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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

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, we have the ultimate resource for you!

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!

Sign up for our  ultimate Japan packing list  now and get a copy sent straight to your inbox.

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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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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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 (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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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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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

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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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Best, Worst and Cheapest Months To Visit Japan

Planning a winter escape to Hokkaido’s snowy landscapes, a tropical beach break in Okinawa, or a scenic expedition to photograph Tokyo’s cherry blossoms? The optimal season to travel to Japan is tightly linked to your intended activities and experiences.

Japan’s diverse calendar, filled with a rich array of events and festivals, ensures that there’s hardly an unsuitable period for a visit. Nevertheless, timing becomes critical if your itinerary involves exploring Kyoto’s sacred shrines or immersing in the ethereal pink of cherry blossoms. Proper planning will help you avoid the dampness of the rainy season or the disappointment of arriving after the cherry flowers have fallen.

Best Months to Visit Japan

Japan’s terrain is incredibly varied for a nation of its modest dimensions. From the icy atmospheres of Hokkaido up north to the sun-soaked vibes of Okinawa down south, the environmental shift is noteworthy. If winter sports aren’t your thing, the months spanning from March to May and September to November are often cited as the optimal times for a visit.

During these time frames, you have the opportunity to either marvel at the radiant autumnal hues or, alternatively, the famed cherry blossoms that seem as though they’ve leapt off the pages of a children’s storybook. These seasons also come with the added bonuses of scant rainfall, unclouded skies, and agreeable weather.

If sultry summer conditions don’t deter you, Japan in these months offers a distinct flavor of its own. It becomes a period ideal for reconnecting with the great outdoors, whether that’s in a refreshing mountain setting or as far north as your itinerary allows. Hokkaido’s summertime, characterized by meadows awash in vivid floral colors and a host of alfresco activities like trekking and equestrian pursuits, is especially alluring.

The summer months also coincide with the peak of the festival calendar, replete with open-air beer venues and pyrotechnic spectacles. Conversely, the winter months are perfect for snow-centric activities and thermal spa visits. Hokkaido is the go-to for winter sports enthusiasts, but if you’re based closer to Tokyo, locales like Niigata, accessible by rapid transit, also boast top-notch winter sports facilities. For those with a penchant for milder weather, a wintertime journey to Okinawa offers a tropical alternative.

When To Visit Japan for Cherry Blossoms?

For those visitors intent on experiencing Japan’s cherry blossom season, the flowering period is influenced by the annual weather patterns. The cherry blossom wave, which is carefully examined and reported nationwide, begins to advance from the southernmost point of Japan, sometimes as early as January. The ideal moments to witness cherry blossoms in places like Kyoto, Tokyo, and nearby areas usually fall within the last week of March till the first week of April. As for more northern locations such as Sapporo, one shouldn’t anticipate seeing the signature pink blossoms until at least May.

The Less Favorable Times to Travel to Japan

Weather conditions can differ greatly depending on the location in Japan, so while one area might be experiencing unfavorable weather, another might be enjoying clear skies. Generally, from the start of June to mid-July, most of the country sees rain, Tokyo being no exception. Okinawa is an outlier, with rain starting there in early May. On the other hand, Hokkaido experiences calm temperatures and sunny days during the summer season.

After the rain stops, the following months can become intensely warm and filled with humidity. Urban environments such as Tokyo and Kyoto often experience stifling heat, leading many to advise against travel to these areas during the height of summer in July and August.

Japan’s cherry blossoms, renowned around the world, usher in a high tide of tourism during the sakura season. This period also coincides with Golden Week (a notable Japanese holiday stretch), lasting from late April to around the midpoint of May. Steering clear of travel during this interval may be prudent unless detailed preparations are made well beforehand. Otherwise, one might encounter congested or fully booked trains, hotels, and sought-after tourist locations.

Cheapest Time to Visit Japan

Japan’s reputation as an expensive destination has somewhat shifted, thanks to the boost in hospitality services that followed the Tokyo 2021 Olympics. The event’s aftermath led to an influx of accommodations that are not only of high quality but also offer good value for money.

In addition, if you’re looking to save, consider planning your trip between mid-January and March. During this period, Japan sees fewer tourists, translating into more available deals on things like flights, hotel stays, and various activities.

Best Time to Visit Japan for Food Lovers

For the food aficionados, Japan is a culinary paradise all year round, yet it maintains a strong seasonal connection. If there’s a specific Japanese food or flavor you’re passionate about, you’ll want to research the ideal season to ensure you don’t miss it. Summer in Japan invites fresh dishes like cool sōmen noodles, kakigōri shaved ice, and flavorsome unagi eel. In contrast, autumn introduces earthy delights like matsutake mushrooms, sweet potatoes, and sanma Pacific saury. Winter’s chill is combated with hearty nabe hot pots, vibrant citrus fruits, and kaki persimmon, while springtime celebrates with delicate sea bream, takenoko bamboo shoots, and traditional sakura mochi rice cakes.

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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.

Japan on a Budget: The Complete Guide to Cheap Travel in Japan

How to Travel Japan on a Budget:  The Only Guide You’ll Ever Need

Is is possible to travel to Japan on a budget?  Definitely!  Japan is one of the most fun and amazing travel destinations in the world.  However, many travelers are reluctant to plan a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun because of the cost.

Known for being an expensive place to visit, many Japan lovers give up when they hear how much it costs to travel to Japan.  In doing so, they miss out on the trip of a lifetime.  It’s true that Japan has tons of luxury hotels, world-class restaurants, and first class transportation options that cost more money than most people’s mortgages.

However, Japan also has lots of cheap lodging, amazing food, and transportation options that are very easy on the wallet. In fact, Japan can be one of the CHEAPEST destinations to travel on a budget. If you want to visit Japan on a budget, this article will provide you with all of the tips, tricks, and advice to save you as much money as possible.

How to Get Cheap Flights to Japan

While it is possible to visit Japan by boat (namely from Australia, China, Taiwan, and Korea) the vast majority of visitors choose to go by air.

If you live in one of these nearby countries and have LOTS of time, check out your local boat companies for deals. Sometimes they sell last minute tickets at a fraction of the cost.

However, it’s almost always more efficient to travel by air.

So here are 5 tips to getting the cheapest airline tickets to Japan.

5 Tips to Find Cheap Flights to Japan

 1.  book as early as possible.

When searching for a flight to Japan, booking as far in advance as you can is best. Waiting until the last minute to grab reduced price tickets can certainly pay off, but it’s a big gamble if the tickets sell out (which happens more often than not).

You’re better off by being prepared, planning in advance and choosing to visit Japan at a cheaper time of year.

I usually buy my tickets at least a month before my travel date. I found that this is the latest I can wait before tickets sell out or really get expensive.

2.  Avoid Peak Periods of Travel: Peak Times

Not only does the cost of airfare increase during peak times of travel in Japan, but hotels, attractions, and even restaurants raise their prices as well (usually buffets or nice restaurants that offer things like “special” holiday menus). If possible, try to avoid these peak travel times in Japan if you are on a tight budget:

• Golden Week: End of April – start of May
• Cherry blossom viewing: Late March – early May
• Summer: Mid-August is the busiest due to the Obon Festival
• Autumn: Changing colors of leaves (busiest time is late September due to Silver Week, a period of national holidays grouped close together)
• Spring: The end of March – the beginning of April. School children are on spring break, and lots of families travel during this time
• New Years: A popular time to travel during this time (domestic and international)

3. Cheapest Time to Fly to Japan

Here are the dates that generally have the cheapest flights to Japan

• Early to late December (before New Years)
• Just after the New Year holiday ends (people are usually back to work by January 5th) up until the end of March. However, Hokkaido has lots of visitors during this time due to all of the incredible ski slopes and winter foods. The world-famous Snow Festival also takes place in early February, which makes finding a cheap ticket to Hokkaido difficult.
• Mid May – June is also a cheaper time to visit.

While the winter season might not be the best time to visit Japan in terms of weather, you’ll usually save money on plane tickets. Winter foods in Japan are absolutely delicious as well. Delicious hot pot dishes, fresh crab, and other seafood are especially delicious in winter.

If you want all of the details and insiders tips on when to visit Japan, check out our  best time to visit Japan   guide.

4. Check for Internet Deals

Or course you could get cheap airlines tickets by choosing non-direct flights with long, inconvenient waits in between. But who wants to do that? Sure, you can save some money, but you’ll be giving up a lot of time and comfort by doing this.

Before going this route, spend an hour or two searching the Internet for the best deals. You can decide if a reduction in price with a 12-hour wait in some random airport is worth the inconvenience.

How to do Internet Research for Cheap Flights to Japan

Here are the steps I use to find the best deals to Japan:

1. Determine Both Your Budget and Which Airlines Companies You Want to Use

Of course, if you are willing to fly with any airlines, you’ll have the best chances of finding a cheap flight. However, I highly recommend you only use reputable carriers. There are lots of airlines with cheap flights to Japan, but they usually have very long layovers or delays, poor service, and safety issues.

Sometimes, it’s just not worth the risk. So to minimize your chances of having a bad flight, go with a reputable airline company. Airlines that fly to Japan differ depending on where you live, but I like Hawaiian Airlines, Japan Airlines (JAL), All Nippon Airways (ANA), and Korean Airlines.

2. Always Check Your Favorite Airline Carrier’s Website First

I always check the Hawaiian, JAL, and ANA Airlines website first. Most of the time, I find the best deals directly on their website.

Booking directly with the airline carrier is usually safer and more secure than booking with a third-party company. Be sure to check the prices often, as they can change frequently.

If the prices are high, proceed to step 3.

3. Do a Quick Search for Ticket Prices on a Multi-Search Website like Kayak.com

Other websites such as Skyscanner, Expedia, Jetstar, Kayak, Lastminute, and Farecompare are also good places to analyze ticket costs. Remember that flight costs will depend on where you’re flying from. Heading out from a major “hub” airport rather than a local one will certainly cut costs.

These websites search hundreds of travel sites and find the cheapest tickets out of all of them. Filter the searches by the airline carrier and how many layovers you are willing to have on your trip. Be sure to check the prices for different dates. Sometimes traveling just 1 day later can drop the prices significantly.

NOTE: I just do this to see what the average prices are for that dates of travel. I DO NOT purchase my tickets through Kayak unless there is an amazingly good deal though a REPUTABLE company. While there are usually cheap tickets that show up in the results, most of these are either a) flights with LONG layovers or b) flights listed by bad, untrustworthy third party companies.

In my experience, many of the companies that are listed on their website aren’t very trustworthy. Many of them have very bad reviews, with some even having complaints filed against them. Stick with the bigger companies like Expedia. Just use it to check the prices of the airlines you want to fly on.

4. Consider Buying a Ticket from Another Country or with a Different Currency

Choose the best 3 or 4 itineraries you found on Kayak/Expedia/Priceline/etc. I usually have the best results with Expedia.

At the bottom of the Expedia website, there’s a section called “Global Sites” with pictures of flags of different cultures. Choose a different country and search for the same flight. The ticket prices might be lower if you book it through another country with Expedia.

5. Fly into a Different Airport in Japan

If all of the flights to your desired airport in Japan are crazy expensive, consider flying to a different airport and then using the JR Rail Pass to take the train the rest of the way. If you don’t mind having a longer trip, the JR Rail Pass is a good way to cut costs.

You can fly into another major airport in Japan and then cash in your rail pass at the nearest participating station. Then you can take the bullet train to your desired location. While this does take more time, it can save you money and is much more fun that riding an airplane.

The seats on the bullet train are much more spacious than a plane and are much easier to travel. The only downside is that the bullet train doesn’t have space for big pieces of luggage.

Transportation in Japan: Saving Money on Domestic Travel

Finding a cheap way into the country is only half the problem. Domestic travel within Japan is also expensive. Of course, you could explore only one or two cities, which can cut costs dramatically by only paying local fares, especially if there are city passes available.

What makes Japanese so awesome is traveling to different areas to eat local foods and to experience the culture throughout Japan. If you want to explore many places in Japan, purchasing a travel pass will be your best bet. These passes can save you both time and money if you plan to travel a lot in Japan.

The JR Rail Pass: The Best Deal in Japan

The Japan Rail Pass is essential if you want to experience all that Japan has to offer. This pass allows you unlimited rides on most JR trains, including the bullet trains, as well as some JR buses and the JR ferry to Miyajima.

This pass opens up the whole Japan to you. You’re free to travel wherever, and whenever you want. I highly, highly recommend getting this pass.

This pass also makes traveling much easier. You don’t need to research ticket prices or deal with buying or keeping track of your tickets for each trip. Just walk on through the gates on the side and show your pass to the attendant.

Also, if you don’t mind sitting in the unreserved area, you can walk straight onto the train too – although reserving specific seats ahead of time is certainly recommended for busy times/seasons/routes.

How the JR Rail Pass Works

IMPORTANT: You can’t buy a Japan Rail Pass while in Japan. You must purchase your pass before you arrive in Japan. The pass is only for those on a tourist visa.

Also, keep in mind that the JR pass cannot be used on every type of transport. For example, you cannot ride the NOZOMI or MIZUHO type bullet trains using a Japan Rail Pass. This isn’t usually a problem, though.

The NOZOMI trains travel the exact same route as other types of bullet trains but only stops at major stations. A full list of what you can and can’t use the pass for can be found on the rail pass website .

JR Rail Pass Prices

There are two types of pass you can buy. A “green pass” allows you to sit in the first-class section of the train. However, not every train has a green car (first class section). The “ordinary” JR Rail Pass is the more economical option. Both of these passes can be used to make seat reservations for the bullet train.

Passes are available for periods of 7 days, 14 days, or 21 days. The countdown will start on the day you activate your pass. You do not have to activate it as soon as you arrive in the country. You can redeem it anytime during your trip.

Just take your rail pass voucher to a JR Station that can redeem it. A list of places should be included on a sheet with your voucher. However, most big, urban JR stations can activate your rail pass.

JR Rail Pass Prices (2017)

Prices for adult “original” passes:

• 7-day pass: 29,110 yen
• 14-day pass:  46,390 yen
• 21 day pass:  59,350 yen

Prices for child passes (age 6 to 11):

• 7-day pass:  14,550 yen
• 14-day pass: 23,190 yen
• 21-day pass:  29,670 yen

The passes may seem expensive but can save you an incredible amount of money if you travel a lot during your trip. A round-trip ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto would already cost 28900 yen, nearly the full price of a one week pass.

A typical 7-day trip for tourists would look like this:

• Days 1&2: Tokyo
• Day 3: Osaka
• Days 4&5: Kyoto
• Day 6: Hiroshima

This itinerary would cost you 41,640 yen, not including all of the local trains you’ll ride within these cities. If you were to return to Tokyo from Hiroshima, the total cost would be 60,200 yen, which is more expensive than a 21-day pass.

If you plan to visit more than one city by bullet train on your trip to Japan, a rail pass is an absolute must.

Where to Buy the JR Rail Pass

There are a few different agents you can use to order your Japan Rail Pass. Be sure to check the details. Some airlines sell rail passes, but you must book your airlines ticket with them as well.

Here are some of the main agents through whom you can purchase the pass: Tobu Top Tours, JTB Corp., KINTETSU INTERNATIONAL, Japan Airlines, Nippon Travel Agency, ANA Sales Americas (Los Angeles), and JALPAK. Check the website for details on how to purchase a rail pass.

Special Passes to Save You Money on Travel in Japan

As well as the Japan Rail Pass, there are other special tickets and passes you can buy to cut costs on your trip to Japan. Some tickets are regional, but others can be used all over the country.

Seishun 18 Pass

This is another offer from the JR (Japan Rail) company. This ticket is similar to the Japan Rail Pass, but it is more limited. However, the reduced cost makes this pass a great option if you’re trying to travel on a budget (and have lots of time).

The Seishun 18 ticket is a seasonal offer only. You can use the ticket for a 5 day period during the spring (early March to early April), summer (mid-July to early September), or in the winter (early December to early January). The exact dates are released when the tickets become available.

You can use this pass for unlimited travel on all local and rapid JR trains. You cannot use it on Shinkansen rides (bullet train) or on limited express travel.

The Seishun 18 is a 5-day ticket, costing 2,370 yen per day – a total of 11,850 yen.

A fraction of the price of the Japan Rail Pass, this is a great option if you want to do lots of little trips or one or two big journeys during the 5 day period. Interestingly, the ticket can also be shared between up to 5 people. You could have use of it for one day each and your friends could use it the other days.

Where to Buy the Seishun 18 Pass

You can buy the Seishun 18 ticket in the JR East station travel centers, or at JR Ticket Offices. Advance booking is available. Dates for when the passes go on sale are listed on the website along with the details, which usually becomes available from 1 to 3 weeks before the pass becomes available.

Hakone Free Pass

Hakone is an amazing place to visit. It is filled with stunning natural beauty, especially when the autumn leaves change and the cherry blossoms bloom in the spring. Whatever the season, Hakone is a wonderful place to visit. Amazing hot springs, outdoor walks, mountain hikes, surrounded by peace and quiet. It’s pure bliss.

The Hakone Free Pass is a must for people heading out that way. It gives you free travel on eight different types of transport in the Hakone area for a 2 or 3 day period, as well as discounted entry to dozens of attractions, including hot springs, museums, galleries, historical sites, parks, restaurants, shops and more. A full list is available on their website .

The Hakone Free Pass has different prices depending on where you depart from.

While you can get passes that are valid from Machida and Odawara, most travelers start their journey at Shinjuku. However, if you are heading off from one of the other two locations, be sure to check out the details as those tickets are a little cheaper.

From Shinjuku:

2-day adult pass:   5,140 yen

3-day adult pass:  5,640 yen

For children:

2-day pass:  1,500 yen

3-day ticket:  1,750 yen

Where to Buy the Hakone Free Pass

Hakone Free Passes can be purchased at any Odakyu line station, including Odakyu line ticket machines.

JR Tokyo Wide Pass

If your trip to Japan will be focused in and around Tokyo (there is so much to do there that you could easily spend your whole holiday there) then you should consider buying the Tokyo Wide Pass.

This 3-day ticket offers unlimited travel in Tokyo and the surrounding Kanto area. Including both the Narita and Haneda airports, you can pick up your pass on arrival, and it will cover the cost down into central Tokyo, and everything else for the rest of the period of validity.

Like the Japan Rail Pass, this ticket is only available to people with a tourist visa. As it is only valid for 3 days, you could easily get yourself one of these passes to use for a few days in Tokyo, then after that head off around the rest of the country using a Japan Rail Pass.

The 3-day pass is 10,000 yen for adults and 5,000 yen for children aged 6 to 11.

Where to Buy the JR Tokyo Wide Pass

You can buy a Tokyo Wide Pass at the JR Ticket Offices and JR Travel Agents located in the Haneda International Airport and in the Narita Airport Terminals 1 and 2, and 3.

The passes are also available at JR travel centers and general travel service centers at various locations, including Shinjuku, Tokyo, Ueno, Shinagawa, Shibuya, Ikebukuro, Yokohama, and Mito. Check the website for details.

Domestic Air Travel

Train passes are good for people who want to travel a lot, but what if you only want to explore one or two areas? While the rail passes are, on the whole, cheaper than buying individual tickets, they are still quite costly if you aren’t going to be getting a lot of use out of them. So if this applies to you, take a look at budget local airlines for domestic travel.

Low-Cost Carrier (LLC) Flights

Several airlines in Japan offer flights to various locations, and often at a fraction of the price of the same journey by train. Of course, you need to factor in all costs to make sure you’re getting the best deal. Keep in mind that getting to the airport might involve time-consuming/costly trips on the subway or train.

However, this depends on the city. For example, in Fukuoka, the airport is only a 5-minute subway ride away from the central train station.

Two of the most well-known budget airlines in Japan are Peach and Jetstar.

Both of these airlines fly to a variety of locations, including Tokyo, Osaka, Sapporo, Kagoshima, Fukuoka, and Nagasaki.

Other popular domestic airlines include JAL (Japan Airlines) , ANA (All Nippon Airways) , Skymark Airlines , Vanilla Air , Spring Airlines and Solaseed Air .

Taking a plane instead of a train, even for a short journey, can make a huge difference in price.

For example, reserving a seat on the train from Kumamoto to Tokyo will cost a total of around 27,000 yen (and take about six hours!) whereas the same journey by plane (using Jetstar airlines) will cost less than 7,000 yen.

Taking the train from Kagoshima to Osaka will set you back around 22,000 yen, vs. a flight on Peach Airlines can cost you less than 6,000 yen. That’s a huge discount!

Special Airlines Discounts

If you prefer to take Japan Airlines or ANA Airlines, here are a couple of special discounts you can use.

JAL: Special Japan Explorer Pass – 10,800 yen flights to over 30 different cities in Japan.

Restrictions: Only for short-term visitors. Must have a ticket leaving Japan to be eligible for this special pass. You also need to purchase these flights directly through the JAL website.

ANA: Experience Japan Special Fares : 5,500 yen flights to cities within Hokkaido, or 7,700 – 11,000 yen flights for any other destinations.

Restrictions: You need to reside outside of Japan, have a passport from a country other than Japan, and have an international ticket leaving Japan.

Traveling by Bus

Probably the cheapest way to travel long distances in Japan is by bus. Taking a highway bus is not the most popular option, but can be a great way to save money on both short and long trips.

A popular bus provider is Willer Express. You’ll be surprised to know that you can make online reservations in English when booking through Willer Express. Most other bus companies don’t have online or English reservations.

Other companies to look into are Japan Bus Online, Hankyu Bus, and JR Bus branches (split into eight regional companies).

Insider’s Tip

Most bus companies offer different types of seating for overnight buses. These range from the cheapest 2-seater style seats (think of an American school bus) to super comfortable individual seats.

The price difference is significant, but if you’re taking a long bus (over 8+ hours) I highly recommend that you purchase a better seat. The buses with 3 seats per row are very comfortable. The seats are not connected, which makes it feel like you have your own personal space.

I took an overnight bus from Kobe to Tokyo on Willer Express with the cheapest seats (which was only 2,500 yen or so). While the bus looked new and the ride was smooth, it was the one of most cramped, cold (it was during winter), and uncomfortable experiences of my life. The better seats were 2 to 3 times more expensive, but I would definitely purchase those seats next time. These upgraded seats would still be much cheaper than taking a bullet train.

Taking the bus can also save you on money on hotels. You can sleep on overnight buses that run late into the night.

Japan Bus Pass

If you plan on traveling all around Japan, consider the Japan Bus Pass.

This pass can be used on all daytime and overnight buses provided by Willer Express. There are 3-day, 5-day, and *7-day passes, with 2 different prices depending on if you’ll be using it from Monday to Thursday or over a weekend period. A 3-day Monday to Thursday pass costs just 10,200 yen.

*NOTE:  The 7-day pass is only valid during Monday – Thursday, but you don’t need to use the 7 days consecutively.

There are a few rules. The pass can be used for up to 3 rides per day, but you can’t use it on premium buses. However, on the plus side, this is one of the “only for foreign visitors” passes which can also be used by foreign residents. That means that JET teachers and other ex-pats who usually miss out on the great travel deals can use the Japan Bus Pass.

For more information:  Willer Bus Pass Page

Cheap Places to Stay Overnight in Japan

Finding a place to stay is one of the major concerns for people wanting to travel Japan on a budget. There are tons of luxury hotels that cost a fortune, but there are also lots of budget hotels as well. A discerning eye can track down cheap accommodation all over Japan. The key is knowing what kind of lodging to look for, and where to find it.

Finding Cheap Deals Online

With price comparison websites and dedicated travel companies providing endless lists, this is the best place to start your search. However, bear in mind that these websites have more listings in big cities. Small towns in the countryside will probably yield very few search results. If you’re hoping to visit somewhere off the beaten track, you may need to find other ways to find lodging there.

One of the best websites to use is Booking.com . This website is easy to use and often has great deals. It is also a reputable company that most people trust. I recommend Booking.com because it offers a whole range of different sorts of accommodations. From fancy hotels to local ryokans, you can find something in your budget.

However, there are some popular hotels that are not listed on Booking.com. Agoda.com comes to the rescue in most cases.

Most of the lodging options that aren’t listed with Booking.com can be found on Agoda. I always check both of these websites anyway, to compare prices for the same hotels.

Other good websites are Rakuten, Hostelworld, Japanican and Jalan.

Accommodation Booking Websites

Booking.com :  Best choice to reserve most types of accommodations (hotels, Japanese inns, hostels, capsule hotels, etc.)

Agoda.com :  Not as easy to use as Booking.com, but has some hotels that are not listed on Booking.com

If you’re having trouble finding something, or the hotel you want is fully booked, check out the Japanese version of the site.

Particularly on Jalan and Rakuten, it might appear that something is fully booked, but when you check the local website, there is still availability! Also, the Japanese website sometimes lists a cheaper price.

The only downside to this is you need to be able to read Japanese.

However, if you are just booking a room (no meals or other services) you can probably book a reservation in Japanese by using “rikaichan” which is an add-on to the Mozilla Firefox browser (for Google Chrome, the extension is called “rikaikun.” When you turn it on and hover your mouse over Japanese characters, it will show you the reading and the definition of the word.

Google Chrome:  Rikaikun Mozilla Firefox:   Rikaichan

Business Hotels

One of the most affordable types of accommodation in Japan, business hotels are certainly “no frills, ” and you get what you pay for.

They are hugely popular, as the name suggests, with Japanese business people (mainly men) who travel a lot for work.

Business hotels are a good choice if you plan to explore Japan all day and just want a bed to sleep in at night. You find them all over Japan, with many big chains all over the country, with their rooms looking the same whether you’re staying in a big city or out in the countryside.

Major companies to look out for include Toyoko Inn, Daiwa Roynet Hotel, Dormy Inn, Chisun Hotels and Route Inn.

How Comfortable are Business Hotels?

Rooms are functional with minimal decorations. Some rooms can be very small (the bed and drawers take up most of the space). Beds are very standard but usually pretty comfortable. There’s usually a TV, small refrigerator, a hot water pot, and internet access (either by ethernet cable or wi-fi).

The bathrooms are usually very tiny but they do the job unless you are very tall or big. Most business hotel bathrooms are stocked with basic amenities (toothbrush, soap, shaving razor, etc.).

Average Prices

A single room in a business hotel will cost you between 4,000 Yen to 10,000 yen a night, whereas a twin or double room will be the cheaper option if split between 2 people. For a twin, prices are around 7,000 yen to 12,000 yen per night.

Capsule Hotels

One of the most famous types of Japanese lodging, staying in a capsule hotel is definitely an experience. The first ever capsule hotel opened in Osaka, Japan, and now you can stay in similar lodgings all around the world.

They may look like fun, but capsule hotels aren’t always all that they’re hyped up to be. It is small, but not as small as most people think. Most capsules are big enough for you to sit up inside without hitting your head.

However, it’s somewhere to sleep and nothing else. Also, many capsule hotels are for men only. They’re geared at businessmen and often don’t have capsules for women. Some capsule hotels have a “female only” floor, though. You’ll find them in big cities, but smaller towns throughout Japan are unlikely to have mixed gender capsule hotels if they have one at all.

Are Capsule Hotels Comfortable?

For the first day or so, capsule hotels are decently comfortable. However, it doesn’t take an expert traveler to know that these are not good for long term stays. There is only so many nights in a row that sleeping in what is basically a well-lit coffin can be counted as a fun novelty rather than an annoyance.

Depending on your fellow travelers, capsule hotels can easily be noisy, crowded places, and while many hotels offer lockers or other places to store your belongings, theft, while not rampant, is more common in these lodgings than in other types of accommodation.

Capsule hotels are far from the most luxurious hotel, but they do come cheap! Spending a night in a capsule hotel can cost as little as 2,000 yen. However, is it worth it? Some travelers thrive on this sort of “simple” accommodation, but if it doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, move on to another type of hotel.

At best, make your stays in capsule hotels a one-night-at-a-time affair when you are just stopping over or arriving somewhere too late to make use of a regular hotel room. In these instances, the low cost is worth the inconveniences.

Japanese Hotels

This is probably the type of lodging with the widest variation between properties. Some hotels in Japan are little better than business hotels. The rooms have basic furnishings, no decorations or excessive comfort, and is just somewhere to spend the night.

At the other end of the scale, you have fancy hotels which are amazingly luxurious. Fully furnished rooms, spacious bathrooms, communal areas with massage chairs, gym facilities and even swimming pools.

There is great variety between different hotels in Japan. The number of choices can be overwhelming. The good thing is that many hotels are conveniently located near to train stations or bus stops.

Are Hotels in Japan Comfortable?

This really depends on what kind of deal you’re looking for. A cheap hotel will, naturally, not be very comfortable, but it will cost a mere fraction of the cost when you compare it to mega hotel chains like MyStays, APA or Nikko. In general, bigger hotels in Japan are comfortable and are good for both sleeping and relaxing in.

Cheaper hotels are usually around 8,000 yen per night, with luxury hotels priced 30,000 yen to 60,000 yen or more per night. While many hotels might look out of your budget, it’s worth keeping an eye out for special deals. For example, the MyStays chain is a delightful place to stay, but with the rooms usually priced at 20,000 yen per night, it’s not exactly a budget choice.

However, on websites like Booking.com you can regularly see special deals when booking in advance, which see those rooms listed at half price, or less!

Why pay 8,000 yen to stay in a terrible business hotel when you can splash out a little and stay in a palace for 10,000 yen?

Even budget travelers need to relax once in a while, so if you need a night of luxury, this is a great option to check out.

Minshuku / Ryokan

These are types of traditional Japanese accommodation, which are just as popular with foreign visitors as they are with locals. Cheap hotels are all well and good, but if you want to experience local hospitality and step back in time, you can’t beat spending the night in a ryokan or minshuku.

They are pretty similar, it’s just that minshuku tend to be smaller, located in older buildings and usually run as a family business. Ryokans are often run like this too, but sometimes they are located in newer, bigger buildings and have more staff with more services.

Are Ryokan and Minshuku Comfortable?

Staying in traditional Japanese accommodation isn’t for everyone.

For starters, you’ll be sleeping on the floor on a traditional futon, and the flooring will probably have tatami mats rather than carpet.

Sometimes ryokans and minshukus have showers, but often they only have traditional communal bathing facilities – and these will likely be down-to-earth and not luxurious unless you’re staying in an “onsen ryokan” which is specifically designed for spa relaxation.

However, if you like experiencing different cultures in local style, these can be very comfortable places indeed. They vary a lot – some have fun, bubbly atmospheres like youth hostels, with a variety of characters lounging in the common areas, and are quieter than an emply library. Check reviews to see what other travelers think before you make a booking.

These can vary quite a lot, particularly between little minshuku out in the countryside, and fancy onsen ryokan in a swanky location. However, lodging like this is seen less and less in big cities – it’s more frequent to see ryokan and minshuku out in the countryside and on the outskirts of small towns.

The cheapest minshuku can be seen at around 4,000 yen per night, up to about 9,000 yen per night. Ryokan can be as cheap as 5,000 yen or less per night, up to 60,000 yen per person for luxury inns. Be sure to check whether prices are per person or per room.

Internet Cafe / Karaoke Rooms

If you told a Japanese person that you were planning on spending the night in an internet cafe or private karaoke room instead of booking into a hotel, they’d probably think you were a bit weird. That isn’t because you can’t stay overnight in these places – it’s certainly a popular option.

It’s just that few people plan to use this kind of accommodation. The usual overnight clients at these types of establishments are salarymen who stayed out too late drinking and don’t want to go home and face the wrath of their wives, or young party animals who missed the last bus home and need somewhere to stay.

You can choose a public or private space, and choose between a normal chair, reclining chair, floor space or whatever other options they provide.

Are Internet Cafes in Japan Comfortable to Sleep In?

Generally not comfortable in at all. These rooms are not designed for sleeping in, they’re designed for surfing the internet or playing online games. You probably will not get a good nights sleep in a place like this.

They can be noisy, uncomfortable and full of people who are doing anything but sleeping. However, they are super cheap, and often there are shower facilities which you can use for a small charge, and machines which provide free soft drinks, ice-cream, etc.

If you want to try and get a good night’s rest in an internet cafe, be sure to choose the “floor” type of room. This is the only type of room that has enough space to lie down. The other types, come with reclining chairs, or small couches, which makes sleeping difficult.

This depends on how long you stay. Some places charge by the hour, and others have deals where you can stay up to a certain number of hours for a fixed price. You may have to pay in advance. Generally, one night in an internet cafe or similar place will cost 2,000 yen or less.

You can’t book in advance – just turn up, and be wary of busy times. There is usually a crowd around the time just after the last trains/buses have left, so be sure to arrive before then.

Food on a Budget

Eating out in Japan can cost a lot of money if you don’t know where to go. When you arrive in Tokyo, everything looks so delicious it can be difficult to hold back, even when you know you’re on a budget. But there are several ways to make savings in Japan without sacrificing all the delicious culinary experiences that are waiting for you.

Knowing a few tricks can save you a bundle – which you can use to treat yourself to a really extravagant meal. Use these tips to eat well while saving you some cash.

Cheap Restaurants in Japan

Just because you’re cutting down on costs doesn’t mean you need to miss out on eating at restaurants during your trip. There are plenty of budget restaurants in Japan where you can get a tasty meal for a reasonable price. Following these few hints will ensure you get the best value for money without sacrificing your dining experience.

Lunch Deals

If you want to find deals for food in Japan, lunchtime is king. Many restaurants have special menus at lunchtime where you can get the same food available in the evening, but at a lower price. The portions are usually a little smaller, but still worth it.

There are some hearty lunch sets that will leave you stuffed until dinnertime though. Even fancy restaurants offer lunchtime sets for 1,000 yen to 2,000 yen.

Cheaper restaurants sometimes offer a “one coin” lunch which will set you back just 500 yen (1 coin). This is especially a good deal for expensive foods like Kobe beef. Eating Kobe beef for lunch can save you a lot of money.

Gyudon (beef bowl) is one of the more popular cheap eats in Japan, and it soon becomes a favorite of foreigners traveling Japan on the cheap. “Don” means a bowl (with rice), and “Gyu” refers to the beef topping. Plenty of different “don” are available throughout Japan.

Thin strips of beef and slices of onion are simmered in a sweet sauce consisting of soy sauce, mirin (sweet rice wine) and dashi (Japanese broth). Gyudon sets are often accompanied by a raw egg (for dipping the beef in), miso soup, salad, pickles, and tofu. You can get extra toppings like kimchi, cheese, green onion and grated yam.

Popular chain restaurants where you can purchase these dishes, and other cheap options, are Sukiya, Matsuya, and Yoshinoya. You can find these restaurants all over Japan, serving gyudon in portions of different sizes depending on how hungry you are.

A simple bowl of gyudon will cost you about 350 Yen (bargain!). For a set, you’re looking at between about 500 yen and 750 yen. An awesome deal for a quick and delicious meal for the hungry traveler.

Famiresu – Family Restaurants

As eating out is a popular weekend treat for families in Japan, there is a special type of restaurant which cater to this demographic – famiresu ファミレス , which stands for “family restaurant.”

With a mix of Japanese and Western style food at low prices, these places are also a great choice for budget travelers as it allows you have a filling meal in a comfortable environment for a relatively cheap cost. They also tend to have cheap alcohol so are good of you need a treat!

There are many different chains of famiresu in Japan, some of which have specialty dishes or styles, but they are all pretty much the same.

Here are some of the big names which you’ll see around: Gusto, Royal Host, Jolly Pasta, Denny’s, Joyful, and my personal favorite, Saizeriya. Meals cost as little as 500 yen, but taste great.

Teishoku Restaurants – Set Menus

Teishoku restaurants serve meals that follow this basic principle: one main dish, soup, and one side dish. You order whichever main meal you’d like, and it comes with a little plate of pickles, perhaps some tofu or a salad, and a bowl of miso soup.

These vary from place to place, but the combinations are the same. Main meals vary, serving seasonal products throughout the year but also traditional Japanese favorites: udon, katsu don, gyudon, karaage fried chicken, etc.

Some restaurants have a vending machine at the front where you purchase a ticket for your meal. You then hand the ticket to the server once you’ve taken your seat. Food is cheap, ranging from about 500 yen to 1,000 yen for a meal. Teishoku meals give you a taste of popular Japanese foods that can be found all over Japan.

Japanese Supermarkets

You may not think of visiting a supermarket for food during your trip to Japan, but it’s actually a great place with lots of choices. Supermarkets in Japan, whether they are small or large, have a great selection of ‘prepared food,” and they usually have a microwave where you can heat it up too.

Larger supermarkets will often have a seating area with tables where you can sit and eat. Bento boxes are a popular choice, with rice, meat, vegetables all packaged up neatly together. You can get all sorts of food in the supermarket – tempura, sushi, tendon, udon, salads, sandwiches, onigiri (rice balls), fried rice, Chinese steamed buns…the list goes on and on.

Price wise, a small bento at the supermarket could be 300 yen or less, while bigger bento with lots of different dishes cost around 400 yen to 600 yen.

Daily Discounts

The best thing about supermarket dining is the price discounts at the end of the day. From the early evening up until closing time, supermarkets reduce the price of their prepared food, making it even cheaper. At about 6:00 pm you can see savings of 10% or 20%, and then by 9:00 pm the reductions are as low as 50% off, or more.

However, by this time it’s slim pickings and the other customers around at that time as just as eager to grab a bargain, so you have to be decisive and time your visit wisely. If you go too early the savings are small, but go too late, and all of the food is gone.

This is a great option if you’re staying somewhere with a fridge. You can buy your meal late at night and then keep it for lunch the next day. If you really want to save money, you could easily get by on spending around 1,000 yen per day on food.

Cheap Attractions in Japan

If you aren’t fussy about how you spend your leisure time in Japan, it doesn’t need to drain your bank account to see and do amazing things. There are plenty of attractions which you can see cheaply, or even for free.

Parks and temples are often free to visit, and while some specialist museums can be costly, many others have very cheap admission fees.

Hiking and city walks don’t cost a thing, and attending local festivals are some of the best attractions you can see for free in Japan.

For attractions you need to pay for, you can often get combination tickets or discounts. Some small towns offer a combination ticket to encourage visitors to see more of their attractions. Big cities offer pricier combination tickets where you can get entry to dozens of attractions with just one ticket.

The best place to find out information about free and cheap attractions is at a local tourist center. Many centers have brochures with coupons for discount tickets, and the staff there can advise you on how to make the most of your trip for the cheapest cost.

Free local guides are a popular way to see Japan on the cheap. Often run by volunteers who want to practice their English, taking a free tour can be done in a group or even on a one-to-one basis. Research free guides for the area you’re visiting to see what’s available.

Shopping on a Budget in Japan

The cost of shopping in Japan varies greatly depending on where you are and what you want to buy, but the best tip I can offer you is to visit a 100 yen store.

These shops sell everything under the sun, including stuff that tourists want to buy (like Japanese fans, hand towels, chopsticks, fake lacquer bowls).

Almost everything in the store costs 100 yen (+ 8% tax) and if things cost more then they are clearly marked.

Popular 100 yen store shops are Daiso, CanDo and Seria.

TheTrueJapan

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The Cheapest Time To Visit Japan (Budget Traveler’s Guide)

As the world’s third-largest economy, Japan is a major player on the global stage. While its long history and rich culture are well-known, Japan is also a country that is constantly evolving. In recent years, it has become a leading center for technological innovation, with companies like Sony, Panasonic, and Sharp spearheading the way. At the same time, traditional industries like fishing and agriculture remain an important part of the economy. However, all of this comes at a cost. Japan is one of the most expensive countries in the world to visit.

Planning a trip to Japan can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to budgeting. There are so many factors to consider, from airfare and accommodation to meals and activities.

One of the most important factors, however, is the time of year that you choose to travel. Japan is a country with four distinct seasons, and each one has its own unique charm.

However, traveler beware: the high seasons (spring and autumn) are also the most crowded and expensive times to visit. On the other hand, the low seasons (winter and summer) offer cheaper prices and smaller crowds.

So if you’re looking to save some money on your trip to Japan, consider traveling during the winter or summer months. You may not get ideal weather conditions, but you’ll definitely save some Yen.

What are some of the cheapest times to visit Japan?

For budget-minded travelers, the cost of a trip to Japan can be a major deterrent. However, there are some ways to save money on travel expenses.

One of the cheapest times to visit Japan is during the off-season, which runs from late October to early April. During this time, airfare and hotel rates are typically lower than they are during peak travel periods.

Additionally, many attractions offer discounted admission during the off-season. Another way to save money is to visit Japan during Golden Week, a weeklong national holiday in late April/early May.

While travel prices do go up during this period, it is still possible to find deals on accommodation and transportation. For those willing to brave the crowds, Golden Week can be an excellent time to experience the best of Japan without spending a fortune.

What is the cheapest way to travel in Japan?

Traveling can be an expensive endeavor, but there are ways to save money even in pricey countries like Japan.

• One of the best ways to save money on travel is to use the JR pass, which allows unlimited travel on JR trains for a set period of time. This can be especially useful for long-distance travel, as train tickets can be quite expensive otherwise.
• Another way to save money is to take advantage of free or discounted attractions. Many museums and temples offer free admission for students, seniors, or children, and many attractions offer discounted rates if you purchase tickets in advance.
• Finally, another way to save money is to take advantage of Japan’s unique lodging options, such as capsule hotels or manga cafes. These options can provide a comfortable place to stay at a fraction of the cost of a traditional hotel room.

By following these tips, you can travel cheaply and still enjoy all that Japan has to offer.

Which months would be best for visiting Japan?

When it comes to visiting Japan, the best time of year depends on what you want to see and do.

For cherry blossoms, the months of March and April are ideal. The weather is mild and pleasant, and the flowers are in full bloom. If you’re interested in festivals, then late summer or early autumn is the perfect time to go.

September and October offer a wide variety of festival experiences, from the famous Fuji Rock Festival to smaller regional events. Winter is a magical time in Japan, with snow-capped mountains and traditional New Year’s celebrations.

However, it can also be quite cold, so you’ll need to pack accordingly. Ultimately, there is no bad time to visit Japan. Every season has its own unique charms, so you’ll be sure to find an enjoyable time no matter when you go.

What is low season in Japan?

Low season in Japan is a great time to visit if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and get better value for your money.

The weather is still fairly mild, so you’ll be able to enjoy all the country has to offer without battling the heat or cold.

Many attractions offer discounts during low season, so you can save on activities like temple visits and hot spring excursions.

If you don’t mind braving a little rain, low season in Japan can be a truly magical time to visit.

How much does it cost to travel Japan?

The cost of travel varies widely depending on the destination and the type of traveler.

For those on a budget, Japan can be an expensive country to visit. However, there are ways to save money and still enjoy all that the country has to offer.

• One way to save money is to purchase a Japan Rail Pass, which allows unlimited travel on trains operated by the Japan Railways group.
• Another option is to stay in hostels or capsule hotels, which can be found throughout the country. In addition, many museums and temples offer discounts for students and seniors.

By taking advantage of these deals, it is possible to experience all that Japan has to offer without breaking the bank.

Is it cheap to travel to Japan?

Yes, traveling to Japan can be very affordable.

You can find many cheap flights and hotels throughout the country. You can also save money by eating at local restaurants and street food vendors.

Shopping is also very affordable in Japan. You can find great deals on clothing, electronics, and souvenirs. However, you should be prepared to spend more money on activities such as sightseeing and museums.

Overall, Japan is a very affordable place to travel to.

How long can you stay in Japan without a visa?

Japanese visa policy is generally very friendly towards visitors; most nationals can stay in the country for up to 90 days without a visa, and many do not even need a passport.

There are, however, a few exceptions to this rule. For example, nationals of countries that are not part of the Visa Waiver Program will need to obtain a visa before entering Japan.

In addition, those who plan to stay in the country for longer than 90 days will need to apply for a residence permit. The good news is that the application process for both visas and residence permits is relatively straightforward.

As long as you have all the necessary documents, you should have no trouble getting approval from the Japanese authorities.

What is the most expensive month to travel to Japan?

The most expensive month to travel to Japan is August.

This is because August is the peak tourist season, and hotels and flights are often booked solid well in advance.

August also coincides with the Obon festival, when many businesses close for a week or more. As a result, prices for accommodation and transportation tend to be higher during this time. If you’re planning a trip to Japan, it’s best to avoid the month of August if you want to save money.

Instead, consider traveling during the shoulder season (May-June or September-October), when there are fewer tourists and better deals to be found.

What are some of the best deals on flights and hotels?

Looking for a great deal on flights and hotels? Here are some of the best deals around:

-For flights, check out websites like Expedia, CheapOair, and Orbitz. They often have sales on specific routes or airlines. Sign up for their newsletter to get alerted about these deals.

-You can also find good deals by using search engines like google flights and hipmunk. They allow you to compare prices across different airlines and travel dates.

-Another way to get cheap flights is to fly during off-peak times like midweek or late night. You may also get a better price if you’re flexible with your travel dates.

-As for hotels, try booking in advance or during shoulder season (the time between high and low season). You can also find deals by signing up for newsletters from major hotel chains. Another tip is to use websites like Priceline or Hotwire which offer deeply discounted rates on hotel rooms.

What are some of the cheapest things to do in Japan?

Although Japan is often thought of as an expensive country to visit, there are actually many things that can be done on a budget.

For instance, one of the best ways to experience Japanese culture is to visit one of the many temples and shrines scattered across the country. Many of these sites offer free admission, and some even provide guided tours in English.

Similarly, Japan’s famously polite residents can be experienced for free simply by striking up a conversation with locals.

In addition, Japan’s natural beauty can be enjoyed without spending a yen at parks and gardens such as the Higashiyama Skyline in Kyoto or the Kamakura Bamboo Forest.

With a little planning, it’s easy to find plenty of cheap things to do in Japan.

Are there any discount passes that you recommend for tourists?

When planning a trip to a new city, it can be difficult to know where to start.

With so many sights to see and attractions to visit, it can be hard to map out an itinerary that fits both your interests and your budget. That’s where discount passes come in. By bundling together some of the most popular tourist destinations, discount passes can help you save both time and money.

Whether you’re interested in culture or history, there’s sure to be a pass that’s right for you. And with so many options to choose from, you can tailor your trip to your own individual interests.

So before you start planning your next vacation, be sure to research the different discount passes available. You might just find the perfect way to save on your dream vacation.

How can visitors save money on food while in Japan?

Thanks to its vibrant food culture, Japan is a paradise for anyone who loves to eat.

From steaming bowls of ramen to succulent nigiri sushi, there is something for everyone to enjoy. However, with prices often exceeding $10 per dish, eating out can quickly become expensive.

Fortunately, there are a few ways that visitors can save money on food while in Japan.

• One way is to take advantage of the many inexpensive casual restaurants known as izakaya. These eateries typically serve small dishes that are perfect for sharing, and they often have a wide selection of beers and other alcoholic beverages.
• Another way to save money is to buy food from convenience stores or supermarkets. These stores usually sell bento boxes and other ready-made meals at a fraction of the price of a sit-down restaurant.

The cheapest time to visit Japan is during the off-season, which runs from early April through mid-June, and late September through mid-December. Traveling during these periods can save you up to 50% on airfare and hotel rates. However, keep in mind that the weather can be quite unpredictable during the off-season. If you’re planning a trip to Japan during this time, be sure to pack versatile clothing that can be layered. And don’t forget your rain gear!

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Japan on a budget: 17 ways to get more for your yen

Mar 28, 2024 • 7 min read

These top tips to low-cost living can help you stretch your budget on a trip to Japan © Monzenmachi/Getty Images

Japan has a reputation as an expensive place to travel, but it’s an image that doesn’t hold up on the ground.

With a little strategy, a visit can be very reasonable – budget-friendly, even. Many of the country’s major sights, for example, cost nothing, and free festivals take place year-round.

With these top tips on finding the best-value places to stay, the right transportation tickets and places to eat that suit all tastes and wallets, you can make your yen go further on a visit to Japan .

A guide to daily costs in Japan

• Capsule hotel room: ¥4,000 (US$30) 
• Basic room for two: ¥8,000 (US$60)
• Self-catering apartment: (including Airbnb) ¥6,000 (US$45)
• Coffee:  ¥400 (US$3.50)
• Sandwich: ¥300 (US$2.20)
• Beer/pint at the bar: ¥600 (US$4.50)
• Dinner for two: ¥5,000 (US$38)
• Hour of karaoke for two:  ¥2,000 (US$15)

1. Consider staying in a business hotel

These economical (and, to be honest, rather utilitarian) hotels offer the best prices for private rooms with en suite facilities.

It’s possible to find double rooms for as low as ¥8,000 (and single rooms for as low as ¥6,000), though these will be a little more expensive in cities like Tokyo , Kyoto and Osaka .

Look for places that include a free breakfast buffet – they can be substantial enough to keep you going for hours. 

2. Book direct at a guesthouse or hostel 

Japan has fantastic guesthouses and hostels all over; not only are they generally clean and well-maintained, but friendly English-speaking staff are usually on hand to offer near concierge-level service.

A double or single room is comparable to a business hotel (but usually has shared facilities); dorm beds cost around ¥3,000.

Some places do charge extra for towel rentals, so you can save a few yen by bringing your own. Note that rates are often slightly cheaper if you book directly rather than through a booking site.

3. Sleep in a capsule hotel in the cities

Capsule hotels, which offer small rooms with enough space for just a bed, provide a budget-friendly place to spend the night.

A capsule berth costs slightly more than a dorm bed in a hostel (¥4,000 per night), but you get more privacy.

You probably wouldn’t want to stay every night in a capsule, but they’re good for saving money in cities where hotels are pricier. 

4. Go camping in the summer months

If you really want to do Japan on the cheap, you can rely on its network of well-maintained campsites in rural or resort areas; prices range from ¥500 to ¥1,000 per person or tent. Note that many sites are only open in the summer. 

5. Swap a night in a hotel for an overnight bus ride 

Long-distance buses, like those operated by Willer Express , are the cheapest way to get around, and longer routes have night buses, which saves a night on accommodation. There are also bus passes, which can make this an even cheaper option. 

6. The Japan Rail Pass is a great travel bargain

Like the famous Eurail Pass, the JR Pass is one of the world’s great travel bargains and is the best way to see a lot of Japan on a budget.

It allows unlimited travel on Japan’s brilliant nationwide rail system, including the lightning-fast shinkansen (bullet train).

There are also more regionally specific train passes that are cheaper, so examine your itinerary carefully before deciding. Purchase a pass online or from a travel agent like JTB in your home country.

7. Ride local trains for less with the Seishun 18 Ticket

The Seishun 18 is another great deal, but with very specific conditions: for ¥12,050, you get five one-day tickets good for travel on any regular Japan Railways train (meaning not the shinkansen or any high-speed limited express trains) during a limited period of a few weeks.

The Seishun 18 Ticket is only available at certain times during the year – during school holidays (the ticket is designed for students, but there’s no age cap) – and can only be purchased from JR ticket windows in Japan.

If the timing works, and you’re a fan of slow travel, this is a unique, ultra-cheap way to get around in Japan .

8. Consider renting a car to go beyond the cities 

Highway tolls and petrol in Japan are expensive; however, renting a car can be economical if you’re traveling as a group or family, or are plotting an itinerary that takes you away from major rail hubs. 

9. Take domestic flights with low-cost airlines

Japan has several budget carriers, like Peach , Jetstar and Air Do , that offer bus-like pricing on some routes – just be sure to factor in the time – and cost – of going to/from the airport. 

10. Japan’s shrines and temples are free to visit

The vast majority of Shintō shrines in Japan cost nothing to enter. Likewise, the grounds of many temples can be toured for free (often, you only have to pay to enter the halls or a walled garden). 

11. Eat cheap food and meet locals at a traditional festival

Throughout the year , festivals take place at shrines and temples and through city streets. They’re free, an excellent way to see traditional culture come alive, and are well attended by cheap food vendors.

12. Opt for hikes and walking tours

Going on a hike or a trek is free and can be the most rewarding part of your trip: explore an up-and-coming city neighborhood , walk  old pilgrimage trails or rural lanes, or get up into the mountains in one of Japan’s national parks . 

Japan’s cities, especially Tokyo, have some fantastic buildings designed by many of the big names in Japanese architecture. With a little bit of planning, you could chart your own architecture tour. Ask at a tourist information center or your accommodation for suggestions.

13. Spend time relaxing in the city parks 

Urban parks are generally free to enter (and some gardens are, too) and are popular with locals on weekends; pack a picnic and settle in for an afternoon of people-watching. If you time your visit right, you could be bathing in the beauty of Japan's cherry blossoms . 

14. Shop for cheaper goods at a local market 

Many seaside towns have fish markets, some rural spots have morning markets, and some cities still have their old-fashioned open-air markets. Visits here are a great way to connect with local culture and are often a source of cheap, fresh food. 

15. Choose the right dish in the right place to save money

You can get a good, filling meal in shokudō , Japan's answer to the greasy spoon, for under ¥1,000. A steaming bowl of tasty ramen can be picked up in many places for as little as ¥600.  

Tachigui (stand-and-eat counter joints) sell soba (buckwheat noodles) and udon (thick white wheat noodles) for even less – starting as low as ¥350 per bowl.

Many upscale restaurants in Japan offer a smaller course at lunchtime for significantly less than they charge at dinner, so for a bargain deal have your larger meal then. In all restaurants in Japan, tea and water are complimentary, and tipping is not required. 

16. Bentō are a budget alternative to a meal out

These "boxed meals," which include a variety of dishes, can be picked up for under ¥1,000 at supermarkets. Department store food halls sell gourmet ones for a little bit more; visit just before closing to buy them on markdown.

17. Get everything you need and more at the convenience store

Convenience stores are the best friend to all budget travelers. They stock sandwiches, rice balls, hot dishes and beer, all of which you can assemble into a very affordable (if not exactly healthy) meal. Accommodations always have kettles, so cup noodles are always an option. 

Keep planning your trip to Japan:

Save this guide to the top things to do in Japan . Find out what to expect during every season from cherry blossoms to winter skiing .  Before you book your trip, read these t op things to know before you go .   Do you need a visa? Discover more here. Want to see Japan by train?  Railway enthusiast John Walton shares his advice.  

This article was first published May 2012 and updated March 2024

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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 fall (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 traveling 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 travelers.

• Asakusa in Tokyo is the center for the Sanja Matsuri, held on the third full weekend in May. Colorful 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 favorable 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 honor 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 vacations. 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 color 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 fall 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 colorful leaves in mainland Japan. Traveling 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. Towards the end of December it gets busier as the school vacations start, and some attractions close in the run-up to the New Year.

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When is the Best Time to Visit Japan?

When is the best time to visit Japan? Well, we could simply tell you spring or fall, but there’s so much more to it than that. Weather and events vary across the country throughout the year so, when it comes to planning your trip to Japan, timing is everything!

Only planning to visit Tokyo? Then here are the best (and worst) times to visit Tokyo , as well as our top events in Tokyo throughout the year — organized by month.

When is the best time to visit Japan?

The most generic answer to this question is spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and fairly pleasant. And it is true. In general, spring and fall are good times to visit central areas of Japan — which includes the classics like Tokyo , Osaka , and Kyoto . Visiting in spring means you have a chance to see cherry blossoms (although the bloom forecast can change a lot) and other spring flowers. On the other hand, fall foliage can be just as beautiful (and less time sensitive). During both seasons, humidity is lower and it rains less often. Day time temperatures will range of course, but it’s usually warm (in the 20ºC range).

However, there’s more to it than that. Japan is a long country, and on any given day the weather in the northern-most region of Hokkaidō will be very different to the weather in the southern-most islands of Okinawa . In other words, a ‘spring’ day in Hokkaidō is not the same as one in Okinawa. Which is why we want to give more than just a generic answer. Instead, we want to make sure you’re armed with the best information to help you make your trip to Japan perfect. So let’s also talk about the worst times to visit Japan, and specific recommendations based on your interests.

When is the worst time to visit Japan?

When it comes to the worst time to visit Japan, there are two things to consider — the crowds and the weather. Most people living in Japan travel during National Holidays . These are the peak travel seasons in Japan, and are by far the busiest and most expensive times to travel. If you can, we strongly recommend not traveling to Japan during these holiday periods. In particular, Golden Week, Silver Week, and the New Yearholiday, are the ones to look out for. Like most other countries, school holidays are also a busy travel period, especially from mid-July to late August.

As for weather, Japan experiences a rainy season, which is usually from early June to mid-July. This is also the start of summer, so it will be wet and humid. Typhoons are also rarer at this time, with most hitting Japan during August and September. Depending on the severity, typhoons can cause flight and train delays — even if the typhoon is far away — as well as set off landslides and flooding.

Also, keep in mind your personal preferences — what weather conditions do you like to travel in? During winter there is snow in the north of Japan and some mountainous regions in central Japan. Additionally, Japan has very high humidity during summer that can exceed 80% in August. If either of these is a deal breaker for you, steer clear of those seasons.

When to visit Japan according to your interests

Now let’s talk about the best time to visit Japan for you. What are your interests? What’s your travel style, and what do you want to see and do in Japan? Thinking about these things will help you decide the best time to visit. To help you along the way we’ve come up with a list of popular activities and things to do in Japan, and worked out the best time to visit if you want to do them.

The best time to travel to Japan for snow sports: January and February

Consider timing your visit with the world famous Sapporo Snow Festival .

If you want to experience some of Japan’s world class ski resorts, we recommend visiting during January and February. This is when the powder conditions are best, although some resorts open as early as November and December. If you prefer blue bird days and cheaper ski packages, you could also consider visiting during March.

Keep in mind that the snow season lasts longer in the north of Japan in Hokkaidō. That’s where you’ll find the Niseko ski resort area . Alternatively, other famous ski resorts like Hakuba (Nagano Prefecture), Nozawa Onsen (Nagano Prefecture), and Gala Yuzawa Onsen (Niigata Prefecture) are in central Japan, where the season can be a little shorter.

The best time to travel to Japan for hiking and outdoors activities: July to October

The Mount Fuji climbing season is usually from mid-July to mid-September.

Those who want to experience the great outdoors in Japan have a lot of wiggle room. Your main consideration will be where exactly you’d like to go — summer in the north of Japan is mild, but it gets hotter and more humid the further south you go. There are mountains all over Japan, so mountain climbers and hikers are spoilt for choice. Kayaking, canyoning, and camping holidays are also popular summer activities in Japan and can be done all over the country.

If you’re interested in longer treks like the Kumano Kodō , the 88 temple pilgrimage , or the old Tokkaidō Road you may want to opt for the cooler weather of spring or fall. However, if you’d like to climb Mount Fuji , the climbing season is only about two months long from early-July to mid-September.

When to visit Japan for beach getaways and watersports: May and October

We don’t recommend visiting Japan at all if the only thing you want to do is go to the beach.

Unfortunately Japan’s beaches can be quite dirty compared to more well-known beach destinations. But if that’s what you want to do there are some options . We recommend heading to Okinawa , a chain of islands in the south of Japan during May or October for the best beaches and beach-going weather. The beaches in Okinawa are known for their white sand and clear water, and the swimming season is longer there than elsewhere in Japan. In May especially, the conditions are quite good for windsurfing. Steer clear of going during the typhoon season (August and September), as they can be quite strong in Okinawa.

On the Japanese main islands, Shizuoka Prefecture , Kanagawa Prefecture , and Chiba Prefecture are known to have good beaches. The swimming season in these locations usually starts around July or August.

When to visit Japan for anime and pop culture fans:

For anime fans, any time of year is good to visit — merchandise stores, anime theme parks , and museums are open year-round. One thing to consider is whether you want to attend an anime or pop culture convention . There are a number of different ones throughout the year, but if you want to visit lots of them December has three: Winter Comiket , Jump Festa , and Tokyo Comic Con .

If you want to get your hands on the shiniest, newest merch try timing your trip with new anime seasons. New anime seasons usually start in January, April, July, and October. Visit during one of those months and you’ll also get to enjoy a whole slew of promotional materials too, like a train with Bleach characters all over it, or convenience store snacks with SpyXFamily characters on them.

When to visit Japan for traditional festivals and fireworks: July and August

Dream of wandering around a traditional Japanese festival in a yukata (summer kimono)? Then you want to visit during July and August. There are an incredible number of festivals happening at this time of the year, ranging from small, local festivals to some of the biggest and most famous festivals in Japan. Summer festivals are a fantastic cultural experiences — in addition to yukata, you might see mikoshi (portable shrines) carried through the streets, traditional dances like Awa Odori, and of course delicious festival food .

When planning your trip, you can check the dates for festivals like the Tenjin Festival (Osaka), Gion Festival (Kyoto), and Nebuta Festival (Aomori). However, keep in mind that big festivals like these can attract visitors from all over, guaranteeing crowds and making hotels very difficult to book. Smaller, local events tend to be less busy but can still give you a fun festival experience. Keep your eyes on our Japan and Tokyo event listings for some ideas.

Fireworks festivals are also a lot of fun. At one of these you can expect yukata and festival food, but it’s unlikely you’ll see mikoshi or dances. The Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival is the biggest in Tokyo, while the Ise Shrine Dedication Fireworks Festival (Mie Prefecture) is another big one that’s a big off-the-beaten-path option for foreign visitors.

When to visit Japan for hot springs: Anytime except maybe summer

Onsen are hot springs, and there is no shortage of them in Japan. The Japanese hot spring experience is quite different from other parts of the world. There’s a whole etiquette involved, and yes, in most cases you’ll be getting naked with strangers. If you want to visit an onsen during your trip, you’re in luck — most hot spring facilities are open year-round. The exceptions are remote mountain hot spring resorts, which can be completely inaccessible during winter months.

Personally, we love visiting onsen during winter. Not only is the warm water incredible in the cold weather, but being in an outdoor onsen in the snow is pure magic. In fact, if you plan to come to Japan in winter for snow sports, we recommend pairing it with a visit to a hot spring. There are a number of ski resorts which are also famous for their onsen, including Nozawa Onsen .

The only time of year when you might want to avoid hot springs is summer. It’s more of a preference than a rule, but hot springs aren’t as relaxing in summer because it’s so hot both in and out of the water.

Frequently asked questions

Which month is the least crowded in japan.

According to Japan National Tourism Organization, from 2017 to 2019 September and February had the fewest international visitors to Japan.

Which month is the most crowded in Japan?

Using the same data as above, April and July had the most arrivals.

When is the cheapest time to visit Japan?

Using what we known from above, September and February are cheaper periods to travel in Japan. You’ll enjoy off-peak transport and hotel prices — and smaller crowds.

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JRailPass.com » Japan Travel Blog » When to go Japan? Best times of the year to visit

When to go Japan? Best times of the year to visit

June 15, 2022

When is the best time to visit Japan? This is a question without a simple answer. Japan is a year-round destination , with interesting activities, attractions, and festivities throughout the year.

Your decision will depend on several factors. First, do you wish to avoid the crowded, busy times, more expensive times, or hot, cold, or rainy weather? Second, what activities or events to do wish to enjoy ? Are they seasonal or available year-round?

You’ve been saving up, making plans, and dreaming of your Japan vacation. For many, visiting Japan is a once in a lifetime opportunity. But, what time of year should you visit in order to have the best vacation possible?

Consider this helpful guide to determine the best and worst times for your trip to Japan .

Read more : Is it safe to travel to Japan?

Japan season by season highlights

You can enjoy Japan’s natural beauty at any time of the year. Check out the following suggestions for the best attractions and experiences in every season .

Read more : Things to know before traveling to Japan

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Spring in most of Japan takes place from mid-March through May . Temperatures then average 40 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit (F), or 5 to 20 degrees Celsius (C). Weather can be unpredictable, so it is advisable to bring both warm weather and cold weather clothing .

Spring is one of the most popular times to visit Japan , largely due to the flowering trees of the ume plum blossom season and the sakura cherry blossom season. If traveling to witness these beautiful phenomena, keep in mind that the weather can alter the peak bloom times in any given year. Bloom times are also affected by geography, with blossoms opening earlier in southern regions and later in northern regions.

Golden Week, a series of national holidays, is also a busy time for travel in Japan . Many visitors avoid Golden Week due to the large crowds and crowded transportation.

Because both locals and international visitors travel in the spring, prices for travel and accommodations are often the highest during this season.

Cherry Blossom Viewing

Japan’s iconic sakura cherry blossoms are a draw for many travelers. Trees in the south begin to bloom in mid-March. The blossoms peak marches steadily north, concluding in the country’s northern reaches in May. Late March to early April is peak season throughout much of the country . The trees bloom for about a week in each location, so you can increase your viewing time by beginning your travels in the south and then moving north.

Expect large crowds at parks and shrines featuring cherry trees and busy transportation stations at this time. Book your accommodations early , as they often sell out well in advance.

If your visit falls in late May when the cherry blossom season is over, you can still immerse yourself in beautiful foliage at one of Japan’s many flower parks . These include magical wisteria tunnels.

Golden Week

Golden Week is a series of public holidays from late April to mid-May . It is often considered one of the “worst” times for international travelers to visit Japan. Many residents use their time off work to travel domestically during this time, resulting in crowded attractions, accommodations, and train stations. Prices often peak at this time.

Summers in Japan take place during the months of June through September . Temperatures range from 70 to 90 F (21 to 32 C) throughout most of the country. Summers are mildest in Hokkaido due to its northern position.

Summers in Japan are hot and humid across most of the country, but milder in mountainous regions. But summer is the perfect time for outdoor activities , from hiking to festivals.

Weatherwise, summer is Japan’s rainy season and typhoon season . Even during the rainest parts of June and July, torrential rain rarely affects travel . One exception to this is transportation between Okinawa and the mainland.

Japan’s summers are full of festivals, called matsuri . Many include elaborate fireworks displays.

Matsuris – Summer Festivals

Japan’s cultural, historical, and religious festivals are known the world over. They often feature spectacular parades, decorations, and fireworks.

Read more : 10 best Japanese summer festivals

Tenjin Matsuri

The Tenjin Matsuri in Osaka honors the god of scholarship on July 24 and 25 each year . The festival has been celebrated for over 1,000 years . It is a fireworks matsuri, concluding with a fireworks display over the Okawa River.

Gion Matsuri

The Gion Matsuri is Kyoto’s most important festival . The festival has been taking place for over 1,000 years. Main events include parades of enormous floats called yamaboko , the selection of a “sacred child,” and carrying a portable shrine through the town. Attendees dress in colorful yukata robes and enjoy delicious street foods.

Festivities of the Gion Matsuri take place in Kyoto during the entire month of July .

Fireworks Matsuri

Hanabi or fireworks festivals take place throughout the summer. Displays often last two hours and are accompanied by traditional street foods .

Some of the most popular include the Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival (last Saturday in July), Nagaoka Fireworks Festival (early August), Naniwa Yodogawa Fireworks Festival (early August), Kumano Fireworks Festival (August 17), Omagari Fireworks Competition (late August), Miyajima Fireworks Festival (late August), Kachimai Fireworks Festival (late August), and the Tsuchiura Fireworks Competition (early October).

From Okinawa to the northern islands, Japan is ringed with popular and picturesque beaches . Escape from the big-city traffic of Tokyo and hit a nearby beach. View larger-than-life outdoor art on the island of Naoshima, or scuba dive in various locations.

Tokyo 2020 Olympics

Japan has spent years preparing for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic games , purported to be “the most innovative ever organized.” The opening ceremony of the Olympics will take place on July 24, 2021 , and the games will last until August 9. The Paralympic games will take place 15 days after the Olympics, from August 25 to September 6.

Forty-three venues across Tokyo will be used for the games.

Expect increased prices, limited vacancies at accommodations, road closures, and transportation delays during this time. Japan has been investing heavily in technology to eliminate congestion and delays during the Olympics . For example, single keycards can be used to access the train, your hotel room, and driverless taxis. Humanoid robots will be present at the Olympic Village to give directions. A new train station will also be in operation, providing access to Haneda Airport .

September through December are Japan’s fall or autumn months. Temperatures generally range from 50 to 70 F (10 to 21 C).

Locals and visitors will enjoy koyo , or autumn leaves viewing . Kyoto’s Arashiyama and the Japanese Alps are among the best locations for this type of excursion.

The mild weather, stunning foliage, and less intense crowds make autumn a favorite time for many travelers to Japan. Autumn crowds are largest in November , but can often be avoided by planning your visit in early December.

Fall Foliage

Japan is famous for koyo , or autumn leaf viewing , as the trees give way to reds and golds . The peak season for koyo is late November to early December . You can view autumn leaves almost anywhere in the country , but special train tours are available to give you the best views. Hiking is also a great way to see fall leaves. Consider the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail or Nakasendo trail and even taste a deep-fried maple leaf at Minoo Park!

Winter in Japan lasts from late December to mid-March with temperatures from 30 to 45 F (0 to 8 C). Winter is great for frugal travelers – if you avoid the holidays, winter is one of the cheapest times to visit Japan . After the holidays pass, mid-January to mid-March is also the least crowded time to visit. Is winter in Japan right for you?

Winter is also an ideal season for visiting an onsen , or natural hot spring . A dip in an onsen is a perfect way to warm up and remedy sore muscles after winter sports. The traditional villages in which many onsen are located are picturesque after a dusting of snow.

Humans aren’t the only creatures that enjoy a dip in the hot springs. You can visit Japan’s famous snow monkeys in a snowy environment. The months of November through February are also the best times to catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji , as it is less likely to be enveloped in clouds.

Snow, Skiing, and Snowboarding

Snow blankets northern Japan, and much of the rest of the country, each January and February . Resorts dot Japan’s mountainous areas, providing perfect powder for skiers and snowboarders . In fact, one mountain range goes by the name of the Japanese Alps in honor of its European counterpart.

Winter is, not surprisingly, Japan’s snow season and skiing season . Japan is home to many ski resorts in Hokkaido and the Honshu Alps. Stunning snowscapes and some of the best skiing in the world meet congested travel during the Christmas and New Years holidays .

Illuminations and snow festivals

If winter sports aren’t your thing, you can check out the Sapporo Snow Festival , or Yuki Matsuri. Stroll through a winter wonderland of twinkling lights and illuminated ice sculptures , or play the day away on a snow slide, in a snow maze, and at a snowman building area.

Read more : Best Winter Illuminations in Japan

Plum Blossom Viewing

Only slightly less famous than the sakura cherry blossom season is the ume or plum blossom season in Japan .

Plum trees begin blooming earlier than cherry trees , typically in mid-February . Some parks are blanketed with the fragrant flowers of over 3,000 trees. You can get a similar experience to cherry blossom viewing during plum blossom season, without the large crowds .

Yes, February marks the beginning of the scuba diving season in Japan’s southern regions . This is an ideal time for viewing humpback whales, sea turtles, and even rare manatees.

Peak Seasons

The spring months of March through May and the autumn season of September through November are the times that many people choose for their Japan vacation. Temperatures and rainfall are generally mild during these times, and you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing or autumn leaf viewing , respectively. Japan’s northern ski resorts are popular during the winter .

Other peak seasons occur during the Christmas/New Year’s holidays in December and January , the Golden Week festivities in late April through early May , and the Obon Festival in August . Residents often have holidays from work during these times and travel domestically. Because of this, prices increase, rooms are harder to find, and transportation facilities and attractions are more crowded.

Japan month-by-month highlights

What is going on in Japan each month of the calendar year? Find out below.

• Expect crowds following New Year’s Day .
• Shogatsu is celebrated from January 1 to 3.
• Coming of Age Day is celebrated on the second Monday of the month.
• Sumo New Year Basho takes place in Tokyo.
• Tsukiji Fish Market opens to tourists in early January.
• Snow makes January a great time to visit the snow monkeys of Nagano or soak in a warm onsen .
• Cherry blossom season begins in Okinawa.

• The first day of spring is celebrated on February 3, often by visiting Buddhist temples to ward off evil.
• The diving season begins, with the best chance of seeing humpback whales in February.
• Plum blossom season begins in mid-march.
• February is typically the country’s coldest month, making it the perfect time to visit an onsen , izakayas , or engage in winter sports .
• The Sapporo Snow Festival takes place in February.
• Plum blossom season comes to an end in mid-March.
• Cherry blossom season begins in mid-March.
• Crowds decrease in Okinawa.
• The Sumo Spring Basho is held in Osaka.
• AnimeJapan , the world’s largest anime festival, is held in March.

• Ski season ends .
• Cherry blossom season typically peaks in early April and comes to an end in mid-April.
• Miyako Odori is held in Kyoto throughout the month.
• Golden Week begins in late April.
• Golden Week continues through the first week of May.
• Flowers such as wisteria, iris, and azalea are in bloom , making flower parks and gardens a must-see.
• The Sumo Summer Basho is held in Tokyo.
• June is Japan’s rainiest month .
• The Sumo Basho is held in Nagoya.
• The Yosakoi Soran Matsuri folk dance festival is held in Sapporo.

• The Mount Fuji climbing season begins on July 1.
• The Tanabata star festival is held on July 7.
• Obon festivals are held in Tokyo and eastern Japan around July 15.
• The popular Gion Matsuri is held in Kyoto from July 17 to 24.
• The Fuji Rock Festival , Japan’s largest music festival, is held during the last weekend in July at the Naeba Ski Resort in Niigata.
• The Tokyo 2020 Olympics begin on July 24.
• The Tokyo 2020 Olympics continue through August 1.
• The Obon holiday of Hachigatsu Bon , three days honoring the dead, takes place in mid-August.
• Hanabi or fireworks festivals are held throughout the country. One of the best is the Lake Biwa festival near Kyoto.

• Mount Fuji’s trails close by the second week in September.
• The Sumo Basho takes place in Tokyo.
• The Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri is held in Osaka.
• The Seto craft festival is held during the second week of September.
• Fall foliage season begins.
• Temperatures in Okinawa remain high enough to visit the beaches.
• The Roppongi Art Night is held in mid- to late October.
• As a curiosity, you can see thousands of costumes in Tokyo’s Shibuya district on October 31 ( Halloween! ).

• A “shoulder” month when crowds are fewer and prices are lower .
• The Ohara festival is held in Kagoshima.
• The Momiji Festival is held in Kyoto.
• Snowfall begins , and ski slopes open.
• Travel in early December to avoid crowds.
• The Sanpoji Daikon festival , celebrating the Daikon radish, is held in Kyoto.
• Expect closures of restaurants, shops, and attractions between Christmas and New Year’s Day .
• Tsukiji Fish Market closes to tourists in late December.

When is the best time to visit Japan? The short answer is, there is no bad time!  Plan your trip based on what you want to see – cherry blossoms, snow, or autumn leaves – and what you wish to avoid – heat, cold, high prices, or crowds.

In whichever season you choose to visit Japan, you will not be disappointed by its unique seasonal offerings . And if you’ve traveled to Japan in the past, visiting during a different season can bring new life to your travel experiences.

Related posts

Related tours & activities.

I would like to inquire if there is an available promo for the month of March 2018 provided to tourists by JR Lines. when I was in Fukuoka, were able to avail one 7-days pass using shinkanShein. We were able to visit Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto etc.

I will be glad to hear from you

Hi Elizabeth!

Sure – you have always available the Japan Rail Pass . The Japan Rail Pass is a multi-use all-you-can-ride discounted rail ticket. It gives you unlimited access to all Japan Rail National trains, as well as JR bus services, ferry services, and airport transfers. Enjoy to the fullest your discovery of Japan in the most economical travel option available.

Happy travels!

Comments are closed.

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Home » Asia » Japan » Best Time to Visit Japan – (MUST READ • 2024 Guide)

Best Time to Visit Japan – (MUST READ • 2024 Guide)

Japan – the land of the rising sun. Nippon or Nihon as the country is most commonly referred to as by locals is the land of contrasts.

From immense natural beauty, delicious cuisine, kabuki baths, and onsen hot springs, to Anime, sushi boat restaurants, and all-night neon parties. Japan really has it all!

To keep with the contrast theme, you could be skiing in Eastern Japan on a winter’s day while sunbathing on the islands of Okinawa and Amami on the same day. Talk about polar opposites…

Where do I fit into all of this? Well, it’s your lucky day – I’ve gone and compiled this extensive, all-you’ll-ever-need guide centered on the best time to visit Japan. I know what you’re thinking “What a champ!”, and I’ll take that.

With tricks and tips, recommendations for when the best time to go to Japan is , and a whole lot more, get ready for the ultimate guide to visiting Japan.

Best Time to Visit Japan – Between March and May, and September and November

Best Time To Go To Tokyo – Fall/autumn and spring (September to November and March to May)

Best Time For Kyoto – October and November, March to May

Best Time For The Beach – Mid July to August

Best Time For Sightseeing in Japan – April and May, October and November

Cheapest Time To Visit Japan – December to March

When is The Best Time to Visit Japan?

When is the cheapest time to visit japan, when to visit japan – weather by month, best time to visit japan by place, best time to visit japan for parties and festivals, faqs on the best time to visit japan, final thoughts on the best time to visit japan.

Now, you’re probably asking yourself “When should I visit Japan?”. Well, this is no simple question to answer and depends on what you’re looking to get out of your trip.

Are you traveling to Japan to go skiing or snowboarding? Or do you want to see the picturesque Cherry Blossoms in spring (along with half of the world’s population)? The answers to these questions will determine when the best time to travel to Japan is for YOU.

Japan has the usual four distinct seasons. Spring occurs between March and May and is referred to as the Cherry Blossom and Sakura season. Summer occurs between June and August, and is the rainy season in Japan.

Fall/autumn, spanning from September to November, boasts stunning foliage that makes it an unparalleled IG destination on Earth . Finally, winter occurs between December and February. It’s known as the skiing season and is the best time to hit the slopes.

Having said this, the peak tourist season in Japan is between March and May (spring) and again from September to November (fall/autumn). This is the busiest time of the year for tourists. It’s also when you can expect the price of places to stay in Japan to be at their highest.

Summertime is extremely hot and humid in Japan, especially in the big cities. It is also the rainy season in the country which makes exploring and being outdoors quite unpleasant.

Generally speaking, winters in Japan are sunny and dry, but this does differ greatly depending on the region at hand. Many regions experience snow and provide some of the world’s best skiing and snowboarding conditions .

The low season in Japan runs over December, January, and February . During this time, the country sees the least number of tourists and it is probably the cheapest time to go to Japan. It is important to note that if you’re looking for a sweet deal, make sure you don’t travel to Japan during the winter holidays…

Many people make the mistake of thinking that because Japan is in Asia, it’s going to be a cheap travel destination. But don’t be fooled – things can get expensive !

Don’t panic though, there are always ways to travel cheaply in expensive countries Although Japan has a reputation for being a pricey place to visit you can get away with an affordable holiday. You just need to travel at the right time of year.

If you travel during the peak Cherry Blossom or Sakura season, prepare to pay premium prices – it’s simple supply and demand. You’re also going to have to share with hoards of other travelers so prepare to get those elbows out! Overall, not a great time of year to travel, in my humble opinion.

The best option is to try and sneak in for a travel stint on the fringe of the fringe seasons, on either side of the hustle and bustle. The blossoms might be early which is in your favor, or you can catch them at the end of the season.

This will coincide with things being a little less chaotic and hopefully, you’ll still be able to score a sweet accommodation deal.

Right, now you might still be confused as to when the best time to visit Japan is but don’t stress. I’ve got you covered. I’ve compiled a month-by-month breakdown with the highlights of each month and what you can expect weather-wise.

Each month has its own charm and with it, comes varying weather conditions. This is especially prevalent between the far east of Japan and the islands to the southwest.

Let’s take a look!

January in Japan

• Average   Max.   Temperature:  8°C, 46°F
• Rainfall: 9 days

January in Japan is bang in the middle of winter, so pack accordingly . The weather is generally sunny and dry , but cold.

New Year is one of three major travel seasons in the country. So you can expect both local and international travel to be at one of its busiest times.

Thereafter, the travel conditions are pretty breezy. Most attractions are quieter and prices are stabilizing, aside from Chinese New Year if it falls in January. There is also snowfall up in the north of Japan as well as along the Sea of Japan. You know what that means – dust off those skis and hit the slopes!

February in Japan

• Average   Max.   Temperature:  9°C, 48°F
• Rainfall: 11 days

February in Japan is another great time to travel to Japan. The weather remains sunny and dry, albeit cold, and the tourism levels are relatively low. If Chinese New Year falls in February, as it will in 2024, then you can expect things to be a bit chaotic and prices to increase.

While the days are short, there’s plenty of time to hit the slopes and also head out for some rather unusual sightseeing. The drift ice in Hokkaido and the snow-capped farmhouses in Shirakawago are some of my favorite things to see during February.

March in Japan

• Average   Max.   Temperature:  12°C, 54°F
• Rainfall: 17 days

The weather in Japan in March slowly starts to warm up and the first signs of spring begin to creep in. Plum trees are some of the first to come alive with their beautiful pink hues brightening up the landscape from its barren winter colors.

There is still some snow up in the northern stretches of the country but the highlight of March is definitely the beginning of the Cherry Blossom bloom.

Tourism levels are still relatively low during March. But, the spring school holidays start in the second half of the month leading to increased domestic tourism.

April in Japan

• Average   Max.   Temperature:  17°C, 63°F
• Rainfall: 16 days

Japan is one of my favorite locations to visit in April . April is one of the most beautiful times of the year here, as the Cherry Blossoms and Sakura groves are in full swing. It is largely considered to be the best time to visit Japan as the weather is pleasant and mild to complement the Cherry Blossom bloom.

It is, however, one of the busiest times to visit Japan so be prepared to get those elbows out. Cities like Tokyo and Kyoto are incredibly crowded and accommodation prices go through the roof.

So, if you don’t mind the crowds and your budget isn’t an issue, then it can be the best time to go to Japan. Golden Week also starts at the end of April, so the busyness continues into the first week of May – just when you thought it was going to quieten down!

May in Japan

• Average   Max.   Temperature:  21°C, 70°F

May is also one of the busiest travel months in Japan, with Golden Week falling at the beginning of the month. After Golden Week has passed, May becomes one of the best times to visit Japan. The vegetation is in a lush state, there’s warm and dry weather and slightly lower tourism levels.

The rainy season begins down in Okinawa, however, so it’s best to move on from there and head over to Hokkaido. The spring season is slightly behind Tokyo so you can venture up there to take advantage of the vibrant colors that begin to reveal themselves.

June in Japan

• Average   Max.   Temperature:  24°C, 75°F
• Rainfall: 20 days

June in Japan is the official start of the summer season , but with that comes the rainy season (tsuyu), except for in Hokkaido. The weather is generally a bit dull and overcast during June. The temperature and humidity levels peak too – prepare to get your sweat on!

However, not all is lost. The weather in Okinawa improves throughout the month and the island says goodbye to the rainy season.

Hokkaido attracts visitors as the rainy season tends to affect the region less than the rest of the country. Koyasan and Hakone are also beautiful places to visit in Japan during summer.

July in Japan

• Average   Max.   Temperature:  28°C, 82°F

July in Japan is hot and humid , with the daily temperatures hovering around 28°C, with nighttime temperatures cooling slightly but still remaining high. Again, prepare to be a sweaty Betty as humidity levels peak and simply standing in the shade will get those sweat glands flowing.

The rainy season tends to peter off throughout the month and come to an end before month end and outdoor activities become popular. Think climbing on Mount Fuji, beaching on Okinawa, local festivals, and even specialist cormorant fishing.

The second half of the month also gets quite busy as the school summer holidays begin, and with it comes busier domestic travel and higher prices. Monsoon season also kicks in around this time so be prepared for some downpours!

August in Japan

• Average   Max.   Temperature:  29°C, 84°F

August in Japan sticks with the summer theme – hot and humid in most of the country . Temperatures range between 25°C and 35°C (77°F and 95°F) and the coastal regions experience the highest humidity levels.

There’s also a general buzz in the air as many festivals and fireworks displays are happening throughout the month.

Regions like Hokkaido as well as other higher elevation areas are more tolerable as temperature and humidity levels are slightly lower.

The school holidays continue into August so you can expect domestic travel activity to be buzzing and things to be somewhat crowded. Obon week also adds to the intensity and busyness in August – an annual Buddhist event in which one’s ancestors are commemorated.

September in Japan

• Average   Max.   Temperature:  26°C, 79°F

You can expect typhoons in areas like Kyushu, Shikoku, and Okinawa during September, while the rest of the country is still hot, although cooler than July and August. Humidity levels also drop slightly and September can be a great time to visit Japan as tourist levels are pretty low and attractions less crowded.

While early September is still considered to be summer, late September transitions into fall/autumn. With this comes those vivid autumnal colors and beautiful fall foliage that scatters the country. Hokkaido is a popular place to visit to see the fall foliage as the island’s forests begin to change color.

October in Japan

• Average   Max.   Temperature:  20°C, 68°F

October in Japan is a great month to travel because the weather is pleasant – not too hot and not too humid either. It is one of my favorite months to see the colorful trees scattered around the country and there aren’t hoards of sweaty tourists about.

Typhoon season has generally wrapped up by the end of September, so you’re likely to be blessed with comfortable weather free of wind, rain, and downpours. With there being few domestic and international tourists about, prices are generally good and there’s plenty of accommodation available. I particularly recommend opting for some Japanese Ryokan for a unique experience.

November in Japan

• Average   Max.   Temperature:  15°C, 59°F
• Rainfall: 12 days

November in Japan is once again a vibrant time of the year with beautiful fall foliage and autumn colors. The weather is also generally mild and dry and there are few tourists about which makes it one of the best times to visit Japan.

You will find tourists around the most popular foliage viewing spots though; so you won’t get the areas completely to yourself. It’s also a great time to see row upon row of ginkgo trees in Meiji Jingu Gaien in Tokyo.

December in Japan

• Average   Max.   Temperature:  11°C, 52°F

The first few weeks of December in Japan are great as the school holidays haven’t begun yet and both domestic and international travel isn’t busy yet. However, things start to get busier towards the end of the month when the winter school holidays begin.

From the 29th of December, the New Year holidays begin and many of the tourist attractions shut for about a week.

The weather is generally cool and mild, with the ski season getting fully underway in December. You can expect prices to be on the up, especially in resort towns and things start to get busier, so make sure to book your accommodation well in advance.

Right, now let’s take a look at the best time to visit Japan by place. I’ve picked a few of my top cities to visit, each with its own unique charm and tourist attractions.

Best Time to Visit Tokyo

A journey around Tokyo , Japan’s capital, is a captivating blend of motions and reflections – a super modern city, coupled with many traditional elements. You’ll find state-of-the-art, neon-lit skyscrapers and traditional temples on the same block.

The city is also famous for its performing arts such as Rakugo, Noh, and Kabuki. The best part of it all? Tokyo has a temperate climate so you can visit at any time of the year.

Having said this, summer in the city is not very comfortable. It is incredibly hot and humid, so the months of June, July, and August can just be unpleasant. You’re likely to just sweat buckets, even in the shade.

And it also happens to be the rainy season so you can expect to get wet too. Winter, on the other hand, gets chilly but not too cold. The beauty is that there aren’t many tourists about in winter, so you can nab a sweet deal on accommodation.

If you plan on staying in Tokyo for a while, the best times to visit are definitely the shoulder seasons.

Spring (March to May) and fall/autumn (September to November) are some of the best times to visit the city, not only because of the mild weather. Cherry Blossoms are in full bloom in spring and are a huge attraction.

This does mean the city is crowded during this time and prices can skyrocket, especially accommodation. Fall/autumn is also another popular time to visit Tokyo, with moderate temperatures and vibrant fall hues.

Best Time to Visit Osaka

The port city of Osaka, located on the island of Honshu, is best known for its buzzing nightlife, street food culture, and incredible architecture. While it’s only a short Shinkansen (colloquially known as the bullet train) ride from Tokyo, the two cities couldn’t be more different. Osaka has a much more relaxed, laid-back, and welcoming feel about it.

Osaka, like Tokyo, benefits from a temperate climate so again, you can pretty much visit at any time of the year. Summers are hot and humid, and winters are chilly but not unpleasant. Spring and fall/autumn are great times to visit Osaka as the weather is the most mild and pleasant .

While there is no real bad time to visit the city, it depends on the activities you wish to enjoy. Spring once again sees the Cherry blossoms in bloom but is also a great time to watch some sumo wrestling.

Summer is the perfect time to take advantage of the heat. There are so many things to do in Osaka ; you can hit the beaches, attend a festival, or watch a fireworks display.

Fall/autumn also has its own set of festivals that you can attend. And, of course, it’s the season to go koyo hunting for those stunning photos. Finally, winter is all about nighttime illuminations and hitting the slopes for some skiing just a a short commute from Osaka.

Best Time to Visit Kyoto

The city of Kyoto, was the capital of Japan until it moved to Tokyo in 1868. It’s often regarded as one of the most beautiful places in Japan . Kyoto is most famous for its staggering number of Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples that cover the city – 400 and 1,600 respectively! While it may have lost the coveted title of Japan’s capital, it remains the religious capital of the country.

Kyoto also benefits from a temperate climate so much of the same applies when it comes down to the best time to visit. Hot and humid summers make it a bit unpleasant, winters are chilly but still very much a doable time to travel. But the spring and fall/autumn once again prevail as the best times to visit.

Again, expect Cherry Blossoms in spring and vibrant hues in fall/autumn, both being rather busy times in the city. Accommodation in Kyoto also tends to sell out and can get expensive (if you can find it).

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Festivals are immensely engrained in Japanese culture. Parties and traditional cultural festivals (matsuri) take place throughout the year so you should be able to fit one into your trip.

Let’s take a look at some of the top parties and festivals in Japan .

• Fuji Rock Festival takes place at Naeba Ski Resort every summer for three days. With a mix of more than 200 artists, both local and international, and crowds in excess of 100,000, it claims the title of Japan’s largest outdoor music festival.

• Chichibu Yomatsuri takes place in the city of Saitama every December. The festival has been at the Chichibu Shrine for the last 300 years with beautifully designed floats being the highlights of the event. Expect taiko drums, flutes, and fireworks displays too!

• The Sapporo Snow Festival is a week-long winter festival that takes place in early February every year. The festival is located in Odori Park in Hokkaido and is centered on large snow and ice sculptures. You can also expect concert performances to complement the main sculptures.

• Gion Matsuri has been hosted at the Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto for more than 1,100 years! The matsuri lasts the entire month of July, with the main procession of floats happening on the 17th of the month.

• The Nagasaki Kunchi celebrates that Suwa Shrine and has been happening for the last 400 years. The festival takes place from the 7th – 9th October every year and is super exciting. Think dragon dances, floats, and traditional Japanese dance.

• The Sumida River Fireworks Festival is Japan’s oldest and most famous fireworks festival. It takes place annually on the last Saturday of July and fireworks are launched from barges on the Sumida River in Tokyo.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Don’t Forget your Japan Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a no-brainer in 2024. Equip yourself with some decent Japanese travel insurance to ensure you can enjoy your trip without worrying about accidents or mishaps.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Right, let’s now take a look at some of the most commonly asked questions about the best time to visit Japan:

When is the Best Time To Go To Kyoto?

Kyoto can be visited at any time of the year. However, spring (March to May) and fall/autumn (October and November) have proven to be some of the best times to visit the city – Cherry Blossoms, fall foliage, and moderate weather too.

When is the Rainy Season in Japan?

The majority of Japan experiences its rainy season between June and mid-July , although there are some exceptions. Okinawa is in general a month before the mainland, while the rainy season is less prolific in Ogasawara and Hokkaido.

When is the Coldest Month in Japan?

On average, January is the coldest month in Japan. The average daily temperatures hover in the single Celsius digits, with blankets of snow in the northern regions and higher altitude areas.

So, when exactly is the best time to visit Japan? Well, that depends on you and what you’re looking to get out of your trip.

To be honest, there’s no real bad time to visit this beautiful country, only times that may be more or less pleasant given temperatures and crowds.

The bottom line is, that whenever you visit Japan, you’re going to have an epic time. Whether you’re keen to see those famous Cherry Blossoms, are keen for some winter sports, or even summer hiking and beaching, there’s something for you.

The best time to go to Japan is NOW! There’s no time like the present, so book that flight and get exploring! The land of the rising sun awaits!

Mata ji kai made!

• Backpacking in Japan ? I’ve got you covered!
• Let’s get you clued in and ballin’ on a budget with our Japan travel tips .
• With the  best sim card for Japan you can stay connected, always.
• If you’re looking for unique experiences, you’ll love these capsule hotels in Osaka .
• Or… get a more comprehensive overview on where to stay in Kyoto .
• Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine is a highlight of any Japanese adventure. Don’t miss it!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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When is the best time to visit Japan? — The best, worst, cheapest, affordable & best season to travel to Japan

Traveling to Japan is a wonderful experience for those who love culture and are passionate about discovery. Japan is famous for its rich cultural history, unique architecture, diverse cuisine and beautiful natural landscapes. But, what is the best month to travel to Japan, what is the best time to travel to Japan, what time of year is it best to visit Japan, when is the best time to visit Japan? Let’s check out our suggested best time to go to Japan, best season to go Japan (best season to travel to Japan, best season to visit Japan) as well as, cheapest, worst and most most expensive time to visit Japan as follows!

• When is the best time to visit Kyoto? — The best, worst, affordable & best season to visit Kyoto
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• Tokyo best parks — 10+ best & most beautiful parks in tokyo

As a country with countless cultural activities and festivals, events held all year round, not every time is considered ideal for tourists to explore Japan. If you want to visit the ancient temples in the ancient capital of Kyoto or the gentle pink color of cherry blossoms, you definitely need to make a plan to avoid coming during the rainy season or after the flowers have faded.

Which season to travel to Japan is both cheap and beautiful, and which season is both expensive and boring? Experts say that the best time to visit Japan depends a lot on the destination tourists choose to explore in the “Land of the Rising Sun”.

To know which season to travel to Japan and which months of the year are the good, affordable and the best. We invite you to learn about the Japan climate, weather by month, scenery and special things about the seasons of the year in Japan.

Overview of Japan

Japan is an island country located in the Pacific Ocean in Northeast Asia. Japan’s territory includes four large island clusters extending from north to south: Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu. Therefore, the climate and natural landscape in Japan have quite clear differences between regions. This country is also known by many other names such as the “land of cherry blossoms”, or the “land of the rising sun”.

Japan’s tourism industry is also extremely developed today, a harmonious combination of traditional and modern quintessence. Travel services in Japan are also highly appreciated for their quality. With outstanding infrastructure, beautifully designed Japanese hotels and restaurants serving delicious cuisine, visitors will experience a fulfilling and comfortable trip.

Climate characteristics in Japan

Japan is located in the subtropical temperate zone, so the weather tends to be colder. However, in Japan there are still 4 seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter in a year and each season will have its own outstanding characteristics that attract many tourists to visit.

In particular, the weather in each season in Japan will be different between regions. For example, there are places where summer and winter will have a huge difference in temperature, summer is hot and winter is very cold. In some other areas, whether it is winter or summer or other times of the year, the weather is still quite cool and very pleasant, very suitable for sightseeing trips.

When is the best time to visit Japan?

Although Japan is not a very large country, it is enough for visitors to experience different weather between regions. The cold winters in the far north of Hokkaido will be a stark contrast to the warmth of the subtropical islands south of Okinawa. Therefore, the months from March to May (spring) or September to November (autumn) are often considered the best times to visit Japan.

This is the time when visitors can admire the brilliant red, yellow leaves of autumn or dream absentmindedly under the canopy of cherry trees full of flowers. In addition, during these seasons, rainfall is usually low, the sky is clear and the temperature is quite mild.

For those who don’t like heat and humidity, summer in Japan offers a completely different experience. It’s the perfect time of year to explore nature – ideally visiting somewhere cool in the mountains or heading as far north as possible. Cool climates like in Hokkaido are considered “paradise” in the summer, with fields of bright rainbow-colored flowers and countless outdoor activities like hiking and horseback riding.

Summer is also the peak season when traditional festivals often take place. Meanwhile, winter in Japan is the time for sports such as skiing or hot spring (onsen) bathing. Hokkaido’s slopes are ideal for experiencing snow sports. Besides, in regions like Niigata, just take a direct Shinkansen bullet train from Tokyo and visitors can reach extremely good ski resorts. Those who prefer warmth can fly south to Okinawa to experience a warmer subtropical climate.

Best time to visit Tokyo Disneyland

For tourist places such as Tokyo Disneyland, spring and fall are often the best times, with mild climates that make it easy for fun and experiences. Tourists should also avoid national holidays in Japan – especially Golden Week (from April 29 to early May), because this is considered a time when domestic tourists can rest and visit in large numbers of the year.

The best time to see cherry blossoms in Japan

For tourists who decide to visit Japan to see cherry blossoms, special attention should be paid to the weather conditions of that year. Most cherry blossoms usually bloom, begining from the southern tip of Japan around early January. The best time for cherry blossoms to bloom in Kyoto, Tokyo and surrounding areas is usually from the last week of March to the first week of April. But for northern cities like Sapporo, visitors will have to wait until May to see cherry blossoms bloom.

Worst time to visit Japan

Since the weather depends significantly on the regions tourists decide to visit, it is possible for the weather to be bad in one area but the skies extremely clear in another. Japan’s rainy season typically lasts from early June to mid-July across the country – including Tokyo – except in Okinawa, where showers begin in early May. Meanwhile, in Hokkaido, it’s summer mild temperatures and clear blue skies.

The rainy season usually occurs right before the hot, humid summer. Cities like Tokyo and Kyoto are often uncomfortably hot and are best avoided during the peak summer months of July and August.

Most tourists around the world want to visit Japan to see cherry blossoms, so it’s no surprise that cherry blossom season is the busiest travel time of the year. Domestic tourists also take advantage of Golden Week to go sightseeing and vacation, so trains, hotels and famous attractions can often be overcrowded or fully booked.

Cheapest time to travel to Japan

Japan is known to be an expensive country for visitors. But since the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, a wide range of new hotels have opened, so tourists have more options with more reasonable prices.

Besides, according to research, the number of tourists coming to Japan is usually lowest during the period from mid-January to March. This means, visitors will enjoy more incentives from ticket prices, hotel costs to other sightseeing activities.

Best time to visit Japan for food lovers

Japan is a great destination for food lovers. Therefore, if you want to enjoy a specialty or a traditional dish in Japan, you should also find out the right time to avoid regrettably missing out. Dishes to enjoy in the summer include light, cool sōmen noodles, kakigōri shaved ice, and extremely savory unagi eel. Autumn is a “paradise” for matsutake mushrooms, sweet potatoes and Pacific sanma mackerel. Winter is the ideal time to enjoy nabe hot pot, citrus fruits and kaki persimmons. Meanwhile, spring is associated with sea bream, takenoko bamboo shoots and mochi sakura rice cakes.

Which is the best season to travel to Japan?

Japan has many beautiful landscapes and unique culture, so this place is always a favorite destination for any tourist. To know which season is best to travel to Japan, let’s learn about the characteristics of each season!

Spring (March-April) (# when is the best time to visit japan)

At this time, the temperature in Japan is still quite cold and the humidity has not reached high levels, so it is convenient for tourism activities. Besides, Japanese spring is famous for many festivals and interesting flower viewing sessions, especially cherry blossoms. Japanese people often gather friends and family to eat and enjoy under the cherry blossom trees. Cherry blossoms bloom from late March to late April, usually they only bloom beautifully for 10 days if the weather is favorable.

Traveling to Japan in spring not only has cherry blossoms, but also many other beautiful flowers such as: shibazakura (moss phlox) flowers, Canola flowers, azalea flowers, wisteria flowers… Some spring festivals in Japan that you can refer to:

• March 15: Otaue Rice Planting Festival at Kasuga Shrine, Nara performing a classical dance from 1,000 years ago
• April 1 – 30: Miyako Odori (Spring Dance) in Kyoto, performed by dancers known as “Maiko”
• April 14 – 15: Takayama Festival of Hie Shrine, Takayama with floats passing through the streets.

Here are some spring popular places to visit in Japan:

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

This is one of the famous tourist places in Tokyo founded in 1906. Shinjuku Gyoen has beautiful scenery and harmonious architecture. Including traditional Japanese gardens, French gardens and English gardens, each garden has its own characteristics. In spring, thousands of cherry trees bloom across the entire area of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, creating a beautiful scene, attracting many people to enjoy the scenery.

Hirosaki Castle

Built in the 17th century, this castle is located in Hirosaki city, northern Honshu island. In spring, Hirosaki Castle becomes especially charming when about 2,600 cherry trees bloom on the castle’s vast grounds. When you visit, you will be captivated by the beautiful view of bright pink flowers. Visitors can stroll around the park, admire the castle’s unique architecture, and enjoy paintings and antiques at the Hirosaki Museum located on the castle grounds.

Chureito Pagoda

Also known as Arakurayama Sengen Chureito, this is one of the attractive tourist place in Yamanashi Prefecture. This temple is famous for its landscape and wonderful views of Mount Fuji. In spring, the cherry trees around Chureito Pagoda bloom with brilliant petals, you will be immersed in the enchanting beauty of a peaceful space.

Fuji mountain

Mount Fuji is located on the island of Honshu, is the highest mountain in Japan with an altitude of 3,776.24m, is the 7th highest peak in the world and is a famous scenic spot and historical site in Japan.

Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Tower is a communications and observation tower located in the Shibakoen area, Minato district, Tokyo, Japan. This tower has a height of 332.9m and is the second tallest in Japan after Tokyo Sky Tree Tower. The Tokyo Tower project was inspired by the Eiffel Tower in France and built.

Tokyo Tower was built in 1958, the tower is used for tourism and antenna rental purposes. To date, more than 150 million tourists have visited Tokyo Tower since its inauguration. Tokyo Tower is equipped with a beautiful lighting system with Landmark Light (light glowing toward the inside of the tower) and Diamond Vale (light glowing toward the outside of the tower). Besides its original broadcasting purpose, Tokyo Tower is considered a symbol of the Japanese economy after World War II.

Ueno Park is one of the most popular cherry blossom viewing spots in Tokyo during the spring cherry blossom season. Thousands of people come to the park to admire the beautiful cherry trees that look like clouds. The area around Shinobazu Pond is extremely impressive, especially the narrow path lined with cherry trees that cuts through the pond. Shinobazunoike Benten-do is the center of all beauty.

Nara Park is located in the heart of the city with more than 1,500 cherry trees blooming each season. Especially when visiting this park, you can also watch deer leisurely roaming, creating a poetic and peaceful scene.

Summer (June – August) (# what is the best month to travel to japan)

If you miss the trip to see cherry blossoms in spring, then summer is also considered an ideal time. Summer in Japan is often hot and humid, making it a time for swimming and other entertainment activities. The hot and humid heat bringing persistent rains has created conditions for hydrangeas to bloom. Besides, this is also the season of festivals and fireworks displays across the country. On festival days, people gather to dance folk dances, make traditional foods, hang lanterns, etc. As for the fireworks display – a favorite event of the Japanese, it is performed extremely grandly with sparkling, brilliant fireworks in the sky.

Some unique festivals when traveling to Japan in the summer include:

• Sumidagawa Festival: “Fireworks party” attracts millions of tourists to Japan.
• Mid-June: Sanno Festival of Hie Shrine, Tokyo with a parade of the portable shrine through the busy streets of Akasaka district.
• Tanabata Festival – Stargazing: Originated from China, considered the most romantic festival in Japan
• The 2nd Saturday of June: Chagu-chagu Umakko Festival (Festival of Horses) in Morioka with a parade of colorfully costumed horses.
• July 1-15: Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival at the top of Mount Fukuoka with a parade of giant floats.
• July 1-31: Gion Festival – the largest festival in Kyoto, commemorating the 9th century.

In addition, visitors can still avoid the heat in the snowy land of Hokkaido in Japan. Although there is no snow in the summer, the cool cold air of the north is still there for you to experience.

Places that many tourists choose when traveling in the summer include:

Yakushima Island

This is a small island located in the south of Japan, known for its beautiful natural landscape and majestic primeval rain forest. Summer on Yakushima Island is famous for its cool climate. Tourists visiting the island in the summer will have the opportunity to admire ancient trees hundreds of years old and discover many unique flora and fauna species. This place is also recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage.

Shikisai-no-oka Flower Garden

This flower garden has a beautiful setting and is a paradise for flower lovers. During the summer, Shikisai-no-oka garden comes alive with countless flowers and vibrant colors. The garden is divided into many areas, each with its own unique flower colors and fragrances. Some popular flower species at Shikisai-no-oka flower garden are: lavender, sunflowers, forget-me-nots, lilies… Visitors can walk around this flower garden or rent a bicycle to explore the beautiful scenery around.

Shirahama Beach

This is a very popular tourist destination in Japan, especially during the summer. Located in Shirahama City in Wakayama Prefecture, this beach is known for its smooth white sand and clear blue sea water. Visitors can enjoy swimming, windsurfing, scuba diving or participating in exciting water games. Not only has wonderful natural landscapes, Shirahama beach is also famous for its high-end resorts and hotels.

Okinawa Islands

Kabira Bay in Ishigaki Island is one of the wonderful sightseeing spots that you should definitely visit once in your life, it only takes about 40 minutes by car from Ishigaki to get here. Everything on Okinawa’s beach is sparkling and beautiful like a picture on postcards.

Coming here, you can spend relaxing moments on a glass boat and see colorful coral reefs, tropical fish swimming around on the transparent ocean floor and see a long stretch of fine white sand.. When it comes to summer, you definitely can’t miss swimming and the beach here will give you a very different feeling compared to the beaches you’ve been to before.

Hokkaido lavender season

Lavender season in Hokkaido Japan is one of the heavenly moments of the year. When summer begins, the vast fields in this area bloom in the gentle purple color of lavender, creating a beautiful picture that seems to only exist in fairy tales.

Lavender is a symbol of love and purity and in Hokkaido, this flower grows abundantly and densely. Soft, fluffy petals bloom in seemingly endless fields. The gentle scent of lavender spreads throughout the space, bringing a feeling of relaxation and calmness.

Autumn (September – November) (# what is the best time to travel to japan)

Which season is the most beautiful to travel to Japan, definitely no season is as beautiful as autumn with red and yellow leaves. This autumn has cool weather, clear blue sky, soft yellow sunshine, extremely suitable for sightseeing and picnics. Because of this, autumn is considered the best time to travel to Japan. Especially in the fall – red leaf season, when the green leaves change color to yellow and red and cover the roads, it is extremely romantic and impressive making tourists flock here to enjoy and take photos. The red leaf season in Japan begins from September to November.

The best destinations you should explore in autumn such as: Ancient capital Kyoto – autumn paradise in the land of the rising sun, Fuji mountain, Towada Hachimantai National Park, Nikko National Park, sightseeing on the Hozu River, Mount Takao…

You should also not miss some festivals this season such as:

• October 7 – 9: Kunchi Festival of Suwa Shrine, Nagasaki featuring Chinese lion dance.
• October 9 – 10: Hachimangu Shrine’s Takayama Festival with an extremely brilliant boat parade.
• Mid-October: Nagoya City Festival with portrait parade of three feudal lords.
• October 14 – 15: Kenka Matsuri (Fighting Festival) of Matsubara Temple, Himeji.
• Toshogu Shrine’s Autumn Festival in Nikko: takes place on October 17.

Destinations that tourists should not miss if traveling at this time are:

Lake Kawaguchi

Fall is a great time to explore the natural beauty of this tourist destination. Lake Kawaguchi is like a fairy painting with beautiful scenery. The trees on the lake shore are covered with yellow, orange, and red foliage, creating a romantic scene and making a deep impression on visitors. This landscape is even more brilliant when reflected on the clear blue water of Lake Kawaguchi. Visitors can walk along the lake shore to explore the surrounding nature or rent a boat to swim on the lake and admire the beautiful autumn landscape.

Rikugi-en Park

This is considered one of Tokyo’s most beautiful parks. Autumn is the time when the trees in Rikugi-en park begin to turn into vibrant colors, creating a captivating landscape. The yellow, orange, red petals and brown leaves make the park even more poetic. Visitors can stroll around Rikugi-en park to explore and enjoy the natural beauty and fresh air.

Daisetsuzan National Park

One of the best places to visit in the fall. Enjoy autumn at Daisetsuzan National Park, a mountain range with an altitude of about 2000m. It is also one of the earliest places to welcome autumn in Japan. Here, autumn begins at the end of September and lasts until October. The maple trees around the Daisetsuzan mountain area turn bright red, creating a spectacular scene.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Admire the red leaves at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a symbol in Kyoto. One of the ideal places for tourists in the fall. The leaves are gradually changing from green to bright yellow-red, creating a poetic scene. Visitors also have the opportunity to try traditional Japanese tea at teahouses in the area.

The best time to see autumn red leaves is November, which has been updated on the autumn leaf viewing calendar in Japan. When arriving at the most beautiful time of autumn, visitors will be immersed in the autumn colors of maple and sakura trees in the fall. Along with the temple’s long history, visitors can overlook the entire city of Kyoto.

Osaka Castle

Located in the tourist center of Osaka, this is a castle with a huge area and unique architectural features. To this day, this place still maintains its ancient and mysterious features, making visitors admire every time they visit.

Admiring Osaka Castle in autumn leaves is one of the great places for tourists in the fall. Red and yellow colors cover the grounds around the castle, creating a majestic picture. The time on the autumn leaf viewing calendar in Japan is late November to early December.

During the fall, Osaka Castle often hosts fall events and festivals. Allowing visitors to admire the traditional beauty imbued with Japanese culture and art. You can tour the castle and enjoy the historical Japanese atmosphere along with the beautiful scenery of red leaves.

Winter (December – February) (# what time of year is it best to visit japan)

Japanese winter usually lasts from December to February of the following year. During this time, the temperature drops with snow. That’s why going to Japan in winter, you will experience the feeling of skiing and watching snow fall. Snow usually falls the most from January to early February, and usually only covers northern and western Japan. Some snowy regions such as: Hokkaido Island, Nagano, Fukui, Akita, Yamagata, Fukushima, Aomori, Iwate,… To experience winter in Japan, you can ski in the thick snowfields in the Alps or Hokkaido. Besides, don’t forget to enjoy a relaxing soak in the outdoor Onsen hot springs in winter. Being able to watch the snow while feeling the warmth in the cold air is also a wonderful thing.

Some winter festivals in Japan are:

• December 17 – 19: Hagoita-ichi Festival (Badminton Fair) of Asakusa Kannon Temple, Tokyo.
• December 31: Okera Mairi Festival (Sacred Fire Festival) of Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto.
• First 7 days of February: Snow Festival in Sapporo, Hokkaido – the most famous snow festival in Japan. When you come here, you will admire many giant snow and ice sculptures.
• Nagasaki Lantern Festival: often takes place in China Town to celebrate the New Year.

Winter in Japan offers an exciting and special experience for visitors. With a cold climate and snow everywhere, winter is a great time to explore the unique beauty of this country. Some prominent destinations in winter are:

Zao Snow Village

Located in northern Japan, this place is called the “land of white snow” with a cold climate and large amounts of snow in winter. In addition to admiring the white snow landscape, visitors can also participate in fun winter activities at Zao Snow Village such as: Skiing, snowballing, building human figures…

Kenrokuen Garden

Located in Kanazawa city, this is one of Japan’s most famous royal gardens. During winter, Kenrokuen Garden is covered with a layer of beautiful white snow. The natural landscapes in the garden become more special and majestic when dressed in snow. The poetic and peaceful atmosphere of Kenrokuen Garden in winter is a great choice for those who love beautiful scenery and want to find tranquility and relaxation.

Shirakawago ancient village

Japan’s unique cultural identity can make any tourist feel satisfied when visiting. You can also combine a skiing holiday with a trip to explore the wonderful “land of the rising sun”.

With its ancient and peaceful beauty, Shirakawago is one of those places that can captivate your mind from the first moment. Separated from the outside world by high mountains, this small village was only “discovered” about decades years ago. The impression that Shirakawago gives visitors is of a beautiful small village with thatched roofs of wooden houses, gingerbread and unique culture.

In winter, the entire forest of trees and grass in Mount Fuji seems to fall asleep, white snow covers everywhere. Somewhere in the afternoons, when the sunlight falls behind the mountains, we can admire a very poetic beauty.

Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen)

Have you ever seen adorable, mischievous monkeys living in cold snow and ice? Come to Jigoku Dani Monkey Park to experience unique things. Bathing in hot springs is familiar, but bathing in hot springs with monkeys is something you definitely haven’t tried. Trust me, this will be one of the most memorable baths of your life.

Which is the best month to travel to Japan?

January is the coldest time of the year with the temperature dropping to only about 10 degrees Celsius, there are many areas with snow. Coming to Japan at this time, you can experience warming activities such as skiing, “chill chill” soaking in natural hot springs.

In addition, January in Japan also has many beautiful flowers and unique festivals such as apricot flowers, daffodils, grass burning festival, Shikotsu Lake snow festival,…

Not only that, January is also the time of the Shogatsu Festival (Japanese New Year), where everyone will wish each other a happy and prosperous new year. One thing to note is that during this New Year, many stores will be closed, so find out in advance to avoid the situation of not having a place to eat or drink!

The weather in February is still cold due to the influence of a long cold spell, so the snow at this time is extremely thick and soft, very suitable for tourists who love to participate in skiing and ice activities.

In some southern regions of Japan such as Tokya or Osaka,… the weather is starting to get warmer, with rays of sunlight appearing. On the contrary, the northern provinces of Japan such as Hokkaido are still covered by cold and dense snow and ice.

When you come to Japan in February, you can participate in the Sapporo Festival – one of the extremely famous winter festivals of this Land of the Rising Sun. In addition, you can also see apricot flowers – Ume at Kairakuen garden in Mito, Ibaraki, Hanegi park in Tokyo or Osaka castle park.

March – Experience the cherry blossom festival

Japan in March begins to have more sunshine, the weather gradually warms up, making it suitable for you to walk and enjoy all the flowers here, especially cherry blossoms blooming everywhere. The traditional Hanami festival – cherry blossom festival usually begins between March 15 and 30. At this time, Japanese people often go on picnics with their families and friends, cook together, and celebrate, party, eat, drink and enjoy flowers together.

In addition, March also has an Anime festival – Japan’s famous culture around the world, which is also a very large and famous festival in Japan. When participating in this festival, you will see countless cosplay performances with extremely famous and unique characters by young people here.

At night in March, the temperatures around 13 degrees Celsius. Although quite comfortable, there will still be a temperature difference between day and night, so you should wear warm clothes when going out at night!

April – Spring travel to Japan

April is the middle of spring, the cold air at this time will subside, instead it will become much warmer and more pleasant. This is the best month for you to travel to Japan and explore any destination in this country.

Two famous flowers associated with Japan’s tourism – cherry blossoms and wisteria – will bloom beautifully in April every year, so don’t miss the opportunity to see and take “virtual life” photos. Keep memorable moments! In addition, you can also see Nanohana rapeseed flowers during the Qingming period (April 5 – April 19), brightly yellow combined with warm rays of sunlight.

May – Many flowers bloom

Compared to April, the temperature in May in Japan increases significantly because it almost no longer feels cold, and even feels hot when participating in long outdoor activities. The average temperature at this time is usually about 20 degrees, the lowest temperature is about 10 degrees Celsius and the highest is about 32 degrees Celsius. Although it is warm, there will still be a temperature difference between day and night, so remember to prepare both short sleeves and long sleeves!

May is the time when Tokyo is filled with festivals, the most prominent of which is the Sanja Matsuri festival that takes place on the 3rd weekend of May each year. This festival impresses visitors with the parade of more than 100 mikoshi floats being carried by people on every street. At the end of May there is also an extremely popular Roppongi Art Night, which you can experience on the weekend. Coming to Japan at this time, you can also see Wisteria flowers, iris flowers and moss phnox flowers blooming.

June – No rain in Hokkaido

The rainy season comes at the end of June, appearing in most areas in Japan, so you need to bring a raincoat or umbrella if you want to leave the hotel and go out sightseeing. However, you can choose to travel to the northernmost archipelago of Hokkaido because this is the only place in Japan where it does not rain in June.

Although June is not the peak tourist season, many tourists still choose to visit and explore culture and cuisine in the land of cherry blossoms. In addition, you can also visit beautiful beaches here such as: Shiraham, Ozuna or Emerald,… to experience coral shopping and have fun with many exciting underwater activities.

July – Bright yellow sunflowers

The hottest time of the year in Japan is July, the average temperature is in the range of 24 – 3 degrees Celsius, and there are still rains in July. However, this is a shower so it stops quickly, and also does not affect your trip much.

Don’t forget to visit Hokkaido in July to see with your own eyes the extremely brilliant beauty of millions of beautiful blooming sunflowers. In addition, you can also attend the biggest musical acts at Fuji Rock Festival. This is also the time when famous summer festivals take place such as: Tenjin Matsuri in Osaka, Gion Matsuri in Kyoto and hundreds of “hanabi taikai” (fireworks displays) performances held across the country.

August – Go to beaches

Temperatures in the Land of the Rising Sun range from 35 – 25 degrees Celsius, so remember to bring lots of light and airy clothes before going.

At this time, the weather is hot and uncomfortable, so avoid central cities like Osaka, Tokyo, Kyoto and go to the beaches in surrounding cities to enjoy a wonderful time on vacation.

September – Watching the Japanese rain

Because of harsh weather conditions and few tourist attractions to choose from, September is the time when tourists should not travel to Japan.

Although the weather is not too hot and less humid, this is the peak storm season, which often hits the coasts such as Kyushu, Okinawa and Shikoku, accompanied by heavy rains and strong winds. If you choose to go to Japan in September, remember to always bring an umbrella and check the weather forecast before leaving the hotel!

October – Vibrant festivals

September passed, bringing storms, and October came to give Japan favorable weather and countless beautiful early autumn scenes. With average temperatures ranging from 22 – 14 degrees Celsius in all areas, you will have the most comfortable vacation without having to worry about sightseeing or outdoor activities.

Traveling to Japan in October, visitors will be immersed in the extremely romantic scenery of trees changing leaves. You can also participate in many festivals from all over Japan: Matsue Suitoro water and light festival, Oktoberfest Yokohama, Tokyo’s annual performing arts festival or Halloween.

November – The season when trees change leaves

This is the best time to travel to Japan – November – the weather is very pleasant, not hot, with chilly winds. November is also the time when Japan is “dyed red” by thousands and millions of trees changing leaves. Take advantage of this time to admire and preserve these beautiful moments with your family and friends!

November has the traditional festival Shichi-Go-San (‘7-5-3’), where seven- or three-year-old girls and five-year-old boys dressed in colorful kimonos receive blessings. good luck at the Shinto shrines.

December – Experience celebrating New Year’s Eve in Japan

Japan in December has an average temperature of 12 – 4 degrees Celsius, day time is shorter than night and the sun sets in Tokyo at about 4:30 p.m. every day. This time there is the Hagoita-Ichi festival, held in mid-December from the 17th to the 19th at Asakusa Kanon Temple in Tokyo. In addition, you can also celebrate New Year’s Eve in Japan, eating buckwheat noodles – a quite interesting traditional activity here.

Which season is best to travel to Japan depends on each person’s preferences. Because each season in Japan has its own beauty, that’s why you should choose which month to travel to Japan and experience the beauty of the land of cherry blossoms in each season to have your own feelings.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, to and from Tokyo you can refer to

• Private Narita International Airport Transfers (NRT) for Tokyo 23 Wards, Hakone, or Karuizawa
• Private Haneda International Airport Transfers (HND) for Tokyo 23 Wards, Hakone, or Karuizawa
• Airport Limousine Bus Transfers from/to Narita and Haneda International Airport (Free Wifi Onboard)
• Tokyo Amazing Sightseeing Bus Day Tour
• Tokyo Highlights Private Day Tour
• Nikko Day Tour from Tokyo
• Mt Fuji & Hakone Day Tour: Lake Ashi & Ropeway Day Trip from Tokyo
• Nikko Cultural Day Tour from Tokyo
• Tokyo Subway Ticket (24, 48, or 72 Hours)
• Tokyo Skyliner and Tokyo Subway Ticket
• Shuttle Bus Transfers (One Way/Round Trip) from Shinjuku/Ikebukuro to Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea
• Tokyo Disney Resort Park Ticket
• Klook Pass Greater Tokyo
• SHIBUYA SKY Ticket
• Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter Ticket
• Skyliner Narita Airport Express Ticket
• TeamLab Planets Ticket
• TOKYO SKYTREE® Ticket
• Limousine Bus Narita or Haneda Airport to Tokyo
• Skyliner Narita Airport Express With Tokyo Subway Ticket
• JR Tokyo Wide Pass
• Sky Hop-on and Hop-off Bus Pass
• 4G Prepaid Sim Card (JP Airports Pick Up) for Japan
• 4G WiFi (BKK and DMK Airport Pick Up) for Japan (Unlimited Data)
• JR Pass for Whole Japan (7, 14, or 21 Days)

Are you looking for more Tokyo travel guide and top things to do in Tokyo: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Tokyo itinerary 3 days — What to do in Tokyo in 3 days?

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Is Japan Expensive To Visit? Money Saving Tips For Your Next Trip

Written By: Sara Oprasic

Published On: April 25, 2024

Try to find out whether Japan is an expensive country to visit, and you’ll quickly find yourself in a rabbit hole without a definitive answer. There is a lot of conflicting information online about the travel costs in Japan; some swear it’s the priciest country they’ve been to, while others are raving about fantastic $5 meals. 

So, is Japan really as expensive as some people say? It’s both a yes and a no. Some things in the country, like transportation, are very expensive, and others are not. The balance is there, and a trip to Japan is possible on any budget.

We have visited Japan several times and have based this article on our experiences. Here’s what you need to know when budgeting for a trip to Japan! 

Is It Expensive To Visit Japan? 

Yes, Dave and Deb have visited Japan a few times, but for me, Japan is a country I’ve dreamed of visiting for years. I’ve planned my perfect itinerary to a T, and I’m just waiting for the right moment in life to take off and spend two weeks in this magnificent country. As I was planning the trip, I realized that Japan isn’t really an expensive country. Sure, it costs a lot of money to get there, especially if you’re from Europe, and the cost of getting around Japan isn’t negligible, but that’s the most expensive thing about it. 

Accommodation is available in every price range, and you can spend as little as $16 for a bed in a hostel or splurge $650 for a night in a five-star hotel. Eating out in Japan can be super cheap or wildly expensive, depending on whether you’re munching ramen on the go or splurging for Kobe beef. The country can cater to anyone, and no matter your travel style and personal preferences, you can have a good time there. 

The exchange rate is approximately 152 Yen to $1, so don’t be scared to see many zeros on price tags in Japan.  

Cost of Accommodation 

Accommodation in Japan is surprisingly affordable and there are hotels for everyone. Beds range from $16 per night in cheap hostels, up to $4,000 for a room in the best luxury hotels, with a myriad of options in between. 

Budget travelers will have plenty of options in Japan, but I have to mention capsule hotels as one of the best options for a cheap stay. The capsule hotel is a Japanese invention and a great alternative to hostel dormitories. Nine Hours Hamamatsucho is a good option for a Tokyo stay. 

Travelers with a mid-range budget will be spoiled for choice in Japan. Stay in three-star and four-star hotels in big cities or quaint ryokans in smaller towns , like the Ryokan Inakatei in Kyoto. Most mid-range hotels in Japan include breakfast in the nightly rate and offer private rooms with ensuite bathrooms. 

Luxury accommodations in Japan are abundant, ranging from high-end chain hotels, like the Ritz Carlton in Osaka, to fantastic luxury ryokans with private onsens. If you want to be pampered during your trip to Japan, you will have plenty of options for luxury stays. 

Keep in mind that you can get much better value for money if you stay outside the city center. A small hotel in Tokyo’s Shibuya can cost as much as a mid-range hotel in Itabashi. Stay outside the city center to get more bang for your buck, especially if you’ve decided to get the JR Pass for unlimited travel on local transportation. 

Budget: 

Hostels and capsule hotels are abundant in Japan, especially in the bigger cities. The nightly rate ranges from $16 to $50 per night per person for dorm-like rooms, while double rooms with private bathrooms have a nightly rate of $50 to $100. That’s a budget of just $100-300 for a week (6 nights), usually including breakfast. 

Mid-Range: 

Mid-range options will run you about $50-100 per night per person. Double rooms in four-star hotels in the center of Tokyo go for $120-200 per night, and many of them are business hotels with nice facilities. In Kyoto, you can book one room for two at a five-star hotel for $150-200, and the prices drop even more if you look at accommodations outside the tourist hotspots. That’s a budget of just $300-600, usually on the lower end, for a week trip. 

Luxury hotels start at roughly $150 per person for a nightly stay in the cheaper cities. In Tokyo, five-star hotels are pricier, with double rooms starting at $350 per night. That’s the lower end for five-star hotels in the capital, and there are plenty of hotels where you can spend more than $1,000 for just one night. 

Cost of Transportation

Japan is such a fascinating country that it’s an absolute shame to travel there and stay in only one place. You should visit at least two or three cities when you’re there, and the more destinations you can squeeze into your itinerary, the better. 

I reckon everyone knows that trains are the best way of getting around Japan. The high-speed bullet trains that reach speeds of more than 300 km/h have become world famous, and are excellent for quickly traveling from one city to another. The only downside is the cost, as they are very expensive. 

I was actually surprised at the cost of high-speed trains in Japan, especially since the inner-city trains and buses are relatively inexpensive. It’s even possible you’ll spend more on transportation than you would on accommodation, which is insane to me. But it would be absolutely worth it because you’d get to discover a good chunk of this fabulous country. 

The best way to save money on train travel in Japan is to get the Japan Rail Pass . The starting cost of the pass for adults is: 

• 7 days for $341
• 14 days for $554 
• 21 days for $692 

A children’s pass is cheaper, but there’s also a first-class pass that’s even more expensive. The JR Pass includes local trains, express trains, some bus lines, and shinkansen, and even partially covers the Nozomi and Mizuho lines. It’s a lot of money, and I wasn’t joking when I said that it could be more expensive than accommodation; two weeks in a hostel or a capsule hotel can be booked for as little as $300, which is nearly half of the cost of the two-week pass. 

The ride from Tokyo to Kyoto is roughly two and a half hours by regular Shinkansen (not the Nozomi line) and costs around $88 one way. That’s almost $180 just on transportation for a day trip. If you also want to visit Nara, Hiroshima, Kobe, Osaka, and Nagoya, you can see just how much the pass is worth getting. 

Cost of Food

Eating out is generally very cheap in Japan, and you can get by with a $25 budget per day, even if you eat out every single day. There are plenty of street food stalls and family-owned hole-in-the-wall restaurants where you can get a surprisingly good meal for as little as $5, which is mindblowing to me. 

On the other end of the spectrum, there are just as many fine-dining establishments where you can splurge for delicious sushi or indulge in Kobe beef. Whether you’re able to spend $15 or $150 per day on food in Japan , you won’t be hungry during your trip. 

One important thing to note is that grocery shopping and preparing meals at the accommodation are not really cheap in Japan. The cuisine in Japan is very different from that in Europe and the United States and uses a lot of ingredients that aren’t common elsewhere. If you don’t know how to cook these foods, you’ll be forced to buy imported foods, which are generally quite pricey. So, grocery shopping can sometimes be more expensive than eating out – it’s counterintuitive, I know, but I’d just run with it and eat noodles three times a day. 

You can eat out every day in Japan, three times a day, with a low budget of $150 per week. I would say that it would be much easier to find cheap but good restaurants in bigger cities like Tokyo because they offer a wider variety of such establishments. 

One thing I will note is that it’s best to avoid restaurants that have huge signs in English to attract visitors. These are usually tourist traps that are twice as expensive as the really good local restaurants, but the food won’t be anywhere near as good. 

For a mid-range budget, expect to spend up to $20 per meal, not including breakfast, which is cheaper. So, roughly $50 per day for a weekly budget of $350, but keep in mind that you’d likely pay less than $20 for most meals. 

Even the high-end restaurants are not that expensive compared to those in the US, as you can eat some of the most decadent food for under $100. You can eat a hearty Galbi Gukbap at one of the best-rated restaurants in Tokyo for just $10. Kobe beef is really the most expensive thing to eat in Japan, and unless you’re having it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you can splurge on fancier eateries with a budget of $500 per week. 

Is it worth it to splurge on Kobe beef? You might be wondering. I think it is, and I’m absolutely planning to do it when I get the chance. If you like eating steak, there’s nothing like it; it’s a delicacy, and even if you are able to eat it elsewhere in the world, it will never taste as good as it does in Kobe, Japan. 

Cost of Activities

Things to do in Japan are abundant and surprisingly affordable. Just walking around the cities is a wonderful experience and a fun thing to do for free. A guided tour of Tokyo will cost you $60-120, but it’s important to note that you can explore the city on your own if you want. Sit at a cafe and watch people at the Shibuya crossing, visit all the famous Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, and check out all the quirky shops in Harajuku – none of those things cost a dime. 

Even just walking around the train stations in Tokyo will be a new experience that can easily kill an afternoon. They’re enormous, for one, and it will take a while to figure out where you need to go if you want to catch a train. But with countless restaurants and a different convenience store every couple of steps, it’s like exploring a tiny city within a much bigger one. 

You can climb Mount Fuji for less than $15, and spend an entire day at Disneyland Tokyo or Universal Studios in Osaka for $65 at most. Then head to a train station and board a bullet train to visit Nara to watch the deer roam around the vast public park full of cherry blossom trees. 

Head to Hiroshima to visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum – the park is free to visit, and the entrance fee for the museum is 200 Yen, which is about $1.3. Even the fantastic Nijo Castle costs less than $10 to tour, while the historic Osaka Castle is just $4. You can even tour the massive Toyota museum in Nagoya for just under $7, and you’ll get to see everything from old-timer cars to robots. 

For budget travelers, anywhere from $20-40 per day is enough for activities, not including shopping. With so many free things to do throughout Japan, you can do one or two cheap paid activities per day, and stick to free ones for the rest. 

Allocated a budget of $40-80, and you’ll be able to do pretty much whatever you want in Japan, plus have some leftover cash for shopping. And if you can spend $80+ per day, it’s plenty of money for sightseeing, tours, and shopping. 

A Budget for 1 Week in Japan 

A general budget for one week in Japan is about $2,000, so around $285 per day for flights, accommodation, transportation, and activities. I’ll break it down for you, but I want to note that that’s what a mid-range budget for a week in Japan would be for one person. Also, keep in mind that, if you’re traveling with someone else, you’ll spend less money on accommodation as it’s cheaper to split the cost of a double room. 

• $700-1000 for return flights
• $300-600 for mid-range hotels (six nights with breakfast) 
• $250 for food ($35 per day)
• $341 for the JRl Pass

On the lower end, that’s just under $1,600, leaving $400 for a week’s worth of fun in Japan. With a budget of roughly $60 per day, you can explore loads – do a couple of cheap attractions in one day, and you’ll have plenty left over the next day for something more expensive like Universal Studios or Disneyland. 

On the higher end, that’s around $2,200 without activities, so around $2,500 for a week trip. And that’s if you splurge on good food every day, and stay at a four-star or even five-star hotel in central Tokyo every night. 

It’s possible to do Japan in a week for about $1,500. Find a cheap ho(s)tel for about $150 and cut the budget for food to $150, leaving another $150 for activities. You can explore a lot with that amount of money, but you likely won’t be able to visit the most expensive tourist attractions. 

Also, you can save some money on flights if you look for deals and travel in the off-season; I’ve seen return flights from London and San Francisco for roughly $600, so it all depends on where you’re traveling from. 

A Budget for 2 Weeks in Japan 

Two weeks in Japan is my dream scenario, and I’ve figured out that it can easily be done for $3,000. That’s roughly $200 per day, including flights, transportation, accommodation, food, activities, and some light shopping! 

A Detailed Breakdown: 

• $554 for the train pass
• Around $450 for budget hotels in big cities and mid-range hotels in smaller towns (this three-star Tokyo hotel is really cheap)
• Roughly $750 for a round-trip flight from Rome to Tokyo 
• $350 for food, which is a budget of $25 per day (breakfast is included in the hotel stay)

That leaves $900 for shopping and sightseeing activities, which is $65 daily. That’s plenty of money to have heaps of fun in Japan; it’s the exact amount you need for the most expensive ticket to Disneyland Tokyo, which will keep you busy the entire day. Or enough money to spend an afternoon in an onsen, explore a museum, and buy a few souvenirs. 

That’s my take on a budget version of two weeks in Japan. If you can find cheaper flights and you don’t mind staying in hostels with shared bathrooms, you can save about $150 on accommodation and cut the entertainment budget in half. Overall, it is possible to do two weeks in Japan for roughly $2,500, but you’d have to watch every cent you spend. 

Anywhere from $3,000 to 5,000 per person is a mid-range budget with better hotels and meals at fancier restaurants, while a budget over $5,000 for two weeks ($350+ per day) per person is enough for a luxury trip to Japan. Of course, you could book a hotel that’s $1,000 per night and easily spend more than $15,000 on the entire trip, but it’s worth noting that you can experience some luxury in Japan for a lot less. 

Is Japan Expensive? FAQs

Is Japan An Expensive Country To Visit? 

Japan has a reputation for being expensive to visit. But, in truth, the short answer is no; Japan is not really an expensive country to visit. It’s expensive to get there, and local transportation is pricey, but everything else is very affordable. 

How Much Would A Meal Cost In Japan? 

The average cost for a meal in Japan is $10-15. You can find cheap street food for as low as $5 as easily as you can spend $200+ for a premium cut of Kobe beef.

Is Japan Expensive To Americans? 

The cost of living in Japan is significantly lower than in the US, so It is generally not expensive for Americans. Eating out and activities are also significantly cheaper in Japan.

Is Food Cheaper in Japan Than the USA?

Yes, food is cheaper in Japan than in the US. There are some exceptions, but it is generally much more affordable to eat out in Japan than in the United States. 

Plan Your Next Trip To Japan with These Helpful Articles

• 22 Best Things To Do In Osaka, Japan

The 20 Best Things to Do in Kyoto, Japan

9 Amazing Day Trips from Tokyo, Japan

• The Best Things to Do in Tokyo, Japan
• 14 Best Cities in Japan To Visit This Year

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About Sara Oprasic

Sara loves writing about travel as much as she loves traveling. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, spending time with her cats, and crossing items off her bucket list. She’s yet to cross off Japan, Tromsø, and Hogsmeade. You can see what she’s up to on her Instagram Page

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15 Essential Travel Hacks When Visiting Japan

A sk anybody what's on their travel bucket list, and their response is sure to include "Japan." Thanks to a combination of rich heritage, lush landscapes, and labyrinth cities packed with skyscrapers, temples, and tourist traps alike, the country has soared in popularity, with American Express claiming that the number of bookings has increased by 1,300% since 2019 (via Bloomberg ).

Part of what makes Japan so alluring is that its culture and customs are so distinct and unique to those of other countries. That's also what makes it an overwhelming travel destination, especially for first-time visitors. If you start your journey in a major city like Tokyo, Yokohama, or Osaka, you're instantly immersed in a world of neon lights, bustling crowds, loud noises, a million different smells, and sensory overload.

With so much to see, do, and eat, a trip to Japan really isn't the kind of vacation you can make up as you go along. The last thing you need is to run into an easily avoided stumbling block like a lack of internet or 30 minutes spent figuring out the route to your next destination — which is why you'll want to arrive armed with as much knowledge as possible.

Read more: 28 Bucket List Destinations That Everyone Needs To Experience At Least Once

Get Quick Meals At 7-Eleven

It's tough to walk for longer than 20 seconds without stumbling upon a convenience store in Japan. Also known as conbini, these stores are usually open 24 hours a day and are packed full of affordable tasty treats that will keep you going without the time (and money) it takes to eat at an actual restaurant.

For as cheap as 200 yen ($1.34), you can enjoy the likes of onigiri rice balls, chicken karaage, sandos, oden, and bento boxes. We also recommend picking up taiyaki for a quick sugar boost. Shaped like fish and made of pancake or waffle batter, they're usually filled with red bean paste, custard, and chocolate and make for an endlessly addictive snack.

The most common store is 7-Eleven, which has over 20,000 locations throughout Japan and is miles above its U.S. counterpart in the culinary department. There are also over 15,000 FamilyMarts scattered across the country, but they typically don't offer as much variety.

Get Pocket Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi is surprisingly scarce in Japan, which can put you in some tough spots if you get lost mid-metro commute. Fortunately, pocket Wi-Fi exists -- and it is a lifesaver. For as cheap as $5 a day, you can rent a portable device that will allow you to access the internet on the go, even on the train. The majority will allow you to connect multiple devices at the same time and come in a variety of different speeds and GB, with some even offering unlimited data throughout your stay.  

If you rent in advance through a website like Ninja WiFi or Japan Wireless , you can pick up the device (also known by the much cuter name of a Wi-Fi Egg) at a designated counter once you've got through customs at airports including Haneda and Narita in Tokyo, Chubu Centrair, Kansai International, Fukuoka, and more. Once you're done, you can just pop it into the returns box at the airport on the way back. Easy.

Buy A JR Pass

Sadly, the JR (Japan Rail) Pass isn't as cheap as it once was. It surged in price by 70% in July 2023 as the yen continued to decline in value against other currencies around the world. However, if your itinerary includes extensive train travel, it's still worth the purchase.

The Japan Rail Pass will allow you to ride the rail to your heart's desire -- including the country's infamous, lightning-speed Shinkansen bullet trains (for a supplementary fee) and the Narita Express. It's more expensive to purchase once in Japan, so we recommend buying yours in advance on the JRailPass website where it costs $340.65 for seven days, $544.45 for 14 days, and $680.35 for 21 days.

If your visit is limited to just one or two cities, such as Tokyo and Osaka or Tokyo and Kyoto, then it probably isn't necessary. For example, a trip between Tokyo and Osaka typically costs $120 each way, which is considerably cheaper than forking out a few hundred dollars for a JR Pass.

Download Train Schedules And Maps

Japan has incredible public transportation. It also happens to be extremely overwhelming if it's your first (or second, or third) time in the country. Tokyo's metro can be especially confusing, with nine different train lines and 180 different stations to navigate. Its roads are even more complex with the majority not even having names, baffling even the city's own taxi drivers.

With that in mind, future-proofing for any situation where you may end up lost in an unknown place is always a good idea. Download or screenshot train schedules ahead of time through the JRailPass website, which offers both interactive and PDF versions of Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto's transportation systems. You can also download an offline version of the local area on Google Maps. This will also help if you face the aforementioned pesky issue of scarce public Wi-Fi, or if your portable Wi-Fi runs out of juice midday.

Use Citymapper

If you're visiting Tokyo, Citymapper is a must. Just like it does for multiple other cities across the globe, the award-winning app analyzes public transportation, congestion, and distance to figure out all the different ways you can reach your destination, and precisely how many minutes each option will take.

Whether it's walking, cycling, taxis, metro, or a combination of everything, all you need to do is select your chosen route and follow Citymapper's step-by-step instructions. When we say step-by-step, we mean it. The app's so smart that it will even tell you which exits and entrances to use at each station to make your journey as stress-free as possible. If you miss your stop or don't quite make your train, the app will also take that into account to restrategize your trip ASAP. You'll need to be online to request a new route, but if you check your journey ahead of time, you can save it to your homepage for offline use.

Visit Between January And March

There is no one "best" time to visit Japan, but there is a most convenient time. January to March tends to attract less crowds and will also usually bring the cheapest flights of the year. While it'll almost certainly be cold, you'll skip typhoon season and be in with a chance of seeing Japan in the snow.

If you do choose to visit at this time, just be sure to check the dates of the Lunar New Year (AKA Chinese New Year). This tends to be a public holiday across the region and will see cities across Japan packed with tourists. As it's such a popular time to travel, this will also be the exception to the "January to March is cheaper" rule with hotels and airlines driving up their prices over the holiday. The same is true of the end of March, which marks the beginning of cherry blossom season.

Make Advanced Reservations

There's a lot to enjoy in Japan. The problem is that everybody else wants to enjoy these things, too. Tourist attractions often book up months in advance, and a lot of them don't sell tickets at the gate, which doesn't leave much space for spontaneity for the average tourist visiting Japan .

If you plan on visiting the likes of the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo - The Making of Harry Potter, Tokyo Disney Resort, Ghibli Park, Shibuya Sky observation deck, Teamlab Planets, or the Studio Ghibli Museum, it's best to sort your tickets sooner rather than later. The Ghibli Museum is especially challenging, with tickets for the next month going on sale at 10 a.m. on the 10th of the month prior.

The same is true of the hotels at Tokyo Disney Resort . With one of the most impressive Disney hotel lineups in the world (including the MiraCosta, a hotel that is actually inside Tokyo DisneySea), rooms are in extremely high demand. These go on sale from 11 a.m. four months before the dates you hope to stay and are bookable through the Tokyo Disney Resort Online Reservations & Tickets website.

Download The Japan Connected-Free Wi-Fi App

If you don't want the responsibility of carrying around and charging pocket Wi-Fi, download the Japan Connected -free Wi-Fi app. Whether you need to double-check directions or just have a quick midday TikTok break, this handy tool will search over 170,000 internet hotspots to find the closest location to you. The majority of these will likely be at a 7-Eleven, where you'll almost always be able to go online.

As if that feature isn't useful enough, the app eliminates the need to fill in the registration forms that typically serve as a barrier before you can access public Wi-Fi. Fill out your name and email once and the app will complete each form on your behalf. While you used to need to be online to find the Internet (which kind of defeats the app's entire purpose), you can now download the offline map to ensure you can always find a connection. Just remember to be careful with what data you enter or share while using any public Wi-Fi network .

Japan has been a "cash is king" country for years, meaning paying with notes and coins is the default over ApplePay and credit cards. This attitude has slipped in recent years, but cash still has a strong grip on the country's residents with only 36% of people preferring cashless payments.

While you should be able to use your card in most major outlets and tourist locations -- such as department stores, malls, theme parks, supermarkets, and even taxis -- a lot of restaurants, cafes, and bars still prefer to be paid in cash. This number will be much higher outside of major cities, and many local restaurants, markets, or temples won't have the facilities to accept card payments even if they want to. Exchanging at least a chunk of your spending money into Japanese yen ahead of time will save you in sticky situations (plus it helps you control your spending, which is always a bonus).

Choose Taxis Over Ubers

Although Uber exists in Japan, it's not as widespread or commonplace as in countries like the United States, Canada, or the United Kingdom. Journeys tend to be more expensive than those taken with local cabs, making the latter the service of choice for locals and tourists alike.

The upside to Uber is, of course, the fact that it's so familiar for many tourists. It's easy to order your taxi and pay via card, and the entire process is in English. However, your cheapest option is to hail taxis on the street, as you won't need to pay a base fare for the pick-up service. It'll say on the front of a car in Japanese if it's occupied. It's also color-coded so tourists can understand. Red means it's taken. Green means it's available. If you do want to pre-book, most locals prefer to use the Go app for journeys anywhere within Japan's 47 prefectures. This works similarly to Uber, except it allows you to pay with both cash and card and will give you a flat rate for journeys to and from the airport.

Purchase A Suica Card

The question isn't so much what a Suica card can do ; what can't it do? This prepaid, contactless card can be repeatedly loaded up with more cash to pay for public transport, including the metro, trains, buses, and taxis. Beyond transportation, Suica is also accepted in many shops, restaurants, cafes, and even vending machines. Just look out for the Suica symbol to know if they do -- and if you can't spot it, it's at least worth asking.

You can purchase your card before arriving in Japan and return it at the end of your trip to recover your 500 yen ($12) deposit. Due to a manufacturing shortage, the sale of new Suica cards is temporarily on hold as of June 2023, but if you're on a temporary visa, you can still purchase a Welcome Suica card. This doesn't require a deposit, doesn't need to be returned, and is valid for 28 days. These can only be purchased inside Japan at locations such as Narita and Haneda airports and will come with a reference paper which you'll need to keep on your person at all times.

Utilize Storage Lockers

For security reasons, storage lockers are a rarity at train stations around the world. Japan is an exception. You'd be hard-pressed to find a major station without coin lockers (which, despite the name, can actually be used with a Suica card, too), and in Tokyo, most stations come equipped with storage facilities.

Baggage storage is one of those things you don't realize you'll need until you desperately need it. These lockers are useful if you only have a few hours before heading to your hotel or next destination and want to stow away your belongings so you can freely explore. They also happen to be extremely cheap, typically costing between $1 and $5. There's usually no problem finding a vacant locker, but if you are struggling, you can download the  SPACER app , which will allow you to find and reserve a locker at major stations such as Shinjuku, Osaka, and Shibuya in advance. This is currently only available in Japanese, but there are plans for an English version in the near future.

Avoid National Holidays

Lunar New Year isn't the only holiday worth skipping if you want to avoid the crowds. National holidays bring in huge crowds anywhere, but especially Japan, where workers get little annual leave and want to take advantage of the break. If you do decide to brave big attractions like Shibuya Crossing, Senso-ji Temple, or Tokyo Skytree, you'll likely find yourself shoulder-to-shoulder with fellow tourists.

For a quieter vacation, April 29 to May 6 -- or, Golden Week -- is one of Japan's busiest holiday periods. This tends to be the most hectic season for the likes of Tokyo Disney Resort and Universal Studios Japan, where you can expect to wait in long lines for everything, from the park entrance to the restrooms. While Christmas isn't a national holiday in Japan, it is for many other countries, meaning the festive season can also bring an influx of tourists to both of these locations. Late September (Silver Week), New Year, and the Obon Week in August are typically also very busy.

Claim Your Tax Refund

From clothes to gadgets, Japan is one of the most unique places for retail therapy in the world. If you're a tourist, you can also shop with the peace of mind that you'll get at least some of your money back. Any non-resident visiting Japan for less than six months can enjoy tax-free shopping, meaning you can reclaim 10% of the value of your purchase.

There are a few catches. First, you'll need to check that the store is in fact a "tax-free shop" by checking for a logo stating as such at the entrance. They're extremely common and can be found in the likes of Namba City, Echika Ikebukuro, and Seibu Shibuya. You'll also need to have spent more than 5,000 yen ($33) in the same store on the same day. Some stores will let you pay tax-free from the offset if you present your passport, while others will require you to present your receipt at a tax exemption counter on the same day to get your money back.

Download A Good Translation App

If you know Japanese, you're good to go. For those of us who aren't bilingual, Japan can be tough to navigate at times. While most signs in major cities will have translations, less than 30% of people living in Japan speak English, which means it's inevitable you'll hit the language barrier at some point during your stay.

A good translation app is a must, especially one that's able to translate pictures. Google Translate is always a go-to, but one of the best choices is iTranslate Translator . Not only can it tackle text, but you can also use it to scan and translate menus, signs, labels ... you name it. Best of all, it can work offline if you download the Japanese pack ahead of time. It's free to download but will cost you $5.99 a month to unlock its full potential. Considering how useful it is, it's better to spend $5.99 than find yourself stranded in a restaurant blind-ordering a dish because you can't read the menu.

Read the original article on Explore .