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

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

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

Japan Weather and Climate

The worst time to visit japan.

• Best Time for Cherry Blossoms

Best Time for Pleasant Weather and Fewer Crowds

• Best Time for Cheapest Prices
• Travel Guide by Month

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Time for Cherry Blossoms in Japan

• March to April: 10–18°C (50–64°F)

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

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

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

Suggested reading: How to Plan a Japan Cherry Blossom Trip

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

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

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

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

Best Time for Cheapest Prices in Japan

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

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

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Japan Weather Guide by Months

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

January and February: Cold and Dry

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

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

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

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

March and April: Best of Cherry Blossoms

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

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

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

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

May: Warm and Sunny

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

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

June: Coolest Summer Month

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

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

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

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

July and August: Best Time for Festivals and Fireworks Celebrations

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

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

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

September and October: Cooler Weather with Fewer Crowds

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

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

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

November: Best Time to Visit for Colorful Autumn Foliage

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

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

December: Perfect for Soaking in Hot Springs and Celebrating Christmas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Times to Visit Japan for Smaller Crowds

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

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

Best Times to Visit Japan for Good Weather

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

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

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

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

Best Times to Visit Japan for Lower Prices

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

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

Best Times to Visit Tokyo Disneyland

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

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

Best Time to Visit Japan for Cherry Blossoms

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

Best Times to Visit Japan for Food Lovers

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

Worst Times to Visit Japan

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

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

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When to travel

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

(Source: Japan Meteorological Agency )

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Questions? Ask in our forum .

The Best Time to Visit Japan: A Complete Guide

• When Is the Best Time to Visit Japan?

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

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

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

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

Temperature in Major Cities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fall/Autumn

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Celia Jenkins

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

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

Here's the best time to visit Japan

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

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

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

It all depends on you!

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

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

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

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

Visiting Japan in spring

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

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

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

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

Visiting Japan in summer

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

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

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

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

Visiting Japan in autumn

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

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

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

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

Visiting Japan in winter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Take a look at these examples of seasonal garments for rent

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

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

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

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

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

• Category Other Sightseeing
• How To: Sightseeing

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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.

When to go to Japan

When is the best time to visit Japan?

The best time to visit Japan is spring (March & April) or autumn (October & November), when days are sunny and dry. During the summer months (May to September), the cities are hot and humid, with heavy rainfall occurring across the country in June & July, except for Hokkaido. In winter, days are cool and crisp, with heavy snowfall in Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps. 

Japan weather & when to go

Pick a month below.

Weather seasons are becoming less predictable but peak visitor months remain more certain.

Unfollow the herd - avoid the peak months to enjoy fewer crowds, better availability, often lusher countryside and help to spread the economic benefits of tourism.

Weather overview

Japan is a year round destination , with four distinct seasons that offer something for everyone. 

Skiers and snowboarders in search of the perfect powder stash are drawn to Japan’s mountain regions during winter, which also attract hikers during the summer months. 

Further south, the beaches of the southern islands are also busy during summer thanks to high sea and air temperatures.

In spring and autumn, pleasant temperatures combine with the natural beauty of ‘sakura’ (cherry blossom season) and ‘koyo’ (autumn leaf viewing) to make these seasons an especially popular time to visit Japan.   

Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Takayama

Weather conditions and temperatures vary across Japan's main island of Honshu.

Northern Honshu and the Japanese Alps experience cooler temperatures (avg temp: 0°C) and heavy snowfall during the winter months, whilst the southern and western regions have milder winters (avg temp: 4 - 5°C) but are prone to hot and humid summers, especially in the main cities of Tokyo , Kyoto and Osaka with temperatures pushing the mercury up to 35°C on some days. 

June is the wettest month of the year across Honshu, with tropical showers occurring until early July.

In terms of temperature and weather conditions, spring and autumn are typically the most pleasant times of the year to visit Honshu. During April, the cherry blossom advances from Hiroshima, in the south, to the higher altitudes of Takayama and the Japan Alps by the end of the month; and conversely, the autumn colours work their way down from the mountains in early October to Kyoto and southern regions by late November.

Okinawa Islands

Okinawa and Japan's southernmost islands enjoy a subtropical climate throughout the year, with temperatures that never dip below double figures, in fact rarely dropping under 20°C. 

During the winter months Okinawa experiences the country’s mildest temperatures, although sea temperatures are chilly and only the hardy venture into the water. 

Come March, spring is definitely in the air, heralding the arrival of the famous cherry blossom, with Okinawa and the southern islands the first place to catch this much anticipated season. Although the months of May & June see tropical rain, it comes in the form of short, sharp bursts and conditions are good for diving. 

Summer days are typified by high temperatures and maximum sunshine, making it a popular time to visit the region's beaches, although as summer progresses there's more chance of typhoon, with August and September being peak typhoon season. 

Typhoon season passes as autumn progresses and autumn days are warm and dry. 

Japan's northernmost island, Hokkaido is cooler than the rest of the country with temperatures reaching as low as -8° during the winter months and peaking at 25°C during summer.

Weather conditions in the winter are affected by the island's proximity to Siberia, with cold winds that bring significant snowfall - essentially perfect conditions for winter sports.

The snow begins to melt as spring arrives in the north and bright sunny days make spring an ideal time for hiking and exploring the island's National Parks. The famous cherry blossom finally makes an appearance in May. 

As the rest of Japan experiences humidity and rain during the summer months, Hokkaido enjoys pleasantly warm and sunny days, and so the hiking season continues.

The island also avoids the typhoons that pound the southern islands during Autumn months when days are typically crisp and dry, and by mid-September Hokkaido is the first place in the country to experience the famous autumn colours.  

Shikoku & Kyushu

Located just off the southern tip of Honshu, the islands of Shikoku and Kyushu enjoy similar temperatures to the southern Honshu regions of Kyoto and Hiroshima , ranging from 5°C during winter to just over 30°C in the summer months. 

Winters tend to be fairly mild and by the beginning of April the cherry blossom advances through the islands, making its way northwards. 

Spring and summer are an enjoyable time to visit Shikoku and Kyushu when temperatures are pleasant and days are generally sunny, although tropical rainfall can be experienced in June and there is a chance of typhoons as the summer turns into autumn (August – September).

Once the typhoon season has passed, autumnal days return to dry skies and comfortable temperatures.  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

June and July

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

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

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

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

October and November

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

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

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

What to Wear in Japan

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Riviera Short Sleeve Shirt

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Quilted Shell Down Jacket

Turtleneck Sweater

High Waist Crop Jogger Pants

Waterproof Boots

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Crewneck Sweater

Stretch Twill Pants

Storm Jacket

Georgia Boot

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Azuma Sandals

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Beverly Hills Tank

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Reverse Weave® Belt Bag

Women’s Casual California Outfit

Tie Front Button Up

Paper Bag Denim Shorts

Full Heart Bobby Pin Set

Fringed Crocheted Belt Bag

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Coors Golden Colorado Tee

Elastic Waist Pants

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

Casino Linear Herringbone Earrings

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Stretch Washed Chinos

Bold Bracelet Watch

More from Oyster.com :

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

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When is the best time to visit Japan?

• 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.

Japan Climate Guide

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7th June 2024

Best Time To Visit Japan: A Month-By-Month Weather Breakdown (2023)

In this blog post, we’ve discussed about the best time to visit Japan .

From our past experience of leading group trips here, we’ve uncovered the hidden gems, tasted the most delectable local delights, and immersed ourselves in the vibrant culture of Japan.

We also learned that Japan is a land of contrasts, where tradition harmoniously blends with modernity. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the seasons, each offering its unique charm.

Whether you’re seeking the awe-inspiring beauty of autumn foliage, the lively festivities of summer matsuris, or the surreal landscapes blanketed in winter snow, we’ve got all the insider tips to make your trip extraordinary.

So, pack your bags, and let the adventure begin! The best time to visit Japan is calling, and you won’t want to miss it.

Tourist Season in Japan

The tourist season in Japan varies throughout the year, each season offering its own allure to visitors. Spring, particularly from late March to early April , is one of the most popular times to visit Japan.

This is when the iconic cherry blossoms bloom, transforming parks and streets into ethereal pink wonderlands. The mesmerizing sight attracts travelers from all over the world, making it a peak tourist season.

Another peak tourist season falls during autumn, from late October to early December. During this time, Japan’s landscapes turn into a stunning palette of red, orange, and gold as the autumn foliage paints the scenery.

The pleasant weather and numerous festivals held during this season add to its appeal, making it another prime time for tourists to experience the beauty of Japan. Whether you prefer the ephemeral beauty of spring or the vibrant hues of autumn, Japan’s tourist seasons promise an unforgettable journey through this captivating country.

Off Season in Japan

The off-season in Japan typically occurs during the winter months, from January to early March . This period is characterized by colder weather, especially in the northern regions, and fewer tourists compared to the peak seasons of spring and autumn.

While the cherry blossoms and autumn foliage may not be in full bloom during this time, Japan still offers plenty of enchanting experiences for travelers who don’t mind bundling up for a winter adventure.

During the off-season, visitors can take advantage of lower accommodation rates, discounted transportation, and shorter lines at popular tourist attractions.

It’s an excellent opportunity to explore the serene beauty of Japan’s winter landscapes, indulge in delicious seasonal cuisine, and participate in unique winter festivals such as the Sapporo Snow Festival.

For those seeking a more tranquil and budget-friendly journey, the off-season in Japan provides the perfect escape from the crowds, allowing you to discover the country’s hidden gems at your own pace.

Climate in Japan

1. japan in winter.

Japan in winter is a magical wonderland that captivates visitors with its serene beauty and unique seasonal experiences. The country transforms into a picturesque landscape as snow blankets its cities, mountains, and countryside.

In northern regions like Hokkaido, the winter wonder continues with frozen lakes and stunning ice sculptures, showcased in the renowned Sapporo Snow Festival. Winter sports enthusiasts can hit the slopes in world-class ski resorts, while onsen (hot spring) lovers can relish in the warm, therapeutic waters surrounded by snowy scenery.

Japanese winter cuisine is a treat not to be missed, featuring comforting dishes like hot pot (nabe), savory ramen, and delectable seasonal treats like strawberry desserts. Traditional festivals like New Year celebrations and the fascinating rituals of Hatsumode at shrines offer a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

Whether you’re exploring the vibrant streets of Tokyo adorned with illuminations or admiring the tranquility of traditional ryokans covered in snow, Japan in winter promises an enchanting experience that will leave you with cherished memories of this extraordinary season.

2. Japan in Summer

Japan in summer is a vibrant and lively season, offering a plethora of experiences that cater to every traveler’s interests. The warm weather and longer days create the perfect backdrop for enjoying Japan’s stunning natural beauty.

From the lush greenery of national parks to the scenic coastal landscapes, the country is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Summer also brings the renowned Japanese festivals known as “matsuri,” where locals and visitors come together to celebrate with lively processions, traditional dances, and dazzling fireworks displays.

The summer season also provides an ideal opportunity to explore Japan’s coastal regions and indulge in its delicious seafood offerings. Whether you’re relaxing on the sandy beaches of Okinawa, exploring historic temples in Kyoto , or hiking through picturesque trails in the Japanese Alps, Japan in summer offers a diverse range of activities for all to enjoy.

Additionally, summer is the season of vibrant summer kimono (yukata) fashion and cooling treats like shaved ice (kakigori) and refreshing green tea ice cream. Embrace the lively spirit of Japan in summer and create unforgettable memories in this captivating country.

3. Japan in Monsoon

Japan in monsoon, also known as the rainy season or “tsuyu,” offers a unique and refreshing experience for travelers. Typically occurring from June to July, this season brings abundant rainfall to the country, rejuvenating its landscapes and filling its rivers and lakes .

While some might associate monsoon with gloomy weather, Japan’s rainy season has its own charm. The lush greenery flourishes, creating a picturesque backdrop for nature enthusiasts. It’s the ideal time to visit Japan’s beautiful gardens, such as the iconic Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa, where raindrops enhance the beauty of the vibrant flora.

Despite the occasional showers, monsoon season also has its advantages. The crowds are generally smaller compared to peak tourist seasons, allowing visitors to explore popular attractions without the usual hustle and bustle. Moreover, the rain gives rise to breathtaking waterfalls and serene onsen (hot spring) experiences become even more inviting.

Embrace Japan’s monsoon season by indulging in a variety of local dishes , such as hot bowls of noodle soups and savory comfort foods, which are especially satisfying during the cooler, rainy days. Don’t let the rain dampen your spirit; Japan in monsoon offers a refreshing and revitalizing encounter with the country’s natural beauty and cultural treasures.

Month-by-Month Weather Breakdown

January: Winter prevails with average temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C. Celebrate the New Year with Hatsumode at shrines and witness Tokyo’s impressive illumination displays. Hit the slopes for skiing in Hokkaido or enjoy winter festivals like the Sapporo Snow Festival.

February: Winter continues, but cherry blossoms start to bloom in subtropical regions. Experience Setsubun bean-throwing ceremonies and the enchanting Snow Lantern Festival in Hokkaido. Warmer indoor activities like visiting art galleries and onsen baths are perfect to beat the chill.

March: Transition to spring with temperatures rising between 5°C to 15°C. Admire early cherry blossoms in Tokyo and Kyoto. Celebrate the Hina Matsuri (Doll Festival) and enjoy hiking among the blooming flowers in national parks.

April: Cherry blossoms reach full bloom, painting the country in vibrant colors. Enjoy the Hanami tradition under cherry blossom trees with temperatures between 10°C to 20°C. Witness the awe-inspiring Yayoi Matsuri in Nikko.

May: Spring continues with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. Attend Golden Week celebrations and festivals. Experience the Sanja Matsuri in Tokyo or the Kanda Matsuri. Enjoy hiking and outdoor activities in comfortable weather.

June: The rainy season or “tsuyu” begins, with temperatures between 20°C to 30°C. Embrace the refreshing monsoon with blooming hydrangeas. Participate in the Sanno Matsuri in Tokyo or Gion Matsuri in Kyoto.

July: Tsuyu persists, with temperatures rising between 25°C to 35°C. Enjoy lively Tanabata festivals and spectacular fireworks displays during summer festivals. Escape the heat in mountainous regions or by cooling off at beaches.

August: Summer peaks with temperatures ranging from 30°C to 35°C. Observe the Obon Festival, honoring ancestors, with dances and lanterns. Head to Aomori for Nebuta Matsuri, featuring illuminated floats. Relax at summer matsuri and beach resorts.

September: Early autumn arrives, with temperatures between 25°C to 30°C. Witness captivating lantern festivals like Otsukimi or Moon Viewing Festival. Venture into nature to see autumn foliage in northern regions.

October: Autumn foliage spreads, offering stunning landscapes with temperatures from 15°C to 25°C. Attend the renowned Jidai Matsuri in Kyoto or the vibrant Halloween celebrations in Tokyo.

November: Fall colors peak, providing picturesque scenery. Enjoy Momiji-gari (autumn leaf viewing) with temperatures between 10°C to 20°C. Witness the Shichi-Go-San festival, celebrating children’s growth.

December: Winter returns with temperatures from 0°C to 10°C. Experience festive Christmas illuminations and enjoy winter sports in the mountains. Prepare for the New Year with traditional Osechi cuisine and Hatsumode shrine visits.

Conclusion – Best Time To Visit Japan

In conclusion, the best time to visit Japan is a subjective choice, as each season unveils its own enchanting wonders. From the mesmerizing cherry blossoms of spring to the vibrant autumn foliage and the lively summer festivals, Japan offers a kaleidoscope of experiences.

Whether you crave the winter magic of snow-capped landscapes or the refreshing monsoon showers enhancing the lush greenery, this captivating country has something extraordinary to offer year-round.

Embrace the local festivities, indulge in delicious cuisine, and let Japan’s diverse seasons paint your travel memories in vivid hues. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the Land of the Rising Sun!

FAQs – Best Time To Visit Japan

When is the best time to visit japan for cherry blossoms, what’s the ideal time to experience japan’s autumn foliage, what’s the best season to explore japan’s cultural festivals, what’s the weather like during the monsoon season in japan, is winter a good time to visit japan for snow activities, what’s the recommended time to avoid crowds and get better deals, what’s the best time to catch japan’s unique seasonal cuisine, related posts.

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The Best Time to Visit Japan

TripSavvy /  Elise Degarmo  

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

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

The Weather in Japan

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

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

Rainy Season in Japan

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

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

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

Dry Season in Japan

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

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

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

Typhoon Season in Japan

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

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

Key Events & Festivals in Japan

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

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

When to Go to Kyoto

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

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

Events to check out:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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When Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Japan?

The good news for travelers is that there is no single best time of year to travel to Japan — yet this makes it hard to decide when to visit, as each season has its own special highlights.

When planning a trip to Japan, a key question to ask yourself is: would you rather have better weather, or fewer tourists around? After all, some travelers hate the cold, or the heat and humidity of summer, while others will do whatever it takes to avoid crowds!

The best time to visit Japan, particularly when it comes to weather, is generally considered to be spring, between March and May, or fall, around October and November. However, other times of year have the benefit of being less crowded and also offer seasonal activities like summer matsuri (festivals) and winter onsen (hot springs), skiing, and snowboarding.

Because there are so many factors to consider, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on the best time to travel to Japan, including information on the seasons, weather, national holidays to look out for, and more.

We update this page regularly and it was last updated on September 26, 2022.

The Seasons and When to Visit Japan

• Japanese Seasons 101

Japan’s National Holidays and Peak Travel Seasons

Spring in japan, summer in japan, fall in japan, winter in japan.

Japanese Seasons 101: The Basics

Japan is truly a year-round destination, and Japanese culture is remarkable in its profound appreciation of the changing of the seasons. As you’ll see when you visit, each season — and even sub-season — is celebrated with seasonal foods , and often festivals. Because of this, we typically recommend taking advantage of any chance to visit Japan.

Highlights of Japan’s Seasons

• Spring is famous for the cherry blossom season , and if you’re lucky — and don’t mind the crowds — you may experience hanami  (cherry-blossom viewing) in all its glory. This romantic time of year is popular for honeymoons in Japan .
• Summer is arguably the most festive time of year, with colorful  matsuri  throughout the country, the chance to hike in the mountains, and lovely coastal areas where you can enjoy the sea.
• Fall  is another magical (and highly popular) time of year, with brilliant autumn colors and crisp, pleasant temperatures.
• Winter  offers amazing seafood, incredible hot springs, not to mention some of the best powder in the world for skiing and snowboarding.

Weather in Japan by Month

• January (after the New Year’s holidays) and February can be great if you don’t mind the cold, because there are usually very few tourists (with the notable exception of Chinese New Year).
• Late March and early April (cherry blossom season) are beautiful, but it’s one of the most crowded and expensive times of year.
• Mid to late May is great, with pleasant weather and not so many crowds.
• June can be nice, but is often rainy (and humid).
• July and August are very hot and humid, but also lively with lots of festivals.
• Mid to late September can be nice (if hot), with fewer tourists than summer or fall, though typhoons can sometimes affect plans.
• October and November have very pleasant autumn weather, but also crowds rivaling spring (especially for the fall foliage in November).
• Early December can be great if you don’t mind some cold, but mid to late December gets very crowded for New Year’s.

How Geography Affects Seasons and Weather in Japan

When discussing the weather in Japan, it’s also helpful to have a very basic understanding of the country’s geography. While Japan may look rather small on the map — especially next to a massive country like China — it is surprisingly large.

The most important thing to keep in mind is that seasons and weather in Japan vary a lot from place to place. Japan stretches from the frigid northern island of Hokkaido, all the way to the subtropical islands of Okinawa in the far southwest.

As you can likely imagine, Hokkaido experiences longer and more pronounced winters than the rest of Japan. In contrast, Okinawa enjoys longer summers and relative warmth almost year-round. In between — in places like Tokyo and Kyoto , on Japan’s main island of Honshu — things tend to be less extreme.

Generally speaking, locations to the south and west tend to be slightly warmer, while locations to the north and east tend toward being cooler. Also keep in mind that higher-elevation areas, such as the Japanese Alps, tend to be colder as well.

For the purposes of this article, to keep things as simple as possible, the information below is primarily based on the seasons and weather in Honshu — and specifically places like Tokyo and Kyoto.

Despite Japan’s popularity, it is possible, to some extent, to avoid crowds at any time of year. Of course, this requires making a special effort to explore at “off” hours, such as early in the morning, or focus on off-the-beaten-path places, as opposed to popular tourist spots.

But if you really want to feel like you have Japan to yourself (to a degree, at least!), the best option is to avoid visiting during any of Japan’s peak seasons.

Japan’s Peak Travel Seasons

Here is a short list of the most crowded times of year in Japan. In addition to crowds, it’s safe to expect the price of accommodations at hotels and ryokans  to skyrocket during these peak travel periods:

• New Year’s: From around the last week of December, into the first week of January.
• Chinese New Year: The exact dates vary each year, typically falling in late January or February.
• Cherry Blossom Season: From around the second half of March, into the first half of April.
• Golden Week: An extended holiday week that usually occurs in the first week of May.
• Obon: An extended holiday period that usually occurs in the middle of August.
• National Holidays: Various long weekends occurring throughout the year.

Japanese people love to travel and will take advantage of any holiday weekend to travel domestically, leading to high demand.

See upcoming dates and tips for planning a trip during peak seasons in our guide to traveling during Japanese holidays .

Ah, spring.

Spring in Japan lasts from about mid-March to May, depending on the location. The weather in spring is notoriously fickle, with temperatures ranging from approximately 40 to 65 °F (4 to 18 °C). On some days you may still want your winter coat, while on other days you may not even need a sweater.

Spring is Japan’s most famous season, and is symbolized by the iconic sakura  (cherry blossoms), which typically bloom sometime between the second half of March, and the first half of April (sakura bloom schedules, too, vary significantly depending on location).

Without a shadow of a doubt, we receive far more inquiries for travel to Japan around cherry blossom season than for any other time of year. In fact, it is such a popular time to visit that we are often forced to stop even considering new inquiries months and months in advance.

While the beauty of the cherry blossoms in bloom is undeniably alluring, whether or not flower viewing in Japan is worth the potential downsides is not quite as clear!

Would-be travelers to Japan often try to coordinate their trips to coincide with hanami season, but Mother Nature is unpredictable. In some years, the sakura bloom early, and in others they arrive late; in “lucky” years they might linger on the trees for a couple of weeks, while in others a strong wind or rain may scatter them early.

Of course, it is in great part this unpredictability and impermanence that has provided inspiration to Japanese poets for centuries.

Why You Might Want to Avoid  Cherry Blossom Season

First, a confession: we can’t deny that cherry blossom season can be amazing. The question is whether or not it’s worth the trouble, added expense, and endless crowds.

Apart from their unpredictability (alluded to above), the problem with the blossoms is that they’ve almost become too famous for their own good. Cherry blossom season has always been an appealing time of year to visit, but in the past few years Japan has received steadily record-breaking numbers of visitors (primarily from Asia, Europe, the US, Australia, and beyond).

The “worst” of peak cherry blossom season lasts from mid-March until around mid-April, and in terms of popularity and crowds it’s comparable to Europe during summer vacations.

What this means for you, the traveler:

• More tourists
• Lower accommodation availability
• Higher accommodation prices
• A need to plan much further in advance

JAPAN’S ACCOMMODATION SHORTAGE

We typically begin receiving requests for cherry blossom season up to a year in advance or more, and many hotels and ryokans  begin to fill up surprisingly early (fortunately, some accommodations don’t start accepting bookings this far in advance, meaning it’s not impossible  to plan with less advance notice).

One of the main problems most travelers don’t realize is that Japan’s recent rise in popularity as a tourist destination has, to a great extent, taken the country by surprise. Whereas the JNTO ’s (Japan National Tourism Organization) main challenge used to be drawing more travelers to Japan, its main challenge now is dealing with the huge influx.

Sadly, for would-be travelers, there are simply not enough hotel rooms to go around. This is particularly dire in the city of Kyoto, which has a striking shortage of rooms relative to demand. It’s also of course an issue when it comes to the best hotels in Japan , which tend to have fewer rooms in the first place.

It’s worth noting that guides, too, are in disappointingly limited supply. The best guides in Japan are often booked just as early, making it a challenge to find great guides when booking without significant advance notice.

Golden Week in Japan

Despite the downsides, cherry blossom season can be a lovely time to visit, provided you plan wisely.

However, there is one week in spring that we definitely recommend avoiding, unless you simply have no choice: Golden Week. Along with the New Year’s holiday (and the Obon holiday in August), Golden Week is one of Japan’s peak travel weeks.

Golden Week usually begins at the very end of April, and runs through the first week of May (each year’s calendar varies slightly). During this time of year, Japanese people travel heavily, making it an extremely busy and expensive time to travel around Japan.

In case you’re wondering what all the fuss is about (after all, maybe holidays and festivals are your thing) it’s important to mention that there is nothing particularly exciting about being in Japan during Golden Week. It’s simply a collection of several non-particularly-exciting public holidays in a row.

If you must travel during Golden Week it can be done, but if you can shift your dates a little you should consider doing so.

Final Tips on Visiting Japan in Spring

Having read all of the above, some of you may be thinking you might want to skip the cherry blossoms (and Golden Week) in favor of fewer crowds.

Late April can be a good time to try and visit, though lately the popularity of the cherry blossom season has started to spill over into this part of the month (also, if considering late April, beware of Golden Week). Mid- to late May can be a wonderful time to be in Japan, too, and tends to have a good combination of warmer temperatures and fewer tourists (though even May is starting to become popular).

As May gives way to June, the spring weather noticeably transitions into Japan’s hot and humid summer…

Summer in Japan lasts from about June to mid-September, depending on the location. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from approximately 70 to 90 °F (21 to 32 °C).

July and August are typically the hottest and most humid times of year, and can be uncomfortable for sightseeing if you are averse to humidity. But despite (or perhaps because of) the torrid climate, summer can also be one of the liveliest times to be in Japan.

Japan has more festivals than almost any other country in the world, and Japanese matsuri – in all their color, tradition, and exuberance – are often spectacular.

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While there are great ones throughout the year, summertime features many of Japan’s best festivals  — including Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri, Osaka’s Tenjin Matsuri, Aomori’s Nebuta Matsuri, and the Awa Odori festival in Tokushima, on the island of Shikoku – not to mention countless lively (and delicious) neighborhood matsuri throughout the country.

In addition to matsuri , summer is also renowned for its extraordinary fireworks extravaganzas. Hanabi (fireworks) are taken seriously in Japan, and going to a hanabi taikai  is both entertaining and quite culturally immersive. Tokyo’s Sumida River Fireworks are especially famous, but throughout the summer fireworks displays take place all around the country.

This all sounds fun – and it really is – but is it worth subjecting yourself to Japan’s summer heat and humidity?

How Hot & Humid is Summer in Japan?

Apart from the usual summer crowds (thanks in great part to summer vacations taking place across half the world), one of the potential downsides of visiting Japan in summer is the heat and humidity, which can be uncomfortable at times.

In our experience, summers in Tokyo feel more or less like summers in New York City. It’s hot and humid, but the days are long, people are out enjoying themselves, and it’s worthwhile as long as you aren’t the type of person who melts in this type of weather. Kyoto is more comparable to an even muggier city like Washington, DC. If you’re not accustomed to this type of weather, it can be tiring to try and fit too  much in.

Whether or not it is worthwhile depends on your own ability to enjoy yourself in this type of weather. Californians accustomed to mild weather may find it challenging, while those from places with distinct seasons will probably be fine.

But fortunately, even if you’re not the hot-and-humid type, there are ways to experience a milder version of Japanese summer, even during the summer months!

Tips on Visiting Japan in Summer

As explained above, Japan stretches quite a long way from the northern extremes of Hokkaido, to the southern subtropics of Okinawa. This leads to significant variations in weather, meaning that — to a degree — you can choose your own desired climate when visiting Japan.

Additionally, even within central Japan itself, mountainous areas such as the Japan Alps enjoy cooler temperatures than places like Tokyo and Kyoto.

So if you’re visiting Japan in summer, but want to mitigate your exposure to heat and humidity, it’s worth trying to spend as much time as you can in places such as the Japanese Alps, Tohoku, and Hokkaido. You’ll still have the chance to experience summer, but in a milder way than if you were in the major cities.

Japan’s Rainy Season and Typhoon Season

Fortunately, compared to most countries in Asia, Japan has a relatively mild rainy season. The rainy season (known as tsuyu , the plum rain) goes from early to mid June until mid July, depending on the location.

Despite being the rainy season, travelers shouldn’t necessarily expect rain every day. In addition, the rains – while often persistent – are not usually terribly intense (unlike in many Asian countries, torrential rain is not the norm). Some of us love this time of year, but if you are particularly averse to rain it is worth considering other dates.

Typhoons (in other words, hurricanes) generally occur between May and October, with the peak taking place in late summer. Okinawa and southwestern Japan are particularly vulnerable to typhoons, though they can affect other parts of Japan as well. In late summer it’s not uncommon for typhoons to affect travel plans (e.g., flight cancellations) to and from Okinawa, though this tends to happen less in most other parts of Japan.

Japan’s summer extends into September, but as October peeks around the corner the coveted autumn season gets underway.

Autumn in Japan lasts from about mid-September to early December, depending on the location. Fall is widely considered to be the most pleasant time (weather-wise) to visit Japan, with temperatures ranging from approximately 50 to 70 °F (10 to 21 °C).

Apart from its comfortable temperatures and generally clear weather (particularly in later autumn), fall is perhaps most famous for the vibrancy of the changing foliage ( koyo ).

While autumn technically begins in late September, it’s still usually quite warm (sometimes very hot) at this time of year, but with the arrival of October the fall definitively gets underway.

With the pleasant change in weather, tourists also begin pouring in to enjoy the lovely temperatures, making October a very popular travel season in Japan. But its popularity doesn’t compare to November’s, when the peak autumn travel season begins. By November, autumn is in full swing, and throughout Japan you can begin to witness the fall foliage.

Tips on Visiting Japan in Fall

Due to the popularity of October and November, if you would like to try and avoid tourists to the extent possible, you may wish to consider early December, when you may still catch some of the koyo , though likely with fewer tourists around. Soaking in an outdoor onsen while gazing at the autumn foliage is also an unforgettable experience.

Japan’s fall foliage season is in many ways similar to cherry blossom season, in terms of the appeal and potential downsides (described in more detail above). As with hanami season travel, koyo  travel means contending with more tourists, lower accommodation availability, higher accommodation prices, and a need to plan further in advance.

Please refer to our thoughts in the spring section above to get a better idea of whether fall (or spring) travel may be right for you.

Winter in Japan lasts from about December to mid-March, depending on the location. Winters are cold, with temperatures ranging from approximately 30 to 45 °F (-1 to 7 °C). Yes, it is cold, but if you can get past this basic fact (which is a potential “dealbreaker” for some), you’ll find that winter is in fact one of the best times to experience Japan all for yourself.

Aside from a few exceptions (described below), Japan – like many other destinations around the world – tends to receive fewer travelers during the cold winter season. This is partly because most people prefer to visit at more well-known times (such as cherry blossom season), and also in part because not everyone is able to utilize vacation days to visit at this time of year. This is unfortunate, especially if you are keen to experience Japan with fewer tourists around!

In the mountains of Japan, snowfall is especially plentiful, making Japan an incredible ski and snowboarding destination. The most well-known places to enjoy Japan’s legendary powder are Hokkaido and the Japan Alps (the latter played host to the 1998 Winter Olympic Games).

One of the best parts of visiting Japan in winter is the chance to really enjoy Japanese hot springs. While onsen can certainly also be enjoyed at other times of the year, nothing compares to sitting in a mountain hot spring, surrounded by a white landscape with snow falling on you as you soak. It’s one of the quintessential Japanese experiences, and not to be missed.

Tips on Visiting Japan in Winter

In general, you’ll find far fewer tourists visit Japan in winter, but there are some notable exceptions to keep in mind.

We receive lots of requests for travel around the New Year’s holidays, and while it can be a magical time to visit, it’s also worth considering the potential drawbacks. Because it’s an extended holiday period (not just in Japan, but in many places worldwide), the days before, during, and after New Year’s Day tend to become quite busy with both tourists from abroad, as well as Japanese people visiting family or taking vacations.

This means, for example, that the charming old streets of Kyoto will likely be bustling and full of people from around Japan and the world. For some, it’s a magical atmosphere, full of holiday spirit (Japanese style), but for those who prefer more peace and quiet it is worth a consideration.

Additionally, since Japanese people have several days off for the New Year’s holiday (far more than in places like the US or Europe), accommodations throughout the country are typically at very high occupancy, making availability low and prices higher than usual. Luxurious ryokans , in particular, tend to be booked up to a year or so in advance by “repeaters.”

As far as the New Year in Japan is concerned, it’s also important to point out that – from the end of December (generally sometime after Christmas) until a few days into January (usually until around January 3rd or 4th or later), many places are closed.

This can include (but is not necessarily limited to) some restaurants, museums, shops, and more. While there are increasing exceptions, in the past it’s been fairly reasonable to expect that most restaurants will be closed from at latest December 31st until at least January 2nd or 3rd (apart from certain high-end restaurants, as well as those located in department stores, hotels, and those catering particularly to travelers).

On the bright side, this can be a beautiful time to get off the beaten path and visit more remote areas of Japan . Additionally, most temples and shrines  (for example, in Kyoto) do remain open around the New Year’s holiday, and thus it can in fact be a very peaceful and rewarding time of year to visit.

When Will You Visit Japan?

Deciding when to visit is often the first step in planning your Japan trip . We hope this guide has helped you form a clearer picture of what each of Japan’s seasons is like, and when would be ideal for you.

Japan is beautiful at any time of year, and we hope you have the chance to visit soon! If you’re interested in learning more about our service, make sure to check out our sample Japan itineraries .

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Best Time To Visit Japan

Japan in spring is a sight to behold

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

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

Best Time To Visit

We recommend.

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

Weather in Japanese Cities

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

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

Japan Travel Tips

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

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

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

When is rainy season and typhoon season in Japan?

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

When should I visit Japan to see fall colors?

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

When is winter season in Japan?

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

What to Pack for Japan

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

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

How to Dress by Season in Japan

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

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

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

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

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Best Places To Visit

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

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

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

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

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

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

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From warm baths in natural hot springs to authentic cooking classes and trips to an enchanted forest – discover the top ten highlights of Japan tours from our Enchanting Travels destination experts.

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Japan boasts lush green spaces, vast open landscapes and charming rural villages. The country is also considered to be one of the safest destinations in the world! Here are the top Japan travel tips from our destination experts.

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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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TRAVEL | When to Go

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT JAPAN?

Article | |--> Dayna Hannah

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

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

SPRING IN JAPAN

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

Things to Do in Japan in March

Plum Blossoms

AnimeJapan Convention

Fire and Light Festivals in Kansai

Things to do in japan in april.

Takayama Sanno Spring Festival

Wisteria Bloom

Things to do in japan in may.

Mount Fuji Shibazakura Festival

Kyoto Aoi Matsuri

Baby Blue Eyes Festival

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

VIEW JAPAN SPRING TOURS FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

Summer in japan.

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

Things to Do in Japan in June

Yosakoi Soran Bushi in Sapporo

Hydrangea in Hakone

Things to do in japan in july.

Lavender Fields in Furano and Biei

Kyoto Gion Matsuri

Wear a Yukata

Things to do in japan in august.

Awa Odori Festival in Tokushima City

Attend Tohoku’s Three Great Festivals

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

VIEW JAPAN SUMMER TOURS FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

Autumn in japan.

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

Things to Do in Japan in September

Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri

Tokyo’s Sumo Tournament

Things to do in japan in october.

Takayama Hachiman Autumn Festival

Ride the Shimanami Kaido

Things to do in japan in november.

Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival

Shichi Go San

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

VIEW JAPAN AUTUMN TOURS FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

Winter in japan.

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

Things to Do in Japan in December

Winter Illuminations

Chichibu Yomatsuri

Celebrate the New Year

Things to do in japan in january.

Snow Monkeys at Yudanaka Onsen

Gassho Houses in Shirakawa-go and Gokayama

Things to do in japan in february.

Sapporo Snow Festival

Otaru Snow Light Path Festival

Kawazu Cherry Blossoms

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

VIEW JAPAN WINTER TOURS FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

When is the worst time to go to japan.

Golden Week

Lunar New Year

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

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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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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

Book your Japan Rail Pass now

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.

The Perfect 7-Day Japan Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Japan captured my heart from the moment I firs visited. The delicious food, the rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant history, and the very friendly and polite people – it all blew my mind.

But Japan often feels impenetrable, especially to first-time visitors. While I think Japan deserves a minimum of 10 days, I get that some people might only have a week, so I wanted to write this, my ideal seven-day itinerary for Japan for a first-time visitor.

With only a week, there’s not much you can see unless you really rush it. And I don’t think you should do that.

So this itinerary only focuses on Tokyo and Kyoto (the most popular destinations) as well as some day trips from each. If you wanted to rush things a little, you could add in Osaka (more on that at the end).

(Note: If you purchased a Japan Rail Pass , activate it on arrival. That way, you can take advantage of the free JR trains throughout the city.)

Table of Contents

Japan Itinerary Day 1: Tokyo

Japan itinerary day 2: tokyo, japan itinerary day 3: tokyo, japan itinerary day 4: kyoto, japan itinerary day 5: kyoto, japan itinerary day 6: nara, japan itinerary day 7: tokyo, an alternative itinerary.

Tsukiji and Toyosu Fish Markets Cure your jet lag with some food! In 2018, Tokyo’s main fish market moved to Toyosu. It is now twice the size of Tsukiji (the old one), making it the largest such market in the world. Here you can eat fresh sushi for breakfast, just a few feet from where it was hauled in from the sea, while marveling at the chaotic atmosphere.

You can still head to the old market in Tsukiji to eat, shop, and wander as well. I like it a lot, because there are more food options! Food and drink tours of the Tsukiji Outer Market are available for around 15,000 JPY.

Toyosu Fish Market is open Monday-Saturday 5am-5pm, though most shops don’t open until 7am. Admission is free, but you have to pick up a visitor’s pass when you enter. Tsukiji Fish Market’s hours vary by shop (usually 5am-2pm). Admission is free.

teamLab Planets This digital art installation is a multi-sensory and immersive experience in which you become part of the artwork, walking barefoot through the four exhibition spaces and gardens as you interact with the installations’ elements in unique ways. It’s really fun! TeamLab is generally sells out in advance, so I recommend getting your tickets online ahead of time .

Take a walking tour Walking tours are a great way to get the lay of the land while connecting with a local guide. I always go on one or two when I arrive somewhere. Tokyo Localized offers many free tours, including a classic overview and ones of both the famed Harajuku and Shinjuku neighborhoods. Its Imperial Palace tour would be the most convenient one after teamLab.

The Imperial Palace Formerly Edo Castle, the Imperial Palace was built in the 15th century, and some of the walls and moats from that time are still in use to this day. When the emperor moved from Kyoto to Tokyo in 1869, he took Edo for his new palace and renamed it. While you can’t go inside, it is surrounded by beautiful grounds, a moat, and a park worth wandering through. You can also see the changing-of-the-guard ceremony (though it’s relatively low-key and unassuming). Admission to the grounds is free.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden This park is over 144 acres and home to some 20,000 trees. Most of the original park was destroyed in World War II but was rebuilt and reopened in 1949. During spring, it is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms. My favorite area is the landscape garden, which has several ponds with bridges and islands. It’s a peaceful oasis away from the urban hustle and bustle.

Depending on how you feel relative to your jetlag, you could fit a few more activities before you end your day. Check out this post for suggestions .

• Senso-ji – This is Tokyo’s most popular and famous temple. Beautifully painted, it sits in a scenic spot near a pagoda and the lovely Kaminari Gate. There’s a huge statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, inside the main hall. It’s very busy during the day, so maybe check out the grounds in the evening.
• Asakusa Shrine – This nearby Shinto shrine is much more peaceful, with fewer visitors, but with people praying, meditating, or performing traditional rituals. It was built during the Edo period (1603–1868) and survived the air raids of World War II.

Afterward, head to Ueno Park . Spanning over 133 acres, Ueno Park was established in 1873 on land formerly owned by a 17th-century Buddhist temple. It gets super busy in cherry blossom season, as there are over a thousand trees here. Throughout, you’ll find various stalls and vendors selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. On weekends, there are usually cultural events or festivals showcasing traditional arts, music, and dance. Four of Tokyo’s main museums are here:

• Tokyo National Museum – Established in 1872 on the north end, this massive building is the oldest and largest art museum in Japan. It houses one of the world’s largest collections of art and artifacts from Asia, particularly Japan.
• Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum – This museum showcases rotating exhibitions of contemporary and traditional Japanese art.
• National Museum of Nature and Science – This museum features a wide range of permanent and temporary exhibitions covering natural science and history.
• Tosho-gu Shrine – This beautiful 17th-century Shinto shrine has carved gold doors and other ornate carvings. It’s worth seeing up close!

Afterward, walk down to Akihabara to explore the video game parlors, arcades, and anime shops. This very buzzy area is ground zero for all things electronic, and it’s fun to play many of the games. This is where you’ll find the famous maid cafés, where servers dress up as maids and serve you food and drinks. These range from big touristy ones to holes-in-the-wall (the girls on the street are promoting the latter, which are a lot more culturally fun). They aren’t cheap, though, as you have to buy drink packages and pay a fee, but they’re kitschy and fun.

In the evening, visit Shinjuku and then drink in Golden Gai . In Shinjuku, you’ll find a plethora of cool bars, bright lights, and tiny hole-in-the-wall eateries. Be sure to wander down Memory Lane (aka Piss Alley) for tiny izakaya joints and bars. Afterward, head over to Golden Gai, a warren of narrow alleyways with a bit of a red-light-district feel, flanked by diminutive backstreet bars. It’s quite touristy but also a lot of fun. I’ve had some wild nights here!

With Arigato Tours , you’ll learn about the neighborhood while stopping to sample Japanese classics like sushi, yakitori, and ramen. The 23,900 JPY cost includes a drink and dishes at four stops.  

Kamakura Here you can see a 13-meter (43-foot) bronze statue of Buddha that was built in 1252. It was initially constructed within Kotoku-in Temple, but that has since been washed away by several storms, so it now sits in the open air. Admission to enter the temple grounds is 300 JPY, while it’s 20 JPY to go inside the statue. The journey there — around an hour — is free with a Japan Rail Pass .

Tokyo Disneyland I’m a sucker for Disney. You’ll find many of the same classic rides from Disney World here, like Splash Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain, The Haunted Mansion, and everyone’s favorite teacup ride, The Mad Tea Party. But there are several unique attractions as well, like Pooh’s Hunny Hunt and Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Ticket prices vary depending on the day and time, but full-day admission begins at 7,900 JPY for adults and 4,400-6,200 JPY for children. It’s best to book in advance .

Mount Fuji Mount Fuji is located an hour outside of Tokyo. An active stratovolcano (which last erupted in 1708) and covered in snow for almost half of the year, it stands an impressive 3,776 meters (12,389 feet) and provides one of the most iconic views in the country. One of the Three Holy Mountains of Japan, Mount Fuji is both a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and a UNESCO Cultural Site. In the summer, the mountain is open to hikers, who take 5-12 hours to reach the summit (traditionally, they depart at night to arrive at the top for the sunrise).

If you don’t want to hike, you can simply visit on a day trip. There are buses that can take you partway up, where you’ll be offered sweeping vistas of the surrounding area. Guided day tours from the city cost around 12,000 JPY.  

Wander the Bamboo Forest For a relaxing break, head to Arashiyama and let the dense and towering stands of bamboo envelop you. Located near the famous Tenryu-ji temple, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the entire country. It’s not that big, but there are some hidden areas to explore. Just make sure to arrive early if you want to enjoy it without the crowds (it fills up fast after sunrise).

While there, I would also recommend visiting the Okochi Sanso Garden, which (along with the home) belonged to the famous Japanese actor Denjir? ?k?chi (1898–1962). It’s not free (it’s 1,000 JPY), but it’s really nice and has some wonderful views.

Visit the Golden Pavilion Originally built in the late 14th century as a retirement villa for the shogun (military governor), this iconic structure was later converted into a Zen Buddhist temple. The present-day edifice dates only to the 1950s, however, when a monk attempting to kill himself burned the historic original to the ground. The rebuilt temple is covered in brilliant gold leaf, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. Each of the three stories exhibits a different architectural style. Completing the scene are the serene reflecting pool and traditional Japanese gardens that contain lush foliage, manicured trees, and scenic walking paths.

1 Kinkakuji-cho, Kita-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, +81 075-461-0013, shokoku-ji.jp. Open daily 9am-5pm. Admission is 500 JPY.

Admire Ryoan-ji Temple This is my favorite temple in Kyoto. Originally established in 1450 as a residence for a high-ranking samurai, it was soon converted into a Zen temple and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a mausoleum that houses the remains of seven emperors. Its traditional rock and sand garden is considered one of the best in the country. There’s also a teahouse where you can experience the traditional Japanese tea ceremony ( chanoyu ) as you overlook the Kyoyochi reflecting pool.

There are other temples in the area to check out as well:

• Daitoku-ji Temple – This massive complex dating back to 1315 covers almost 60 acres. It contains several dozen temples and is a good place to see a variety of Zen gardens and architectural styles. It’s also deeply linked to the Japanese tea ceremony, as several of the country’s most noteworthy masters studied here.
• Toji Temple – This is home to Japan’s tallest pagoda (five stories high). Founded in 796, just after Kyoto became the capital, it was one of only three Buddhist temples allowed in the city.

Go on a sake brewery tour Kyoto has a sake (rice wine) brewing tradition going back 400 years and is known for some of the best in the world, due to using the area’s pure natural spring water in the brewing process. Arigato Tours offers an excellent three-hour tour of Fushimi (the brewing district) for 23,320 JPY, including stops at several breweries, a guided tour of the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, and tastings.  

See the Fushimi Inari Shrine This mountainside Shinto shrine, dating back to 711, is dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and prosperity. It’s known for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates that form a network of trails leading up Mount Inari. You can hike the trails on your own while enjoying panoramic views of Kyoto below or join a guided hiking tour , on which you’ll get off the paved paths and into hidden bamboo groves. Get here as early as possible to avoid the crowds.

68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, +81756417331, inari.jp. Open 24/7. Admission is free.

Walk around Higashiyama Spend an afternoon walking along the narrow streets of one of the oldest and best preserved districts on your own or on a walking tour . The traditional machiya buildings (traditional wooden townhouses) are filled with small shops selling local specialties and handicrafts, as well as restaurants and teahouses. It’s a popular area in which to participate in a tea ceremony . Another nice place to stroll in this neighborhood is the Philosopher’s Path, which follows a cherry-tree-lined canal that’s beautiful and meditative even when the blossoms aren’t in season.

Visit Kiyomizu-dera One of a number of UNESCO sites in ancient Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera (meaning “pure water temple”) is located in the foothills of Mount Otowa in the eastern part of the city. It’s one of the most famous temples in all of Japan. It was established in 778, but most of the existing buildings date to the 17th century. There’s not a single nail used in the construction, which becomes all the more impressive once you see how large the temple is, which is best known for its wooden terrace that juts out over the hillside. The temple’s name comes from the nearby waterfall whose waters (from which you can still drink today) are said to have wish-granting and healing powers.

1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, +81 75-551-1234, kiyomizudera.or.jp. Open daily 6am-6pm. Admission is 400 JPY.

Explore Shorin-ji Temple This small temple dates back to the 16th century. What makes it worth visiting is its meditation classes. You’ll get to tour the temple and then be instructed in zazen , the Japanese style of meditation. It’s a very unique experience and something that I think will add a lot of depth and nuance to your visit (especially if you’ve seen a lot of temples). Just make sure to dress comfortably.

15 Chome-795 Honmachi, +81 75-561-4311, shourin-ji.org. Open daily 10am-4pm. Admission is 800 JPY.

Wander the Nishiki Market Nishiki Ichiba is now one of the biggest indoor markets in town. Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen” and spanning over five blocks, it is full of vendors selling traditional dishes from the region, classic Kyoto souvenirs, and really just about anything else. There are over a hundred stalls here, many of which have been in the same family for generations. Opening hours depend on the shop but are typically from 9am to 6pm.

To dive deeper into Japanese food culture, you can take a food tour of the market . It’s the best way to learn about all the food you’ll see, as well as the market’s history.

Explore Gion Gion, the historic geisha district, is renowned as being one of the most iconic and atmospheric areas of town. It’s known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, narrow alleyways, cobblestone streets, and preservation of geisha (known locally as geiko) culture. Lining the main street are ochayas (teahouses where geishas entertain), small shops, and many restaurants, ranging from upscale kaiseki restaurants serving traditional Kyoto cuisine to casual eateries.

To really learn more about this amazing party of town and its past, take a walking tour of Gion . You’ll learn a ton and get a lot of context. They cost around 1,800 JPY.

At night, go to the Pontocho Row , a narrow street lined with restaurants, hole-in-the-wall bars, and jazz clubs. It’s one of the more lively areas in Kyoto.  

Nara was the capital of Japan in the eighth century, so there are lots of buildings and temples here that are upwards of a thousand years old (which is rare in Japan, due to the prevalence of fires and earthquakes, as well as World War II). Some things to do:

• Frolic with deer – The real draw in Nara are the deer. Since the 17th century, those in and around the city have been considered sacred. You can buy crackers to feed them or just watch them stroll around carefree.
• See the Buddha – Don’t miss a visit to Todai-ji, the world’s largest wooden building, home to a 16-meter (52-foot) Buddha statue. It was built in 738 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Take a walking tour – This guided half-day walking tour for 11,500 JPY includes all of Nara’s highlights as well as a traditional lunch.

Ryogoku Kokugikan, Japan’s most famous sumo wrestling arena, hosts tournaments three times each year, in January, May, and September. Tickets sell out quickly, so book online in advance. Prices vary but start around 3,200 JPY for arena seats. You can book a ticket online here (you’ll be accompanied by a guide too, so you can learn more about the tradition as it unfolds before your eyes).

To learn more about the sport in in the off-season, book a tour of a sumo stable .  

So, if you want to add another city to this itinerary you can follow this breakdown:

• Days 1 & 2: Tokyo
• Days 3 & 4: Kyoto
• Day 5: Nara
• Days 6 & 7: Osaka

Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara are all covered above. As for Osaka, some of my favorite things to see and do:

Take a food tour Known as “the Kitchen of Japan,” Osaka boasts a diverse culinary scene. Mouthwatering sushi and sashimi, Kobe beef and Japanese BBQ, and flavorful ramen can all be found here in abundance. Plus, there are local specialties like okonomiyaki (a savory pancake with egg and vegetables) and kushikatsu (kebab skewers). You can take a food tour for around 13,000 JPY, a ramen and gyoza cooking class for 9,500 JPY, or just wander and eat.

Osaka Castle One of the most famous landmarks in the country, the castle was originally built in the late 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi and played a pivotal role in the unification of Japan during the Sengoku period (1467-1615). Over the centuries, it has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times due to wars, fires, and natural disasters. The current version dates to 1931. The castle is situated amid sprawling grounds and surrounded by a moat. It’s also home to a small but insightful museum and an observation deck that offers some picturesque urban views.

Dotonbori This is arguably Osaka’s most iconic district, known for its vibrant nightlife (bars, clubs, theaters, and music venues), colorful signage, and delicious food. It’s best seen at night due to the plethora of huge neon lights and signs lining both the canal and streets, which have become symbols of Osaka’s nightlife. A guided walking tour that includes Dotonbori as well adjacent neighborhoods is 6,500 JPY.

Shitennoji Temple This temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, founded in 593. The architecture is a blend of traditional Japanese and East Asian styles, featuring impressive pagodas, gates, and shrines set amid serene gardens. Stroll through the tranquil grounds, admire the beautiful architecture, and learn about the temple’s historical and cultural significance at the museum. The temple is 300 JPY to enter, the garden is 300 JPY, and the museum is 500 JPY.  

Japan is one of my favorite countries. While it’s relatively small, it offers an amazing array of things to see and do (as well as some of the best food in the world). With seven days, you can easily see a good number of the main highlights and get a taste for the incredible history and culture. It will be a busy week, but this itinerary ensures you’ll still have some time to slow down, relax, and take in the local pace of life.

Just make sure you get a Japan Rail Pass before you go. While it’s not as cheap as it used to be, it will likely save you time and money!

Book Your Trip to Japan: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . They are my two favorite search engines, because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is being left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the most comprehensive inventory so they are best for booking a hostel. If you want to stay in a hotel or guesthouse in Japan, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel — and I think they will help you too!

Be sure to check out the Japan Rail Pass if you’ll be traveling around the country. It comes in 7-, 14-, and 21-day passes and can save you a ton of money!

Looking for More Travel Tips for Japan? Check out my in-depth Japan travel guide for more ways to save money, information on costs, tips on what to see and do, suggested itineraries and reading and packing lists, and much, much more!

Hi, I’m Nomadic Matt, the New York Times best-selling author of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day and Ten Years a Nomad, as well as the founder of this website! And I’m here to help you save money on your next trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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24 of the best experiences in Japan

Mar 23, 2024 • 17 min read

Tokyo has a quirky delight around every corner © ModernewWorld / Getty Images

Japan sparks all the senses, from its temple bells, capsule hotels and breezy cat islands to outdoor sculptures, pine-forest hot springs and umami flavors in world-class dining.

The downside of having so many incredible attractions in one country is feeling overwhelmed by the options – where to even begin? Don't worry – we're here to help with a round-up of the best things to do in Japan , both celebrated and under the radar.

1. Devour authentic Japanese food alongside locals

Wafting aromas of charcoal yakitori chicken skewers with sweet teriyaki sauce. The sizzle of okonomiyaki seafood and cabbage "pancakes" on the hotplate.

Everywhere you turn, restaurants and tiny diners whip up magnificent Japanese dishes. Osaka and Fukuoka's yatai (moveable stalls) make for a street-food paradise, and trying  different flavors every day is one of the most exciting Japanese experiences.

For casual eating for couples and groups, a cavernous izakaya is a great choice – part bar, part restaurant, and dependable for a good-value meal of nabemono (hotpot dishes), Kobe and wagyū beef, sashimi and grilled fish.

Solo travelers (and fussy kids) can join the fun, picking out sushi from a kaiten-zushi conveyor-belt restaurant such as  Numazukō  in Tokyo.

Modern Japanese snacks that are faves with youngsters include cartoonishly fluffy hotcakes, omurice (rice-filled omelet and ketchup) and pyramids of strawberry-and-cream sando (sandwiches).

Plenty of small restaurants specialize in just one dish, such as kara-age (fried chicken), udon (thick wheat noodles), soba (thin buckwheat noodles) or katsu-kare (crumbed pork-cutlet in mild curry).

Even small yakitori (barbecued chicken skewers) bars can wow you with their simple smoky flavors that pair perfectly with a glass of sake.

Local tip: A teishoku (set menu) lets you try a bit of everything (rice and miso soup included) and is a popular choice for lunch or a casual dinner.

2. Chase cherry blossoms and festivals

Japan loves a festival. There are plenty of matsuri (festivals) to celebrate snow, summer, music or any subject you can dream up.

They are an entertaining way to watch dancers and drummers in the traditional dress of each region, enjoy some street food and be dazzled by lanterns and fireworks. Things stay mostly orderly and child-friendly.

Cherry blossom viewing is nature’s festival and attracts a global crowd – the pink and white blooms signal the end of March and winter. The top spots to see loads of flowers are  Mount Yoshino , the Fuji Five Lakes region, castles like Hirosaki-jō , and all across Kyoto.

The other big festivals worth planning for include Kyoto’s summer bash, Gion Matsuri, in July, when you can catch giant floats and locals dressed in elegant yukata (cotton robes).

Sapporo’s annual snow festival in early February, Yuki Matsuri, includes the international snow sculpture contest, ice slides and mazes for kids.

3. Cycle between islands around the Seto Inland sea

The Shimanami Kaido is a place spun from the stuff of cyclists’ dreams. A 70km (43-mile) blue-painted cycle route unfurls across six islands, taking in jade mountains, orange groves and sea air.

From Onomichi on Honshū to Imabari on Shikoku, you can make stops to swim at secluded beaches, visit a museum dedicated to local painters, and visit shrines with sea views all to yourself.

Detour : To get even more off the beaten track, take the Tobishima Kaido cycle route.

4. Sip sake in Saijō

Come to a sake town for a blissfully quiet and meditative experience. Lift the small cup with two hands, one supporting the bottom. Admire the gold leaf dancing on the clear sake. Sip and feel the smooth, crisp liquid go down, chased with a hint of plum.

Then it’s on to another brewery next door. The process of transforming rice into alcohol goes back 2000 years, and some Saijō breweries date back 150 years.

The town is an austere set of eight white-washed breweries with brick chimney stacks proclaiming the name of each one in Japanese. Begin your taste-testing at the Kamotsuru Sake Brewing Company , where you can watch the brewing process.

Feudal lords drank here during the Edo period (1603–1868), and it was this brewery that produced a gold-leaf sake that US President Obama tried in Tokyo, poured by late Japanese President Abe. It may even entice you to declare your devotion to the god of sake .

5. Time jump to ancient Japan in Kyoto

With over 2000 exquisite temples, Kyoto is where traditional Japan thrives. Visiting splendid gardens and ceremonial teahouses is part of the deep dive into its history.

One of the most exquisite sights in the whole of Japan is the gold-leaf tiers of Kinkaku-ji . Its temple beams gloriously in the sun, with a mirror image in the pond below, framed by layers of pine trees.

The garden tradition in Kyoto has close ties to monks, emperors and philosophers. Japanese gardens have minimalist designs to allow breathing room for meditation and reflection.

The finest gardens in Kyoto show personality even through subtle choices: a weathered bridge to represent the march of time or unique pebbles. The most intriguing Zen garden is Ryōan-ji , a mysterious arrangement of 15 rocks.

Planning tip: There is a lot to love in Kyoto, so arrive early on a weekday to beat intense crowds and enjoy a peaceful time reflecting on Japan’s living traditions. Come evening, stroll through lantern-lit streets lined with 17th-century traditional restaurants and teahouses in the Gion entertainment and geisha quarter.

6. Zip across Japan on a bullet train

Its space shuttle nose glides into the station as if from another cosmos. That galaxy is Japan, where high-speed trains zip between cities at up to 320 kph (199 mph) with extra-terrestrial speed and comfort.

From the clean, comfortable seats, watch skyscrapers scroll by, transforming into pines and rural countryside in a flash.

There's a touch of yesteryear to the hard-wearing carpets and putty-colored luggage racks of some train models, but nothing looks weathered; it's just carriage loads of retro-futuristic charm.

Planning tip: The JR Pass and other all-inclusive train tickets can save you money and time. Some are cheaper to buy before arriving in Japan. Use the Japan Official Travel App to plan trips and compare costs with and without a pass.

7. Enter anime worlds in Akihabara and Den Den Town

Akihabara in Tokyo and Den Den Town in Osaka are heaven for anime otaku (fanatics). Even if you aren’t a fan, these specialist districts are worth visiting to experience the height of artistic obsession done the Japanese way.

In Japan, anime is more than something you watch – it is toys, video games, fashion and a way of life. Anime characters even emblazon credit cards, trains and government brochures. Lose yourself in these neighborhoods and see fans bringing characters to life in costume.

It’s easy to be dazzled and transported into a cartoon world (and consumerism). Under towers of bright lights, French-style maids and cosplay characters tout you to enter maid cafes in Akihabara.

Hundreds of stores have all the manga (comics), gashapon (gumball toy machines), retro collectibles and cutting-edge tech gadgets your otaku heart could want.

Detour : If you – or the kids – prefer a calmer way to be spirited away by anime, the Ghibli Museum in West Tokyo is also magical.

8. Sleep in a capsule hotel

Get ready for a wonderfully unique Japanese experience. Scan the stacks of capsules and step up the ladder into your "space pod."

Sit cross-legged (there’s enough room) and enjoy the plush mattress and the feeling of being cocooned in comfort.

A capsule hotel is where a bed is for sleeping and privacy – paramount in Japan. Fortunately, there is plenty of space in the communal bathrooms that usually have ample shower cubicles.

On the weekends, the cheaper capsule hotels might get drunken revelers snoring, but people are generally very respectful.

This is not a place for socializing, which is heaven for solo travelers who just want a good night’s rest in what looks like a spotless space station.

Planning tip: Capsules are separated into men's and women's sections. While originally intended for businessmen, today there are several women-only capsule hotels.

9. Indulge in a multi-course kaiseki meal

Capturing ingredients at the height of their freshness is the essence of a Japanese kaiseki meal. The tasting menu is where the pinnacle of Japanese design meets natural beauty and flavor with roots in sixteenth-century tea ceremonies.

In-season ingredients make up a formal kaiseki meal that might start with a course of sea urchin and horsehair crab, and then move on to a soup and a seasonal platter of dishes like sushi and Kameoka beef.

The subsequent courses are dedicated to in-season sashimi, color-coordinated vegetables and tofu, grilled seasonal fish, sake, rice in a clay hot pot and dessert. In spring, expect a budding cherry blossom to decorate your plate. Every course is a gasp-inducing journey through Japanese ceramics and presentation.

Local tip : You'll find some of the best kaiseki in Kyoto, such as at Kikunoi . If your budget can't stretch to the full  kaiseki experience, attending a Japanese tea ceremony is an elegant way to capture some of the rituals and learn the traditions of tea.

10. Find your tribe in Tokyo's nightlife

Tokyo is the cool kid of Japan’s club and bar scene. That means a reliable night of house music at Womb and EDM at Atom Tokyo . Punk, metal and indie bars rock hard throughout "Shimokita" (Shimokitazawa).

Leading the way for LGBTIQ+ inclusion, the raucous crowds spilling onto the street around the gay clubs of Shinjuku-Nichōme show how progressive Tokyo can be.

Detour: For something more laid back, excellent whiskey bars operate across Tokyo. Japanese distillers regularly beat Scotland in whiskey competitions. Indulge at one of the best whiskey purveyors, Bar Benfiddich , if you can find this hidden, menu-less cocktail speakeasy.

11. Try every Japanese snack in a konbini

Japanese konbini (convenience stores) are one of Japan's most fun local eating experiences.

They might not be fine dining, but they’re part of many Japanese bullet train journeys, and they surprisingly (to most foreigners) offer high-quality snacks wherever you are in the country, 24 hours a day.

Tasty sushi, onigiri (rice balls filled with tuna, meat or plum) and grilled-fish bento meals are delivered around the clock, so you will likely get something fresh. You'll find more novelty and an explosion of choice (and matcha flavors) in the candy, beer and green tea aisles.

Planning tip : The most reliably good konbini are Family Mart, 7-Eleven and Lawson, which all have ATMs accepting foreign cards.

12. Dissolve away your stress in onsen hot springs

An onsen hot spring takes volcanic energy and converts it to a hot bath with the power to evaporate your worries.

A 3000-year tradition, onsen are found all over Japan and are among the most authentically Japanese experiences you can have, whether you're bathing at humble public bathhouses or in Zen gardens.

The natural settings allow you to feel the delicious contrast of the hot waters against the pine-fresh open air.

You can try them in many ryokan (traditional inns) and in resort towns such as Kusatsu and Beppu , where budget options are available in public bathhouses. To literally dip your toes in, there are free outdoor public foot baths in onsen towns.

Local tip: You have to bathe thoroughly at separate facilities before getting into a hot bath. Expect to get completely naked (modesty towels are allowed at some modern baths) and refreshed head to toe.

13. Live out samurai fantasies in Japanese castles

Samurai warriors once ruled Japan, residing around Japanese castles that still exude an aura of power today. Crane your head up to behold Himeji-jō (1580) – the most heavenly white, intact fortress of them all and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Then wander the complex along its labyrinth of paths, thick with cherry blossoms (in April). Ascend the six-story castle-keep and peek inside a former princess' residence – the stuff of peak Japanese fantasy.

The castle has crumbled, but samurai residences live on in Tsuwano, a Japanese mountain town where time seems in no hurry.

Zig-zag up to its hillside temple through the many torii gates. At the heart of town, surrounded by sleepy sake storefronts, you can step into former samurai houses, once off-limits to commoners.

If you want a Japanese fairytale without the crowds, Tsuwano delivers it. Golden carp swim the narrow canal running through the tow center as they have for two centuries.

14. Hunt for art outdoors in Naoshima and Hakone

Encountering contemporary art on an island village is a delight. On Naoshima and the surrounding islands, you’ll find traditional Japanese buildings converted into modern art installations incorporating the island’s history; he sunshine and sea air add an extra layer of sensory magic.

One of the most famous and joy-filled is the Yayoi Kusama Yellow Pumpkin sculpture waiting for you at the end of a jetty.

Nearer Tokyo, over a hundred monumental sculptures pepper the hills of Hakone Open-Air Museum . Thanks to this magical setting, works by Japanese and international artists such as Takao Tsuchida, Henry Moore and Picasso transform along with the seasons.

15. Stay in a traditional ryokan

A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn that, at its best, is fit for a feudal lord. Staying in a ryokan room is easy and rewarding – remove your slippers, slide open the shōji paper-screen door and step across the tatami mat floor of your room to the window.

The sunset flickers through the maple leaves and across the futon. When ready, change into your yukata (traditional cotton robe) and head to the dining room for a multi-course kaiseki meal of the region’s cuisine.

Local tip: Afterwards, take a dip in the onsen or slip straight into your reassuringly firm bed.

16. Embrace winter skiing and ice sculptures in Hokkaidō

Snow poised on the eaves of temples. Trees glazed with ice. Steam wafting over the onsen. Winter in Japan's north peaks in January, and February is the perfect time for skiing and hiking across powdery snow in the wilds of Hokkaidō .

Or enjoy the Japanese art of coziness in izakaya (taverns) with winter comfort dishes like oden fishcakes in a dashi broth.

For families, the ice sculptures of the Sapporo Snow Festival and the bathing wild monkeys of Jigokudani Monkey Park are fun for all ages. You might even spot Japan's iconic red-crowned cranes.

Detour: A side trip for taste-testing at Nikka Whisky is a warming delight.

17. Immerse yourself in digital art at teamLab Planets

There are plenty of themed museums in Japan, but the most avante garde is teamLab Planets . Every surface is a digital screen with a world of flowers, animals and scenery transporting you to another "planet." Prepare to get your feet wet as you walk on water, causing ripples and digital koi goldfish to dart.

Detour : Check out a Nintendo-themed cafe , Pokémon-themed cafe  or Tokyo Character Street  if you're visiting Tokyo with kids . Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are also accessible from the capital.

18. Eat fresh sushi and sashimi

Japan is the largest fish-eating nation in the world. Preparing fish and seafood is an art, and its fish markets are the life force of that tradition. They are impeccably clean places with barely any fishy smells.

Early risers can catch the wholesale auctions at Tokyo's Toyosu Market from behind glass. The laneways of its former home at Tsukiji Market may have become a tourist-focused attraction, but restaurants across the country (especially in coastal towns) still sell excellent platters of sashimi and sushi prepared before you.

If it's all a little confusing, choose sushi sets in sushi-ya (sushi restaurants and bars). Or trust the chef at omakase restaurants, where your personal chef will prepare in-season and classic sushi and sashimi in front of you based on your tastes. Bill shock is quite possible.

Local tip: Karato Ichiba in Shimonoseki is a favorite market for a local vibe. On weekends, fisher folk set up stalls selling bentō of sashimi and cooked dishes of the local specialty, puffer fish (with the deadly parts removed, of course).

19. Make a wish at a Shinto shrine

Shinto shrines are where the Japanese pray or ask for good fortune. The kami (deities) range from Princess Konohanasakuya, the Shinto deity of Mount Fuji, to founders of powerful clans, or neighborhood deities.

A wall of ema (wooden tablets) hangs at many shrines, where you can write down your wish or offering for the deities to read. For a visitor, it’s a chance to reflect and appreciate the tranquil surroundings.

A Shinto shrine is a place in harmony with nature, where the trees and wind are framed by a giant gate.

Pray to the kami of rice at Kyoto's Fushimi Inari-Taisha and its tunnel of vermillion torii gates, ask for good exam results at plum-tree decorated Tenjin shrine Dazaifu Tenman-gū , or pray for general good luck at what is thought to be Japan’s oldest Shinto shrine, Izumo Taisha .

20. Relax in a seaside town

Japan is a country born of the sea. In its seaside towns, you’ll see squid drying on spinning racks in the sun, eat the freshest sashimi, find wooden shopfronts of yesteryear and soak up the lazy rays.

Tomonoura inspired anime maestro Hayao Miyazaki to create Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea – get ready to be entranced by the green hills that shelter a port of bobbing white boats. In Kamakura near Tokyo, you can stroll from a giant Buddha statue to the black-sand beach and admire sunsets from Enoshima Island.

There are 260 inhabited islands to retreat to. The Oki Islands are an oasis of sea coves, the highest sea cliffs in Japan and pristine waters all to yourself. To really slow down, Okinawa is an island dreamland with its own distinct culture and cuisine.

There are a handful of cat islands where hundreds of spoiled felines roam near the ports. From Tokyo, the most convenient is Tashirojima. Cats have wandered this island for hundreds of years – first to control the mice eating the silkworms, then as a lucky companion to fisherfolk.

Local tip: Matsue has one of Japan’s best sunsets. The giant red orb melts into the water with a silhouette of a torii gate on a distant shimmering island.

21. Sense peace in reborn Hiroshima

Hiroshima today is an attractive city of boulevards and okonomiyaki restaurants. It’s also a city that can change the way you think about world conflicts.

The impressive Peace Memorial Park shows how the human tragedy of the atomic bomb attack on the city has been transformed into a message of peace.

The Peace Memorial Museum is moving, while the outdoor space gives visitors the breathing room to reflect. There, the Children's Peace Monument is decorated with strings of thousands of paper cranes sent from schoolchildren around Japan and the world. The origami symbol of longevity and happiness is an ongoing living message of peace.

22. Discover your favorite ramen

Is it a bowl of noodles in a dashi broth topped with sliced roast pork, or is it a cult? Ramen is both. Evangelists insist that the best ramen is at nothing-fancy ramen-ya (ramen diners), which boomed after World War II.

Today you can slurp it your own way: shōyu (soy sauce) ramen, miso (soybean paste) ramen, Kitakata ramen (pork shōyu ), dipping ramen or, the most famous internationally, tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen.

A few ramen restaurants in Tokyo (where the fusion started) even hold a Michelin star: Nakiryu , Konjiki Hototogisu and Ginza Hachigo .

Each region has its own spin on the meal – from thin noodles in a clear soup (closer to its Chinese origins) to a thick ginger broth. Nearly all offer an optional side dish of gyōza (pork dumplings) and a heavenly gooey egg.

23. Surf and chill

Japan has a vibrant scene of two million surfers who know where to find turquoise waters and sparkling sand. Even if you can’t yet catch a wave, the best surf beaches in Japan have a chilled vibe that you can enjoy.

Learn to surf at one of the schools at Shirara-hama , which has year-round, easygoing breaks. Swells tend to be smaller in Japan (outside of typhoons), making it a great spot for newbies.

Ōkinohama in Shikoku is a surfer’s paradise. The jewel-like water is warm year-round and sees very few visitors.

Detour : Even if you are in Tokyo, the waves and summer beach shacks are just an hour away at Yuigahama Beach in Kamakura .

24. Fall in love with Mt Fuji

Outside of Tokyo, Mt Fuji seems to be everywhere you turn. More than Japan's loftiest mountain, Mt Fuji is a spiritual symbol that represents perfect beauty. Hiking its alien slopes takes the dedication of a Shinto pilgrim.

For easier admiration, make day trips to Hakone and the Fuji Five Lakes . Here, whether you see Mt Fuji from behind a frame of golden leaves, cherry blossoms and a shrine or even a konbini;  there is something bewitching about witnessing Fuji as it dominates the horizon.

This article was first published Sep 21, 2021 and updated Mar 23, 2024.

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15 Underrated Places to Travel This Summer, From Kosovo to Quebec

By Jamie Spain

Planning the perfect summer trip can take weeks of research, preparation, and organization to ensure it goes off without a hitch. But before you get to the planning and booking phase, you'll need to decide where to go. There's a seemingly endless amount of great options out there, and while there's nothing wrong with heading to the same familiar spot over and over again, sometimes you want to get a little off the beaten path and go somewhere you haven't been before. Whether you're in the mood for a nature escape with jaw-dropping vistas, hiking paths, and secluded lodges, or are looking for a big city excursion surrounded by trendy restaurants, unique neighborhoods, and great shopping, we've got ideas for you.

From islands to national parks , here are 15 underrated summer travel ideas, perfect for avoiding the crowds while you explore someplace new.

Domestic destinations:

Finger Lakes, New York | Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota | Isle Royale National Park, Michigan | Catalina Island, California | San Juan Islands, Washington | Crystal River, Florida

International destinations:

Kosovo | Budapest, Hungary | Copenhagen, Denmark | Buenos Aires, Argentina | Sardinia, Italy | Mauritius | Kyoto, Japan | Bora Bora | Quebec, Canada

Domestic destinations

Finger Lakes, New York

A fan-favorite of New York City residents, the New York Finger Lakes are unquestionably idyllic. The perfect destination for a summer weekend , or a weeklong trip with the family, this region is home to some of the most beautiful waterfronts. Dotted with adorable small towns , the 11 long, slender lakes that make up this area are exactly what East Coast summer dreams are made of. Spend your trip navigating nearby state parks; hiking, biking, and exploring; and enjoying everything that lake life has to offer, from jet-skiing to swimming.

Where to stay: Check out the Gould Hotel , a modern boutique property in Seneca Falls; book a night at The Lake House on Canandaigua for an airy, design-forward stay; or head east to the Inns of Aurora .

Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Completely immerse yourself in nature at Minnesota's Voyageurs National Park. This gorgeous destination is ideal for getting in some of the best stargazing you could ever imagine. Just like dozens of other national parks , this one has an International Dark Sky Park certificate, designating it as a location that is particularly good for viewing the night sky and stars. Unlike the others, however, Voyageurs is one of the least-visited national parks in the country, meaning you'll be able to truly connect with nature and enjoy seclusion. It's ideal for boat rides and swimming, as it's primarily made up of waterfronts and islands—almost 40 percent of the park is water.

Where to stay: Nearby Cantilever Hotel is great for those interested in exploring the park, but not wanting to stay too far away from civilization. Those who are a little more daring will enjoy the Kettle Falls Hotel , a property that is only accessible by boat or seaplane. If you're really looking to be one with nature, you can rent a canoe and camp at a tent site.

Isle Royale National Park, Michigan

If you're looking for a summer vacation where you can explore an area relatively untouched by civilization, look no further than Isle Royale National Park . A favorite of my family, this park is uniquely difficult to get to (the main island is best reached by ferry), so the only other travelers you'll find here are extreme adventurers and in-the-know locals. It's best to visit during the summer months since Lake Superior is quite cold and foggy throughout the rest of the year. My family heads to this park in the summer months in hopes of spending a few days backpacking , canoeing, and hiking through the near-untouched environment—admiring the nature and wildlife along the way.

By Jessica Chapel

By Emily Pennington

By Charlie Hobbs

By Kaitlin Menza

Where to stay: While the actual park is best experienced through camping, those who aren't interested in totally roughing it can stay at the Rock Harbor Lodge , centrally located on the main island. Or, book this nearby rustic Airbnb cabin with panoramic views of Lake Superior for the days leading up to your national park visit.

Catalina Island, California

Just a hop, skip, and a jump from Los Angeles , Santa Catalina Island is quite literally heaven on Earth. Hopeful travelers can either take the one-hour Catalina Express ferry over to the island (it departs daily from San Pedro, Long Beach, and Dana Point) or charter a private yacht to get them there in style. Whether you're looking to hike the Trans Catalina Trail or simply indulge in some tasty seafood while wandering through the quaint town of Avalon, Catalina Island is a great break from the hustle and bustle of LA. Head a bit farther inland to explore El Rancho Escondido , the acclaimed Arabian horse ranch that's also home to Rusack Vineyards.

Where to stay: For day-trippers or those who plan to extend their vacation to include a stay in Los Angeles, there are a variety of hotels and Airbnbs to choose from, including The Beverly Hills Hotel, Dorchester Collection , The Malibu Beach Inn , and the luxe Chateau Marmont Estate on Airbnb. If you're hoping to stay on-island, the plush Bellanca Hotel is the way to go.

San Juan Islands, Washington

A 2019 Readers' Choice Award winner, named one of the best islands for beautiful scenery, this collection of more than 400 islands off the coast of Washington is ideal for a Pacific Northwest weekend getaway. The three most popular (and largest) islands to explore are Orcas , San Juan, and Lopez—all easily accessible by ferry. Travelers can enjoy a laidback vacation with comfortable temperatures and a relaxed atmosphere: hop on a bike and explore the area; spend time sailing, hiking, and fishing; or take a walk to admire all of the islands' natural beauty, from the mountains to the lakes.

Where to stay: Glampers, campers, and regular hotel-goers will all adore the Lakedale which has accommodations for every type of traveler.

Crystal River, Florida

Home to one of the best beaches in Florida , Crystal River is unlike most other cities you'll find in the Sunshine State for one major reason: It's one of the only places in the world where people can swim alongside manatees . If you've ever wanted to truly get up close to these gentle giants, this is the city to visit. Head to the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge to see your fill of the endangered animal, and spend some time taking in the natural beauty of the nearby springs and parks.

Where to stay: The Plantation Resort on Crystal River is home to a variety of different activities including a 27-hole championship golf course and a family-friendly resort with 196 accommodations.

International destinations

There's a reason Kosovo is on our list of the Best Places to Go in 2024, and it has everything to do with the jaw-dropping scenery that can be found in every corner of this country. Outdoorsy folks who want to spend their time hiking and biking through untainted valleys, mountains, and countryside will appreciate the chance to explore the newest European country. Travelers who who are looking for a taste of the young nation's history can head to the national museum; afterward, explore the streets of Prizren taking in the architecture as well as the historic mosques and churches.

Where to stay: Book a night at the Hotel Gracanica in the quiet suburb of Prishtina, or pamper yourself at the luxe Ujevara e Drinit Resort near Peja. For something a little more traditional, enjoy tasty Kosovo dishes as well as classic comforts at the rural Ariu Guesthouse . (Check out our guide on where to eat, play, and stay in Kosovo for even more recommendations.)

Budapest, Hungary

Skip Western Europe and instead head to the beautiful capital of Hungary . Luxuriate in the mineral-rich thermal baths you'll find around the city , or spend your days exploring the historic Castle District, walking along the Danube, and meandering through the city streets. You can even take a faux hot air balloon trip to enjoy the best view in the city. If you plan your trip for August, it may coincide with the Sziget Festival , one of the largest music and cultural festivals in all of Europe.

Where to stay: Book a night at 2024 Gold List winner, The Four Seasons Gresham Palace Budapest , or spend a few nights at the adults-only Hotel Clark Budapest . (Check out our guide on where to eat, play, and stay in Budapest for more recommendations.)

Copenhagen, Denmark

There's no better time to visit Copenhagen than during the summer months when the weather is warm, the days are exceptionally long, and the waterfront views are breathtaking. Aside from being ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world , sustainably-minded travelers will appreciate how eco-focused the place is, and enjoy a trip to CopenHill, the multi-use waste-to-energy plant with a ski slope, climbing wall, and cafe. It's also worth checking out the Tivoli Gardens, Rosenborg Castle, and the picturesque Nyhavn harbor .

Where to stay: Check out our favorite hotels in Copenhagen , including the grand and historic Hotel d'Angleterre , the Nimb Hotel which was originally built as a castle in 1909, and the modern Villa Copenhagen .

Buenos Aires, Argentina

From awe-inspiring museums to culture-packed tours to dance halls perfect for learning to tango , there's no shortage of amazing things to do and see in Buenos Aires . Whether you're spending the day simply walking the streets and taking in the sights; exploring the colorful La Boca; watching a soccer match; learning to tango; or going to the Colón Theatre to see the opera, this will be a trip to remember.

Where to stay: Some of our favorite hotels in Buenos Aires include the luxe Palacio Duhau ; the Jardín Escondido , once home to Francis Ford Coppola; and the Faena Hotel Buenos Aires located right by the water in Puerto Madero.

Sardinia, Italy

There's so much more to Sardinia than just a beautiful coastline and wonderful beaches. While the long, warm days are perfect to spend by the crystal blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea, travelers who want a little more substance to their vacation can head inland to experience the island's charming towns, rustic cuisine, and ancient ruins.

Where to stay: Rest your head at the Cascioni Eco Retreat , set on a 90-acre nature reserve with gorgeous views of the surrounding land. The colorful Su Gologone Experience Hotel is another great option, as is the luxurious, high-end Hotel Cali de Volpe .

Another location on our list of the Best Places to Go in 2024, Mauritius is about 1,200 miles east of Madagascar . From its gorgeous coastlines with pristine beaches to the luxury accommodations and unparalleled nature, this island destination is nothing short of paradise. Head here during the Northern Hemisphere's summer months to avoid wet season. Your main activities on Mauritius will be water-based, from diving and snorkeling to sitting on the beach and admiring the coastline. If you need a break from relaxing, take a trip to the Bel Ombre Nature Reserve, the Botanic Gardens, or the capital city of Port Louis.

Where to stay: Check out our favorite hotels in Mauritius , including the four-time Readers' Choice Award winner and two-time Gold List winner, One&Only Le Saint Géran . You can also book a stay at the legendary resort, Lux Belle Mare , or the kite-surfers' paradise of Riu Palace Mauritius .

Kyoto, Japan

Instead of heading to the mega-popular Tokyo or the bright and lively Osaka, consider touching down in Kyoto , one of the best cities to experience traditional Japanese culture. Spend the day exploring the temples and shrines that are dotted throughout the city; take a walk through Gion, the “Geisha District;” or while away a few hours in the Kyoto National Museum. The best times to visit Japan are at the very end or beginning of summer when the season overlaps with spring and fall, and while it'll certainly be a bit warmer during the peaks of summer, it's no less beautiful.

Where to stay: From the Ace Hotel to the Shinmonzen , there is no shortage of great hotels in Central Kyoto. If you're interested in something a little different, tour guide Sara Aiko from Traveler 's Ask a Local series recommends taking a trip to Moksa , a gorgeous property in the north of Kyoto surrounded by temples and nature.

Nothing says romance like staying in an overwater bungalow in Bora Bora. The winter in French Polynesia corresponds with the summer in the Northern Hemisphere, meaning June, July, and August experience less humid and more comfortable temperatures. This time period also falls during Tahiti 's dry season, so you don't have to worry about being rained out. You could easily spend your days simply lounging in your bungalow and slipping into the crystal waters whenever you feel, but Bora Bora is also ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving, and taking a boat or a 4x4 island tour.

Where to stay: Bora Bora is particularly known for its luxury overwater bungalows. Conrad Bora Bora Nui is a more private option with exceptional snorkeling and coral, The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort is perfect for honeymooners and families alike, and the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is home to over 100 bungalows, fine dining, and an exceptional spa.

Quebec, Canada

When you think of summer travel, your first thought is probably an island getaway or a far-flung destination that you've only read about in books. But, don't overlook all of the beauty that our northern neighbor has to offer. Quebec City is home to all the same type of charm you'll find in Europe but without the exceptionally long flight to get there. Spend some time in Old Quebec City —home to some of the oldest streets in North America—taking in the history and culture that make this city worthy of its title as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Or, head to Montreal , where you can enjoy a variety of museums, the open-air market, and great culinary options. Don't forget to explore the nature and French architecture found in the greater province.

Where to stay: For a wonderful stay in Quebec City, Hotel 71 is a six-time Readers' Choice Award winner while Auberge Saint Antoine Quebec City and Le Germain Hotel Quebec are both five-time winners. For a wellness-focused retreat , head to Monastère des Augustines . In Montreal , check out the Auberge du Vieux-Port on the St. Lawrence River, or Hotel William Gray in Old Montreal.

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Unraveling Japan’s Urban Jewels: The Best Cities to Visit for an Unforgettable Adventure

L ost amidst the wonders of where to kick-start your Japanese odyssey ? Japan, with its stunning mix of old-world charm and innovative future, can be an overwhelming destination.

However, Kevin Erickson , your globetrotter guide for today, is here to set you on the right path!

• Tokyo is the magnetic pulse of Japan, drawing in 14 million visitors in 2019 alone.
• Kyoto mesmerizes with 17 UNESCO sites, proving its weight in cultural gold.
• Osaka seduces foodies and thrill-seekers alike.
• Insider tips to elevate your experience in each city.
• Chris Rowthorn encapsulates Japan as a "world apart, thriving in contrasts."

The Crowning Glories: Why Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka Reign Supreme

According to the Japan National Tourism Organization, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka secure the top positions when it comes to tourist footfall. And why wouldn’t they? Let's dive deeper .

Tokyo: Where Traditions Tango with Tomorrow

Tokyo , the dynamic capital of Japan, is an electrifying fusion of ancient and avant-garde, creating an urban sprawl where the past and future coexist in harmonious rhythm. Every corner of this sprawling metropolis tells a unique tale, reflecting the city's uncanny ability to respect its roots while ambitiously reaching for the skies.

As dawn breaks, you'll find locals paying their respects at the centuries-old Meiji Shrine, where the spiritual essence of Shinto rituals blends seamlessly with the surrounding natural beauty. But as dusk engulfs the city, neon lights begin to dance across districts like Shinjuku and Akihabara, showcasing Tokyo's vibrant nightlife and its undying love for technological advancements .

Yet, Tokyo's heart truly beats in its neighborhoods. The historic district of Asakusa, with its iconic Senso-ji Temple, offers a glimpse into the city's rich past. A gentle rickshaw ride here transports you back to the Edo period, with shopkeepers selling traditional crafts and treats. Contrastingly, just a train ride away lies Harajuku, the epicenter of Japan's youth culture and fashion, where bold styles and eccentric trends reign supreme.

And of course, there's Odaiba, the futuristic artificial island featuring architectural marvels and the famous Unicorn Gundam statue standing tall, symbolizing Japan's love affair with innovation.

In Tokyo, centuries-old tea ceremonies find their home beside futuristic robot cafes. Sumo wrestlers train in the shadows of soaring skyscrapers , and meticulously maintained bonsai trees sit in the balconies of modern apartments. This city is an ever-evolving dance of traditions tangoing with tomorrow, proving that reverence for the past doesn't stifle innovation but instead fuels it. Indeed, Tokyo isn't just a city; it's a living testament to Japan's unparalleled journey through time.

Kyoto: A Time Capsule of Tenacity & Tradition

Chris Rowthorn might've been envisioning Kyoto when he said,

“Japan is a world apart.”

Kyoto , the ancient heart of Japan, stands as a mesmerizing testament to the nation's profound reverence for its storied past. Nestled amid misty mountains and meandering rivers, this former capital encapsulates the soulful essence of a time where emperors, samurais, and geishas etched their tales into the city's cobblestone streets and wooden machiya townhouses.

From the vermilion gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine, which wind up the sacred mountain paths, to the iconic golden pavilion of Kinkaku-ji that glistens in the sun, every temple and shrine in Kyoto narrates epochs of devotion and artistry. The city's seventeen UNESCO World Heritage Sites aren't just monuments; they are living relics, where chants, rituals, and festivals continue to breathe life into traditions that span millennia.

But perhaps the true magic of Kyoto lies in its quieter moments: the subtle bow of a kimono-clad geisha in the historic Gion district, the whispering bamboo groves of Arashiyama, or the delicate craftsmanship of a local artisan creating intricate Kiyomizu pottery.

Kyoto is also a season-driven spectacle. The cherry blossoms of spring cast a rosy hue on the city's canals, while the russet leaves of autumn set the landscape ablaze, painting scenes reminiscent of classical Japanese ukiyo-e prints.

In Kyoto, the passage of time feels different. Here, amidst teahouses and terraced gardens, history isn't just remembered; it's relived, cherished, and celebrated. It's a city where every stone and sakura petal reverberates with tales of tenacity and tradition.

Osaka: A Gastronomic Galore & Glee

Osaka, often touted as Japan's kitchen, pulses with an undeniable vibrancy, striking a delightful balance between the contemporary and the traditional. While Tokyo may be the nation's crown and Kyoto its historical heart, Osaka is undeniably its soulful belly, always hungry for celebration and flavor.

Dotombori, the city's bustling epicenter, encapsulates Osaka's spirit. As the neon lights flash and the giant mechanical crabs beckon, the tantalizing aroma of street foods like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) fills the air, showcasing Osaka's culinary prowess. The city’s love affair with food is so profound that there's a popular saying: " Kyotoites are ruined by extravagance; Osakans are ruined by food."

Yet, beyond its gastronomic wonders, Osaka offers historical gems like the majestic Osaka Castle, a testament to the city's storied past. There's also the futuristic side, evident in attractions like the Universal Studios Japan, where thrills and adventures await.

Osaka's charm lies in its unabashed authenticity. It's a city that laughs a little louder, eats with a tad more gusto, and lives life with an infectious zest. Here, modern skyscrapers coexist with ancient shrines, and every alleyway promises an adventure, whether culinary, historical, or just plain fun.

The Hidden Haunts: Beyond the Big Names

While the aforementioned cities hold their ground firm, Japan's versatility doesn't end there.

Hiroshima sings a song of resilience.

Nara , where deer might photobomb your perfect shot.

Sapporo , a canvas painted in white during the Snow Festival.

Kanazawa , holding samurai secrets and geisha tales.

Yokohama and Nagasaki – the list is as endless as it is enchanting.

Conclusion: Japan - A Symphony of Surprises

Embarking on a journey through the diverse tapestry of Japan's cities is akin to stepping into a living, breathing storybook. Each city, from the globally renowned to the hidden gems, radiates its unique charisma, offering snapshots of a nation that seamlessly weaves millennia of history with future-forward innovations.

In Tokyo , one can marvel at the electric symphony of neon lights, yet find solace in the tranquility of its serene gardens, a reflection of the city's balancing act between the rapid pace of technology and the gentle embrace of tradition. Meanwhile, Kyoto stands as a testament to Japan's dedication to preserving its heritage, with temples, shrines, and wooden machiya revealing tales of emperors, samurais, and geishas from eras gone by.

Beyond these giants, cities like Hiroshima teach lessons of resilience and hope, while places like Sapporo present a winter wonderland, echoing the country's diverse climate and geography.

To travel through Japan is to experience a myriad of emotions. It is the thrill of Osaka's culinary adventures, the meditative peace in Kyoto's bamboo forests, and the awe of Tokyo's skyscraper canyons.

Kevin Erickson often muses, “In Japan, every alley, every shrine, and every smile seems to carry a tale waiting to be discovered.” It's a sentiment every traveler will echo after their own journey through this unparalleled land.

So, as you contemplate where to begin or continue your Japanese sojourn, remember, in every city, magic awaits.

1. What's the best time to visit Japan?

Spring (March to May) for cherry blossoms and fall (September to November) for vibrant autumn colors.

2. Is Japan expensive for tourists?

Japan can be pricier than some destinations, but with planning and tips like using JR passes, it's manageable.

3. Can I get by with English in these cities?

Major cities are tourist-friendly, with many signs in English. However, a translation app can be handy.

4. How safe is Japan for solo travelers?

Japan consistently ranks as one of the safest countries. However, always exercise general travel precautions.

5. What's a must-try Japanese dish in these cities?

While each city has its specialty, sushi, ramen, and tempura are universally beloved.

6. How's the public transport in these cities?

Efficient and punctual. Trains and buses are the lifelines of transportation in Japan. 

• Japan National Tourism Organization. (2020). Tourist statistics.
• Rowthorn, Chris. (2019). "Lonely Planet Guide to Japan."
• Erickson, Kevin. (2022). "Whispers from Japan: A Traveler's Tales.