and 50 degrees — winter illuminations and opportunities for snow sports in Japan's world-class ski resorts make the season a worthwhile time to visit.

While temperatures vary widely from season to season, each time of year brings noteworthy opportunities. The best time to visit for superb weather ultimately depends on your interests and preferences.

Related: Reader success story: How this couple used travel rewards to cover an epic $50,000 anniversary trip to Asia

Best times to witness Japan's festivals

Japan's festivals, known as matsuri, are colorful, vibrant affairs that provide unique insights into the country's cultural and spiritual life.

One of Japan's most renowned festivals takes place every summer in Kyoto. Gion Matsuri, a monthlong celebration in July, features elaborate processions with traditional yama and hoko floats.

If you're a fan of lively dance, the Awa Odori festival, held every August in Tokushima on Shikoku Island, is a must-see. It's one of Japan's most prominent dance festivals and is part of the Obon season, a Buddhist event that honors the spirits of ancestors. Thousands of dancers fill the streets to perform the characteristic Awa dance while spectators cheer, creating infectious joy and excitement.

As autumn begins, visitors head to Osaka to attend the Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri. Held annually in Kishiwada, this September festival is among Japan's most thrilling. It is known for its danjiri (ornately decorated wooden floats), which local teams pull through the city streets at incredible speeds. This daring festival is a heart-stopping spectacle that symbolizes community strength and unity.

The Takayama Festival, a charming event in the mountainous city of Takayama, is another one you won't want to miss. Taking place twice a year in October and April, the festival showcases traditional Japanese puppet theater, mikoshi processions and stunning lantern displays.

For winter visits, time your arrival around the Sapporo Snow Festival in February. This spectacular event in Sapporo showcases massive snow and ice sculptures, attracting millions of visitors.

Or, end the year with a flourish by partaking in December's Chichibu Night Festival. A fantastic winter event in Chichibu, just 90 minutes northwest of Tokyo, this celebration is considered one of Japan's top festivals featuring floats — and for a good reason. The dazzling floats adorned with intricate woodwork, detailed tapestries and gilded decorations are a sight to behold. Additionally, the festival includes a spectacular fireworks display, adding a sparkling finale to the year.

Best time to see cherry blossoms in Japan

Japan's cherry blossom (or sakura) season is a treasured time when landscapes transform into romantic canvases splashed with delicate pink hues. Sakura season typically begins in late March and runs through early April, though the exact timing varies from year to year and from south to north.

Popular cherry blossom viewing spots include Ueno Park and Chidorigafuchi in Tokyo, Maruyama Park in Kyoto and Hirosaki Park in Aomori. Hanami parties, where people gather under blooming sakura trees for picnics and celebrations, frequently occur during this time of year and shouldn't be missed.

Flower-watching celebrations happen across Japan from mid-March through early May, though peak bloom dates vary slightly depending on location. For 2024, the earliest peak bloom dates are expected by March 26 in Kochi, with peak bloom estimated for March 30 in Tokyo and April 1 in Kyoto. For estimated dates for more than 1,000 viewing locations, see the Japan Meteorological Corporation's 2024 forecast.

Related: The best places to see cherry blossoms around the US

Best time for skiing in Japan

Japan's winter sports scene is internationally recognized thanks to its powdery snow, top-notch facilities and stunning mountain scenery. The onset of snowfall typically occurs in mid-November on the northern island of Hokkaido, resulting in the first ski resorts — usually Niseko, Rusutsu and Kiroro — beginning to open during the third week of that month.

Related: How (and why) to plan a ski trip to Niseko, Japan, with points and miles

The powder snow, renowned in Japan, is usually abundant from December to February. For those seeking optimal powder conditions, January and February are the recommended months to visit. On Honshu, Japan's main island, Nagano — the host of the 1998 Winter Olympics — also offers excellent skiing opportunities at resorts like Hakuba.

Related: Why it might be cheaper to fly abroad to ski

Best times to visit Tokyo Disney Resort

Visiting Tokyo Disney Resort, home of Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, is a magical experience for all ages, with thrilling rides, enchanting parades and a chance to meet beloved Disney characters.

The parks are open throughout the year, but if you want to avoid the largest crowds, consider visiting between mid-January and mid-March or between mid-September and mid-November. The weather is generally comfortable during these periods, with fewer local and international tourists.

To truly bypass hordes of tourists, avoid visiting during Japan's major holiday periods, such as Golden Week (late April to early May) and Obon (mid-August), as these are peak times for domestic travel and can result in overcrowded conditions.

Related: A beginners guide to visiting Tokyo: Everything you need to eat, see and do

Cheapest times to visit Japan

For budget-conscious travelers, visiting Japan during the shoulder seasons — late May to early June and late November to early December — can be more economical. These times fall right after Golden Week in spring and autumn's koyo season but before the busy summer and winter holidays. You'll find fewer tourists, so flight prices can be significantly cheaper, costing up to 18% less than the average yearly prices, according to Skyscanner. Hotel rates also historically take a dip in these slower seasons.

In addition to the shoulder seasons, winter is an excellent time to visit when sticking to a tight budget. Japan becomes notably affordable once you steer clear of the holiday season. Moreover, from mid-January to mid-March, you can relish the added benefit of experiencing a less congested environment while out and about.

Related: The best ways to travel to Japan with points and miles

Bottom line

Ultimately, the best time to visit Japan depends on your interests and the experience you wish to have. Whether you want to view the ephemeral sakura, ski down powdery slopes, immerse yourself in vibrant festivals or witness the magic of Tokyo Disney Resort, Japan always has something to offer.

Each season and festival has its unique charm and allure, inviting you to uncover the multifaceted beauty of this incredible nation.

Related reading:

• 2024 cherry blossom forecast announced for Japan
• Peak bloom date announced: Best time to see DC's cherry blossoms in
• The 11 best hotels in Tokyo for your next Japan getaway
• Teppanyaki: Norwegian Cruise Line's take on the art of Japanese grilling (with menu)
• The best ways to travel to Japan with points and miles

The Best Time to Visit Japan

TripSavvy /  Elise Degarmo  

Weather changes, typhoon season, and busy festivals should all be taken into account while deciding when to go to Japan. The best time to visit Japan is during early spring when the short-lived cherry blossoms are blooming but before or after the busy stretch of Golden Week holidays.

Although avoiding lousy weather is usually the goal of vacations, consecutive sunny days draw bigger crowds to East Asia. You'll have to share transportation and attractions during high season. Hotels are already a bit pricey in Tokyo, but they skyrocket during some of Japan's busiest festivals.

The Weather in Japan

With an archipelago of close to 7,000 islands spread north to south in the Pacific, the weather in Japan can differ significantly between regions. Tokyo can be near freezing while people enjoy T-shirt weather just a little south.

Most of Japan enjoys four distinct seasons, with snow in the winter. However, Okinawa and the islands in the south stay warm throughout the year. Northern Japan often receives heavy snowfall that melts quickly in spring. Tokyo itself doesn't ordinarily receive much snow. The megalopolis got a dusting in 1962, and then snow made headlines again in 2014 and 2016. In January 2018, a massive snowstorm caused disruptions in Tokyo.

Rainy Season in Japan

Even when no typhoons are spinning nearby to mix things up, Japan is a relatively wet country with ample rainfall and high humidity.

The rainy season in Japan typically hits in the summer months , around the middle of June to the middle of July. In Tokyo, June is a stormy month. Historically, showers slack off just a bit in late July and August then return with force again in September.

Adding to the meteorological madness is the threat of typhoons. Typically, most typhoons cause trouble for Japan between May and October. As you can imagine, a typhoon in the area completely changes everything weather-related—and not usually for the better.

Dry Season in Japan

A better way to call the time of year most travelers visit Japan would be the "drier" or "less rainy" season. Rainy days are a thing throughout the year, so building too tight of a sunshine-based itinerary could lead to disappointment.

Fortunately, Japan has some exciting ways to spend time indoors during rainy afternoons.

The driest months in Japan are typically December, January, and February. November and March are "shoulder" months between the seasons—often an ideal time to visit any country to avoid peak-season prices and groups.

Typhoon Season in Japan

Typhoon season for the Pacific Ocean runs between May and October, although Mother Nature doesn't always go by the Gregorian calendar. Storms can arrive early or drag on later. August and September are usually the peak of typhoons in Japan.

Even if they don't threaten Japan, big typhoons in the area can cause severe delays and congestion for air traffic. Check the Japan Meteorological Agency website for current warnings before you plan to travel. Your ticket may be refundable if your travel insurance covers trip cancellation due to acts of nature.

Key Events & Festivals in Japan

Visiting Japan when big festivals are in progress is a great way to get in on the fun and see locals enjoying themselves. But on the other hand, you'll have to compete with crowds at popular sites and pay higher prices for accommodation. Either make a point to arrive early and enjoy the festival or avoid the area altogether until regular daily life resumes.

• Christmas and New Year: Celebrations for Shogatsu (Japanese New Year) can get busy. From the week before Christmas until a few days into January, malls and public transportation are even more crowded. During the holiday season, the Japanese public gets a rare chance to see the inner grounds of the Imperial Palace. This happens on only two days a year: the Emperor's Birthday (December 23) and on January 2.
• Obon : Temples and shrines get busy in the summer during the three-day Obon festival . Dates for Obon vary, depending upon the place in Japan. Obon, in Tokyo and eastern parts of Japan, is usually observed around July 15. Hachigatsu Bon, an even busier time, is celebrated around August 15. Although Obon, commonly just called Bon, is not an official holiday, many Japanese families take leave to pay homage to ancestors around that time of year.

When to Go to Kyoto

Kyoto is a favorite cultural destination for tourists in Japan . The busy season months here can become very crowded. Spring and fall are the busiest times in Kyoto; October and November are the peak months for tourism. Consider booking your trip to Kyoto in August when rain slacks off a little but crowds haven't surged yet. If cold weather doesn't scare you, January and February are good months to visit Kyoto. You'll certainly want to book accommodation in advance if visiting Kyoto in November.

January is winter across much of the country, although some areas like Okinawa remain semi-tropical year-round. This can be a much quieter time to visit, especially after the rush of the New Years holiday.

Events to check out:

• Seijin no Hi (Coming-of-Age Day) is celebrated on the second Monday of January. This date is considered the collective birthday for all who have turned 20, the country's age of majority, in the past year. 
• Shōgatsu is celebrated from January 1 through 3 each year. Many families gather together for meals and other celebrations.

February is generally Japan's coldest month, but if you like to ski, it's among the best times of year to visit. Many times, plum ( ume ) blossoms begin blooming toward the end of the month, signaling that spring is on its way. Temperatures in Tokyo typically average around 45 degrees Fahrenheit, while it can be as cold as 20 degrees up north in Sapporo.

• More than two million visitors head to Yuki Matsuri in Sapporo. This annual snow festival includes an international snow sculpture contest, ice slides, and more.
• February 3 marks the first day of spring on the traditional lunar calendar, and it's also celebrated in Japan as a day in which one must ward off evil. People often visit Buddhist temples and ward off the devil, while welcoming fortunes in.

Japan is extremely enjoyable to visit during the spring . Large crowds of people flock to local parks for picnics, parties, and to enjoy hanami —the deliberate viewing of cherry blossom and plum blossom flowers . Families, couples, and even entire offices get in on the fun. The timing of the blooms depends entirely upon the warming weather. The flowers begin in Okinawa and warmer parts of Japan around mid-March, then move north as the weather gets warmer until early May. Forecasters predict the timing as blooms appear from south to north.

• Tokyo's international anime fair, AnimeJapan, is the world's largest anime festival, held each March.
• By late March, Japan is in a full-blown cherry blossom craze. While it's hard to predict when exactly the season will fall, the last two weeks of March are typically a safe bet.

A tradition all over Japan, Hanami literally means viewing flowers. Picnic under the beautiful flowing trees in any public park during this special season. Usually lasting for only two weeks in March, the sakura (cherry blossom) schedule changes a bit every year, so it’s hard to nail down exactly when to come.

April gets extremely busy in Japan, as cherry blossoms are usually peaking. But why not join in on the fun? The weather is sunny, crisp, and clear. Beware, though: School holidays and Golden Week, at the end of the month, can cause crowds to swell.

• Takayama hosts a famous spring festival each year in mid-April. It includes floats lit with lanterns and a festive lion dance.
• Miyako Odori runs throughout April in Kyoto . This festival showcases geiko dances and music. Buy tickets in advance!

Golden week is the most significant, busiest holiday period of them all in Japan. It's the busiest time to travel in Japan; you'll have fun, but watch out! Golden Week starts up around the end of April and runs into the first week of May. Several consecutive national holidays fall within a seven-day stretch. Many Japanese families tack on a valuable week of vacation away from work, so transportation and accommodation fill up quickly on both ends of the holiday. Public parks will be busy.

• Golden Week officially begins with Showa Day and concludes with Children's Day. However, many families take additional vacation days before and after. The impact of Golden Week stretches to around 10 to 14 days.
• Sanja Matsuri is Tokyo's largest festival, bringing more than 1 million visitors to Asakusa. The highlight is an exciting parade of men and women in traditional dress.

Early June in Japan is quite nice, but tsuyu (rainy season) sets in later in the month. While it doesn't rain all day, the gloomy and wet weather is the norm. Despite this, there are still plenty of things to do in the rain: Hot springs and wooded mountain temples are still quite serene, rain or shine. Additionally, hiking season kicks off as the snow melts in the Alps.

• In June, Osaka is home to a major rice-planting festival that dates back more than 1,700 years. During this celebration, 12 women plant rice seedlings in the paddy at Osaka's Sumiyoshi Shrine.
• Yosakoi Soran Matsuri is an annual folk dance festival held in Sapporo. The event attracts almost 40,000 dancers from all over the country and even more visitors. Dancers perform all over the streets and throughout city parks.

Luckily, the rainy season in Japan is short-lived, and it's typically over by the end of July. The country is hot and humid this month, but abuzz with events and activities. This is a great time for a beach visit to Okinawa.

• Mt. Fuji officially opens to climbers on July 1.
• Gion Matsuri , one of Japan's most popular festivals, is held from July 17 to 24 in Kyoto. Intricate floats are pulled through the streets. This is a busy time to visit, so book well in advance.

August is also hot and humid and can be crowded as many school children, and their families take holidays within the country. Hokkaido is a popular destination in August since the weather is prime for outdoor activities.

• Obon, in mid-August, spans three days of honoring the dead, whose spirits are said to return to the earth during this time. Graves are swept and presented with offerings, while lanterns are floated down the country's rivers.
• Many Japanese cities host dramatic displays of fireworks in August. One of the best shows is the Lake Biwa Fireworks festival, held near Kyoto in early August.

September is still warm, but humidity begins to die down. This is the peak of typhoon season though, so Okinawa, Kyushu, and Shikoku are at risks of periods of extremely hard rain and high winds.

• Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri is an interesting festival held in Osaka each year. Danjiri (festival floats) are released in the streets.
• Seto is famous for its ceramics and commemorates the craft each year during the second week of September. The eponymous festival features pop-up stalls selling affordable pottery and other handicrafts. Around 500,000 people attend each year.

October is a fantastic month to visit, marked by bright, warm days, with little humidity. Fall foliage peaks in the Japanese Alps during this month.

• Roppongi Art Night is held each year in mid- to late October. Arts venues stay open all night and host large-scale installations and performances throughout this exciting weekend.
• Japan loves celebrating Halloween, and it's worth a visit to Tokyo's Shibuya district on October 31, if you want to see thousands of costumed revelers.

November has beautiful weather, with temperatures beginning to fall at higher elevations and further north in the country. Temperatures in Tokyo range from 45 degrees Fahrenheit to 65 degrees, while Sapporo is as cool as 35 degrees at night.

• The Ohara Festival, held in the southern prefecture of Kagoshima, features a street parade of more than 20,000 dancers.
• The Momiji Festival in Kyoto includes five incredible period-decorated boats that are meant to recreate the atmosphere of Japan's Heian court. Re-enactors play traditional instruments and recite noh and kyogen . (P.S. The best views of the event are from the Togetsu-kyo Bridge.)

If you are planning to visit Japan in December , avoid visiting during the last week of the month and the first week of January. While Christmas is not a celebrated national holiday, many people still take time off working during this period, which books up hotels and makes transportation more difficult. Many businesses close over the period leading up to New Year's Day.

• On December 31, temple bells ring 108 times at midnight as part of Joya-no-kane , an annual purifying ritual.
• Kyoto celebrates the unique Daikon radish during the Sanpoji Daikon Festival. The vegetable becomes available in late Autumn, but the festival takes place in mid-December. More than 10,000 people eat the hot radish, which is believed to have health benefits.

In March and April, you may be able to catch the cherry blossom season while enjoying crisp and sunny weather.

Japan's rainy season falls over the summer with June and July being the rainiest months. Late July and August tend to be a bit drier, but it gets rainy again in September.

Typhoon season typically lasts between May and October, reaching its peak in August and September.

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Best Time to Visit Japan: A Comprehensive Guide by Region and Season

• June 3, 2022

Traveling to Japan is a dream for so many people. From the island’s rich culture to its unique geography, there’s a lot to look forward to – you could make a hundred trips and enjoy a completely different experience every time.

Because of this, knowing the best time to visit Japan depends on why you’re interested in going and where you want to be!

The more you know about Japan’s climate, geography, and where to find activities and festivals, the better. You’ll be able to choose the perfect time for your trip while dodging tourist rushes and typhoons.

Our comprehensive guide tells you all you need to know about the best time to visit Japan – let’s plan our visit!

How to Choose the Best Season to Visit Japan

Japan might not be a massive country by landmass, but its islands span almost 2,000 miles from north to south. Along with its position in the East Pacific and varied geography, this exposes it to various climatic conditions.

The north tends to experience extremely long winters and is famed for its skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Meanwhile, the beautiful southern islands of Okinawa and Amami enjoy a subtropical climate and are enduringly popular among visitors.

Most people head for the main island of Honshu. This region has perhaps the most balanced climate, with four distinct seasons.

Depending on where you’re from, you may still be surprised by what these seasons bring – if summer is a dry season back home, you may not anticipate what you’ll see if you visit Tokyo in July!

Honshu is also home to most of Japan’s largest cities, including:

We’ll cover each of these cities as we move through the districts of Japan. However, it would be remiss of us only to discuss Honshu – there’s so much to discover across all the islands, and you need to understand how wildly the climates vary if you want to know the best time to visit Japan!

We’ll start with Hokkaido in the far north, then work our way down through Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu, finishing with the southern island areas of Okinawa and Amami.

We’ll discuss the climate in the district to cover key cities, events, and geographical features in the area. This should give you a great idea of the best time to visit Japan, wherever you want to go – and maybe even discover places you hadn’t considered!

Northern Japan

The north is the coldest region of Japan. The island of Hokkaido is one of the main four islands of Japan and makes up its northernmost point, while Tohoku is a large district that comprises the northern area of Honshu. Here’s what to look out for, events and activities to enjoy, and when to visit to enjoy these regions at their best.

Hokkaido’s climate is a blend of Eastern Pacific and Subarctic. The first thing you need to know is that it snows in Hokkaido – a lot in winter. It gets so snowy in some areas that houses are built with an additional upstairs entrance in case the downstairs access gets blocked by snowdrifts.

Winter Sports in Hokkaido

The winters are very long. Temperatures drop towards the end of November, and you can expect heavy snowfall between December and March. The heaviest snows come in February, making this one of the best times to visit Japan if you enjoy winter sports such as skiing or snowboarding.

The mountainous geography of Hokkaido helps this – it boasts popular ski resorts across the center and southwest areas of the island. You’ll also find the wild and unspoiled Kitami range in the far north, which is virtually inaccessible in the depths of winter but spectacular if you enjoy hiking in the late spring and summer.

Hokkaido is Temperate in the Summer

Despite its reputation as the coldest part of Japan, Hokkaido’s summers are temperate and reasonably warm. Summer temperatures hover around 70-80F or in the low-to-mid 20C area. While we often think of southern climes as boasting the best summer weather, savvy travelers know that Hokkaido is arguably the best place to visit during the summer months in Japan. That’s because it avoids the heavy rainfall and high, muggy temperatures you’ll find across the rest of the archipelago.

Late Cherry Blossoms & Beautiful Fall Colors

Hokkaido tends to experience the cherry blossom (sakura) season later than the rest of Japan. Its cherry blossom season often begins in mid-April or even May due to its colder temperatures in the early months of the year. This means it’s an excellent choice if you want to avoid the tourist crowds heading for the earliest blooms but still appreciate the marvel of the sakura.

You’ll also witness fantastic fall colors in Hokkaido if you travel in September and October. While the fall weather is chilly in some parts of the island, there are many areas where towns and villages are built on hillsides otherwise covered by thick woodland, creating a breathtaking valley of color.

What to Look For

Summer: There are many remote areas of Hokkaido if you want to get off the beaten track. Sapporo is its central city and is a bustling cultural hub. You’ll find plenty to do and thriving nightlife, especially if you visit in the summer.

Winter: The island has a long history of volcanic activity and is famous for its hot springs . Enjoy these during the colder months as a reprieve from the snow! Something to not miss if you are in the North of Japan is probably the Sapporo snow festival.

Year-round: If you’re on a food pilgrimage, Hokkaido should be your first stop in Japan for seafood. Its cold waters are enriched by currents loaded with plankton and are teeming with sealife – Hokkaido is known for the freshest seafood in Japan.

Best Time to Visit Hokkaido

Hokkaido is a top destination for many travelers in late spring and early summer. Its temperate climate and the beautiful natural colors at this time of year are hard to match across Japan. Fall is also a superb choice – travel towards the end of September and through October. While there’s plenty to do if you enjoy winter sports in the cold months, you might find that the heavy winter snowfall restricts your activity list somewhat.

Tohoku is a large district covering the northern area of the main island of Honshu. It’s home to many mid-sized population centers, the largest of which is Sendai, with just over 1 million population. Like Hokkaido, it experiences cold, snowy winters but a temperate summer, with slightly more humidity in the warm months.

Hot Springs Resorts in Tohoku

Regardless of what time of year you’re visiting Japan, you’ll want to visit one of the many towns in Tohoku boasting hot springs. These are especially pleasant in spring or fall when the weather isn’t as biting as it can get during the winter – although if you enjoy winter activities, you’ll appreciate them all the more!

Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival

As its climate is cooler than much of Honshu, Tohoku is another excellent place to enjoy a later cherry blossom experience. Hirosaki Park is home to thousands of cherry trees and is one of the finest displays nationwide. Hirosaki is located towards the district’s northern end and has a spectacular sakura festival that usually runs from April through to early May.

Summer: Tohoku is renowned for its agricultural produce. This is where to go if you want an authentic trip through golden rice paddies in Japan.

Winter: Tohoku has many excellent winter sports facilities. The mountains that make up the district’s spine are dotted with top-quality ski resorts and beautiful places to stay during fall.

Year-round: a hidden gem is Morioka, a city in the north with lower tourist footfall. It’s overlooked by the majestic Mt. Iwate, which provides a stunning backdrop to wake up to whenever you visit Tohoku. There’s also a spectacular snow festival at Mt. Iwate in the winter.

Best Time to Visit Tohoku

There’s something for everyone at all times of the year! With slightly less snowfall than Hokkaido and better connections to the rest of Honshu, it’s an excellent choice for winter travelers. It’s another great destination for summer, as it avoids the heavy humidity of more southern areas.

Eastern Japan

Many travelers considering the best time to visit Japan will look to the eastern region. This encompasses most of Honshu and many of Japan’s major population centers, including Tokyo. The climate tends to be slightly heavier in summer, but the latter part of the year is temperate and balmy compared to conditions across much of North America and Europe.

Hokuriku is one of the least-known regions of Japan but has a distinct climate that sets it apart from the rest of the eastern area in terms of the best time to visit Japan. It’s a mountainous region with a more relaxed atmosphere and plenty of unique, unspoiled coastline.

Hokuriku Offers Great Summer and Fall Hiking

The region is dominated by the Japanese Alps, which means it has fewer major population centers than most regions. However, you’ll find no shortage of top-class accommodation along the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, one of the best hiking trails in the country. It’s open from April to November each year.

Kanazawa is a Gorgeous, Historical City in Spring and Fall

Kanazawa is located in the southern part of Hokuriku, so it experiences hotter summer temperatures and more rainfall. It also receives more snowfall than many areas in winter – the best times to visit are in spring and fall when you can appreciate the stunning history of this beautiful city in pleasant weather.

Summer: The Himi Seaside Botanical Garden is celebrated for its fantastic array of marine and seaside plants. It’s best to visit during the warmer months.

Winter: Niigata Prefecture experiences heavy winter snow because it’s towards the northern end of Hokuriku. However, it’s also renowned globally for its whisky production—a perfect tonic for winter travelers.

Year-round: This coastal region is a great place to view sea life and simply enjoy the proximity to the ocean. It also has the Marinepia Nihonkai aquarium, which is open year-round and a great spot to visit in winter. You’ll also find plenty of delicious seafood in Hokuriku.

Best Time to Visit Hokuriku

The end of summer brings cooler temperatures and ideal hiking conditions. As the mercury drops and hiking becomes less accessible, settle into one of the small settlements in this region and enjoy its incredible range of whiskeys. The latter half of the year has a lot to offer for this region – it doesn’t get the recognition it deserves, making it a perfect destination if you want to avoid the crowds!

Kanto/Koshin

The Kanto region is dominated by the Tokyo metropolitan area, the largest population center in Japan. Many people considering the best time to visit Japan will visit Tokyo at some point – so when should you arrive?

Tokyo Thrives in Spring

Arguably the best time to enjoy Tokyo is between March and May. The rainy season hasn’t yet begun as it starts in mid-July, and the pleasant climate gives you plenty of time to check out attractions and events. The Meiji Shinto Shrine and Imperial Palace are both glorious at this time of year, although note that you’ll experience busy tourist crowds.

Beat the Crowds in November and December

September brings lovely fall colors to Kanto, but the temperature has dropped to a pleasant level by November, and it’s a beautiful time to visit this usually busy region.

The weather in December is less pleasant, but it is a great time to visit the capital’s many museums and cultural attractions without large crowds.

Matsumoto in the Koshin Region is a Thriving Cultural Hub

The climate of the Kanto and Koshin regions is somewhat similar. The best time to visit Japan in this area tends to be spring or autumn, which is also a great time to take in the incredible Samurai castle at Matsumoto in Koshin. It also has a vibrant arts scene, making it an excellent place for an extended visit.

Spring: From mid-March, watch Tokyo transform as sakura season arrives. There’s no comparable spectacle in a city of this size.

Fall: Tokyo provides a comfortable base to explore the incredible geography of the Kanto and Koshin regions.

Year-round: Tokyo never sleeps! There’s something incredible going on whatever time of year you visit.

Best Time to Visit Kanto/Koshin Region

We generally avoid visiting in summer, as it’s hot and rains heavily. Spring and fall are the best seasons to visit, with November being a great choice. Note that spring is the primary tourist season, so expect it to be busy!

The Tokai region is almost at the center of Japan from east to west. While it’s an industrial center, it also has many attractive destinations for visitors. It experiences a more southern climate than other regions in the east and is home to several large cities.

Mt. Fuji is Most Visible in Winter – But Climbers Should Choose Summer

A significant reason to visit Tokai is the iconic Mt. Fuji. The best time to visit Japan to see Mt. Fuji is between October and February – in the summer, heavy clouds tend to obscure the view.

However, if you want to climb the mountain, you’re advised to arrive in summer. Trails and huts are only open during this period, and winter climbing isn’t recommended.

Nagoya is a Bustling City with Great Transport Links

Nagoya is Japan’s third-largest population center. Like Tokyo, the city can be stifling and muggy in summer – the best time to visit Japan in Tokai tends to be autumn, as the temperatures have cooled. You can take trains from this lively hub to many unique destinations.

Spring: Visit the Izu Peninsula for gorgeous white-sand beaches in late spring. The coastal breeze keeps it slightly cooler in early summer, and prices begin to fall around June.

Fall: The Ise Grand Shrine is always worth visiting – it’s one of the most important monuments in Japan. The Hannamesai Festival in fall is a great time to go.

Year-round: Tokai has some fascinating museums and excellent art galleries, including the legendary Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry & Technology in Nagoya.

Best Time to Visit Tokai

The ideal time tends to be between October and November, especially if you’d like to view Mt. Fuji. Spring and early summer on the coast can also be a wonderful experience – the only less recommended season is late summer.

Western Japan

Western Japan takes in the southern portion of Honshu and the smaller island of Shikoku. It enjoys an almost subtropical climate and some of the country’s best-loved cities. The best time to visit Japan in this area tends to be during the cooler months.

Kinki/Kansai

The Kinki or Kansai region is home to several of Japan’s major cities, including Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara. There’s no shortage of places to stay in this gorgeous, historic region. So when’s the best time to visit Japan if you want to see this area?

Kyoto is Best Enjoyed During Cooler Months

Kyoto is a must-see for many visitors to Japan. It’s the nation’s cultural capital and a wonderful place to discover Japan’s rich history. Spring and fall are the most popular times to visit. But note that tourist footfall tends to be very high. January and February are pretty cold but often more accessible.

Try Smaller Villages in the Fall

Try straying off the beaten path if you want to dodge the crowds in the fall. Many picturesque villages are lodged in the gorgeous countryside, including gems like Ine with its scenic boathouses, and Uji, which offers legendary green tea.

Spring: The cherry blossom season in Kinki/Kansai comes pretty early – usually between March and May. It’s truly spectacular in the beautiful historical cities of this region.

Fall: You can go anywhere in this region and enjoy its beauty in the fall. Osaka Castle is stunning, and this major city has so much to do.

Year-round: Enjoying some fine Kobe beef and the region’s legendary sake doesn’t rely on good weather; it’s always the best time to visit Japan for foodies! Kobe is also generally less expensive than Kyoto or Osaka.

Best Time to Visit Kansai/Kinki

As with most parts of Honshu, spring and fall are the preferred seasons. The summer months can experience monsoon-like conditions – however, January and February are a great choice if you don’t mind a chill in the air and are looking to save some money.

Chugoku is the southernmost part of Honshu. It contains the notable cities of Hiroshima and Okayama. It’s an important cultural region that enjoys a hot climate.

Chugoku Has an Incredible Cherry Blossom Season

This is one of the best places to enjoy the early sakura. Cherry, peach, and plum trees blossom earlier than in much of Japan, and the region is less crowded than Kansai or Kanto. This is especially true if you step off the well-worn path and try Shimane, Tottori, or Yamaguchi prefectures – these areas are gorgeous but see relatively few tourists.

Spring: The Koraku-en garden in Okayama is celebrated as one of the finest gardens in Japan. The best time to visit Japan for most formal gardens is spring.

Fall: Rural Chugoku is spectacular for hikers in the fall. Dazzling subtropical skies, cooler air, and excellent autumnal colors abound, while accommodation tends to be very affordable.

Year-round: The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is a critical part of Japanese and world history. Whenever you’re in Chugoku, you should schedule a visit.

Best Time to Visit Chugoku

The winter is temperate and a great time to enjoy the population centers. The summer can be prone to typhoons and monsoon weather, so it’s best avoided. However, spring and fall are the best times to visit Chugoku, with spectacular sakura displays and pleasant weather.

Shikoku is the smallest of Japan’s main four islands. It’s somewhat isolated and rural compared to the rest of the country, making it an excellent choice for visitors seeking a tranquil experience. The best time to visit Japan for a quiet stay in Shikoku doesn’t depend so much on festivals or events – the main trick is to avoid the rainy season.

Spring: The Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu is genuinely spectacular. If you’re looking for the best time to visit Japan for a peaceful experience, come to Takamatsu in spring and visit the Ritsurin Garden.

Fall & Winter: The cooler conditions are great for hiking. You could even follow the legendary 88-temple pilgrimage around the island – buses are available, but you’ll learn more on foot!

Year-round: Shikoku is legendary for its udon noodles. There’s never a wrong time of year to enjoy this wonderful dish prepared by masters.

Best Time to Visit Shikoku

Any time except the summer! You’ll find a tranquil environment, lower prices than more touristy areas, and many hidden gems from the fall through to spring. The summer months are simply too hot and humid for most travelers.

Southern Japan

Southern Japan includes the large island of Kyushu and the island chains of Amami & Okinawa. Its subtropical climate makes spring and fall the most attractive time to visit for most guests.

Historically known as the “gateway to Japan,” Kyushu’s main city is Fukuoka, with a population of around 1.5m. It boasts some stunning natural geography and important cultural centers. The island is renowned for its hot springs – winter is an excellent time to visit Kyushu, as you’ll avoid the tourist season but benefit from mild temperatures and wonderful hot baths!

Spring: Kyushu has many excellent seaside areas, and spring is the perfect time to enjoy them as the weather warms up.

Fall: Nagasaki is mainly known for its Peace Memorial Park commemorating its bombing in WW2. However, it’s a hidden gem of a city and especially lovely in the fall.

Year-round: The Uminonakamichi Seaside Park is famous for its seasonal flower displays – you can discover beauty here at any time of year.

Best Time of Year to Visit Kyushu

Spring is a great time to spend a few weeks in Kyushu. If the best time to visit Japan for you is winter, Kyushu is also an excellent choice owing to its temperate winter climate. The island also has plenty to offer in the fall, with summer the least attractive season due to the humidity.

Amami & Okinawa

Amami & Okinawa make up an island chain stretching out beneath Kyushu. They have a tropical climate that makes the islands more accessible in summer than the damp mainland areas – sparkling blue seas and glittering beaches await when you visit these gorgeous islands.

Year-round: the unique tropical climate means these islands are most famous for their fantastic seaside opportunities. The region offers incredible diving opportunities if you’re feeling brave. Otherwise, simply enjoy splashing around in the warm ocean – it’s even okay to swim in winter!

When to Visit Amami & Okinawa

You’ll enjoy these islands at any time of year. Seeking the hot tropical sun? Visit in July-September. Looking for lower prices and fewer crowds? Try the winter months.

Best Time to Season to Visit Japan

By covering each region of Japan, we hope we’ve shown why there’s no “best time to visit Japan.” The Japanese islands have a varied climate, and you’ll find unique opportunities in different regions at different times of the year. Here’s a breakdown of the best regions to visit by season.

Visiting Japan in Spring

The weather is pleasant everywhere, so it’s up to you where to go! Late March and April are the best times to visit Japan if you’re seeking the famous cherry blossoms. Areas like Kanto and Koshin tend to be busier and more expensive as they hold the island’s main cultural capitals. Golden Week in Japan (a yearly Japanese national holiday that lasts about a week) is happening during spring so expect a massive crowd at the beginning of May.

Visiting Japan in Summer

Summer is considered the least attractive season for visiting anywhere except Northern Japan. It tends to be muggy and humid across much of Honshu, although you’ll find lower prices in many areas.

On the other hand, summer is a great time to visit Hokkaido or Tohoku, where the climate is cooler. Okinawa and Amami also experience fantastic tropical summer weather, although there’s always the risk of storms.

Visiting Japan in Fall

Fall is another excellent choice wherever you go. From September to November, pleasant temperatures and coloring of the foliage characterize Fall in Japan. Visiting Japan in Fall is probably one of the best options so you can avoid golden week and the crowd of foreign tourists that come for the cherry blossom season but still enjoy pleasant weather.

Visiting Japan in Winter

Are you looking to travel in the winter? Hokkaido is covered in snow but offers excellent skiing, while you could try Amami and Okinawa for a winter island paradise. In the southern regions, you’ll find lower prices across Honshu and temperate climates.

Our Verdict on the Best Time to Visit Japan

The best time to visit Japan depends on your destination. For the popular parts of Honshu, such as Tokyo and Kyoto, we’d recommend late May or November as the ideal time of year. You’ll find a perfect blend of cheaper accommodation and beautiful weather, and there’ll always be plenty to do and see.

However, perhaps you’d like a summer trip up North or a bracing January trip to Shikoku for its unspoiled hiking opportunities. Matching the time to the destination is how you’ll know the best time to visit Japan – start planning now!

Best Time to Visit Japan FAQs:

Typhoons typically occur in late summer.

Most of Honshu is unpleasantly humid through the summer months.

Late May and November are good choices to enjoy fine weather with more affordable accommodation and flights.

Cherry blossom season starts in March and ends in May.

It rains across most of Japan through the late summer months.

Cherry blossom season tends to be very busy as people want to experience Hanami. Summer is also busy in some parts due to the Western school holidays though you can expect very hot and humid weather from early July to the end of summer.

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Experience Japanese Onsen: Tips for Visiting a Hot Spring in Japan

• 8 minute read

The Best Time to Visit Japan: A Complete Guide

• When Is the Best Time to Visit Japan?

This complete guide will give you all of the information you need to decide when the best time to visit to Japan is for you. We’ll take a look at the pros and cons of visiting Japan in certain seasons, and other factors (such as cost, weather, crowds and seasonal cuisine) which might influence your choice.

With so many season-specific attractions and events (such as cherry blossom viewing, hiking Mt. Fuji and attending vibrant festivals) the question of when to visit needs careful consideration by potential travelers.

Rated as one of the top ten countries in the world for tourism by the Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report , Japan outranked all other countries in Asia.  With all of it’s beautiful nature, technology, bright lights, and amazing food, Japan is a must-visit country.

The numbers of foreign visitors to Japan has more than tripled in the last fifteen years, with nearly 20 million international tourists visiting in 2015.  So what are you waiting for?  Use this guide and plan your next trip to Japan!

Temperature in Major Cities

Things to do in spring, spring festivals, popular foods in spring, important points to consider, pros and cons:  spring in japan, weather in summer, fashion in summer, things to do in summer, festivals in summer, popular foods in summer, pros vs cons:  summer in japan, fall fashion, things to see in the fall, festivals in the fall, popular fall foods, pros vs cons: fall in japan, weather in winter, festivals in winter, popular foods in winter, pros and cons:  winter in japan, best time to travel by price/peak times of travel, times to avoid:  peak seasons of travel/bad weather, other times to avoid if possible, insider’s tip, the best season to visit japan.

One of the major points to consider when choosing when to visit Japan is the season.

Japan is a country with plenty of natural beauty, and if there are certain events that you want to catch, you’ll have to visit at the right time.

When summers or winters are unexpectedly cold or hot, this can affect seasonal changes that bring the autumn leaves or the blooming of the cherry blossoms, sometimes by as much as several weeks.

If you’re booking flights months in advance, this can be a risky element to your trip. If there are certain events that you just have to see, I recommend coming to Japan for as long as possible to give yourself a good window in which to catch it. But however long you visit for, the season is of key importance.

Let’s take a look at each season in detail to see which time of year is best for you.

Springtime (March – May) is usually dubbed as the best time to visit Japan. However, there are pros and cons, and a lot of it depends on which part of the country you are visiting.

The north of Japan is often cold and snowy for about half the year, while the southern-most point is warm and tropical, and everything in between is a mix of the two. So saying whether a certain time of year is either cold or warm in Japan isn’t a cut and dried answer.

However, it is fairly universally held that spring is a nice time throughout all of Japan.

The weather is quite mild at both ends, with warm days and evenings that verge on chilly. You’ll need a warm sweater and jacket to visit Hokkaido at this time of year, but in the south, you could easily go out in a light sweater or even a t-shirt and shorts during the daytime.

Depending on where you are, spring can be a difficult season to dress for – in early spring, even if the day starts out warm it can soon turn cold once the sun goes down. The spring seasons usually starts off dry, but often ends on a rainy note after the cherry blossom season.

Looking at three major cities, average temperatures in spring get steadily warmer throughout the season.

• Tokyo : The beginning of spring sees lows of 6°C (43°F), while the end of the season sees highs of 23°C (73°F)
• Kyoto: The season starts with lows of 4°C (39°F) and ends with high temperatures of 24°C (75°F)
• Sapporo (Hokkaido): The spring is much colder than Tokyo, with lows in March of -3°C (27°F), and ending the spring with highs of 17°C (63°F)

Regarding attractions, the biggest draw for visitors in spring is the cherry blossom viewing.

One thing is for sure: you can chase the blossoms all the way up through the country from the south to the north – the warmer weather in Kyushu means that they get the cherry blossoms first, and it can be several weeks before the same flowers bloom up in Hokkaido. Check the annual cherry blossom forecast to see when the experts predict that they’ll bloom.

Other good reasons to visit in springtime include the festivals of the season.

There are many popular and unusual festivals at this time of year, including the Aso Fire Festival (March), the Kamakura Festival (April), Children’s Day (May 5th), the vibrant Hakata Dontaku Festival in Fukuoka (May 3rd and 4th), the Hamamatsu Kite Flying Festival (May 3rd – 5th), and Honbasho – The Great Sumo Tournament (May – although sumo tournaments are held year-round).

Golden Week is also in the spring, and is one of the worst times to visit Japan as an international tourist because this is the time of year when Japanese tourists are also flitting all over the country.

Seasonal cuisine in Japan is not so exciting in spring as it is in other seasons.

One of the main things you see a lot at this time of year are “picnic bentos” in the supermarkets, where you can buy a platter of snacks and salads to share when you go viewing cherry blossoms with friends and family.

Of course, there are dozens of cherry blossom flavored goodies, such as sakura ice-cream and sakura Kit-Kat chocolate bars. As well as cherry blossoms, the plum blossoms are also in season, and you can get sour pickled ume (plum) to snack on, as well as ume flavored potato chips and other treats. Bamboo shoots are popular at this time of year, as are strawberries.

While spring is popularly thought of as the best time to visit Japan, it certainly has its downsides too.

Firstly, the Golden Week holiday is a nightmare time to travel – attractions are crowded, accommodation books out fast and often costs more, and travel becomes more difficult too.

The weather can be unpredictable, and the beauty of the cherry blossoms can be cut short by an early rain. However, despite this, it still remains a favorite time to visit. The weather at this time of year is milder and less extreme than the boiling hot summer and cold winter, and while it can be rainy, it’s usually not too intense.

Festivals are popular in the spring season and, after the winter, people tend to be in a good mood at this time of year.

Another thing to take into consideration is that the spring season also brings about allergies for certain people.

Drifting pollen from Cryptomeria and Japanese cypress trees often peak during the spring season. If you have hay fever or are prone to allergies from pollen, the spring season in Japan may aggravate your symptoms.

• Nice, mild weather, perfect for walking around
• Cherry blossom viewing season
• Lots of festivals
• A popular time to travel for both locals and tourists, which make it very difficult to get around
• The end of March is when most public schools start their vacation, which results in more travel among Japanese locals. However, Golden Week (usually the end of April to the first week of May) is crazy busy.
• Try to avoid traveling during Golden Week if possible.  Bullet trains and buses are usually crowded,  making it difficult to get reservations
• Hotels and certain attractions also increase their prices during Golden Week
• Those with pollen allergies might want to be careful. Pollen in the air usually reaches its peak during spring

Summertime in Japan (June – August) is one of those times that some people love and some people hate. This depends on where you come from and the climate you are used to.

Japan rarely sees extreme temperatures in the summer, but with the high humidity, it makes walking or even standing outside uncomfortable.

Temperatures over 34°C (93°F) is rare but does happen occasionally, with the highest recorded temperature in Japan reaching over 40°C (104°F).

However, if you come from somewhere mild, even the high 20’s can seem unbearable with the very high humidity. If you don’t deal with heat well, this is something to consider seriously.

As well as the heat, the weather is not perfect at this time of year. Early summer (June) is usually when the rainy season starts – this is the time when rice farmers do lots of their planting and is a busy time of year for agriculture.

However, for tourists, it isn’t ideal to go sightseeing in the rain day after day for weeks on end. Once the rain stops, you’re blasted with the full heat of summer before typhoon season hits.

Typhoons that actually hit and do damage are not so common in Japan – just a few major ones tend to hit annually. However, there have been more in recent years. The days after a typhoon are called taifu ikka, which refers to the good weather which you see after a typhoon has passed.

In terms of temperatures, the south of Japan sees the hottest summers while it is relatively cool up in the north. Activities like hiking and camping are popular at this time of year as a way to escape the heat.

• Tokyo: Average temperatures for summer see lows of 19°C (66°F), going up to 31°C (88°F) by the end of August.
• Kyoto: Lows of 19°C (66°F) and highs of 33°C (91°F) in August.
• Sapporo: Lows are around 13°C (55°F) while the highest temperatures peak at a pleasant 26°C (79°F).

Warmer temperatures are common in the south. This is t-shirt weather through and through! Don’t forget your hat and sunglasses during these seasons, though of course you can also pick up any seasonal accessories you need at any of the 100 yen shops around the country.

Synonymous with summer in Japan is the wearing of yukata. Unlike kimonos (which are bulky, cumbersome and fairly uncomfortable) a yukata is basically like a Japanese dressing gown made of light cotton, and is comfy to wear when it is hot out.

Whether or not you’re interested in trying out the Japanese summer clothing styles, you absolutely must get yourself a traditional summer handkerchief.

Most Japanese people have one of these little rags stuffed into their pocket or handbag the whole year through, but they are particularly useful in summer when you sweat profusely and need to wipe your face every five minutes.

You can get cheap handkerchiefs in many shops in Japan (even supermarkets and convenience stores), but there are also specialist shops where you can purchase beautiful handkerchiefs in traditional designs, and even get your name embroidered on them. These make excellent souvenirs and are a lovely gift item too.

As well as visiting hot springs and going hiking, other popular pastimes in this season include visiting the beach (though watch out during jellyfish season) and of course attending the seasonal festivals. Fireworks play a heavy part in the summer celebrations, and you can see displays all around the country when the weather gets warmer.

Hiking Mt. Fuji is also another popular event in the summer.

While you may sweat and feel hot in the beginning, it will be very cold when you reach the top.  So prepare accordingly.

Top festivals include Osaka’s Rice Planting Festival (June 14th), Fukuoka’s spectacular Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival (July 1st – 15th), Osaka’s Tenjin Festival (July 24th and 25th), Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Ceremony (August 6th), the Yamaga Lantern Festival (August 15th and 16th) and Kyoto’s Daimonji Bonfire Festival (August 16th).

Like spring, summertime in Japan is also made difficult for travelers by a long national holiday.

Obon (mid-August event to pay respects to your ancestors) takes place during the best part of the summer and is one of the busiest, most expensive times of the year to travel. Even the bullet trains can get so crowded that there isn’t even room to stand (picture a can of sardines, but with people).

June is the rainy season, so if you plan on doing a lot of outdoor activities, you need to plan ahead and be prepared for possible rain.

As for food, the hot weather may cause you to lose your appetite, but there are plenty of refreshing snacks which have been tailor made for this season.

Cold somen noodles are a popular dish – after being cooked, they are plunged into icy water and served with cold vegetables and refreshing sauce. It doesn’t sound appetizing but, trust me, it does the trick!

Also, what with all the festivals that take place during the summer, this is the perfect time to try out some typical Japanese street food and snacks which you can buy at food stalls.

Yakitori (grilled meat on a stick), okonomiyaki (“Japanese pizza”), takoyaki (octopus balls) and fried squid are all top choices and available all over the place.

If you fancy something sweet, try out kakigori – shaved ice flavored with toxic-looking flavorings and a dollop of condensed milk. This is popular with kids and good to try once but, to be honest, you’re better off just getting a regular ice-cream from a convenience store unless you’re really in the mood for a snow cone.

Ice cream products in Japan are awesome, and there are great local choices to try such as green tea flavored ice cream, and of course yukimi daifuku – balls of ice-cream which are nestled inside a skin of chewy mochi (aka, mochi ice cream).

• Awesome festivals
• Lots of good summer foods to try
• Good for hiking (especially to hike Mt. Fuji)
• Unforgivingly hot and humid weather
• Traveling during the Obon season (mid-August) is very, very busy
• Traveling to and from Japan is generally more expensive in August

Fall/Autumn

Like spring, fall is a time when you can enjoy milder temperatures that are a great mid-point between the harsh heat of summer and the cold bite of winter. Typhoon season creeps into the first part of the fall but is usually over by mid/late September. After that, the weather is usually nice until winter, with relatively little rain at this time of year.

Fall in Japan is a wonderful time to enjoy the great outdoors.

Temperatures in the fall are still hot and summery during September, but cool down to warmer temperatures in October and November.

• Tokyo: The season starts with lows of 21°C (70°F) and highs of 28°C (82°F), and by the end of fall, temperatures are in the 10-17°C (50°- 63°F) range
• Kyoto: Temperatures start at 20°C (68°F) to 28°C (82°F), and then the season ends with temperatures of 8 – 17°C (46 – 63°F).
• Sapporo: Early fall temperatures reach highs of 22°C (72°F), but by the end of the season you’ll be somewhere in the 2-8°C (36 – 46°F) range. However, the change is gradual, and after the relentless heat of summer, it’s always nice to return to kinder temperatures

As for clothing, at the start of the season you’ll still be in summer-wear, but by the end of November it’ll be long-sleeved t-shirts and lightweight jackets, or something much warmer if you’re up in the north.

Both spring and fall have cooler temperatures and amazing, beautiful nature which is the main reason to visit at this time.

If you have the chance to visit somewhere away from the big cities, up in the hills and away from it all, these are the spots where autumn leaves are most majestic. An hour outside of Tokyo, Hakone is my personal favorite place for viewing autumn leaves.

Unlike the cherry blossoms, this change takes place from the top down, with leaves changing color in the north of Japan during mid-September, and finishing up in the south of Kyushu around mid-December. Like the cherry blossoms, it can be hard to predict exactly, but you can research the official autumn leaf forecast for updates nearer the time.

Aside from the autumnal leaves, there are other events to enjoy. There are some regional and small festivals to enjoy during your trip.

There is the Kumamoto Horse Festival (September), Okinawa’s Paantu Punaha Mud Festival (early September), the Naha Festival (October 10th) and the Nagasaki Kunchi Festival (October 7th – 9th).

While Japan may not have much going on in terms of festivals in the fall, it is certainly a peak time to visit in terms of cuisine. There are lots of delicious vegetables and fruits which are in season during the fall.

Many of them are featured on restaurant menus, and you can also pick them up fairly cheaply from local markets. Sweet potatoes, taro, pumpkin, and mushrooms are all popular vegetables in the fall.

You can buy yaki imo (baked sweet potatoes) from roadside stalls – a great and healthy snack for when the weather is getting colder.

Citrus fruits are available all year round in Japan. In the fall, the citrus fruit of choice is sudachi – it looks like a cross between an orange and a lime, and tends to be easy to peel with thin skin.

However, this fruit is not really eaten straight, as it is just as sour as a lemon or lime. It is more commonly used to flavor foods. Chestnuts are also popular in the fall, and can be found roasted or used in a variety of desserts.

• The weather is very comfortable (especially from late September – late October)
• Stunning natural beauty (autumn leaves)
• Attractions and transportation are less crowded than the summer or spring (except during Silver Week and three-day weekends)
• A lot less options when it comes to festivals and other events
• Weather in October – November can be unpredictable. It can be hot one day, and cold the next.

Wintertime in Japan (December – February) is cold across the board, with similar temperatures throughout the three months of winter.

The weather tends to be good at this time of year – cold, but crisp and dry, with little to no rain at all. You’ll need to dress warmly in these seasons, and the weather can be deceptive so be prepared.

During the Christmas holiday in the winter of 2016, daytime temperatures jumped from 4°C (39°F) to 19°C (66°F) with just a few days in between – so even if the weather looks like it’s going to be warmer than usual, it probably won’t last, so be prepared with hats, gloves and other accessories.

• Tokyo: Temperatures are similar in all three of the winter months, with lows of 2°C (36°F) and highs of 13°C (55°F). Last year, Tokyo saw snow in November for the first time in over half a century
• Kyoto: A little colder than Tokyo with winter lows of 1°C (34°F) and highs of 11°C (52°F)
• Sapporo: Winter is the perfect time for sports like skiing and snowboarding, with lows of -7°C (19°F) and highs of just 2°C (36°F)

The most well-known festival of the season is the Sapporo Snow Festival which runs for a week every February (usually early February). Roughly two million people attend the festival each year, where you can see ice sculptures and snow statues, many of which have been built by local residents.

Each year around 400 statues are built – a far cry from the first ever Sapporo Snow Festival in 1950 where six high school students built six snow statues in the city park. The exquisite statues often depict a celebrity, or something popular from the previous year. Illuminations bring the whole place to life at night.

Other festivals include New Year celebrations across the country (January), the Naked Festival at Okayama (February), the Nara Lantern Festival (February 3rd) and the Yokote Kamakura Snow Festival (February 15th and 16th).

A few days each year (usually on select days in January and February) they have a special “lite-up” event, where the houses are illuminated.  While the weather is freezing, the houses look absolutely magical, and are worth a visit if you have the time.

New Years Eve is a more reserved celebration than in other countries. In Japan the focus is more on New Years Day which is typically a family time.

Food in winter is typically warming and hearty, as one might expect from the weather.

Hot pots (known as nabe) are a popular dish, and there are many nabe restaurants where the food cooks in front of you – use your chopsticks to take what you want when it’s ready. This is a great meal to have with friends around a big table.

Popular winter vegetables are the giant Japanese radish and lotus root, which can be prepared in a variety of ways.

The famously poisonous fugu (puffer fish) is often eaten in winter, and the citrus fruits of the season are mikan (mandarin oranges) and yuzu (like a cross between a lemon and a grapefruit). Tofu is also popular in winter and you can usually see some creamy white chunks of it floating around when you order hot pot.

• Food is hearty and this time of year, and washed down with a warming glass of hot sake is the perfect way end a day full of traveling
• For seafood fans, winter is when crabs are in season, and taste the best.
• Great ski slopes around Japan for winter sports
• Amazing winter festivals
• Many attractions close their doors for at least a few days around the New Year
• Traveling the last week of December – the first week of January is busy and expensive

Aside from seasonal events and changes in the weather and temperature, there are other points to consider when choosing the best time for your trip to Japan.

Cost is often a major factor for travelers, particularly if you’re hoping to travel cheaply.

While Japan is a fairly cheap place to be a tourist (with good deals in restaurants and supermarkets, as well as reasonable entry fees to attractions) getting around can be expensive as the public transport is so costly, and accommodation prices rocket during the peak seasons.

As well as cost, there are certain times of the year when traveling in Japan is bound to be a nightmare.

Working life can be pretty rubbish in Japan, mainly because of the tiny amounts of holiday given to workers and the fact that everyone has to take their vacation at the same time – making life difficult for foreign tourists too. Let’s take a look at some of these issues which you need to consider when planning a trip to Japan.

Peak seasons should be avoided altogether if you can help it.

• Golden Week (late April – early May)
• Obon Festival (mid-August, lasting around a week)
• Silver Week (late September)
• The Month of June (Rainy Season – This isn’t a deal-breaker if you plan on doing indoor activities like shopping)

Silver week is certainly less crazy than the other two holidays but has been gaining popularity in recent years. These three times are when, basically, all of Japan goes on holiday.

What this means is that trains and buses are usually booked solid. If you try to take a train using an unreserved ticket (no seat assignment), you’ll face big queues and long waits. And the possibility of you having to stand the whole way is very possible.

Also, attractions are crowded, and this can ruin the point of visiting it in the first place. Accommodation books out way in advance or raises its prices, and restaurants book out or have long waits– the whole experience is basically crowded, expensive and stressful. Trust me, any other time of year is preferable!

The summer vacation when children are off from school (late July to September) can also be a busy time to travel. Like everywhere in the world, Saturdays and Sundays are often crowded and public transport can be cramped, and restaurants often offer certain deals which are only available during a weekday.

A few attractions close their doors on Mondays, so if it is possible, try to plan your trip to arrive on a Monday night or a Tuesday, and then leave Japan (a few weeks later!) on a Friday.

Perhaps you’re planning a trip to Japan especially for one of the popular events, such as viewing the cherry blossoms or the changing of the autumn leaves. These things are not to be missed, but also come with a price-tag as places tend to up their prices during these seasons.

If you can’t avoid visiting during a peak season, plan your trip as early in advance as you can and try to choose cheaper, local accommodation over these periods. Traditional ryokans (Japanese inns) raise their prices too, but can still be the cheaper option.

Depending on which regions you want to visit, one way to save money is with a Japan Rail Pass. This can’t be bought in Japan– it’s only for foreign tourists and so you’ll need to order one in advance. The pass is expensive, but way cheaper than buying individual tickets in Japan (train travel is very expensive).

If you plan to be darting all around the country and doing a lot of traveling outside of big cities, the rail pass is a must. However, if you don’t think you’ll get your money’s worth out of a pass, snub the rail altogether and fly.

Domestic flights in Japan are often really cheap, sometimes half the price of taking the bullet train to the same destination. Budget airlines and discount airfare companies like Jet Star, Star Alliance Japan Airpass, and OneWorld Yokoso/Visit Japan Fare are a much better alternative to costly rail travel.

Japan is an awesome place to travel, and one of the nicest places in the world to be a tourist.

People are polite and friendly, there is a good amount of English language information in the big cities, it’s safe and hygienic, travel is (usually) efficient and is just a beautiful place.

Hopefully this article has helped to shed some light on the impossible choice and you have a better idea about which season is suited to your Japan trip. Leave us a comment and let us know which season you think sounds the best!

Celia Jenkins

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The Best Time to Visit Japan: A Month-by-Month Guide

For many, the cost of flights, food, and lodging coupled with the lengthy travel time make Japan a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Thus, picking the perfect time to visit is absolutely key. While cherry blossom season is a rightfully popular and unique time to visit, there are several factors to consider that can either make or break your best time to go. National holidays, high prices, weather, and what types of experiences you want to have while on vacation should all be taken into consideration. Since much of this relies on specific seasons and even months, we've made it easy by breaking down what you can expect, month by month, when visiting the Land of the Rising Sun. In fact, there's so much going on at any given time during the year, you're likely to find that you can't go wrong—or just once.

Snow usually blankets the ground in central Japan by now, making both January and February a perfect time to check out the famous snow monkeys in Nagano , grab serene stills of temples and castles covered in snow, soak in a steamy onsen, and really appreciate that piping hot bowl of ramen or udon. Plus, there’s less traffic at all the touristy spots, giving those who brave the cold a much more personal experience of Japan’s famous sites. In northern Japan, January — after the New Year’s holiday — marks a prime time to hit the ski slopes. January also marks the Sumo New Year Basho in Tokyo , and cherry blossom season kicks off in Okinawa as trees are already beginning to bloom.

February marks the official start of diving season in Japan. Sea turtles, sharks, seahorses, and manatees can be spotted all season long, but divers willing to brave the lower temperature waters of February will have the highest chances and best conditions for spotting humpback whales. Humpbacks start becoming more elusive come mid- to late March and disappear completely from late April through the end of November. Aboveground, on Japan’s central and northern islands, February is typically Japan’s coldest month. Most folks can be found keeping warm inside cozy izakayas or soaking in an onsen, while others indulge in winter sports, even pilgrimaging way up north to Sapporo ‘s fun Snow Festival.

March is one of the most popular times to visit Japan, thanks to warming temperatures and the start of the much-anticipated cherry blossom season . By mid-month, several areas of central Japan will start to see budding blooms on the trees, signaling the celebration of hanami (a.k.a. flower viewing) . This is an extremely festive and cheerful time to be in Japan and a great way to experience one of the country’s most social traditions. Typically, the blooms will only last around two weeks, and some people choose to follow them as they bloom their way up to Hokkaido through April. Expect nightly parties, tons of jubilant drunkenness on blankets under the cherry blossom boughs, and hotels to be pricey and booked.

March and April are also two of the best months to visit Okinawa . During this time, most tourists will be concentrated in the central and northern prefectures in order to experience the cherry blossoms, which are likely to be finished blooming in Okinawa by March. Those interested in a sumo match may want to head to Osaka in March for their annual Sumo Spring Basho.

Okinawa’s temperatures begin to heat up and remain hot and humid in April, with average temps in the low 90s through September. Divers should also mark their calendars as mid-April through May is the only time you won’t see either humpbacks or manta rays in the water. April’s rising temperatures also signal the end of Japan’s ski season. March’s expensive prices and booked hotels stay steady through April, so we highly recommend booking travel and planning well in advance to get the best deals and hotels.

If you’re looking to celebrate the beauty of flowers, but can’t make it to Japan during the March-April cherry blossom season, come in May (or head to Hokkaido , where the last of the cherry blossoms are beginning to bloom). You’ll be met with pink, white, and purple hues from several of Japan’s other flowers, like azalea, wisteria, and iris. However, we recommend skipping a visit that falls during Golden Week (the last Sunday in April through the first week of May). This is a week of compensatory holidays when most of Japan takes off work and several businesses are shut down. Flights, trains, hotels, and other activities often soar in prices and quickly become booked up. It’s also worth checking out specific dates for Tokyo’s Sumo Summer Basho, to either attend or snag a hotel before they get snatched up. Visitors to Okinawa should be warned that May is typically the wettest month.

June and July

Typhoon June is a thing; this month kicks off Japan’s rainiest weeks. Heavy rain can often be expected through July, though the rainy season can last up until September. June also marks Nagoya ‘s turn at the Sumo Basho, while the already-wet Okinawa area will start seeing typhoons in June that can last through August.

Those looking for a chance to climb Mount Fuji can start planning their hikes from July 1, when the mountainside opens back up for climbers. Late July through late August has the best weather conditions for climbing, but you’ll also find that this is when the mountainside is the most congested. (Even though it’s summertime and the weather is hot elsewhere, it still reaches freezing temperatures on the summit, so prepare accordingly.) Music lovers should take into account that Japan’s largest music festival, Fuji Rock Festival, kicks off the last weekend in July at the Naeba Ski Resort in Yuzawa, Niigata, and features both national and international artists. Previous performers have included Bjork, Queens of the Stone Age, Beck, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Muse, Deadmau5, The Cure, and Arcade Fire.

The massive Japanese holiday of Obon lands in the middle of August, and is a fun and vibrant time to visit Japan. Obon is an event in honor of the dead. It is a time when the Japanese believe the living and dead can be reunited to eat, drink, and be merry together. Expect streets to be blocked off with festivals and tons of dancing. It’s practically a given that hotels will be booked well in advance, so don’t be surprised if you see those unable to get a room happily sleeping on the floor of train stations. August is also Japan’s hottest month, no matter which island you find yourself on, though the highs can vary greatly, reaching into the 90s on Okinawa and just 72 in Hokkaido.

By the second week of September all of Mount Fuji’s hiking trails are closed. Weather during September can be somewhat of a wild card, with scattered showers and fluctuating weather that leans on the warmer side, especially in the southern prefectures. However, you’ll find considerably cooler temperatures creeping into the northern prefectures. It’s also the start of Okinawa’s high season, which lasts through December, and the Sumo Basho returns to Tokyo.

October and November

October and November are a gorgeous time to visit Japan. Falling temperatures start in Hokkaido during October, and the warm colors of autumn start to slowly push their way down the islands of central Japan. This is also the end of diving season in Okinawa, though several people still flock to the islands for its warm temperatures and beautiful beaches. The fall landscape and temperatures make it an excellent time to visit the deer in Nara , too.

December breaks in winter for Japan and snowfall is common. As it gets cold enough for snow to stick to the ground, ski slopes begin to open across central Japan and Hokkaido. It snows nearly every day in the winter on Hokkaido. The warmest temps only reach about 30 degrees, while the coldest plunge to a frigid 15 degrees. While you’ll definitely need to bundle up, don’t let this deter you. Winter is one of the most stunning times to visit Japan, when temples and landscapes are often covered with picturesque blankets or dustings of snow. However, keep in mind that there are a ton of activities and holidays in Japan between December 29 and January 10, so it’s best to time your visit around these dates to avoid full occupancy in hotels, overcrowded public transit, and higher room rates. Temples are often inundated over the New Year’s holiday, so its best to arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds. Visitors during the week between Christmas and New Year’s should also double-check to make sure museums and tourist attractions and points of interest are actually open.

If you aren’t quite ready for winter, head to Kyushu where fall is just starting to breach the island in December.

What to Wear in Japan

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Riviera Short Sleeve Shirt

Regular Fit Shorts

Leather Strap Watch

Women’s Cute Winter Outfit for a Walk in the Snow

Quilted Shell Down Jacket

Turtleneck Sweater

High Waist Crop Jogger Pants

Waterproof Boots

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Crewneck Sweater

Stretch Twill Pants

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Beverly Hills Tank

Cannonball 7" Swim Trunks

Reverse Weave® Belt Bag

Women’s Casual California Outfit

Tie Front Button Up

Paper Bag Denim Shorts

Full Heart Bobby Pin Set

Fringed Crocheted Belt Bag

Chuck Taylor's

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Coors Golden Colorado Tee

Elastic Waist Pants

Older Women’s Dressy Outfit for a Vacation in Your 60’s

Casino Linear Herringbone Earrings

Pleated Bender Midi Bag

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Stretch Washed Chinos

Bold Bracelet Watch

More from Oyster.com :

• 6 Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Japan
• 24 Things You Should Know Before Traveling to Japan
• The Best Itinerary for Japan
• 12 Things You Should Never Do in Japan

Read the original story: The Best Time to Visit Japan: A Month-by-Month Guide by Katherine Alex Beaven, who is a regular contributor to Oyster.com

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When is the Best Time to Visit Japan in 2024? Here’s When to Go & How to Dress For the Season

When is the best time to visit Japan? When is the best time to visit Tokyo? You have decided you want to travel to Japan - great! But now comes the hard part: planning.

Here's the best time to visit Japan

Pros and cons of traveling in each season in japan, best season to travel in japan, the least crowded time to visit japan, the cheapest time to visit japan, list of annual events and japan national holidays 2024, what to pack for japan, try ‘any wear, anywhere’ to reduce your suitcase space.

Everyone says to visit during cherry blossom season , but is that really the best time to travel? The pictures you’ve seen of cherry blossom festivals look really crowded. From flower viewing in spring , festivals in summer , and skiing in winter , each season is a brand-new Japan! That’s why careful attention needs to be paid to the when, not just the where, when planning your Japan adventure! To help you with your planning, we’ve created the ultimate guide to Japan’s seasons , weather, and trends. Use this information to pick a time confidently and get the Japan you’ve dreamed of!

The best times to visit Japan are the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) seasons , with May and October-November being the optimal months to balance good weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. The periods between March to May and October to November have the best weather. These times, which line up with spring and most of autumn , are filled with calm days and comfortable temperatures. Nature lovers will appreciate the blooming flowers of spring , including the famed cherry blossoms, along with the equally stunning foliage of late autumn . September-November are recommended as good alternatives to avoid the peak crowds and prices, while still enjoying pleasant weather and scenery. Finally, the winter months can also be a good time to visit, with fewer tourists (except for snow resort areas like Niseko in Hokkaido ) and lower prices, though the weather may be colder, especially in northern regions.

It all depends on you!

Japan is a beautiful country 365 days a year, and you won't regret your trip no matter when you go. However, depending on the season , you may see a very different Japan from the one you imagined. That's why it's essential to create a list of goals for your trip, then compare them against each month to find the Japan you want to see the most.

To help you choose the best time to visit Japan, we've compiled a handy pros and cons list for each season . After you've decided what you'd like to see and do, use this list to select the best time to go!

• Pros: Excellent skiing conditions in Hokkaido, calm and clear winter weather in major cities, and widespread festive light festivals.
• Cons: Busy New Year holiday period with potential closures and unpredictable, sometimes harsh winter weather leading to travel disruptions.
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in January , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in January
• Pros: Peak ski conditions, vibrant snow and illumination festivals (such as the Sapporo Snow Festival and the Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival ), and Early-blooming cherry blossoms and plum blossoms can be enjoyed.
• Cons: Coldest month with sub-freezing temperatures, snow and ice disrupting transport, and potential influx of tourists during Lunar New Year .
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in February , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in January , Visiting Hokkaido in Winter , Enjoy Early-Blooming Sakura in February
• Pros: Warmer, calmer weather starts; cherry blossoms bloom from Kyushu to Tokyo in late March.
• Cons: Crowded cherry blossom spots, especially on weekends; persisting cold, wintry days north of Tokyo.
• Pros: Pleasant weather with gorgeous skies; blooming Japanese flowers like roses, tulips, wisteria, and rapeseed; late cherry blossoms in northern areas.
• Cons: Cold weather in Tohoku and Hokkaido; crowded cherry blossom spots in the north; busy travel and accommodation during the Golden Week public holidays .
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in April , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in April , Visiting Hokkaido in Spring
• Pros: Continuation of fantastic weather; dazzling wisteria tunnels in bloom; picturesque flooded rice fields; large festivals like Sanja Matsuri kick off.
• Cons: Golden Week leads to packed travel conditions and fully booked accommodations.
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in May , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in May , Visiting Hokkaido in Spring , 5 Fun Tours & Activities for Golden Week in Osaka & Kyoto
• Pros: Quieter tourist spots due to no public holidays; comfortable temperatures; easier travel with fewer people outdoors; mild weather in Hokkaido.
• Cons: The rainy season brings humidity and heavy downpours; famous landscapes like Mt. Fuji often obscured by clouds .
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in June , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in June , Visiting Osaka in Summer , 25 Beautiful Traditional Festivals in Japan
• Pros: Rainy season winding down by late July; vibrant summer festivals like the Gion Festival in Kyoto and the Ise Shrine Fireworks Festival ; colorful decorations for Tanabata, the Star Festival .
• Cons: Persistent rainy season until mid-July, continuing the issues from June.
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in July , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in July , Visiting Osaka in Summer , Tokyo Fireworks Guide
• Pros: Weekly summer festivals featuring parades, fireworks, and concerts like Fuji Rock ; clear skies perfect for beach outings; quieter large cities during Obon.
• Cons: Intense heat in August; typhoons risks increase , with potential transport disruptions; lots of insects; congested travel during Obon.
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in August , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in August , Annual Events & Festivals in Japan
• Pros: Decreasing heat from August; blooming Spider Lilies and cosmos in late September; quieter tourist attractions post-summer holidays; end of peak international tourism season.
• Cons: Continued summer heat into early September; peak typhoon season brings potential transportation disruptions.
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in September , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in September
• Pros: Stunning autumn colors make an appearance in northern Japan; cooler, pleasant October weather; widespread Halloween parties , particularly in Shibuya.
• Cons: Crowded parks and mountains for autumn leaf viewing; packed streets and trains during Halloween; increased tourism during Chinese holidays and the Mid-Autumn Festival in early October.
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in October , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in October , Visiting Osaka in Autumn: What to Wear & Must-Visit Attractions , Autumn in Japan -Fall Foliage Forecast
• Pros: Comfortable cooler weather; low rainfall; vibrant red, yellow, and brown autumn foliage.
• Cons: Chilly evenings with winter onset in Hokkaido; busy parks due to autumn sightseers.
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in November , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in November
• Pros: Start of Japan's ski season with favorable conditions in Hokkaido; beautiful illumination festivals and Christmas markets ; feasible outdoor sightseeing; common clear, sunny days in Tokyo and Osaka.
• Cons: Return of cold weather across Japan; many ski resorts in Honshu may not have sufficient snow to open early in the season.
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in December , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in December , What's Christmas Like in Japan? , What to Do During New Year’s and New Year's Eve

Japan has four seasons . Each begets a new set of activities, so you should first consider your objectives, then choose when to go. For example, if you want an outdoor adventure, such as hiking , then the cooler weather of spring and autumn is ideal. If beaches are your thing, then late June and August are perfect! If a ski holiday is on your mind, you should pack your bags for January, February, and March. Plan your activities first, then use this guide to find the season that will suit your needs best!

Visiting Japan in spring

Spring weather in Japan Spring brings serene, warm days and cool nights, with common but quickly clearing rain. Low humidity makes outdoor activities enjoyable. In April, Tokyo sees highs around 19°C (66°F) and lows around 10°C (51°F), while cooler Sapporo averages highs of 11°C (53°F) and lows of 3°C (37°F). End of March – Mid-April: Cherry Blossom Season High crowds. The cherry blossom (sakura) season is a spectacular but extremely busy time of year. The beauty of the blossoms draws large crowds, making major tourist sites very crowded. Accommodations, especially in Kyoto, often need to be booked 6 to 8 months in advance. End of April – Around May 10: Golden Week (Japanese Holidays) High crowds. Golden Week is a peak travel period in Japan, as there are few public holidays and many people travel simultaneously. Expect high accommodation rates, with bookings required months ahead, and heavy congestion at popular sights and on transportation networks. After May 10 – End of June: Green Season /Early Summer Low crowds. This off- season period marks a transition from the unpredictable weather of early spring to a pleasant early summer , ideal for enjoying a variety of blooming flowers. Tourist sites are quieter, and accommodation prices are more attractive due to the lack of major holidays. Although occasional early summer rains occur, they are generally mild.

• In terms of clothes, bring both light clothes, along with a few jackets, sweaters and pants.
• Be prepared for crowds, even before peak cherry blossom bloom, and try to get most of your sightseeing finished before rush hour, starting at around 6 PM.
• Hotels in Kyoto get booked out as far as 6-8 months ahead. Reserve your accommodations as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
• If you’re allergic to pollen , spring may be a bad time to come to Japan.

Bottom Line In terms of weather, spring is one of the best times to visit Japan. However, choosing another season is recommended for those wanting to avoid crowds.

• Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast: When & Where To See Sakura in Japan
• Tokyo Sightseeing Done Right: What to Wear in Spring

Visiting Japan in summer

Summer weather in Japan Summer in Japan, particularly during the rainy season in June and July, is often unpopular due to high humidity. Rainfall, though not significantly more than in spring , is heavy. August brings sunny and hot weather, with Tokyo averaging highs of 31°C (88°F) and lows of 24°C (75°F), while Hokkaido enjoys milder temperatures of around 26°C (80°F) on average. July – Mid-August: Summer Season Moderate crowds. Japan's summer is hot and humid but is punctuated by vibrant festivals, which are free to attend, and lively beach resorts and beer garden activities. Early to mid-July might still see some summer rains, but they are generally sporadic. Mid-August / Obon Week High crowds. This period is akin to Golden Week in terms of busyness, with widespread travel across the country. Due to the heavy congestion, it's advisable to avoid traveling during this time. End of August – End of October Low crowds. Post- summer , when everyone returns to work or school, is an excellent time for off- season visits. The weather is warm, around 30°C (86°F), but less humid, making it more comfortable. Typhoons can occur but are typically short-lived, and indoor alternatives like museums and spas provide excellent rainy-day options.

• You'll need plenty of light, breezy clothes to endure the heat.
• If you’re planning on mountain climbing or visiting Hokkaido, then pack some jackets and pants.
• The humidity will make you sweat a lot, so bringing or buying deodorant is also recommended.
• The summer sun is very glary, especially on concrete streets, so decent sunglasses are necessary.
• Buy a cheap plastic umbrella at a convenience store if you’re out on a rainy day.
• Lastly, be careful of crowds at events, especially fireworks shows . Some of the larger ones will overburden trains for hours, and you may get stuck somewhere.

Bottom Line Despite its reputation, summer is a great season to spend in Japan. Through the huge array of local festivals, it is arguably when the roots of traditional Japan are felt most strongly. For those sensitive to humidity, perhaps wait for another time.

• Complete Guide to Surviving Japan's Rainy Season
• 18 Things to Know About Visiting Japan in Summer

Visiting Japan in autumn

Autumn weather in Japan Autumn brings variable weather, requiring both summer attire and jackets. By October, cities like Sapporo and Sendai become chilly, with lows around 7-11°C (45-52°F), while Tokyo maintains a warmer climate, with highs around 22°C (72°F). Beware of typhoons, especially in September, which can disrupt travel and daily activities. November / Fall High crowds. Autumn is a prime time for tourism, driven by the stunning momiji ( autumn leaves), which begin turning in mid-November. This season is very popular, often requiring accommodations to be booked months in advance, and it features cooler, rainier weather.

• To beat the crowds, avoid foliage hotspots on weekends and public holidays. Aim to visit mid-week instead.
• If a typhoon is predicted to hit your area, ensure you have accommodation and supplies for that period, and refrain from venturing outside. Keep an eye on the news for landslides or flood warnings, and ask your accommodation staff for information on evacuation points if the weather worsens significantly.

Bottom line If you can successfully navigate around typhoons, you'll be rewarded with amazing scenery, fantastic weather, and quiet tourist attractions. Autumn is a strong contender for the best time to visit Japan.

• Autumn in Japan: Autumn Leaves & Fall Foliage Forecast
• Visiting Tokyo in Autumn: Travel & Weather Guide

Visiting Japan in winter

Winter weather in Japan In January, temperatures drop to around 5°C (41°F) in southern Japan and 1°C (34°F) in Tokyo. Skiing destinations like Niigata and Nagano often see temperatures below freezing, while Sapporo experiences lows around -8°C (18°F). Snowfall is minimal in Tokyo and Osaka but common in regions near the Sea of Japan and in Tohoku, with Yamagata receiving up to 11 meters of snow. December (Until around Christmas) Low crowds. The early winter off- season period offers some of the clearest days, ideal for outdoor activities and viewing autumn leaves or Mt. Fuji. Hotel rates are more reasonable, and there's better availability compared to the peak seasons . December 20 – January 5th: Year-end Holiday Season High crowds. Travel during the year-end holiday season is not recommended due to the influx of both international and domestic travelers and widespread closures of tourist facilities. Accommodations are often fully booked far in advance due to the holiday demand.

• If you're planning on enjoying cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, or Hiroshima, simple winter clothing, such as sweaters, jackets, and scarves will suffice.
• However, if you're heading to ski resorts, mountains, or snowy regions, specialized snow boots, puffer jackets, raincoats, and other winter protections are a necessity to survive the harsh conditions.
• Train delays are common during heavy snowfall, along with heavy traffic on the road. Be prepared for your trip to be affected.
• Be wary of New Years, known as oshogatsu , which is a public holiday week. While it is common for most Japanese to stay home, shops, restaurants, ski resorts, and other attractions are usually busy, and some may decide to close. Be sure to double-check the places on your itinerary before you go!

Bottom line While winter is not for everyone, most major cities enjoy mild and consistent weather. However, some prefectures are prone to harsh conditions, and care should be taken before traveling. Crowds will be thin and most attractions quiet outside New Years and public holidays. For skiers, there's no better time!

• Complete Guide To Visiting Japan In Winter: Weather, What To See & Do
• Complete Guide to Skiing in Japan: Best Time and Where to Go
• Fun Things to Do in Winter: 12 Best Destinations to Enjoy Winter in Japan

• As seen in the above chart, August to December is low on international tourists, with the quietest month being September. For those looking to beat the crowds, this is the best time!
• January and February are also scarce on European and North American travelers; however, mostly due to the Chinese New Year and summer holidays, thousands of additional tourists will flock from Asia and Oceania, making it not as ideal.
• To avoid crowds of local travelers, stay clear of these three periods.
• March: Very busy due to the good weather and cherry blossoms.
• Late April/early May: The week-long holiday of Golden Week occurs.
• Mid-August: The most popular time for Japanese to travel due to the Obon holiday period.

Airfares to Japan often decrease from September as tourist numbers dwindle and flight prices adjust. Depending on your travel dates, you could find flights for less than US$1,000! For accommodation, winter , excluding ski resorts, is typically the least expensive period. Many hotels offer off-peak specials, including weekday discounts. However, note that hotel rates often increase during public holidays, so check the calendar to prevent unexpected costs.

Following are Japan's national holidays . Particularly around the row of holidays in May (known as Golden Week ), you can expect sightseeing areas, attractions, and major cities to be more crowded. If you plan on traveling around these dates, be sure to make hotel , train, and activity reservations in advance to avoid inconvenience. You may also wish to consider booking tables at popular restaurants as well.

• January 1 - New Year
• January 2-3 New Year (Obs.)
• February 12 - National Foundation Day (Obs.)
• February 23 - Emperor's Birthday
• March 20 - Spring Equinox
• April 29 - Showa Day
• May 3 - Constitution Memorial Day
• May 4 - Greenery Day
• May 6 - Children's Day (Obs.)
• June 15 - Sea Day
• August 12 - Mountain Day (Obs.)
• September 16 - Respect for the Aged Day
• September 23 - Autumn Equinox
• October 14 - Sports Day
• November 4 - Culture Day (Obs.)
• November 23 - Labor Thanksgiving Day
• February 14 - Valentine's Day: Not a national holiday but celebrated in Japan, women present chocolates to men, including male colleagues, on Valentine's Day.
• March 3 - Doll's Festival ( Hina Matsuri ): Families with girls observe this day for their happiness and success, displaying special hina dolls at home and participating in community events.
• March 14 - White Day: This day mirrors Valentine's Day, with men giving chocolates or sweets to women.
• July/August 7 - Star Festival ( Tanabata ): This festival period, rather than a national holiday, commemorates the meeting of deities Orihime and Hikoboshi. Notable celebrations occur in Hiratsuka in July and Sendai in August.
• Mid-August - Obon: From around August 13-15, this Buddhist event honors ancestral spirits and is a period for family reunions.
• November 15 - Seven-Five-Three Day ( Shichi-Go-San ): This day marks a traditional rite of passage where families visit shrines and temples to pray for their children's well-being and growth, according to customs established over 800 years ago.
• December 25 - Christmas: While not a national holiday in Japan, it brings festive decorations and intimate celebrations, often involving a chicken dinner with loved ones or seeing Christmas illuminations .
• December 31 - New Year's Eve ( Omisoka ): Despite not being a national holiday, many businesses close early in preparation for New Year celebrations.

With Japan’s four distinct seasons and subtle climate changes, travelers often question what clothes to pack. But bringing extra clothes “just in case” can make for one crammed suitcase!

‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ is an innovative service that allows you to rent stylish clothes for all seasons and most sizes, making travel in Japan lighter and more eco-friendly. By using surplus and used garments, this service not only reduces luggage weight but also cuts down on carbon emissions in partnership with Japan Airlines. Enjoy exploring Japan with a lighter load and a clear conscience!

Using ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ is easy. Simply access the official website from your PC or smartphone and reserve your wardrobe before traveling to Japan.

When you arrive in Japan, simply pick up your stylish rental clothes at your hotel . After use, return the clothes to your hotel without the need for cleaning.

Clothing sizes range from S to XL, in a total of 36 patterns. Clients can choose from a combination of styles (for men or women), season ( spring / autumn , summer / winter ), usage scenario (casual, smart casual, or a mix of both), and number of clothing items included in the set (basic or variety pack). The basic set includes three tops and two bottoms, while the variety set includes five tops and three bottoms, with the option of adding outerwear as needed.

Take a look at these examples of seasonal garments for rent

Next, let’s look at some of the menswear and womenswear rental clothes in three different seasonal styles: spring / autumn , summer , and winter !

First up is clothing for spring and autumn . In Japan, spring and autumn are both mild with daytime temperatures of around 20°C (68°F). However, it often gets chilly during the evenings and overnight, and there’ll occasionally be an uncharacteristically hot or cold day, making clothing selection particularly tricky at these times of year. ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ boasts a line-up of shirts and T-shirts that can be easily layered to cope with temperature differences.

Summer in Japan is hot, humid, and sunny. If you reserve rental clothes during your summer travels, you’ll receive light and airy items such as T-shirts and sleeveless tops to help you stay comfortable while sightseeing under the hot summer sun. Heavy rainstorms and typhoons can be expected between July and September, so short-length pants can alleviate any worries about wet legs and feet in the event of sudden showers.

Warm clothes are essential for winter in Japan. It can get so cold that the temperature drops below freezing in some areas! The ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ winter line-up also includes down jackets and other outerwear to protect against the cold. Winter jackets are bulky and take up luggage space, so renting one at your destination makes life so much easier. Popular rental clothing items to wear underneath your jacket include sweaters, long-sleeved tops, and other clothes that’ll help you stay warm. *All accessories belong to the stylist.

No matter when you visit Japan, you'll have a good time! Japan is a country that celebrates each season accordingly, making for year-round fun! However, if you have a specific activity or interest, choosing the best time to visit Japan for you is extremely important. Balancing this with crowds and costs will also help you get the most out of your Japan trip. By reading this guide, you'll have all the information you need to enjoy Japan's wonders to their fullest extent!

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Best Time To Visit Japan: The Ultimate Guide to Japan’s Seasons

Updated on: February 16, 2024

Japan’s distinct seasons each paint a unique landscape, offering travelers a diverse range of experiences. From the iconic cherry blossoms of spring to the serene snowscapes of winter, this guide will help you discover the best time to visit Japan throughout the year season by season.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Japan?

The best time to visit Japan is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) . It’s when Japan is at its most colorful with cherry blossoms and autumn red leaves.

Japan’s Seasons at a Glance

Now, let’s dive deeper into each season.

Spring: A Symphony of Cherry Blossoms

Duration : Late March to Early May

Highlights : Cherry blossom viewing (hanami), pleasant weather, spring festivals

Spring in Japan is a celebration of new beginnings, epitomized by the cherry blossom (sakura) season. Tokyo’s  Ueno Park  transforms into a pink wonderland. Kyoto, a city rich in history, offers a mesmerizing backdrop for sakura, making it a must-visit as one of the  14 best places to visit in Japan .

Summer: Festivals and Fireworks

Duration : June to August

Highlights : Vibrant festivals, fireworks, beach trips, outdoor activities

Summer in Japan is a time of vibrant celebrations. Cities like Shibuya and Roppongi come alive with festivals and fireworks, featured in the  20 best things to do in Shibuya . Explore the  best day trips from Tokyo  for beach escapes and mountain retreats.

Autumn: A Canvas of Colors

Duration : September to November

Highlights : Koyo (autumn leaves), food festivals, mild temperatures

Autumn in Japan is a spectacle of warm colors. Tokyo’s  Japanese gardens  offer tranquil spots to appreciate the changing leaves. Kyoto and Osaka also shine in autumn, with temples and parks cloaked in red and gold. Explore the  14 best things to do in Kyoto  for a blend of cultural and natural beauty.

Winter: Snowscapes and Illuminations

Duration : December to February

Highlights : Ski resorts, onsen , winter festivals, illuminations

Winter in Japan is a snowy paradise, especially in regions like Hokkaido. Cities like Tokyo, particularly in districts like Shinjuku, are adorned with dazzling illuminations, making the  15 best things to do in Shinjuku  even more magical.

Year-Round Attractions

Japan’s appeal extends beyond seasonal attractions:

• Akihabara’s  top things to do  include exploring its vibrant anime and gaming culture.
• Animal lovers will enjoy Tokyo’s  best animal cafes .
• For food enthusiasts, Tokyo’s  top vegan restaurants  offer a culinary delight.

Each season in Japan offers unique experiences, from cherry blossoms in spring to the snowy landscapes of winter. Plan your visit based on the seasonal attractions that interest you most, and discover the myriad of activities that Japan has to offer throughout the year.

Late March to early April is typically the peak season for cherry blossoms.

Yes, summer festivals in Japan offer fun for the whole family , with a range of activities and events.

Autumn foliage is best viewed from mid-October to late November , varying slightly by region.

Skiing and snowboarding are popular, with regions like Hokkaido offering world-class resorts.

Yes, Japan’s unique themed cafes, including animal and anime cafes, are open year-round.

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WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT JAPAN | BEST SEASON TO TRAVEL TO JAPAN

“When is the best time to go to Japan?” I get this question at least once a week. I used to answer with a bunch of information about my favorite festivals , food , seasonal flowers , and so on. But now, I counteract it with this question: “What interests you about Japanese culture?” No matter when or where you go , you’ll have more than enough options for things to see and do. Here, we’ve broken down the best things about Japan by season and month to help you start planning your trip!

SPRING IN JAPAN

Japan’s spring season lasts from mid-March to early May, depending on where you visit. Most parts experience fluctuating temperatures with chilly mornings and evenings and warm afternoons. Average temperatures in Tokyo range between 40°F to 79°F (4°C to 23°C). Check your destinations’ weather reports before you pack and bring multiple layers.

Things to Do in Japan in March

Plum Blossoms

AnimeJapan Convention

Fire and Light Festivals in Kansai

Things to do in japan in april.

Takayama Sanno Spring Festival

Wisteria Bloom

Things to do in japan in may.

Mount Fuji Shibazakura Festival

Kyoto Aoi Matsuri

Baby Blue Eyes Festival

Ibaraki Prefecture’s newest claim to fame is the Baby Blue Eyes flower display in Hitachi Seaside Park. From mid-April to early May, 4.5 million flowers bloom on Miharashi no Oka Hill. Around the same time, you can also see thousands of tulips and some late-blooming cherry blossom trees. Average Temperatures in Tokyo in May High: 23°C/73°F Low: 15°C/59°F Click Here for More About May

VIEW JAPAN SPRING TOURS FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

Summer in japan.

There’s no getting around it. Many regions of Japan have subtropical climates, and they can get quite hot and humid. In Tokyo, the lowest average temperature in June is 66°F (19°C), and the highest in August is 88°F (31°C). That might not sound terrible to some, but take into account that the humidity level can reach 83%!

Things to Do in Japan in June

Yosakoi Soran Bushi in Sapporo

Hydrangea in Hakone

Things to do in japan in july.

Lavender Fields in Furano and Biei

Kyoto Gion Matsuri

Wear a Yukata

Things to do in japan in august.

Awa Odori Festival in Tokushima City

Attend Tohoku’s Three Great Festivals

Around the same time in August, three of Japan’s biggest festivals take place in the Tohoku region. Aomori City holds the Nebuta Festival , where teams pull massive paper floats through the streets. During the Kanto Festival in Akita, performers balance several-meter-high poles with dangling lanterns on different parts of their bodies. You can also celebrate Tanabata in Sendai , where paper decorations and streamers cover every inch of the downtown area. Average Temperatures in Tokyo in August High: 31°C/88°F Low: 24°C/75°F Click Here for More About August

VIEW JAPAN SUMMER TOURS FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

Autumn in japan.

Depending on where you go, you’ll start to feel the autumn chill at some time between September and early December. The temperate weather and fall foliage brings in almost as many visitors as cherry blossoms but is a little less overwhelming. The leaves’ brilliant colors stay around for about a month, which helps stagger the influx of crowds. Pack long sleeves and plenty of layers if you intend on racing around Japan’s rural areas.

Things to Do in Japan in September

Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri

Tokyo’s Sumo Tournament

Things to do in japan in october.

Takayama Hachiman Autumn Festival

Ride the Shimanami Kaido

Things to do in japan in november.

Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival

Shichi Go San

Though it isn’t an official holiday, it’s undoubtedly the cutest! In Japanese culture, seven, five, and three are lucky ages. Boys aged three and five and girls aged three and seven wear kimonos and receive blessings at shrines. This event takes place on the weekend closest to November 15th. Average Temperatures in Tokyo in November High: 17°C/63°F Low: 9°C/48°F Click Here for More About November

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Winter in japan.

If you’ve ever been traipsing about in Tokyo in midsummer , it might be hard to believe that it can get cold in Japan! Depending on how far north or south you are, winter in Japan is from December to mid-March with average temperatures swinging between 35°F and 53°F (2°C and 12°C) in Tokyo. Bring warm clothes no matter where you go, and consider packing snow boots if you’re headed north.

Things to Do in Japan in December

Winter Illuminations

Chichibu Yomatsuri

Celebrate the New Year

Things to do in japan in january.

Snow Monkeys at Yudanaka Onsen

Gassho Houses in Shirakawa-go and Gokayama

Things to do in japan in february.

Sapporo Snow Festival

Otaru Snow Light Path Festival

Kawazu Cherry Blossoms

Believe it or not, you can see cherry blossoms in winter! Kawazu is a small town near Tokyo where an unusual breed of sakura grows. These trees bloom earlier and at a slower rate than most cherry trees. The height of the festival usually happens around the last week of February and the first week of March. Average Temperatures in Tokyo in February High: 10°C/50°F Low: 2°C/35°F Click Here for More About February

VIEW JAPAN WINTER TOURS FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

When is the worst time to go to japan.

Golden Week

Lunar New Year

For China and other Eastern countries, the period before, after, and during the Lunar New Year is a peak period for travel. The annual dates generally fall in January or February. Not everyone goes to Japan, but it is a desirable destination because of its proximity. You can join in the fun in Yokohama , Nagasaki, and Kobe’s Chinatowns. Got a good idea of when you want to go to Japan?

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When is the best time to visit Japan?

• Month-by-month

The best time to visit Japan is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). This is when Japan is at its most vibrant, with delicate cherry blossom or bright red leaves adding contrast to the scenery. Remember, it can also be very crowded at this time.

The summer months (June to August) offer ideal conditions for hikers and lovers of the outdoors, but only in the mountains of the Japanese Alps and Hokkaido’s wild national parks. Elsewhere, the weather is hot and humid. Rainy season occurs from the end of May until the middle of June or July.

For a very different experience, head to the north of Japan in winter (December to February). It’s snowy, but the people brighten the dark days with a variety of festivals and events.

It’s a good idea to take Japan’s national holidays into account, too. Shogatsu (Japanese New Year), Obon (in mid-August or mid-July, depending on the area), and the Golden Week (between April 29 and May 5) are busy times for residents.

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Month-by-month guide for travelling in Japan

Visiting Japan in January

The weather is usually cool, dry and sunny during January and sites are much less crowded than later in the year. In northern Japan there is heavy snowfall making conditions good for skiing.

Visiting Japan in February

February is the peak of the ski season in northern Japan. Across the country days are generally cool, dry and sunny and many attractions are less busy than at other times of the year.

Events & Festivals

• For one week in early February, Sapporo is overrun with enormous ice and snow sculptures, built in the central Odori Park as part of the Sapporo Snow Festival.

Visiting Japan in March

The weather starts to get milder in March and blossom on the plum trees marks the beginning of spring. Toward the end of March the cherry blossom begins to emerge in the south of the country, which is celebrated by the Japanese with picnics in local parks. As this season is a popular time to visit Japan, the country gets very busy toward the end of the month.

• The cherry blossom spreads north through mainland Japan.

Visiting Japan in April

This is the peak viewing time for the cherry blossom as the trees start to bloom further north. The blossom during this time is beautiful and provides a magical experience, but if you travel during this time you have to expect everywhere to be very busy, and hotel rates escalate too.

• Known as one of Japan’s top three most beautiful festivals, the Takayama Matsuri is held in the old town of Takayama where floats and shrines are paraded through the streets.

Visiting Japan in May

The weather in May is pleasantly warm and usually dry, and the vegetation is green and vibrant. Cherry blossom only reaches the northern parts of Hokkaido by this month, while in Okinawa , May is the rainy season. The first week of May is Golden Week, a national holiday and one of the busiest weeks of the year for domestic travellers.

• Asakusa in Tokyo is the centre for the Sanja Matsuri, held on the third full weekend in May. Colourful floats and shrines, accompanied by musicians and dancers in traditional Edo period costumes parade between Sensoji Temple and Asakusa Shrine.

Visiting Japan in June

This time of year is hot and humid and there is typically rain in most parts of Japan. This means that the trees and plants are at their most vibrant, and Japan’s gardens are particularly beautiful.

Visiting Japan in July

There are numerous festivals held all over Japan in July, making it a lively time to visit. The rainy season generally ends across most of Japan by the end of the first half of the month, but the humidity continues. July is also one of the best months to climb Mount Fuji , a hike which is only possible during the more favourable conditions of the warmer months. This is the peak season for domestic tourism and also sees the highest levels of rain and threat of high winds in Okinawa.

• Japan’s most famous festival, the Kyoto Matsuri, is held in Kyoto and dates back to the 9th century when it began as a religious ceremony to appease the gods. Enormous floats are marched through the streets throughout the month, although they are most impressive on July 17th.
• In the 7th lunar month, as part of the Obon Festival to honour the dead, the Awa Odori is held in Tokushima on Shikoku Island. Musicians and dancers flood the streets in vibrant costumes.

Visiting Japan in August

Festivals continue across Japan during August and this is a busy domestic travel period as it is the school holidays. The weather is generally hot and humid across the country, with Hokkaido  being cooler and more comfortable.

Visiting Japan in September

The domestic crowds associated with August have usually dissipated by September and skies are often clear and blue, although the weather can still be hot and humid. In late September the leaves start to change colour in Hokkaido , a process which makes its way south over the next few weeks. Toward the end of September there is a five-day national holiday known as Silver Week, during which prices increase dramatically as the Japanese travel about the country. Silver Week only occurs every few years.

Visiting Japan in October

This is the start of the autumn season for mainland Japan and brings striking red and gold hues to the landscape. The weather begins to cool down from the heat of the summer, making October a pleasant time to visit.

Visiting Japan in November

This is the peak time to see the colourful leaves in mainland Japan. Travelling around tends to be much quieter during this month, and the weather is pleasantly cool and mild.

Visiting Japan in December

The weather is cool and typically dry in December, and the country isn’t busy for the first couple of weeks which makes it a good time to visit if you don’t mind the chilly temperatures. Ryokan properties don’t tend to have much in the way of heating so staying here can be cold. However, outdoor onsens can be really special experiences during the winter months, particularly in the north of Japan where you can be bathing in natural thermal hot springs yet surrounded by snow. Toward the end of December it gets busier as the school holidays start, and some attractions close in the run-up to the New Year.

Japan Climate Guide

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When is the Best Time to Visit Japan?

Published on: April 28th, 2024

Last modified: April 29th, 2024

As a truly year-round destination, the best time to visit Japan depends on what you want to do there.

The most popular times to go are spring (end of March to mid-April), when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, or autumn (November to early December), when the autumn leaves put on another spectacular colour show. But since these times attract the most tourists, you might consider going at another time so if you prefer to avoid the crowds.

Japan has four distinct seasons and is a long and skinny country, stretched out across four main islands (and some remote smaller islands too), so the weather varies from place to place. The warm summer runs from June to September when temperatures in Tokyo can exceed 31°C (88°F), and the mercury can creep towards 35°C (95°F) on the subtropical island of Okinawa .

In contrast, the winters (December to early March) can be bitterly cold. The far-reaching northern island of Hokkaido will see plenty of snow, making Japan famous for its winter activities. Tokyo’s morning temperature will drop down to 5ºC (41°F) and there can even be a light snow covering for a few days each winter.

Japan’s rainy season starts in mid June and can run until September. On Japan’s main island, Honshu Island, June is the rainiest month. July and August experience humidity and occasional showers, producing verdant, stunning ornate gardens. By November the rains in Tokyo are clearing up and December to February and the driest months.

Japan is a diverse country with many incredible highlights. There’s the towering natural wonder of Mount Fuji and the pretty town of Hakone that sits within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park at the mountain's base. There’s the cultural hub of Kanazawa , brimming with Geisha history and Hiroshima and Miyajima Island , a must-do destination for those interested in Japan’s past.

Monthly Climate Guide for Japan

Japan is essentially a year round destination – there’s always a good time to be somewhere in this vast and varied country. There are so many different kinds of landscapes and environments to consider, along wtih seasonality.

To help you plan the best time to visit Japan, we’ve put together a month by month climate guide. We’ll let you know what the weather will be like in some of our favourite areas and mention the seasonal highlights too.

January in Japan

Best for snow activities.

A cold winter month where snow falls across the north of the country – perfect for snow activities and popular with both local and international ski and snowboarding crowds. It’s possible to see a few days of snow in Tokyo in January , however average midday temperatures stay close to 10°C (50°F) in the capital.

February in Japan

Best for snow sculptures.

In the north it is still very much winter and is the peak season for snow resorts. The world renowned Sapporo Snow Festival takes place in February – where huge snow sculptures are built in Odori Park. Across the southern parts of the country the spring season is beginning and Okinwa will welcome the first of the cherry blossoms. Temperatures in Tokyo remain similarly to January, around  10°C (50°F).

March in Japan

Best for cherry blossom.

March is officially the start of spring. Famous worldwide for hanami (cherry-blossom viewing), spring in Japan could well be one of the most romantic sights you’ll ever see. Keep in mind that this is also one of the busiest times for tourists in Japan. The weather feels warmer after the cold winter, although in Tokyo you will still need a warm jacket with temperatures of around 13°C (55°F). However in Okinawa it’s warmer at around 20°C (68°F).

April in Japan

Best for warmer temperatures and pretty blossoms.

The temperatures are continuing to creep up and April is the best month to see cherry blossoms across the country. Kyoto ’s sites such as Silver Pagoda, Philosopher’s Walk and Nanzenji Temple are particularly beautiful at this time of year as they are framed by the soft pink blossoms. In Tokyo it’s starting to feel warm with midday temperatures reaching 19°C (66°F).

May in Japan

Best for golden week festivities.

May is a very pleasant time of year, temperatures are warm but not yet too hot to be stifling. Japan’s Golden Week takes place at the start of May with almost all of Japan’s residents taking this time as a holiday.  Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto can feel very busy in May with a bustling and jubilant atmosphere, and temperatures are now around 22°C (73°F). The southern regions, such as Okinwa are now starting to experience the rainy season.

June in Japan

Best to see beautiful gardens.

June is humid with increased rainfall across Japan, however the showers tend to fall sporadically, interspersed with sunshine, Tokyo will reach around  25°C (77°F). The rainy season, or tsuyu (plum rain), usually starts in mid-june and will last on and off until October. These conditions create wonderful lush green gardens. This is a spectacular time of year to visit any of Japan’s ornate gardens such as Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa.

July in Japan

Best for hiking on mount fuji.

July is another hot month, around 29°C (84°F) in Tokyo, with some rain. The hot temperatures mean that retreating to the mountains for cooler air is a good idea and hikes on the higher trails of Mount Fuji are pleasant at this time of year. Most places like shopping malls and restaurants in Japan are air conditioned, so the heat is still manageable.

August in Japan

Best for natsu matsuri (summer festivals).

August is peak summer and often the hottest month of the year. In Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto temperatures can exceed 31°C (88°F). August is also a month of many Natsu Matsuri (summer festivals) taking place across the country. Awa Odori Matsuri in Tokushima on Shikoku island is an enormous and vibrant dance festival and the Obon holiday (13th-15th August) is a Buddhist event that commemorates ancestors whose spirits return to visit relatives at this time.

September in Japan

Best for the start of autumn leaves and quieter travels.

September can be a wonderful month to travel to Japan as the school-holiday crowds disperse and the weather stays warm at around 27°C (81°F) on Honshu. Areas such as Osaka and Kyoto typically boast plenty of clear skies, with some brief showers. By the end of the month spectacular autumnal leaves are starting to make an appearance. Hakone and the Mount Fuji area are particularly beautiful at this time of year. 

October in Japan

Best for the last of the warm days and autumn leaves.

October is the start of autumn and the temperatures begin to drop. The best time to visit Japan is the fall as it’s a great time to see the stunning reds, oranges and yellows of Japan’s autumn leaves. The days can still feel warm in some places. In the major cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka expect day time temperatures in the low 20s C (70s F) with chilly nights and mornings.

November in Japan

Best time to visit tokyo.

November is an autumn month with cool temperatures. In northern Hokkaido most of the autumn leaves have finished as the region transitions into winter. Further south, many would argue that November is the best time to go to Tokyo to see the city framed by beautiful orange, yellow and red autumn leaves, known as koyo. Day time temperatures stay moderate and comfortable at 16°C (61°F). November is a peak time – something to consider if you’re not a fan of crowds.

December in Japan

Best for winter celebrations.

December is the start of winter across the entire country of Japan and although temperatures are cooler, the skies usually stay clear and blue.  Small bars and restaurants are full of atmosphere and end of year celebrations. Temperatures in Tokyo during the day tend to stay around 12°C (54°F) but the mornings feel chilly at 2ºC (35°F). Many places are closed from the end of December until a few days into January – although you can still visit most temples and shrines, as well as enjoying the great outdoors.

The Best Things to do in Japan by Season

Choosing the best time to go to Japan will depend on the sorts of activities you want to do, what you’d like to see and the places you’d like to visit . Seasonality will also be something to consider, so to help you plan your trip we’ve compiled a list of our favourite things to do and the best time to do them.

See the Cherry Blossoms

The spring season between March to April is the best time to visit Japan for the cherry blossoms . This period marks the end of winter. Depending on weather conditions, the sakura season can last for a few days, up to a couple of weeks. This is also the peak season in Japan.

Keep in mind that the sakura bloom schedules can vary year-to-year, depending on temperature, and how long it lasts is a matter of luck – some years the blossoms might stay on the trees for a couple of weeks, while other times they could be felled early by strong wind or rain.

Cherry blossoms usually only bloom for around one week per location, and at slightly different times throughout the country – starting from Okinawa in early-February and moving northward to northern Hokkaido until late-May. Travel south to north to see them for longer, and check out this article to find out the best places to see cherry blossom in Japan.

See the Autumn Leaves

The best time to visit Japan to see the autumn leaves is between November to December. In areas like Hokkaido, the autumn season begins as early as mid-September while Tokyo and Kyoto see orange leaves as from mid-October.

A visit to Japan when the leaves are changing colour is really spectacular. In fact, we think it's one of the best places to spend autumn in Asia – and, thankfully, the autumn leaves tend to stick around for a bit longer than the cherry blossoms.

By late September, the leaves start changing in the north around the mountains, gradually making their way down to the central and southern cities (Kyoto, Osaka and Tokyo ) by mid-October and remaining colourful into early December. Bear in mind that the autumn colours tend to peak a bit later than other places in the northern hemisphere, with the most spectacular displays often reserved for the end of November and even the beginning of December.

Autumn is the second busiest time of year to visit Japan, so it’s best to book your trip way in advance.

Experience Festival Culture

The best time to travel to Japan to enjoy events and festivals is during the summer months between June to mid-September. While it can get quite humid throughout this period, you get to catch a glimpse of the local culture. This is a great time to visit Japan to skip the crowds.

Summertime brings with it many of Japan’s best festivals (or 'matsuri) – including Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri, Osaka’s Tenjin Matsuri, Aomori’s Nebuta Matsuri, and the Awa Odori festival in Tokushima on the island of Shikoku.

This season is also renowned for dazzling fireworks displays, or 'hanabi taikai'. Tokyo’s Sumida River Fireworks are particularly deserving of a mention, but there are plenty of events throughout the country.

See the Snow Monkeys at Jigokudani

If you’d like to see some of Japan’s resident wildlife, then consider a trip to the Snow Monkey Park in the winter. December and January are the best months to visit Jigokudani to witness the many Japanese macaques warming up in the naturally warm waters.

Natural hot springs shroud the park in steam, and it’s this steaming hot appearance that got the park the moniker, Jigokudani, meaning 'hell valley'. However, this is far from true for the monkeys who retreat to the heavenly hot water to warm themselves over the long winter months.

These monkeys are native to Japan and although they do visit the park all year, there is something incredible about witnessing the steaming waters shrouding families of monkeys with a backdrop of brilliant white snow.

Go Skiing and Snowboarding

Late-December to March is the best time to visit Japan for snow activities like skiing and snowboarding. The best months to travel to Japan for its winter festivals are January and February. Occasional snowfall is expected between March and April.

Japan's ski season runs as late as May in some areas, although the best time to hit the slopes depends where you're going.

Snow usually arrives mid-November on the north island of Hokkaido, with the earliest resorts opening during the third week of that month – Niseko, Rusutsu and Kiroro are usually the first of the big resorts to welcome skiers and boarders.

March and April are great for both in-resort and backcountry snow sports. The plentiful early-season snow ensures resort conditions are excellent right until the end of the season and, at this time, the clear weather affords stunning views.

Winter activities

The best time to visit Japan to see Mount Fuji is during late autumn to early spring, throughout the months of November to February. This period sees clear skies and fewer clouds. Early mornings are when you get to enjoy unobstructed views of Mount Fuji.

During these months you can also catch a glimpse of the cherry blossoms or autumn leaves in Japan. The best place to see Mount Fuji is at Lake Kawaguchi.

Keep in mind that between April and August, the mountain can be hidden behind clouds and haze, while typhoon season begins in September. This means that your chances of spotting Mount Fuji are significantly lower.

Trip Inspiration

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A Guide to Japanese Etiquette

Our Guide to a Family Vacation in Japan

Our Guide to a Foodie Vacation in Japan

The 9 Best Festivals to Go to in Japan

The Best Ryokans in Japan

Whatever you want from your adventure in Japan, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

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Best Time To Visit Japan

Japan in spring is a sight to behold

Pleasant temperatures and clear blue skies make late spring, which runs from March to May, and late autumn, which is from September to November, the best seasons to visit Japan. Peak season:  Spring – March to May – the cherry trees of Japan are in full bloom in late April Autumn:  September to November – cool, mild weather with some possibility of typhoons Off-season:  Summer – June to August – expect a lot of rain, with hot and humid weather in July and August Winter : December to February – cool and chilly, with snowfall in the mountainous regions and sometimes, also in the cities

Read on to know more about the ideal time to enjoy a  luxury private tour of Japan .

Best Time To Visit

We recommend.

• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go, truly breathtaking in winter
• Enjoy a cup of warm sake and take a dip in an onsen – the perfect antidote for cold evenings
• Experience the Sapporo Snow Festival with ice and snow sculptures galore
• Hit the slopes at one of the many top-class ski resorts in Northern Japan
• Drop by and say hello to the snow monkeys of Nagano
• Attend a cooking class in Kyoto
• Explore electrifying Tokyo in super fast trains
• Visit Nagasaki and get an insight into the city’s moving past through its many museums and installations
• Picnic under the alluring cover of the cherry blossom trees in Tokyo
• Take part in the Takayama Matsuri, one of the most beautiful festivals in Japan
• Cherry blossom can still be experienced in northern cities like Hakodate and Sapporo
• Delight in the sights and sounds of the Sanja Matsuri, a festival that takes place in Asakusa in Tokyo
• Stay in a hot spring ryokan in Hakone
• Explore hiking trails in Hokkaido
• Visit a Japanese garden, green and alive after the rains
• Hike up Mt. Fuji
• Cool off at one of the beaches of Okinawa Island
• Marvel at the impressive floats of the Kyoto Matsuri festival
• Witness one of the many firework shows or attend a weekend concert in Tokyo
• Escape the heat and head to Hokkaido for some nature therapy
• Witness an exciting Sumo wrestling match at the Ryogoku Kokugikan sumo stadium in Tokyo
• Hike the trails of Nagano
• Enjoy sunny days in Hiroshima
• Visit the Daisetsuzan National Park for Koyo (fall color) viewing
• Sit under a colorful fall canopy in one of Tokyo’s many parks
• View the temples of Kyoto against a backdrop of multi-hued fall leaves – a sight to behold!
• Get into the festive spirit as Tokyo lights up for Christmas
• Get your fix of outdoor adventure as you ski down the mountains in Sapporo

Weather in Japanese Cities

An archipelago stretching over 3,000 km from north to south, Japan experiences major variations in the weather by region. Find out the best time to visit Japan by city.

• Tokyo  – is a great year-round destination but the best times to visit the city are from March – May and September – November which coincide with the cherry blossom and fall season.
• Kyoto –  is simply spectacular in autumn and equally alluring in spring.
• Hokkaido – is a winter wonderland and best experienced from December to February at one of its many world-class ski resorts.
• Osaka  – is best visited in spring and fall.
• Hakone  – This tranquil, lakeside town is best experienced during springtime.
• Nagano  – The ‘Roof of Japan’ sees the most tourists during the months of March to May.
• Fukuoka  – Sitting in the southern part of Japan, the city is best visited from May until October.
• Mt.Fuji  – Hike this symbol of Japan during the months of July to mid-September.
• Okinawa Islands  – The beaches of Okinawa are at its most beautiful in summer, from June to October.

Japan Travel Tips

What is the best time to visit japan for cherry blossoms.

The delicate pinks of the sakura or cherry blossoms are in full bloom and dress up the streets of Tokyo and Kyoto towards the end of March and the first week of April. Expectedly, you will also see huge crowds and if experiencing this stunning sight is on your bucket list, you need to plan your visit six months to a year in advance. But if jostling with the crowds is not quite your style, you could head to Sapporo which sees cherry blossoms in all its ethereal glory only in early May.

After you have admired Japan’s cherry blossoms, we highly recommend extending your journey to experience the fascinating history and culture of the country. Our experts have listed the  top 10 things to do in Japan , which can make your trip a truly enchanting one.

When is rainy season and typhoon season in Japan?

Early summer is rainy, but July and August are hot and humid except in Hokkaido, with temperatures in Tokyo reaching up to 88 °F. While autumns are cool, there is a possibility of typhoons, especially in Kyushu and Shikoku Islands, located in the South Western part of Japan, during the months of August and September.

When should I visit Japan to see fall colors?

The months of September to November see a color burst of a different kind with autumn leaves in deep reds, browns, yellows and golds framing the spectacular scenery of the country.

When is winter season in Japan?

Winter in Japan, which can be quite chilly, runs from December to February. Heavy snowfall is, however, mostly limited to the mountainous regions.

What to Pack for Japan

Lighter clothing in the summer is recommended, but jackets are necessary if you plan to explore the Alpine regions. If you are visiting in the spring then bring some warmer clothes as the temperature drops considerably at night. There is plenty of walking involved in any trip to Japan so pack your most comfortable footwear.

As a rule, the Japanese people are always meticulously dressed and you will be judged and sometimes treated based on how you dress. While Japan is less strict than other Asian countries about dress codes when visiting temples, it is always polite to cover shoulders and be dressed conservatively. Easy to slip on/slip off shoes are more practical when visiting temples, or staying in ryokans etc.

How to Dress by Season in Japan

Spring:  This is one the best season to visit Japan. If you are visiting Japan in spring, layering is the key as there are considerable variations in temperature from day to night. It is wise to bring a light jacket as temperatures can drop significantly at night.

Summer:  The country gets quite hot in summer so it is best to pack light clothes, cottons, breezy linens and garments in breathable fabrics along with sunglasses and hats. It is also when the country gets the most rainfall so don’t forget to pack an umbrella and rain jacket.

Fall:  Pack layers. You will need sweaters and light jackets too.

Winter:  Fill your suitcase with winter clothing including heavy coats/jackets, gloves, hats and scarves.

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Tokyo is a city like no other! Defined by cutting-edge design, quirky creativity and its own unique ancient culture, the city defines the best of both worlds.

Kyoto is to be seen to be believed. With no less than 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, the city encapsulates traditional Japanese culture and tradition.

Hiroshima evokes powerful images and emotions attached to its war-torn past. Yet today, Hiroshima has emerged as a symbol of peace, beauty, and hope.

Kanazawa is perhaps best known for its 17th century castle garden Kenroku-en. It is equally well known as the neighbor of the quintessential Japanese feudal fortress, Kanazawa Castle.

Osaka is third largest city of Japan and has been the home of traders and merchants. It is also well-known for Japan’s oldest temple, the Shinto Sumiyoshi-taisha, and the majestic 16th century Osaka Castle.

Hakone defines the iconic image of Japan— with the majestic backdrop of Mount Fujiyama as it rises out of coniferous forest covered mountainsides, lakes and hot springs (onsen).

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The Best Time of Year to Visit Japan

Choosing the best time to visit japan is personal to each traveler’s needs..

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There are certain times of the year where places in Japan are less crowded.

Photo by Anna Mazurek

Japan is a sensory wonderland of sorts, from the glowing skyscrapers of Tokyo to the bubbling onsens in the southernmost part of Kyushu. Visitors are drawn to the country for both its buzzing cosmopolitan streets and relaxing natural wonders.

In general, the best time to visit Japan is between March and May, which offers the most temperate climate and blooming cherry trees—but that also means more crowds. This peak season time may not be ideal for those looking to grab hotel reservations or roam less-crowded streets. Weather and location also play a major role for those planning a trip: The northernmost part of the country, like Hokkaido, has long, snowy winters, while popular inland locations like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka have four seasons.

Read on for an overview of the best time to visit Japan, based on travel interests.

Best time to visit Japan for viewing cherry blossoms

• Best month(s) : March–June

Once the chill of winter leaves most of Japan, the early spring and summer period sees a flurry of people looking to see major sights, including views from Tokyo Tower, the bamboo forests of Kyoto, and the hillside temples of Nikko.

The floral explosion of cherry blossom season in Japan, though, is worth the trip alone. From late March to early April, hillsides, parks, and city streets overflow with the glowing pastel pink of sakuras . In Tokyo, the Nakameguro Sakura Matsuri Festival in April brings with it some 800 trees that form a pink arch over the Meguro River. West of Tokyo and just under an hour’s train ride, Arakurayama Sengen Park blooms with over 600 trees in the springtime—with an added bonus of Mount Fuji as a backdrop.

Where to stay

• Book now : Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto

The intimate, 39-room Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto , on the banks of Hozu River, gives front-row views of Arashiyama Hills’ kaleidoscopic colors in the springtime.

Some places in Japan, like Shibuya Crossing, are known for the crowds.

Photo by Jezael Melgoza/Unsplash

Best time to visit Japan for avoiding the crowds

• Best month(s) : May–June, November–December

Often considered the off-season, late May to early June and November through December in Japan are great times to visit most major attractions with fewer crowds. (To see the country in an efficient way, buy a Japan Rail Pass and ride the sleek shinkansen bullet train.) The colder, less-crowded winter months are a time to take advantage of soaking in an onsen in regions like Beppu, which is home to more than a thousand hot springs.

• Book now : ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa

ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa offers guests an outdoor onsen, set against massive layered stones that cascade down a mountainside.

The Sapporo Snow Festival is held every February.

Photo by Denny Ryanto/Unsplash

Best time to visit Japan for festivals

• Best month(s) : All year

Although most of Japan is known for festivals year-round, a key celebration to note during the summer months is the Gion Matsuri in July, when over 30 floats and crowds of people take over the streets of Kyoto for a huge party, complete with yukata robe dress, street food, and lots of beer. In the winter, the Sapporo Snow Festival takes place for seven days in February in the capital of Hokkaido. Drawing over 2 million people per year, the winter wonderland includes elaborate snow sculptures that light up at night; family friendly activities during the day include a snow rafting slope.

• Book now: Shiguchi

Located in a secluded valley in Hokkaido, Shiguchi is a luxurious renovated farmhouse consisting of five villas and an open-air onsen.

Miyakojima Island is the most populous island of Okinawa Prefecture’s Miyako Islands.

Photo by yuri-ss/Shutterstock

Best time to visit Japan for beach getaways

• Best month(s) : July–August

Because Japan can be so hot and humid in cities like Tokyo and Kyoto in July and August, a coastal getaway is ideal during these months. When the urban hot spots become too hot, head south to the turquoise waters of Okinawa—which is home to over 100 beaches—or Naoshima, a remote island filled with impressive sculptures. For beaches closer to big cities like Tokyo, consider a train ride of one to two hours to Onjuku and Katase Higashihama Beach.

• Book now : Halekulani Okinawa

With 360 guest rooms on the main island of Onna, Halekulani Okinawa faces a mile of sparkling turquoise waters steps away from Busena Marine Park —the only underwater observatory tower in Okinawa.

Best time to visit Japan

The best time to visit Japan is between March and May and between September and November as it's both warm and dry between these periods.  However, the joys of springtime and the iconic blooming of the cherry blossoms in Japan are no secret, which means you'll be sharing the space with plenty of other travellers. Depending on what you want to see, how many people you want to share it with, and your tolerance for rain, we’ve prepared a month-by-month breakdown to weigh up the best time and places to travel in Japan.

Southern Japan benefits from less tourism than the north and central regions of the country, which means that even if you travel in the traditional tourist 'high season' of spring and summer, you’ll find it quieter than the hotspots. The months of April and October offer warm weather without the excessive rain that hits the south hard in summer. If you plan on hiking through the deep south of Yakushima, keep in mind this rugged island is colder than the rest of the region. The forests of Yakushima are beautiful year-round, but trekkers should plan on layering up from November to April, as this island outpost stays chilly for much of winter and spring.

Tokyo is an attractive destination throughout the year, with mild temperatures (outside the depths of winter), though June and September can bring high rainfall. April offers a sweet spot that combines average temperatures of 14°C, less rain than the summer, and a respite from the crowds that descend on the city in May. Of course, as the most populated city in the world, Tokyo is always fairly crowded. The summer months of June, July, and August may be busy, but they also offer an abundance of festivals and revelry to indulge in, so don't write them off automatically.

Kyoto has a long summer, with temperatures warming up in May and staying hot through September. As with Tokyo, summer and late spring are the busiest tourist times. If you want to beat the bulk of the crowds, the best time to visit Kyoto is between October and March. That being said, the dead of winter can be a little, well, dead. October is still jeans and a light jacket weather, though, with fewer crowds and less rainfall, making it a good choice.

Cherry blossom season is a spectacular, albeit very crowded time to visit Japan. These blush-colored flowers begin emerging in spring, with a slightly earlier bloom time in the south than in the central and northern regions. Nagasaki and  Hiroshima , for example, sometimes see a full bloom emerge by the first week of April, while Tokyo sees its peak in the middle of the month. By mid-May, most flowers have usually opened, even in northern cities like Sapporo. There are no set dates for the season since the blooms rely on environmental factors, but there are many websites dedicated to keeping you updated on the status of the beloved trees. The Japan Meteorological Corporation starts providing bloom maps and forecasts beginning in January every year. If you’d like to maximize your chances of experiencing cherry blossom season in Japan, you should plan your visit for between the middle of March and the middle of April.

Best for: shredding the powder in Hokkaido

If the term "Japanuary" is in your vernacular, you're probably familiar with the epic amounts of powder that make Japan's northern island of Hokkaido a ski and snowboard paradise. Every winter, cold Siberian winds carry snow across the Sea of Japan delivering perfectly fluffy, deep, something-to-write-home-about snow. Japan has tons of ski resorts, and once you see powder like this, your first Japanuary pilgrimage definitely won't be your last. Save us a spot on the lift!

Best for: unwinding in an onsen

Whether you plan on spending your trip skiing or sightseeing, a  relaxing soak in an onsen  is a quintessential winter activity in Japan. Onsens, or mineral-rich hot springs, can be particularly relaxing in the winter. Japan has tons of onsen destinations, like Hakone; a must-visit mountain town nestled in the foothills of Mt. Fuji, where you can unwind in your bath while snow falls softly around you. If you plan on staying in a  traditional ryokan , many properties aren't equipped with proper heating, so the accommodations can be quite cold, but they make up for it with invitingly steamy baths.

Best for: day tripping on the shinkansen

March is a great time to hop on a shinkansen, or bullet train, and take some day  trips from Tokyo , especially if you're too early for cherry blossom season. In Japan,  bullet trains  have developed a bit of celebrity status for their ultra-fast speeds, efficiency, and reliability. From Tokyo, you can safely get to Kyoto or Osaka in just under three hours, or to Hiroshima in four. Temperatures in April are mild, hovering around 14°C, making sightseeing a pleasant experience.

Best for: cherry blossom parties

The best time to visit Japan to see sakura, or cherry blossoms, explode into fluffy pink blooms is in April. The Japanese custom of hanami, or flower viewing, is a magical time for both locals and visitors to come together and celebrate the beautiful blooms' short lifespan. You can participate in various hanami parties in parks across Japan; they're usually informal picnic gatherings of family and friends, but keep in mind that parks in larger cities like Yoyogi Park, Ueno Park, and Inokashira Park in Tokyo are very popular and may require some planning and finesse to find a spot.

Larger sakura events like the Meguro River Sakura Festival and the Ueno Sakura Festival take place in early to mid-April in Tokyo, while the cooler northern regions see festivals like the Hirosaki Castle Park Festival happening in late April to early May. While Hanami is certainly a must-see in Japan, expect delays on public transit and higher-than-average hotel prices during this celebratory time.

Best for: whirlwind Golden Week festivities

The first week of May in Japan is known as Golden Week, a collection of four national holidays (Shōwa Day, Constitution Day, Greenery Day and Children's Day) that has locals taking advantage of spring weather with some time off of work and school. During Golden Week you can expect free entry to many museums, parks, and attractions, as well as some authentic traditional celebrations, like the flying of koinobori, or carp kites, on Children's Day. While travelling during this period is sure to be exciting, it can also be crowded, costly, and hectic (albeit memorable) so you might want to consider a trip toward the end of the month. Plus, if you thought cherry blossoms were the only famous florals in Japan, think again! In the springtime, Japan's gardens are bursting. Plan a visit to the Ashikaga Flower Park (just over an hour outside Tokyo) to see jaw-dropping hundred-year-old wisteria trees in full bloom that get illuminated at night.

Best for: indoor activities, tea ceremonies and sake tasting

In Japan, June is the first (and wettest) month of the rainy season, and is known as minazuki, "the month of water". While you shouldn't expect a heavy daily deluge of rain in southern cities like Tokyo or  Kyoto , you should definitely be prepared to plan some indoor activities like going museum hopping, partaking in a traditional tea ceremony or just seeking refuge in a bar with a glass of  whiskey or sake  to warm your bones.

Best for: phone-background-worthy beach vacations

With humid weather in the cities, July is a great time to take a short flight (or ferry ride) to one of Japan's surrounding islands. By July, the rains have slowed down, and while you might not think of a beach vacation when you think of Japan, summertime visitors will be treated to tons of options for sunbathing, snorkelling, and swimming. Japan is an island nation, after all! The Okinawa Prefecture is home to over 100 white sand beaches, and with turquoise waters and a tropical climate for more than half the year, you'll feel like you're living inside of a screensaver. If you'd rather stay on the mainland, the Kamakura beaches are just over an hour from Tokyo and feature some killer views of Mt. Fuji.

Best for: treating the kiddos to a cultural experience

August is a great time to  visit Japan with kids  due to the number of Natsu Matsuri (summer festivals) and cultural events happening during this time. Treat your littlest explorers to the sights, sounds, and tastes of Japan at one of its famous dance festivals! At the Awa Odori Festival in Tokushima or the Hanagasa Festival in Yamagata, large groups of choreographed dancers parade through the streets in vibrant traditional dress. If you're visiting in the middle of August, you might witness locals celebrating Obon (a Buddhist event honouring the annual return of ancestors' spirits) with offerings of food, dance, and glittering floating lanterns. In cities like Tokyo, Nagaoka City, and Aomori, you can expect epic fireworks displays all month long.

Best for: exercising mind, body, and appetite in dreamy weather

The end of summer in Japan brings pleasantly perfect temperatures and fewer crowds, which is a perfect time to squeeze in a physical and cultural workout. With such a diverse landscape, you can  hike, bike and kayak  your way through the country; exercising your mind in dazzling Tokyo, your body on the famous Shimanami Kaido cycle route, and your appetite with delicious ramen in Onomichi. Temperatures typically hover around 24°C, and although September falls into Japan's typhoon season, your travel plans are unlikely to be affected as typhoons rarely make landfall.

Best for: Feasting on the bounties of harvest season.

The onset of autumn brings the harvest season in Japan, which is the perfect time to  join a food tour . As you travel from Tokyo to  Osaka  you might catch a glimpse of farmers harvesting rice, persimmons, chestnuts and Japanese pears, and many farms allow you to get in on the action by picking your own produce! The Takayama region, well-known for sake breweries and Hida-gyu (Hida wagyu beef), is home to Japan's third largest festival, the Takayama Autumn Festival. Every year, thousands gather to celebrate the good harvest with dances, marionettes and a parade with intricately decorated floats. Try some of Takayama's regional delicacies like mitarashi dango (rice dumplings roasted in soy sauce), houba miso (miso vegetables cooked in magnolia leaf) and chuka soba (a local ramen dish).

Best for: filling the scrapbook with nature photos.

November in Japan welcomes robust foliage across the country, giving already impressive  landmarks  a lively red, orange and gold backdrop. Japanese people use the word koyo to describe the transition of the leaves from green to orange to red and momiji to describe the deep red hues of maple leaves in fall. The word momijigari refers to the hunt for autumn leaves, which can be particularly spectacular at the Osaka Castle in Osaka, the Bishamon-do Temple in Kyoto, and the Momijidani Garden in Wakayama. Whether you're a novice photog or an expert shutterbug, extra memory cards are a must; the clear, cold air at the end of November increases the odds of sacred, snow-capped Mt. Fuji making a rare appearance.

Best for: a non-traditional and memorable holiday season

Welcome to Japan's sparkling silver season! Throughout December, cities will be aglow with illuminations to celebrate the festive holiday season, and in the northern parts of the country, you might even get some snow to complete your winter wonderland. Although not a traditional Japanese holiday, Christmas has become popular over the years with locals celebrating with a dinner at, believe it or not, KFC! If you feel like mixing up your holiday traditions, do as the locals do and grab a Kentucky fried dinner and marvel at the impressive lights displays. It will definitely be a holiday season to remember.

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What is Japan famous for? The 11 things to seek out on your next trip 

When to travel

The tables below list average daytime high and nighttime low temperatures and average percentages of sunny and rainy days for selected cities. A rainy day is defined as a day on which at least 1 mm of rain falls, while a sunny day is a day on which the sun shines at least 40% of the daytime.

(Source: Japan Meteorological Agency )

New Year is one of Japan's three major travel seasons with intensive domestic and international travel activity. Many shops, restaurants and attractions are closed for at least one day between December 29 and January 4. Read more about visiting Japan during New Year .

The remainder of January is a good time for visiting Japan, as the weather is usually sunny and dry and sightseeing spots are not very crowded (except possibly around Chinese New Year). Only in northern Japan and along the Sea of Japan coast, there is lots of snowfall , and conditions are good for winter sports . The downside of a visit in winter are the relatively short days (sunset is around 5pm in Tokyo) and the vegetation's barren state.

Like January, February is a good time for visiting Japan as the weather is usually sunny and dry and sightseeing spots are not very crowded (except possibly around Chinese New Year). The downside of a visit in winter are the relatively short days (sunset is around 5:30pm in Tokyo) and the vegetation's barren state.

Northern Japan and the Sea of Japan coast receive lots of snowfall . At the peak of winter, February tends to be the best time for winter sports and viewing winter sceneries, such as the drift ice off Hokkaido and the snow-covered farm houses of Shirakawago .

Early flowering plants and trees, such as plum trees , deliver the first signs of spring, while the weather is getting noticeably milder. Towards the end of March the cherry blossom season starts in certain regions, while in northern Japan conditions are still good for winter sports . Domestic travel activity increases in the second half of March due to spring school holidays.

Besides autumn, April is often considered the best time to visit Japan because the cherry blossom are in bloom and the weather is pleasantly mild. Domestic travel activity is increased in early April due to spring school holidays, in late April due to the start of the Golden Week and during most of the rest of the month due the cherry blossom season.

Golden Week , one of Japan's busiest travel seasons, takes place in the end of April and beginning of May and can be the cause of various travel-related concerns.

However, the remainder of May is one of the best times for visiting Japan, as the vegetation has become lush, the temperatures are still comfortable and tourists spots tend to be relatively uncrowded. In Hokkaido , the progress of spring is delayed by about one month compared to Tokyo . At the other end of the country, in Okinawa , the rainy season (tsuyu) typically lasts from early May to mid June.

From the beginning of June, the rainy season (tsuyu) visits most parts of Japan except Hokkaido . While it does not rain every day, the weather tends to be overcast and dreary. The duration and intensity of the rainy season can vary quite strongly from year to year.

Hot spring resorts like Hakone and the wooded temple mountain Koyasan are some places that can be quite attractive in rainy weather. Hokkaido is an attractive destination in June as it is least affected by the rainy season. Also, the weather in Okinawa takes a dramatic turn to the better after the end of the rainy season there in late June.

The rainy season (tsuyu) typically ends in the first half of July. It is hot and humid in most of Japan, and just standing outdoors can make you sweat. The conditions are more comfortable in higher elevations and in Hokkaido , a highly popular destination among outdoor lovers during the summer months.

Many local festivals and fireworks are held. Mount Fuji is opened for climbing . Cormorant fishing can be observed. It is also a very good time of the year for beach holidays in Okinawa . With the summer school holidays from late July through August, domestic travel activity increases considerably.

August is hot and humid in most of Japan. The conditions are more comfortable in higher elevations and in Hokkaido , a highly popular destination among outdoor lovers during the summer months. Many local festivals and fireworks are held in August. Travel activity is high during the entire month due to summer school holidays, but it is especially intensive during the Obon week in mid August.

The typhoon season reaches its peak in August and September. Typhoons usually hit the coasts of Okinawa , Kyushu and Shikoku and cause strong rain and wind in wide parts or all of Japan for about two days. Luckily, typhoons are often followed by very good weather. The weather in September can still be hot and humid, but tourist spots have become less crowded.

October is one of the most pleasant months for traveling in Japan as the weather remains warm, but is not hot and humid anymore. Trees begin turning colors in the northern regions and higher elevations.

November is one of the best times to visit Japan, as the weather is relatively dry and mild, and the autumn colors are spectacular in many parts of the country. Travel activity tends to be low except around popular autumn leaf spots .

December is a good month for traveling thanks to generally dry weather conditions. Domestic travel activity remains low during the first half of December until the beginning of winter school holidays towards the end of the month. The downsides of a visit in winter are the relatively short days (sunset is around 4:30pm in Tokyo) and the barren state of the vegetation. From around December 29 some tourist attractions close down for the New Year holidays . The ski season gets fully underway in December.

Questions? Ask in our forum .

• Travel Tips
• Climate & Seasons

When Is the Best and Cheapest Time to Visit Japan in 2023?

From skiing in Hokkaido to sunbathing in Okinawa, there's such a huge range of things to enjoy in Japan throughout the year. However, weather extremes and surges of tourists at certain times of the year can be seriously disruptive if you don’t plan ahead. This article will cover the best time to visit Japan to see highlights like cherry blossoms and autumn foliage, as well as specific dates to avoid and some budget travel tips for amazing experiences in the off seasons.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Understanding the Climate and Seasons of Japan

While Japan is not the largest country by area, it has an extremely varied climate. Its northern areas such as Hokkaido see long, snowy winters, while its southern Okinawa islands (shown as the "Ryukyu Islands" in the above photo) have sunny, subtropical climates. Popular tourist destinations like Tokyo, Osaka, and the Mt. Fuji area are located on the Pacific Ocean side of the country. These areas see four distinct seasons, with hot, humid summers and cold winters.

For visitors, this means it’s best to consider not just the season but the climate of the specific areas you plan to visit. A winter trip to snowy Hokkaido will be entirely different to a visit to the Okinawa islands. Your destination will also impact when you can see seasonal highlights like cherry blossoms or autumn foliage.

If you like to think ahead, we've prepared month-by-month guides to the climate and seasonal highlights for major tourist destinations in Japan. Check them out for info about exactly what to expect, what clothes to pack, and what to do to make the most of the season!

• Guide to Hokkaido's Weather & Climate
• Guide to Tokyo's Weather & Climate
• Guide to Yokohama's Weather and Climate
• G uide to Kyoto's Weather and Climate
• Guide to Fukuoka's Weather & Climate
• Guide to Okinawa's Weather and Climate  

What Are the Best Times to Visit Japan?

Cherry blossom season: march - april.

Spring in Japan is synonymous with cherry blossoms, which bloom all over the country around April each year. This is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful times to visit Japan, and the sight of Japan’s cities and parks tinted in shades of pink draws visitors from all over the world.

Cherry trees only bloom for around two weeks, with the much-anticipated full bloom period lasting as little as a few days. However, because of Japan's varied climate, the trees bloom in a wave through the country over the course of around a month. To ensure you’re timing your trip just right to see the trees in full bloom, it’s best to check our cherry blossom forecast  (yes, Japan forecasts the cherry blossoms!). Also be aware that popular tourist areas like Tokyo and Kyoto can get very busy during this period, so book your accommodation and other tickets well ahead if you can. To avoid the worst of the crowds, you can also check out our roundups of little-known cherry blossom spots in Tokyo and Kyoto .

If you can’t catch the cherry blossoms, spring in Japan has plenty of other flowers and scenery to offer. Plum blossoms are in bloom around February and March, while wisterias , tulips, roses, and nemophila bloom around April and May. While these flowers aren’t quite as prevalent as cherry blossoms, we're confident there will be more than enough  beautiful flower fields , gardens, and parks to satisfy you!

Festival Season: June - August

If you’re interested in Japan’s matsuri (festival) culture, summer is the best time to visit. Japan’s “big three” festivals are the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto (July), Kanda Festival in Tokyo (May), and Tenjin Festival in Osaka (July), but festivals are held throughout the country in the summer months. Japanese matsuri are important religious and cultural events, often with public performances like parades and dances to enjoy. The festive atmosphere, chance to dress up in summer robes called "yukata", and festival food and games are another highlight, particularly if you’re visiting with kids. To learn more about Japan's matsuri culture and when the dates fall, read our comprehensive  guide to festivals in all 47 of Japan's prefectures !

Summer is also an amazing time for fireworks! Many of Japan's top firework shows usually happen during the summer months, drawing in spectators from all over Japan and even abroad. Some are so popular that you need to reserve the best viewing spots well in advance! Food stalls will often be set up near popular spectating spots, so even if you choose not to attend a festival, you can always have your fill of Japanese festival food at a firework show.

Of course, since Japan is an island country, summer is also a great time to visit its many coastal resorts and islands. Visitors flock to Okinawa in the south and the Seto Inland Sea area in the summer to soak up some sun and scenery. In Japan, many beaches are closed for swimming and surfing outside the summer months, so if you’re dreaming of a beach getaway, check these dates in advance. For beach holiday inspiration, we've covered TripAdvisor's top 10 best beaches in Japan here !

Fall Color Season: October and November

For many people in Japan, the fall color season is just as an exciting time of year as the cherry blossom season. The change of the trees signals the end of a long, humid summer, and in October and November (and sometimes even December), people in Japan flock to parks and gardens to see stunning red maples and brilliant yellow ginko trees. Many shrines and temples hold special evening viewings on their grounds, and "otsukimi", or moon viewing festivals, are also a popular activity at this time of year.

An autumn trip to Japan has many benefits: while popular autumn color hotspots may be busy, the scenery is stunning, and the weather can be more comfortable than the winter and summer months, too. This milder weather makes it easier to enjoy all kinds of foods, including local autumn delicacies such as persimmons, grilled Pacific saury, and roasted sweet potatoes.

For more about fall foliage spots and dates for different parts of Japan, we highly recommend checking out our nationwide fall foliage forecast . Keep in mind that the Okinawa islands have a subtropical climate, so you won't find any fall foliage spots there.

Ski Season: December - April

Japan’s mountainous geography is paradise for fans of winter sports. The ski season in Japan falls around December to April, with major resorts clustered around the Nagano area in the Japanese Alps and the northern island of Hokkaido, which is particularly prized among ski fanatics for its high-quality powder snow. There are around 500 ski resorts big and small throughout the country, including world-class resorts like Niseko in Hokkaido and Hakuba in Nagano. For more information on these, we've put together a guide to some of the best resorts for powder snow in Japan .

One highlight of a ski trip to Japan is the abundance of natural hot springs, delicious food, and great sightseeing to round out your trip. Here are some fantastic open air hot springs in Hokkaido to get you inspired!

Do be aware that the winter season coincides with New Year's, which in Japan means a peak in domestic travel and scheduled holidays for many shops and attractions. Keep that in mind as you plan any activities from around December 29th to January 5th.

What Times Should You Avoid When Visiting Japan?

Public holidays: domestic travel peaks.

Just like Thanksgiving or Christmas in other countries, Japan has certain times of the year where domestic travel peaks as people travel home to celebrate the holidays with family. Japan’s work culture also means that many people plan their travel around certain clusters of public holidays, particularly Golden Week, where some 20 million people travel in Japan. If you’re planning a trip to Japan, it’s worth considering avoiding these four domestic travel peaks: 

• Golden Week: April 29 - May 5
• Bon Festival (Obon):  August 13 - 15
• Silver Week: September 19 - 23 (Note: This occurs every couple of years when two public holidays in September align to form a five-day holiday)
• New Year's:  December 29 - January 3 (Note: Japan doesn't have any official Christmas holidays, so this is actually like Christmas and New Year's combined)

*Please note that the exact dates of these holidays will vary from year to year.

If you do travel during these times, be prepared for very busy planes and bullet trains, traffic jams on highways, and peak pricing for accommodation (particularly true for Golden Week).

If you know your trip is going to coincide with these dates, book ahead where possible. If you can, staying within major cities and avoiding inter-city travel around the beginning and end of these periods will help minimize the hassle. When you're planning, refer to our up-to-date Japan Holiday Calendar for all the public holiday info you need to know.

Rainy Season

Japan’s rainy season, called "tsuyu" or "baiyu", typically falls between June to mid-July. While you may picture heavy monsoonal rain, Japan’s rainy period doesn’t mean you’ll be battling non-stop downpours every day. However, if you’re planning a lot of outdoor sightseeing, the rain and accompanying early-summer humidity can get in your way. Here are the average dates for the rainy season in Japan at popular spots, but keep in mind you can also expect some extra rainfall as the weather cools in September and October, too.

Okinawa: May 9th - June 23rd Fukuoka: June 5th - July 19th Kyoto/Osaka: June 7th - July 21st Tokyo: June 8th - July 21st Nagoya: June 8th - July 21st Sendai: June 12th - July 25th Hokkaido: Doesn't have a rainy season

For everything else you need to know about tsuyu before your trip, including sights in Japan that are actually best seen during this time, check out our  guide to Japan's rainy season !

Climatic Extremes: Mid-Summer, Mid-Winter

Another factor to keep in mind is climate. While internationally speaking, the Japanese climate does not typically go into extremes of heat or cold, spending your day sweating or shivering can impact how much fun you’re having. In the peak of summer, temperatures in cities like Tokyo and Osaka will reach the high 30s (80s in Fahrenheit), often with intense humidity that can make the days feel hotter. In winter, on the other hand, it can dip below zero (32°F).

Your tolerance for this will depend on the environment you were raised in. If you’re coming from a warm part of the world, Japan's winters can be tough to handle. You might have to factor in the cost of buying cold weather clothes that you don't need at home. On the other hand, even people from warm countries can find the hot and humid summers in Japan intense, so if you're from a cooler climate, you might find a spring or autumn visit a safer bet.

Typhoon Season

Typhoon season, which peaks in August and September, can also present issues for travelers. Japan's building codes and infrastructure are built to handle these types of storms, so there is no need to reconsider a summer trip simply because of them. However, if you are in Japan from May to October, be aware that public transport, shops, and attractions may temporarily close if a typhoon is predicted. In severe cases, power outages and other disruptions are possible. So that you're not caught out, we recommend installing the Safety Tips app  from the Japan Tourism Agency. This app gives early warning alerts in multiple languages for typhoons, earthquakes, tsunami, and other adverse weather events.

Lunar New Year

One element some overlook when planning a trip to Japan is the timing of other international holidays. For example, in 2019, a little over 50% of visitors to Japan came from China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, all of whom celebrate Lunar New Year in late January or early February. While Japan doesn't celebrate the Lunar New Year, the holiday period means that sightseeing areas can be a bit more crowded with sightseers and tour groups taking advantage of the holiday.

Cheapest Times to Visit Japan: Tips for Off-Peak Visits

Some of the most beautiful times in Japan, like the cherry blossom season, can mean dealing with crowds and paying a premium for flights and accommodation. On the flipside, while some people may consider a rainy day a vacation disaster, others don't mind the rainy season if it means seeing the hydrangea-dotted temples and brilliant green foliage without the crowds.

If you’re budget-conscious, paying attention to the high and low seasons in different parts of Japan can be a profitable exercise. For example, the ski season in the Japanese Alps is justifiably busy with winter sports fans, but a trip in the low season offers breathtaking scenery, hot springs, and stays at luxurious resorts at lower prices. In recent years, more and more ski resorts are offering activities like glamping or adventure sports to attract summer visitors, too.

Winter in Okinawa can also be a great escape if you need a break from the cold, and flights and accommodation will be cheaper to boot. While it might be a little chilly for swimming, you can indulge in fresh seafood, explore the fascinating Ryukyu Kingdom (the former name for Okinawa) culture, and enjoy your run of gorgeous ocean scenery, including Japan's earliest cherry blossoms! Check out our guide to 50 things to do in Okinawa  for more ideas.

Low seasons are the cheapest time of year to fly to Japan, so think outside the box to free up some extra funds for souvenirs!

Travel Smart and Enjoy Your Time in Japan!

Japan's culture and geography really does mean that there's something to enjoy whatever time of year you visit. When thinking about when to come, it's good to consider practical matters like your tolerance for heat or cold, and also what excites you about Japan. If it's gorgeous scenery, consider the cherry blossom or autumn foliage season. If you're interested in Japan's unique culture, a trip full of the music, dance, and local traditions of Japan's summer festivals might be the right pick for you. On the other hand, if you'd like a relaxed trip without crowds, maybe you'd prefer to visit Japan during an off-peak season instead.

Now that you have a sense of when the best time of year to visit Japan for you is, it's time to think about where to go! If you're still deciding, check out our comprehensive guides to some of Japan's most popular locations for inspiration:

• The Ultimate Kyoto Travel Guide
• The Ultimate Tokyo Travel Guide
• The Ultimate Osaka Travel Guide
• The Ultimate Mt. Fuji Travel Guide

The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.

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When’s the best time to travel to Japan?

People often ask me: “When’s the best time to travel to Japan?”

Is Spring the best time to travel to Japan?

Spring in Japan is very popular and well-known for its beautiful cherry blossoms . Cherry blossoms are without a doubt one of the best things to see in Japan. They do not bloom everywhere at the same time , so plan your trip accordingly! There are many websites that will show you the current “sakura front” of each year. In Okinawa you can enjoy sakura in January while the rest of Japan gets them from late March until May , roughly speaking going from Kyushu all the way down to Chubu, Tohoku and then Hokkaido.

The good thing about it is that you can enjoy the cherry blossoms in Tohoku in early May, if you missed them in Tokyo or Kyoto in April!

However, spring in Japan has so much more to offer! Cherry blossoms are beautiful for sure, but let’s check out what else you can see in spring:

Plum blossoms in March

Before the cherry blossoms come out, Japan is already tainted in white and shades of pink. On top of that there’s an incredibly sweet smell everywhere thanks to the plum blossoms .

Plum blossoms look very similar to cherry blossoms, but they smell better. From late March to early April you’ll sometimes be able to see both of them in bloom. It can be hard to tell them apart then.

There are also many spring festivals . One of the weirdest festivals you’ll ever experience takes place in early April, the “ Phallus Festival in Kawasaki “.

Azaleas, wisteria and shiba-zakura in May

Once the cherry blossoms are gone, there’s no reason to be sad. Japan becomes even more colorful after that. The cherry blossom trees turn from a soft pink into a fresh and vivid green and other flowers start to bloom.

Among my favorites are azaleas (躑躅, tsutsuji). In the photo above you see the “Tsutsuji Festival” at Nezu Shrine in Tokyo (April / May 2013).

You’ll also find wild wisteria in the mountains and some parks , temples and shrines have very old wisteria trees on their grounds.

Wisteria is called “fuji” (藤) in Japanese.

What I was able to enjoy for the first time this year is called shiba-zakura (芝桜). It has nothing to do with “sakura” – the cherry blossoms.

It’s moss pink in various colors. Whole parks are “paved” with it. I visited Hitsujiyama Park in Chichibu , Saitama Prefecture, which you see in the photo above.

My highlight was the “Shiba-zakura Festival” in Kawaguchiko , Yamanashi Prefecture, featuring Mt. Fuji in the background.

Avoid Golden Week:

While spring sounds like a great time to come to Japan, please try to avoid Golden Week . Golden Week is an accumulation of national holidays from the end of April to early May (usually from April 29th to May 6th ).

It’s the high season for traveling in Japan . Everything including accommodation and transportation will cost more than usually. Hotels will be booked out far in advance. It will be crowded almost everywhere in Japan. You’ll need longer than planned, because buses are so full that you’ll have to wait for the next one.

There are traffic jams and long waiting lines. You won’t be able to take good photos, because there are too many people in the way. It’s a lot harder to enjoy the sights and it’s more stressful in general.

I always see so many foreign tourists here during Golden Week and I simply don’t understand why they come during that time of the year! If you have the choice, do yourself a favor and DON’T COME during Golden Week!

Is summer the best time to travel to Japan?

Summer starts with the rainy season – usually in early June – and ends in mid-July. After that it’ll get extremely hot and humid . If you’re not used to temperatures over 30°C and a humidity level of 90%+, summer in Japan might be very tough. On top of that there are many creepy and some dangerous insects .

Yet there are awesome things in summer you don’t want to miss:

What to see in June

During rainy season you’ll find hydrangeas (アジサイ, ajisai) everywhere. They come in various colors and are cute and beautiful (see the photo above). It’s not as hot as in August yet, so if you want to escape the heat, it’s not a bad time to come. And just because it’s called rainy season, it doesn’t mean that it’ll rain every single day!

At the same time as the hydrangeas there are also irises (菖蒲, shoubu).

Climbing Mt. Fuji in July or August

I admit that I’m really not a fan of the Japanese summer, but there are certain things you can only do then! One of them is climbing Mt. Fuji . The official climbing season is from July to August , so you wouldn’t want to miss that chance.

When I climbed it in August 2010 there was still some snow on the top and it was freezing cold!

Summer festivals with fireworks in August

The best thing about summer in Japan is that there are all these great festivals! Each and every city has their own, so it’s hard to miss them – no matter where in Japan you are. The main season for festivals is “ obon ” (お盆), the time around August 13th-15th . Please note that this is also another busy travel time as it’s summer vacation for students and most adults have days off during “obon”.

You’ll be able to see traditional dance performances , taiko performances , girls wearing yukata and hanabi (fireworks).

Firework festival in Mito, Ibaraki Prefecture (August 2012).

There’s also the great “ Earth Celebration ” on Sado Island , Niigata Prefecture – that I unfortunately missed by just a few days last year.

Don’t worry if you can’t come in August. There are some great festivals in June and July as well! To name just one of them: the famous “ Gion Matsuri ” in Kyoto takes place in July.

If you want to visit Japan in summer, but are not sure if you can take the heat, then you can escape to Hokkaido where it’s less humid and a bit cooler !

Typhoon season in September

September doesn’t really have to offer anything special in my eyes. Usually it’s still very hot and humid, but it’s also known as the typhoon season. In recent years typhoons have hit all year round, so I wouldn’t worry too much about it. In fact, there are no long public holidays in September. It’s no “high season” . For that reason it’s a good time to come. There will be fewer people, things will be cheaper – and usually the weather is good.

Is autumn the best time to travel to Japan?

Autumn is one of my favorite seasons in Japan! The heat of summer is finally gone. Normally the weather is great for travelling (especially in October and November ) and the beautiful autumn colors are something you shouldn’t miss! Just like with the cherry blossoms, there’s a “ momiji front ” in Japan which simply means that the leaves won’t change colors everywhere at the same time. Again there are many websites that let you check where you need to go if you want to catch the “color peak”.

Usually the leaves turn red first in colder regions like Hokkaido and Tohoku, then go down to Chubu and will finally reach southern Japan. While you’ll find cherry blossoms on Okinawa , there aren’t any autumn colors like in the rest of Japan there. The peak for popular destinations like Tokyo , Kyoto or Hiroshima is usually in late November .

I would say that the bright autumn colors are the highlight of autumn, but there are other things you might be interested in:

Cosmoses, red spider lilies and killer hornets

Cosmoses are very beautiful and are a common sight in autumn, especially in October and early November.

Higanbana (彼岸花), the red spider lily, is seen as weed, but I’m fascinated by those flowers. You’ll run into them very often as they just grow everywhere.

No high season in autumn, but:

While there are no long vacations in autumn, popular spots can get very crowded on the weekends during the autumn color peak! Especially Kyoto can be crazy , so try to avoid the weekends during that time!

Is winter the best time to travel to Japan?

Compared to the other seasons winter can be rather boring. Especially in regions with no snow. Japanese gardens are not very beautiful during that time. Most trees have lost their leaves, so landscapes are quite monotone. However, in regions with a lot of snow you can enjoy a beautiful snow scenery!

Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture in January 2011.

Another problem with winter is that most tourist facilities close earlier and the sunset is around 5pm! Nevertheless there are some reasons why you might want to visit Japan in winter:

Illuminations in December and January

Around Christmas time many cities will put up breathtaking illuminations. One of the most famous illuminations can be seen in Kobe, the Luminarie .

Illumination at JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka (December 2012).

Snow Monkeys of Nagano

One thing you can only fully enjoy in winter are the snow monkeys in the mountains of Nagano who love bathing in the hot springs while tourists have to freeze. It was certainly one of my highlights and I recommend you go there during winter time!

Hot springs – Onsen

Onsen are great at any time, but especially in the cold winter months they’re a great way to warm up.

One of the “hells” of Beppu in Oita Prefecture, Kyushu, in December 2009.

While you can’t climb Mt. Fuji in winter, it might be the best time to take great shots of the holy mountain. Winter days are very cold, but clear, so chances are high that the shy mountain won’t hide behind clouds! I recommend the area around Lake Kawaguchi (Kawaguchiko) in Yamanashi Prefecture. There are also a few onsen there.

Yuki Matsuri in Sapporo in February

Another highlight is the snow festival in Hokkaido that takes place in the second week of February. Awesome and huge snow sculptures can be observed. There are other snow festivals as well in winter. Or you could try to visit the “ snow monsters ” in Yamagata Prefecture.

Enjoy a warm winter in Okinawa

If you don’t like cold weather, then Okinawa is a good alternative. It will be too cold for swimming or snorkeling, but you won’t need a winter coat. Just don’t make the same mistake that I did. Don’t go during late December / early January . The weather was horrible almost every single day! Going in early December or late January seems to be a better idea.

Cape Manzamo on Okinawa’s main island in December 2012.

Avoid “Nenmatsu”:

From around December 29th to January 4th it’s not the best time to travel. Most Japanese people have days off and try to go home to visit their families. It’s another “ high season “. Accommodation and transportation will cost more and you should book well in advance! Also, a lot of institutions (museums, castles etc.) will have closed during that time – so please plan accordingly! On the other hand it’s a great chance to observe “hatsumode” – the first shrine visit of the year – or to celebrate “ omisoka ” (New Year’s Eve) and “ shogatsu ” (New Year’s Day) with the Japanese.

What do you think is the best time to travel to Japan?

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77 comments.

I would be inclined to say autumn is my favorite time, because there are more dry days and sightseeing spots are somewhat less crowded [except for Kyoto and a few other spots at peek viewing time].

Once, I traveled during the latter part of August into early September and found the heat very bad. Actually not much worse than or more humid than here at home, but when you are a tourist and cannot take refuge in your air conditioned house and go places in your air conditioned car, it is tiring and unpleasant. If you must go at that time, first things to buy on arrival are a UV filtering umbrella and a fan! They do help. Of course men might feel silly with the umbrella, but even the men carry fans in Japan in summer. A hat will help too.

I love spider lilies too! They are all over the Southeastern US. They were frirt brought from Japan by a captain in Commodore Perry’s fleet.

Thanks for all the great suggestions. I couldn’t agree more! I always travel around with a folding fan and a UV filtering umbrella. It’s the only way to survive if you’re outside the whole day. I also recommend taking a spray to keep mosquitoes away from you. In summer they’re everywhere!

I’ve never seen them in Europe. I wonder if we have them at all.

I’d have to agree with Simone that autumn is the best season, particularly late autumn after the summer heat has finally dissipated.

Cherry blossom season is also wonderful, although if you’re flying in from overseas, timing it might be tricky.

But, you know, with Japan, it’s always a good time to visit!

That’s so true! Each season has something to offer, so one can’t go wrong. My favorite season used to be spring, but then changed to autumn. I’m not yet sure about this year. It seems I change my mind every other year recently. *g*

I think if you’re willing to fore-say popular spots like Tokyo & Kyoto you can visit Japan at any time of the year. You made some excellent suggestions like traveling to Hokkaido in summer, when it’s usually quite hot in the rest of Japan. But just going to the mountains is also nice. It’s a great time to visit the Japanese Alps.

I think my favorite time might be autumn as well. It can still be quite warm (we had 20 degrees Celsius once in Osaka in December), the weather is usually rather nice and the autumn colors are stunning!

Absolutely right! Mountains are a great way to escape the heat if they’re high enough. Mount Koya is also nice, though not as cool as the Japanese Alps, of course. Climbing Mt. Fuji is also a great way to escape the summer heat. ;)

It seems we have a winner among the commenters here! :D Yes, recently autumn has been my favorite season as well.

Spring is my favorite season in Japan but haven’t had the chance to see the cherry blossoms outside of my prefecture. I went to Kyoto end of March 2 years ago but was disappointed to see the cherry blossoms not blooming yet, I did see plum blossoms though. Autumn is my second favorite season and was lucky to see the 紅葉 in Arashiyama and Tofukuji. It was super crowded in Tofukuji, almost suffocating to walk. Snow is one thing you can look forward to winter but once the snow starts to melt the negative temperature is no joke. Ski resorts are also good getaways in winter where you can go snowboarding or skiing. Summer may be my least favorite season but I always anticipate the matsuri and hanabi taikai. Plus, I can go to the beach or the pool for a swim. ;P

In 2011 the cherry blossoms were kind of late. I don’t know if you remember that I missed the cherry blossoms completely that year! During my spring vacation they didn’t bloom and after that I was sick in bed for a week. After I had recovered they were all gone! ;o; …

Hehe! (^-^’) When I went to Tofukuji last November I had exactly the same problem. I made the mistake to go during the long weekend. Never again! Being on the bridge there was so scary! (O___O”) ….

We don’t get any snow here where I live, but that’s great! I come from a region where people travel to for winter sport, but I’m not into snowboarding or anything, so I don’t care! And I hate driving when there’s too much snow. ;)

My favourite time of year in Japan is either Spring or Autumn for their beauty. We traveled a lot during January this winter in Japan and it was the perfect time to travel if you don’t mind the cold. The weather was clear and crisp with beautiful blue skies that made for some great photos.

Not in Okinawa where it was raining 99% of the time I spent there in early January ….. Thinking back I did have some nice and clear days in early January, but I guess later in January is better. Nenmatsu seems to have bad weather no matter where I travel. (T_T) …

And I agree with you about spring and autumn. Spring used to be my favorite season, but in recent years it has changed to autumn. Both are extremely beautiful, so it’s hard to choose.

Honshu was perfect for me this January and we didn’t have one bad day. January is definitely up there for me if you like clear blue skies. Looking forward to Autumn this year and the beautiful colours. There is always something happening in Japan, so every time of year offers something special.

Do you have any plans for autumn yet? I hope I can visit Kamikochi this time. It’s just always out of my vacation time and a bit far, but I really want to see the autumn colors there! :D

The mountains around Gifu and Nagano are spectacular around Autumn so we hope to visit a few places to enjoy the beautiful Autumn leaves.

Sounds like a great plan! :D

I know it’s not the most popular time to go but I spent a whole month in Japan during the summer a few years ago and had a great time. Admittedly the heat and humidity were pretty intense but the Japanese have developed so many fun things to distract you that it’s a really exciting time to visit. Like you said in your article there’s festivals, fireworks and lots of people in yukata not to mention delicious summer foods like kakigori and countless flavours of ice cream, the lovely sound of furin windbells and pretty fans to cool yourself down with. I’m a little in love with summer in Japan, I feel like it’s the underdog to the other more popular seasons! I wrote about some of my favourite parts of summer in Japan here and I’m going back there in July this year. Yay for summer in Japan!

I think it’s great that finally somebody votes for summer! ^___^ I’m also glad to hear that you had such a great time! I understand why you love summer so much, but this year will be my 7th summer in Japan and I doubt I’ll ever turn into a summer fan. I have to admit that after 6 years, I slowly get used to the heat and humidity. Maybe it’ll take another 6 years for me to really like the Japanese summer. *g*

And thanks for the link to your blog! I really enjoyed the post about “uchimizu”. Another thing I really like about summer! ^__^ A great blog you have there. I’ll certainly be back to check out more!

I’ve just recently got back from my first ever visit to Japan. I was there from 27 April until 17 May — I missed the sakura season in Tokyo, but made a trip up to Sendai to see them. A few days later, I visited Kairakuen, and the azaleas were fabulous. So I have to vote for the spring :)

I must say that I disagree with the advice against visiting during Golden Week. I didn’t have any problems booking trains, and I managed to get hotel rooms at a reasonable price even booking only three weeks in advance. I got some marvellous photos, especially of the crowds in Harajuku. And on 5 May, I visited Azabu-juban and Roppongi. There was a huge music event going on at Roppongi Hills, and afterwards I passed through one of the parks while the children were out playing — it gave the day a charming feel-good atmosphere and made me very glad I was there on that day.

Hi Michael! :D

Thank you very much for sharing your first Japan travel experience with us. I’m so glad to hear you had a great time! ^____^

If you have the chance, you should come again in autumn, so you might understand why so many here vote for autumn. But it’s a close call. Spring is extremely beautiful as well.

For Golden Week it depends on where you go. Even I managed to go to a few places where almost nobody else but me visited. And for first-time travellers it might be an interesting experience to see and “feel” the crowds, but I just don’t like it. I don’t like when I have to stand in a train for hours or am squeezed in between all the others. And I don’t like it when the streets are so full that it takes much longer than it usually would. I guess it’s also a question of preferences.

Where did you book your hotels? In Tokyo? I booked mine only a few days before I left and I knew I would still find hotels in Tokyo. Tokyo is not really the most popular spot for Japanese people to stay during Golden Week! ;)

I love Spring and Autumn here in Japan. The weather is just right and it’s popping colors everywhere. I don’t think it’s advisable to travel here during summer. I hate summers here! It feels like you’re being baked in an oven. Temples/shrines and parks are the best places for sight-seeing during spring&fall. Also the best time to go to theme parks! :D

Fall and spring have the mildest climate and are also the most beautiful seasons in my eyes, but unfortunately way too short. And it’s true that not everybody can handle the extremely hot and humid summer here in Japan. Although you could always escape to Hokkaido. ;)

i really enjoyed reading your posts, thanks for sharing!

My fiancé and I are getting married this coming May 18, 2014. We were thinking of visiting Japan for our honeymoon. It will be both our first times to visit Japan.

Our first choice was initially to visit during spring but quickly realized that our wedding will be in late May, making us miss the sakura blossoms. We don’t really want to do summer since we already live in a tropical country (southeast asia).

Our next choice is to visit during autumn to see the fall colors and enjoy the cool weather which we don’t have back home.

Can you help us check if our itinerary is ok? Day 1-3 fly into Narita. Tokyo Day 4 hope to see mt. Fuji by going on day trip to Lake Kawaguchiko Either spend the night back in Tokyo or take shinkansen in the late afternoon to kyoto Day. 5 kyoto Either stay overnight in kyoto or take local bus to osaka late afternoon Day 6 osaka Day 7 fly out from osaka

We are flexible in adjusting the number of days amongst the various locations but with a maximum of 8 days since we do have to return home for work. *bummer*

We plan to go on last week of November to first week of December. Is it going to be uncomfortably cold? Will daylight be shorter during this time?

Lastly, do you think it’s a good idea to delay our honeymoon for so long? We’re worried what if i’m pregnant by november? I’m 34 and will be having my first baby (if ever).

Friends and family have been telling us to just go right after our wedding.

What do you think?

Will appreciate any advice you can give us!

I wrote a very long e-mail as a reply because I think a comment would be too spammy, so please check your mailbox! ^___^

My and my girlfriend are considering Japan an the options are: Last 2 weeks of November OR Last week of November and First week of December.

Do you think that will be any difference between those 2 periods? Which one will you recomend?

Thanks! Great blog! :)

Hello Jota! :)

Any difference in what? Autumn colors? Temperatures? It’s hard to predict when the leaves will be at their peak. It’s different every year. If I had to choose I’d probably go for the last week in November / first week in December because in the past few years (with only a few exceptions) that was the peak for autumn foliage in many parts of Japan (Hiroshima, Kyoto, Tokyo).

We are planning visit for a family of 4 ( me and wife – 40 yr old and 2 girls 9 and 11) from Nov 21 to Dec 1. What are the temps like in the tourist destinations? Any specific itinerary suggestion for us? coming from USA.

Hello Mafiadoc! :)

That GREATLY depends where you want to go. Temperatures HUGELY vary from Hokkaido (where it can be really cold with lots of snow) to Okinawa (where you can probably still wear summer clothes). The major tourist spots including Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima will probably have temperatures around 8-15°C (although that varies a little every year). So, if you don’t plan to go to Hokkaido or Okinawa, I suggest to bring some warmer clothes, possibly a (winter) coat with you.

Hi, There will be 3 of us first visiting Japan this Aug 4th – 15th. Me ( 39 ), my girl friend ( 49) and my daughter ( 11 ). Noted that during this period, it will be very hot season in Japan, so can you please recommend any nice outings ? Climbing Mt Fuji will be difficult for us as got 1 kid ? Planned to Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, if possibly Hokkaido. Our flight both land and depart at Tokyo. Thank you so much to willing to share the itinery. Wish to visit Moomin House Cafe and Restaurant Otasuke

Hi Jenny. Actually a lot of people with children climb Mt. Fuji. It’s possible, but it depends on your daughter. Not all kids are fond of hiking for that long unless they’re really interested in it. Escaping the heat will be difficult. A good choice is Hokkaido. For the other places you’ve mentioned make sure to wear something on your head, put on enough sunscreen and stay hydrated! Also, insect spray will be necessary, but you should buy it in Japan or it might not work!

Being close to the ocean, possibly where you can swim, might cool you down a bit. There’s often a warm breeze, but it helps a lot in the humid summer heat.

Other than that, just visit the spots that you’re all really interested in regardless of the heat! :) If you want more detailed recommendations, feel free to contact me via e-mail .

Have a great trip! :D

Great post, gives some very good suggestions.

Looking forward my first time in Japan next year I decided to take a chance on two periods, from the last week of February (and yeah, hopefully I will included skiing and the snow monkeys) till 1st april, so I will hit both the plum and the cherry blossom. I’m a bit worried about the cherry blossom, I know I risk to not see the full bloom but going north-south I think I will be able to enjoy it somewhere.

Eventually, if I will come to Japan a second time (which is probable, the more I read about this country, the more I like it), I’d come in autumn, I saw some stunning pics of the parks and woods turning colors.

Can’t wait for 2015!

Sounds like a really lovely itinerary to me. There are some early blooming types of cherry blossoms that you can find in many places, but most famous is Kawazu on the Izu Peninsula. Maybe you get a chance to see them there.

I’m sure you’ll enjoy your trip. ^___^

Hi, been reading all your blogs! Very organized :) and it helps me plan our trip this sept. It will be 5 days only, i know it wont be enough for all the activities , maybe you could help me plan our trip as i am confused now where to go. Thanks in advance! Keep up the good work! :)

Hi Ken, I really wish I could help everyone with planning their trip, but unfortunately I just don’t have the time to do so. I’m thinking about actually doing this professionally in the future. If I charge money, I can maybe cut down on my busy full-time job and truly help people with their unique Japan trips. :)

But feel free to send me questions about your upcoming trip.

wow, Thanks for all the help and idea guys!

Me and my colleagues are planning to go to Japan next year with our Japanese teacher. We were deciding when is the best time to go to Japan. I still need to present to them the best details and suggestions but from what I’ve read over the web, the autumn season is the preferable. We would really love to see the Sakura trees but the prices and the flights are too much of our budget.

Our sensei said that it’d be better to go around Kyoto and Osaka for some sights. We would like to experience some festivals too and found out that there’s a jidai festival around Oct 15. When do you think is the best time around October -November, in week basis, to go? We want to make the most out of the travel :)

Also, can you recommend us some sights or places to visit? Things to know, things we should prepare and be cautious about.

Thank you so much :)

Hello Dee! Autumn is a great time to visit. The fall foliage is so lovely. If you want to stay in the Kyoto / Osaka region, then late November is the best time for autumn colors. You won’t be able to see the Jidai Matsuri, but there are many smaller festival, I’m sure you’ll find something nice in November as well.

If you decide to visit Kyoto in November, then avoid the long weekend towards the end of November as it will be insanely crowded then. Oh, and for autumn season (late November) in Kansai book way in advance, especially if you’re a group of people!

Good luck and have lots of fun. And don’t forget to take tons of photos! ;)

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

The Perfect 7-Day Japan Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Japan captured my heart from the moment I firs visited. The delicious food, the rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant history, and the very friendly and polite people – it all blew my mind.

But Japan often feels impenetrable, especially to first-time visitors. While I think Japan deserves a minimum of 10 days, I get that some people might only have a week, so I wanted to write this, my ideal seven-day itinerary for Japan for a first-time visitor.

With only a week, there’s not much you can see unless you really rush it. And I don’t think you should do that.

So this itinerary only focuses on Tokyo and Kyoto (the most popular destinations) as well as some day trips from each. If you wanted to rush things a little, you could add in Osaka (more on that at the end).

(Note: If you purchased a Japan Rail Pass , activate it on arrival. That way, you can take advantage of the free JR trains throughout the city.)

Table of Contents

Japan Itinerary Day 1: Tokyo

Japan itinerary day 2: tokyo, japan itinerary day 3: tokyo, japan itinerary day 4: kyoto, japan itinerary day 5: kyoto, japan itinerary day 6: nara, japan itinerary day 7: tokyo, an alternative itinerary.

Tsukiji and Toyosu Fish Markets Cure your jet lag with some food! In 2018, Tokyo’s main fish market moved to Toyosu. It is now twice the size of Tsukiji (the old one), making it the largest such market in the world. Here you can eat fresh sushi for breakfast, just a few feet from where it was hauled in from the sea, while marveling at the chaotic atmosphere.

You can still head to the old market in Tsukiji to eat, shop, and wander as well. I like it a lot, because there are more food options! Food and drink tours of the Tsukiji Outer Market are available for around 15,000 JPY.

Toyosu Fish Market is open Monday-Saturday 5am-5pm, though most shops don’t open until 7am. Admission is free, but you have to pick up a visitor’s pass when you enter. Tsukiji Fish Market’s hours vary by shop (usually 5am-2pm). Admission is free.

teamLab Planets This digital art installation is a multi-sensory and immersive experience in which you become part of the artwork, walking barefoot through the four exhibition spaces and gardens as you interact with the installations’ elements in unique ways. It’s really fun! TeamLab is generally sells out in advance, so I recommend getting your tickets online ahead of time .

Take a walking tour Walking tours are a great way to get the lay of the land while connecting with a local guide. I always go on one or two when I arrive somewhere. Tokyo Localized offers many free tours, including a classic overview and ones of both the famed Harajuku and Shinjuku neighborhoods. Its Imperial Palace tour would be the most convenient one after teamLab.

The Imperial Palace Formerly Edo Castle, the Imperial Palace was built in the 15th century, and some of the walls and moats from that time are still in use to this day. When the emperor moved from Kyoto to Tokyo in 1869, he took Edo for his new palace and renamed it. While you can’t go inside, it is surrounded by beautiful grounds, a moat, and a park worth wandering through. You can also see the changing-of-the-guard ceremony (though it’s relatively low-key and unassuming). Admission to the grounds is free.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden This park is over 144 acres and home to some 20,000 trees. Most of the original park was destroyed in World War II but was rebuilt and reopened in 1949. During spring, it is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms. My favorite area is the landscape garden, which has several ponds with bridges and islands. It’s a peaceful oasis away from the urban hustle and bustle.

Depending on how you feel relative to your jetlag, you could fit a few more activities before you end your day. Check out this post for suggestions .

• Senso-ji – This is Tokyo’s most popular and famous temple. Beautifully painted, it sits in a scenic spot near a pagoda and the lovely Kaminari Gate. There’s a huge statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, inside the main hall. It’s very busy during the day, so maybe check out the grounds in the evening.
• Asakusa Shrine – This nearby Shinto shrine is much more peaceful, with fewer visitors, but with people praying, meditating, or performing traditional rituals. It was built during the Edo period (1603–1868) and survived the air raids of World War II.

Afterward, head to Ueno Park . Spanning over 133 acres, Ueno Park was established in 1873 on land formerly owned by a 17th-century Buddhist temple. It gets super busy in cherry blossom season, as there are over a thousand trees here. Throughout, you’ll find various stalls and vendors selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. On weekends, there are usually cultural events or festivals showcasing traditional arts, music, and dance. Four of Tokyo’s main museums are here:

• Tokyo National Museum – Established in 1872 on the north end, this massive building is the oldest and largest art museum in Japan. It houses one of the world’s largest collections of art and artifacts from Asia, particularly Japan.
• Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum – This museum showcases rotating exhibitions of contemporary and traditional Japanese art.
• National Museum of Nature and Science – This museum features a wide range of permanent and temporary exhibitions covering natural science and history.
• Tosho-gu Shrine – This beautiful 17th-century Shinto shrine has carved gold doors and other ornate carvings. It’s worth seeing up close!

Afterward, walk down to Akihabara to explore the video game parlors, arcades, and anime shops. This very buzzy area is ground zero for all things electronic, and it’s fun to play many of the games. This is where you’ll find the famous maid cafés, where servers dress up as maids and serve you food and drinks. These range from big touristy ones to holes-in-the-wall (the girls on the street are promoting the latter, which are a lot more culturally fun). They aren’t cheap, though, as you have to buy drink packages and pay a fee, but they’re kitschy and fun.

In the evening, visit Shinjuku and then drink in Golden Gai . In Shinjuku, you’ll find a plethora of cool bars, bright lights, and tiny hole-in-the-wall eateries. Be sure to wander down Memory Lane (aka Piss Alley) for tiny izakaya joints and bars. Afterward, head over to Golden Gai, a warren of narrow alleyways with a bit of a red-light-district feel, flanked by diminutive backstreet bars. It’s quite touristy but also a lot of fun. I’ve had some wild nights here!

With Arigato Tours , you’ll learn about the neighborhood while stopping to sample Japanese classics like sushi, yakitori, and ramen. The 23,900 JPY cost includes a drink and dishes at four stops.  

Kamakura Here you can see a 13-meter (43-foot) bronze statue of Buddha that was built in 1252. It was initially constructed within Kotoku-in Temple, but that has since been washed away by several storms, so it now sits in the open air. Admission to enter the temple grounds is 300 JPY, while it’s 20 JPY to go inside the statue. The journey there — around an hour — is free with a Japan Rail Pass .

Tokyo Disneyland I’m a sucker for Disney. You’ll find many of the same classic rides from Disney World here, like Splash Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain, The Haunted Mansion, and everyone’s favorite teacup ride, The Mad Tea Party. But there are several unique attractions as well, like Pooh’s Hunny Hunt and Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Ticket prices vary depending on the day and time, but full-day admission begins at 7,900 JPY for adults and 4,400-6,200 JPY for children. It’s best to book in advance .

Mount Fuji Mount Fuji is located an hour outside of Tokyo. An active stratovolcano (which last erupted in 1708) and covered in snow for almost half of the year, it stands an impressive 3,776 meters (12,389 feet) and provides one of the most iconic views in the country. One of the Three Holy Mountains of Japan, Mount Fuji is both a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and a UNESCO Cultural Site. In the summer, the mountain is open to hikers, who take 5-12 hours to reach the summit (traditionally, they depart at night to arrive at the top for the sunrise).

If you don’t want to hike, you can simply visit on a day trip. There are buses that can take you partway up, where you’ll be offered sweeping vistas of the surrounding area. Guided day tours from the city cost around 12,000 JPY.  

Wander the Bamboo Forest For a relaxing break, head to Arashiyama and let the dense and towering stands of bamboo envelop you. Located near the famous Tenryu-ji temple, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the entire country. It’s not that big, but there are some hidden areas to explore. Just make sure to arrive early if you want to enjoy it without the crowds (it fills up fast after sunrise).

While there, I would also recommend visiting the Okochi Sanso Garden, which (along with the home) belonged to the famous Japanese actor Denjir? ?k?chi (1898–1962). It’s not free (it’s 1,000 JPY), but it’s really nice and has some wonderful views.

Visit the Golden Pavilion Originally built in the late 14th century as a retirement villa for the shogun (military governor), this iconic structure was later converted into a Zen Buddhist temple. The present-day edifice dates only to the 1950s, however, when a monk attempting to kill himself burned the historic original to the ground. The rebuilt temple is covered in brilliant gold leaf, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. Each of the three stories exhibits a different architectural style. Completing the scene are the serene reflecting pool and traditional Japanese gardens that contain lush foliage, manicured trees, and scenic walking paths.

1 Kinkakuji-cho, Kita-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, +81 075-461-0013, shokoku-ji.jp. Open daily 9am-5pm. Admission is 500 JPY.

Admire Ryoan-ji Temple This is my favorite temple in Kyoto. Originally established in 1450 as a residence for a high-ranking samurai, it was soon converted into a Zen temple and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a mausoleum that houses the remains of seven emperors. Its traditional rock and sand garden is considered one of the best in the country. There’s also a teahouse where you can experience the traditional Japanese tea ceremony ( chanoyu ) as you overlook the Kyoyochi reflecting pool.

There are other temples in the area to check out as well:

• Daitoku-ji Temple – This massive complex dating back to 1315 covers almost 60 acres. It contains several dozen temples and is a good place to see a variety of Zen gardens and architectural styles. It’s also deeply linked to the Japanese tea ceremony, as several of the country’s most noteworthy masters studied here.
• Toji Temple – This is home to Japan’s tallest pagoda (five stories high). Founded in 796, just after Kyoto became the capital, it was one of only three Buddhist temples allowed in the city.

Go on a sake brewery tour Kyoto has a sake (rice wine) brewing tradition going back 400 years and is known for some of the best in the world, due to using the area’s pure natural spring water in the brewing process. Arigato Tours offers an excellent three-hour tour of Fushimi (the brewing district) for 23,320 JPY, including stops at several breweries, a guided tour of the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, and tastings.  

See the Fushimi Inari Shrine This mountainside Shinto shrine, dating back to 711, is dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and prosperity. It’s known for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates that form a network of trails leading up Mount Inari. You can hike the trails on your own while enjoying panoramic views of Kyoto below or join a guided hiking tour , on which you’ll get off the paved paths and into hidden bamboo groves. Get here as early as possible to avoid the crowds.

68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, +81756417331, inari.jp. Open 24/7. Admission is free.

Walk around Higashiyama Spend an afternoon walking along the narrow streets of one of the oldest and best preserved districts on your own or on a walking tour . The traditional machiya buildings (traditional wooden townhouses) are filled with small shops selling local specialties and handicrafts, as well as restaurants and teahouses. It’s a popular area in which to participate in a tea ceremony . Another nice place to stroll in this neighborhood is the Philosopher’s Path, which follows a cherry-tree-lined canal that’s beautiful and meditative even when the blossoms aren’t in season.

Visit Kiyomizu-dera One of a number of UNESCO sites in ancient Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera (meaning “pure water temple”) is located in the foothills of Mount Otowa in the eastern part of the city. It’s one of the most famous temples in all of Japan. It was established in 778, but most of the existing buildings date to the 17th century. There’s not a single nail used in the construction, which becomes all the more impressive once you see how large the temple is, which is best known for its wooden terrace that juts out over the hillside. The temple’s name comes from the nearby waterfall whose waters (from which you can still drink today) are said to have wish-granting and healing powers.

1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, +81 75-551-1234, kiyomizudera.or.jp. Open daily 6am-6pm. Admission is 400 JPY.

Explore Shorin-ji Temple This small temple dates back to the 16th century. What makes it worth visiting is its meditation classes. You’ll get to tour the temple and then be instructed in zazen , the Japanese style of meditation. It’s a very unique experience and something that I think will add a lot of depth and nuance to your visit (especially if you’ve seen a lot of temples). Just make sure to dress comfortably.

15 Chome-795 Honmachi, +81 75-561-4311, shourin-ji.org. Open daily 10am-4pm. Admission is 800 JPY.

Wander the Nishiki Market Nishiki Ichiba is now one of the biggest indoor markets in town. Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen” and spanning over five blocks, it is full of vendors selling traditional dishes from the region, classic Kyoto souvenirs, and really just about anything else. There are over a hundred stalls here, many of which have been in the same family for generations. Opening hours depend on the shop but are typically from 9am to 6pm.

To dive deeper into Japanese food culture, you can take a food tour of the market . It’s the best way to learn about all the food you’ll see, as well as the market’s history.

Explore Gion Gion, the historic geisha district, is renowned as being one of the most iconic and atmospheric areas of town. It’s known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, narrow alleyways, cobblestone streets, and preservation of geisha (known locally as geiko) culture. Lining the main street are ochayas (teahouses where geishas entertain), small shops, and many restaurants, ranging from upscale kaiseki restaurants serving traditional Kyoto cuisine to casual eateries.

To really learn more about this amazing party of town and its past, take a walking tour of Gion . You’ll learn a ton and get a lot of context. They cost around 1,800 JPY.

At night, go to the Pontocho Row , a narrow street lined with restaurants, hole-in-the-wall bars, and jazz clubs. It’s one of the more lively areas in Kyoto.  

Nara was the capital of Japan in the eighth century, so there are lots of buildings and temples here that are upwards of a thousand years old (which is rare in Japan, due to the prevalence of fires and earthquakes, as well as World War II). Some things to do:

• Frolic with deer – The real draw in Nara are the deer. Since the 17th century, those in and around the city have been considered sacred. You can buy crackers to feed them or just watch them stroll around carefree.
• See the Buddha – Don’t miss a visit to Todai-ji, the world’s largest wooden building, home to a 16-meter (52-foot) Buddha statue. It was built in 738 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Take a walking tour – This guided half-day walking tour for 11,500 JPY includes all of Nara’s highlights as well as a traditional lunch.

Ryogoku Kokugikan, Japan’s most famous sumo wrestling arena, hosts tournaments three times each year, in January, May, and September. Tickets sell out quickly, so book online in advance. Prices vary but start around 3,200 JPY for arena seats. You can book a ticket online here (you’ll be accompanied by a guide too, so you can learn more about the tradition as it unfolds before your eyes).

To learn more about the sport in in the off-season, book a tour of a sumo stable .  

So, if you want to add another city to this itinerary you can follow this breakdown:

• Days 1 & 2: Tokyo
• Days 3 & 4: Kyoto
• Day 5: Nara
• Days 6 & 7: Osaka

Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara are all covered above. As for Osaka, some of my favorite things to see and do:

Take a food tour Known as “the Kitchen of Japan,” Osaka boasts a diverse culinary scene. Mouthwatering sushi and sashimi, Kobe beef and Japanese BBQ, and flavorful ramen can all be found here in abundance. Plus, there are local specialties like okonomiyaki (a savory pancake with egg and vegetables) and kushikatsu (kebab skewers). You can take a food tour for around 13,000 JPY, a ramen and gyoza cooking class for 9,500 JPY, or just wander and eat.

Osaka Castle One of the most famous landmarks in the country, the castle was originally built in the late 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi and played a pivotal role in the unification of Japan during the Sengoku period (1467-1615). Over the centuries, it has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times due to wars, fires, and natural disasters. The current version dates to 1931. The castle is situated amid sprawling grounds and surrounded by a moat. It’s also home to a small but insightful museum and an observation deck that offers some picturesque urban views.

Dotonbori This is arguably Osaka’s most iconic district, known for its vibrant nightlife (bars, clubs, theaters, and music venues), colorful signage, and delicious food. It’s best seen at night due to the plethora of huge neon lights and signs lining both the canal and streets, which have become symbols of Osaka’s nightlife. A guided walking tour that includes Dotonbori as well adjacent neighborhoods is 6,500 JPY.

Shitennoji Temple This temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, founded in 593. The architecture is a blend of traditional Japanese and East Asian styles, featuring impressive pagodas, gates, and shrines set amid serene gardens. Stroll through the tranquil grounds, admire the beautiful architecture, and learn about the temple’s historical and cultural significance at the museum. The temple is 300 JPY to enter, the garden is 300 JPY, and the museum is 500 JPY.  

Japan is one of my favorite countries. While it’s relatively small, it offers an amazing array of things to see and do (as well as some of the best food in the world). With seven days, you can easily see a good number of the main highlights and get a taste for the incredible history and culture. It will be a busy week, but this itinerary ensures you’ll still have some time to slow down, relax, and take in the local pace of life.

Just make sure you get a Japan Rail Pass before you go. While it’s not as cheap as it used to be, it will likely save you time and money!

Book Your Trip to Japan: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . They are my two favorite search engines, because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is being left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the most comprehensive inventory so they are best for booking a hostel. If you want to stay in a hotel or guesthouse in Japan, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel — and I think they will help you too!

Be sure to check out the Japan Rail Pass if you’ll be traveling around the country. It comes in 7-, 14-, and 21-day passes and can save you a ton of money!

Looking for More Travel Tips for Japan? Check out my in-depth Japan travel guide for more ways to save money, information on costs, tips on what to see and do, suggested itineraries and reading and packing lists, and much, much more!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Why now is the best time to visit Japan, thanks to a weak yen

Travel expert: 2024 travel outlook.

New year and new destinations may be in store for you in 2024. Bob Berry, travel service specialist with Cruise Planners joins LiveNOW from FOX to discuss top destinations, safety and tips you can use to plan your dream trip this year.

The recent dramatic plunge in the Japanese yen has transformed Japan into a prime destination for budget-conscious American tourists. 

With the yen reaching 160 to the dollar before stabilizing around 156 yen, U.S. travelers should expect to find prices in Japan more favorable, reminiscent of currency values not seen since 1990. This significant shift in the financial landscape offers a unique opportunity to explore Japan's rich culture and stunning landscapes without breaking the bank.

The depreciation in the yen's value means that every dollar stretches further, allowing visitors from the United States to enjoy a wealth of experiences at reduced costs. Here's how you can make the most of your travel dollars in Japan:

How to maximize your travel budget in Japan

Kyoto: a blend of history and affordability.

In Kyoto, travelers can immerse themselves in the city's ancient history with visits to the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) and the endless red gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine , both offering free or low-cost entry. 

FILE - Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, photographed in Kyoto, Japan. Photo by: Planet One Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images (Photo by: Planet One Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

Economical dining options include sampling street food at Nishiki Market, where specialties like tako tamago (candied octopus with a quail egg) are must-tries.

Tokyo: Diverse experiences on a dime

Tokyo offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions. Visit the Imperial Palace Gardens for a serene escape, or dive into the energy of Shibuya and Harajuku, all without spending much.

Imperial Palace Gardens in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo City, Japan. Photo by: Dukas/Universal Images Group via Getty Images (Photo by: Dukas/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

For affordable dining, check out Ramen Street in Tokyo Station where eight renowned ramen shops serve up bowls perfect for a budget. Don’t miss Tonkatsu Maisen Aoyama Honten in Omotesando for some of the best breaded pork cutlet in Tokyo.

Hokkaido: Nature and gourmet delights

Hokkaido offers breathtaking natural beauty alongside unique culinary experiences. Budget travelers can enjoy both at places like Otaru, where canal-side cafes offer views and treats. 

Be sure to try the region’s famous seafood, particularly at kaitenzushi (conveyor belt sushi) restaurants like Toriton Kaitenzushi in Sapporo , where high-quality sushi is surprisingly affordable.

FILE - People sit on the grass at Sapporo Odori Park in Sapporo, Japan. (Photographer: Kentaro Takahashi/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

For a memorable visit, don’t miss Odori Park in Sapporo, the most visited tourist attraction in Hokkaido. This expansive park is the heart of the city and offers a peaceful escape with its beautiful fountains and seasonal flowers.

Osaka: The kitchen of Japan

Osaka is not only "the kitchen of Japan" famed for its street food like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) in Dotonbori but also a fashion hub. Visit Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M for budget-friendly, top-rated dining where you grill your own wagyu beef. 

Beyond cuisine, Osaka's Kojima area, known as the Denim District, is a treasure trove for high-quality, artisanal denim. Despite typically high prices, the favorable exchange rate now makes these luxury garments more accessible to American visitors.

FILE - People browsing the bustling Kuromon Market in Osaka. (Photo by YUICHI YAMAZAKI/AFP via Getty Images)

More things to do in Japan

Japan's vast array of activities and attractions caters to diverse interests, offering something for everyone. While it's impossible to cover all that Japan has to offer, here are some key experiences you won't want to miss:

• Cherry Blossoms and Urban Wildlife: Experience the serene beauty of cherry blossoms at Ueno Park in Tokyo or watch the deer roam freely at Nara Park.
• Iconic Castles: Visit majestic sites like Himeji Castle, known for its striking white architecture and expansive grounds.
• Cultural Hotspots: Dive into the vibrant and quirky atmosphere of Akihabara in Tokyo, a paradise for tech enthusiasts and anime fans.
• Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind in the famous onsens of Hakone or Beppu, where natural hot springs offer a soothing escape.
• Spiritual Sites: Reflect at the peaceful Zen temples of Kyoto, such as Ryoan-ji, famous for its rock garden.
• Culinary Adventures: Sample the fresh sushi at Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo or indulge in Sapporo's famous miso ramen.
• Scenic Rides: Take a scenic ride on the Shinkansen (bullet train) and witness the changing landscapes from city skylines to rural vistas.
• Historical Walks: Stroll through the preserved samurai district in Kanazawa, offering a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past.

Navigating Japan: key travel tips for tourists

Planning your trip to Japan involves some practical considerations to ensure a smooth journey. Here are essential tips on connectivity, power, and handling cash.

Staying connected: travel eSIM cards

Before your trip to Japan, it's a good idea to get a travel eSIM card like Ubigi. An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card that lets you access cellular data without needing a physical card. 

Ubigi provides flexible, affordable data plans that you can manage directly from your device, making it easy to stay connected for navigation and internet access without the hassle of local SIM cards.

Power and charging: Japanese power outlets

Japan uses Type A and Type B outlets, similar to the US, but the voltage is 100 volts. Check if your devices need a voltage converter to prevent damage.

Handling cash: exchanging money

Many smaller venues outside major cities still only accept cash. For the best exchange rates, swap dollars for yen at foreign exchange banks or post offices in Japan, rather than at airports. 

This story was reported from Los Angeles. 

10 Best Things to Do in Kyoto in May 2024

What to see and do in Kyoto in May.

Do you have any travel plans this May? Kyoto is one of the famous places in Japan that many tourists want to visit to witness the beautiful places here that are full of ancient Japan’s historical culture. And, If you want to visit Kyoto this May, this article is for you. I will share the 10 best things to do in Kyoto in May.

May in Kyoto

Spring and autumn are the best time to visit Kyoto when many beautiful flowers are blooming and fragrant. May is one of the perfect months because of the nice weather distinctly mild and cool. However, it is also the busiest month not only in Kyoto but all over Japan when the well-known longest holiday is being held. Many events and festivals are happening, in Kyoto one of the most popular festivals is held in May so expect a large number of tourists during this time.

Aside from events and festivals, there are many other fun and memorable activities in Kyoto that you can experience. There are foods, cultural activities, wearing traditional costumes, and much more. Here are some best things to do in Kyoto in May.

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1. flower viewing.

Many kinds of flowers bloom during spring, giving more life to the gardens, shrines, and temples and there are some places in Japan like Kyoto where you can still see late blooming cherry blossoms. The Wisteria and Iris flowers are among the most popular flowers during May that you will love to see in the gardens of Kyoto. Take a walk and enjoy observing seasonal flowers.

2. Experience Aoi Festival

One of the famous and biggest festivals in Kyoto which is held annually every May. It is a festival to reap a bountiful harvest featuring rituals and processions. This May 15, 2024, is the main schedule of the event. Enjoy and witness one of the cultural festivals in Kyoto.

3. Kyoto Botanical Gardens

One of the places to enjoy nature, it is nice to walk around for sightseeing to relax and unwind while observing beautiful flowers around. You can also enjoy some flowers and plant exhibitions.

Check out the following article for more information about the Gardens in Kyoto!

▶︎Kyoto Botanical Garden Cherry Blossoms

▶︎8 Best Zen Gardens in Kyoto

4. Experience Tea Ceremony

The best thing to do when visiting Kyoto is a great experience to remember especially if you love tea. You can feel the presence of old Japan, it is very popular in Kyoto where many tourists are offered this wonderful activity to experience.

For more information about the Tea Ceremony in Kyoto, check out the following article!

▶︎Tea Ceremony Kyoto: 5 Best Experiences

5. Take a walk in Gion District

Gion is one of the famous tourist destinations where the area is full of entertainment activities. And it is nice to walk around here to discover interesting things about Kyoto’s history. You will be truly fascinated by the surrounding structures of ancient Japanese culture.

Check out the following article for more information about the Gion District in Kyoto!

▶︎Gion: Traditional Geisha District in Kyoto

6. Visit Kiyomizudera Temple

Visit the famous historical building in Japan, Kiyomizu-Dera, which is also a popular tourist destination in Kyoto. The temple is surrounded by forest trees which give the place an ultimate beauty. On the terrace, you can see the beauty of nature, especially during spring and autumn when various colorful flowers and leaves sprout.

Check out the following article for more information about the Kiyomizudera Temple in Kyoto!

▶︎Kyoto Kiyomizudera Temple: When is the Best Time to Visit?

7. Visit Kyoto Tower

Kyoto Tower is the tallest building in Kyoto 131 meters above the ground. A must-visit when you are in Kyoto, easily accessible just near Kyoto Station. Its observation deck offers a cityscape view of Kyoto. And you can enjoy the different colors of the tower at night. There are also shops, restaurants, and souvenir shops around.

For more travel tips about Kyoto, Check out the following articles.

▶︎17 Best Places to Visit in Kyoto

▶︎30 Best Things to Do in Kyoto

8. Visit Nijo Castle

Visiting Nijo Castle is one of the most unique experiences among other castles. Rich in the history of ancient Japan with various amazing things that are perfectly preserved. Many events and activities can be enjoyed here such as flower festivals every spring and illumination at night.

9. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Arashiyama bamboo grove is one of the famous tourist destinations in Kyoto. It is nice to go for a walk along the bamboo grove, and in May the weather is not too hot yet perfect to unwind and take a picture with the green bamboo background which is truly amazing.

For more travel tips about Kyoto, Check out the following article.

▶︎Kyoto Arashiyama and Sagano: 10 Best Things to Do

▶︎Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, Kyoto

10. Visit Kyoto National Museum

One of the famous museums in Kyoto that features various exhibitions of traditional Japanese art. Many events and activities are held to enjoy. The place is big you can also enjoy the view outside like the garden and some outdoor exhibits. They also have shops and restaurants.

For more travel tips and activities in Kyoto, Check out the following article.

▶︎Best Tours and Activities in Kyoto

▶︎15 Best Museums in Japan

Thank you for reading. I hope this article helps and provides the information you are looking for about the places and events to visit in Kyoto in May.

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For more information about traveling in Japan, check these articles below.

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Clarita Kurita

Greetings to all mommies I am a supermom from Philippines. Previously, I worked and lived in Dubai for seven years, until 2015 the year I  moved in Japan. Currently, I am happily settled here with my Japanese husband and our 7 months old baby. I could only describe my almost 6 years of living here as a roller coaster ride more so, after I gave birth to my son. Japan had changed me in ways unimaginable. It has influence my lifestyle, my perceptions and beliefs. I was able to witness firsthand the pros and cons of living in the country. From their  language, culture and ethnicity, the people, place and in work. Those years were enough to give me quite personal and memorable experiences which I would be more than delighted to share with you.

7 Best things to do in Japan in 2024

A s a travel enthusiast starts planning a 2024 travel itinerary, Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun, ticks all the boxes. It is the ultimate travel destination thanks to its historic streets of Kyoto, savoring delicious street food in Osaka, exploring the religious shrines, or staying at the ryokans . From the age-old cherry fields to the peaceful country roads, this place is a feast for the senses.

Springtime being this place's truly magical venture, Japan comes alive with color and energy, and visitors are feasted on a lot of enjoyable destinations to explore. Its rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty offers an array of adventures for every travel enthusiast.

Disclaimer: This is purely the writer's opinion, and might have missed some favorite destinations.

The top activities to experience in Japan in 2024

Whether the avid traveler is a history buff, a food enthusiast, or a nature lover, Japan is the perfect place for their visit in 2024.

Ahead, Team Sportskeeda has thoughtfully created a list of the seven best things to do in Japan in 2024 and make the most of their visit.

• Explore Kinkaku-ji at Kyoto
• Enjoy Hanami in Tokyo
• Feed the deer at Nara
• Learn about the city's history at Hiroshima
• River cruise at Osaka
• Ski at Hokkaido
• Sun-bask on the shorelines of Okinawa

1) Explore Kinkaku-ji at Kyoto

Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan , is a must-visit spring destination for avid travelers. Considering that the best time to travel is in late March to early April, this holiday and sightseeing place is well-known for its cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Sight-seers should not miss the spectacular Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and the traditional Gion District. For lodging, one should consider staying at a classic ryokan to experience the hospitality at its best. Kansai International Airport, the nearest airport, can be easily commuted to thanks to local transportation.

Once in Kyoto, one should also make sure to try out the local cuisines, like kaiseki (a multicourse feast) and various matcha confectionaries. Noted diners like Nishiki Market and Pontocho Alley also rule the culinary delight list.

2) Enjoy Hanami in Tokyo

Be it the onset of autumn or spring, the metropolis of Tokyo, Japan, is always bustling with a unique blend of modernity and ritual. Including Senso-ji Temple and Meiji Shrine, this metropolis' main attractions are decorated with cherry blossoms, catering to a panoramic view.

Once in Tokyo, tourists can enjoy activities like hanami (flower viewing) picnics in Ueno Park and boat or yacht cruises along the Sumida River. For an unforgettable stay, visitors can select a hotel in the vibrant Shibuya or Shinjuku districts and indulge in a wide variety of delectable local cuisines, like sushi tempura and ramen at Tsukiji Outer Market, and the food stalls at Ameyoko Market.

Read more: 6 Best European countries to visit in Summer 2024

3) Feed the deer at Nara

Nara, well-known for its friendly deer and ancient religious shrines, it is always the perfect time for any travel enthusiast to visit this charming destination.

Visitors can engage in activities like feeding deer and exploring the picturesque Isuien Garden at Nara Park and Todai-ji Temple, the main attractions they shouldn't miss. Once here, a holiday enthusiast can stay at cozy homestays or ryokans for an authentic lodging experience. There are also sample local delicacies, like Kakinoha sushi and persimmon leaf sushi, at the best diners in the Nara-machi district.

4) Learn about the city's history at Hiroshima

Hiroshima, a Japan metropolis with a resilient spirit and a profound history, is best visited in early April. From the local Hiroshima Airport, courtesy of its travel-friendly communication, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Shukkeien Garden are the main places of interest that offer serene beauty. Here, tourists can engage in activities like visiting the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum to learn about the city's history.

One can also plan their stay at comfortable hotels and savor local cuisines like okonomiyaki and oysters from the best diners like Okonomimura and Mitaki-en.

5) River cruise at Osaka

Considered one of the most vibrant cities, Osaka is famed for its lively environment and mouthwatering delicacies. The best time to visit is late March or early April. Once landing at the Kansai International Airport, a vacationer can enjoy their holiday by visiting the main attractions, like Osaka Castle and Dotonbori.

Thanks to its panoramic view, travelers can enjoy local activities like exploring the bustling Kuromon Ichiba Market and river cruising along the Okawa River. Planning a 2 to 3-day trip to Osaka, a vacationer can book their stay at downtown's trendy hotels and indulge in local cuisines like takoyaki , okonomiyaki , and kushikatsu at street food stalls, and best-eating joints like Mizuno and Kani Doraku.

Read more: 6 Best treks in the world

6) Ski at Hokkaido

Hokkaido, the northernmost island, is a must-see spring holiday destination in Japan, courtesy of its spectacular natural attractions. When hiring local transportation or pre-paid cabs from New Chitose Airport, the best time to visit is late April or early May. During this time, tourists can enjoy the main attractions, such as the vast fields of Shikisai-no-Oka and the majestic beauty of Shikisai Hill.

They can engage in activities like exploring Biei's charming beauty, skiing, Onsen (hot springs), enjoying a relaxing soak in the famous Noboribetsu hot springs, or staying at comfortable ryokans or motels with stunning mountain views. They can also savor these gastronomical delights in local delicacies like fresh seafood , spicy ramen, and tasty dairy products at the best diners like Ramen Yokocho and Nijo Market.

7) Sun-bask on the shorelines of Okinawa

Off-boarding at the Naha airport, Okinawa's gorgeous shorelines and rich history welcome avid travelers, making it an excellent destination year-round for all travel enthusiasts visiting Japan. Once here, travelers can explore the lively marine life at the Churaumi Aquarium and the Ryukyu culture of historical Shuri Castle.

They can rest and recoup at beachfront resorts like the Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa, or Halekulani, Okinawa, to experience the true essence of Okinawa, Japan. Visitors can also spoil their tastebuds with the local flavors of sample Okinawan soba, agu pork , goya champuru, and rafute pork.

Read more: 6 best Spring destinations in the world to take a family vacation

These are the seven best things to do in Japan in 2024 that promise an array of unforgettable experiences for travel enthusiasts. So, avid travelers can start backpacking to enjoy their adventure-packed holiday.