Best Time to Visit Japan: A Seasonal Guide


Planning a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun? One of the first questions that often arises is: “When is the best time to visit Japan?” With four distinct seasons, each offering unique experiences and unpredictable weather, the answer isn’t straightforward. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each season to help you decide the ideal time for your scenic Japanese adventure.
Before booking your flight tickets to Japan, you must know that each month brings new seasonal changes. Let’s find out when is the best time to travel to Japan.
Seasonal guide: Japan’s weather, month by month
Blossoming beauty of Spring in Japan (March to May)

- March: As winter fades, Japan begins to awaken from its slumber. Temperatures gradually rise, making it a pleasant time to explore. While the iconic cherry blossoms may not fully bloom, especially in northern regions, you can catch early blooms in warmer areas like Okinawa and Kyushu.
- April: This is peak cherry blossom season, with the stunning Sakura transforming cities like Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo into breathtaking pink-hued landscapes. The mild temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities, and the festive atmosphere is infectious.
- May: While the cherry blossom spectacle may have ended, May still offers plenty to enjoy. The weather remains pleasant, and you can explore various cultural festivals and events. Golden Week, a series of national holidays, takes place during this time, making it a popular period for domestic travel.
Note: The Japan Meteorological Corporation will announce the exact timing of the 2025 cherry blossom forecast in January 2025.
A Summer of festivals and heat (June to August)

- June: The rainy season from June to mid-July, or tsuyu, is considered Japan’s fifth season by locals. Temperatures can fall anywhere between 18-30°C. Fewer tourists visit Japan during this time, and accommodation prices are lower.
- July: Japan experiences peak summer heat and humidity, especially in urban areas. We recommend wearing airy clothes and carrying a portable fan to keep cool. Despite the heat, late July to August is the best time to experience the Japanese fireworks festival of Hanabi and the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto.
- August: Heat and humidity are at their peak in August. On the brighter side, there are plenty of fireworks festivals. It’s also typhoon season in August, and the weather can be unpredictable. During a typhoon, it’s best to stay indoors.
Check out this 5-day itinerary to explore Kyoto like a local.
The colourful spectacle of Autumn (September to November)

- September: While the transition from summer to autumn begins, it is still warm and humid. Temperatures become pleasant by late September, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities like hiking, water sports, or lounging by the beach.
- October: Autumn, or koyo, is a magical season and one of the best times to visit Japan. The leaves of maple and ginkgo trees start turning vibrant red, orange, and yellow shades. Popular destinations for autumn foliage include Kyoto, Tokyo, and Hokkaido. The temperature falls between 15-25°C, making it the ideal time to experiment with autumn fashion trends, go hiking, visit temples, and enjoy Japanese sweet potatoes (Beni-Imo) and hotpot (nabe).
- November: As autumn deepens, the foliage peaks in many regions. The cooler temperatures make it ideal for exploring historical sites, indulging in traditional Japanese cuisine, and enjoying the tranquil beauty of the season.
Also read | Go Forest Bathing In Japan, From Bamboo Groves To Enchanting Woods
A snowy wonderland in winter (December to February)

- December: Winter arrives in Japan, bringing snowfall to mountainous regions and colder temperatures in urban areas. While Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto rarely experience snowfall, Christmas illuminations and New Year celebrations create a festive atmosphere here.
- January: Japan is in the thick of winter in January. It’s one of the coldest months and the best time to enjoy snow activities like skiing and snowboarding at Ski Resorts in Tomamu, Nagano, Niseko, Hakuba, and Furano.
- February: The winter season continues, with many regions still experiencing snow. The Sapporo Snow Festival is a major highlight, featuring impressive ice sculptures, delectable food and winter activities. Cold months are also perfect for soaking in Japanese hot springs (onsen), visiting the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park in Nagano, and witnessing the Zao Snow Monsters in Yamagata.
Explore our comprehensive guide to spending winter in Japan.
Overall, what’s the best time to visit Japan?

Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Japan. Pleasant weather, natural beauty, seasonal festivals, cultural experiences, and picturesque landscapes add to the season’s novelty. The best time to see cherry blossoms is from April to the beginning of May, and for the fall foliage, it’s from October to early December.
Also read | Land Of The Rising Crowds? How Japan Is Tackling Overtourism Woes
The best time to visit Japan for fewer crowds

Tourists flock to Japan during autumn and spring, and flights and accommodations are more expensive than usual. Even if you plan to travel during these seasons, you can avoid the crowds by not visiting tourist spots during national holidays and exploring the Japanese countryside instead. Winter and summer are quieter but equally pleasant times to visit Japan.
The best time to visit Japan for budget-friendly prices

To get the best deals on air tickets and hotel accommodations, visit Japan in December, February, June, or early December. Remember that visiting Japan during cherry blossom season, Obon festival, Golden Week, and New Year’s holidays is more expensive.
Visiting Japan for good weather

Autumn and spring are the best times to travel to Japan for good weather. The temperatures range between 15 °C and 25°C during those seasons. Dressing in layers, wearing long-sleeved sweaters, warm trousers, and comfortable sneakers/boots is a great way to keep warm and stylish during these two seasons.
Witnessing cherry blossoms and fall foliage in Japan

The best time to travel to Japan to see cherry blossoms is from April to March, and for the fall foliage, visit Japan from October to mid-November.
Note: If you plan to visit during these months, check the latest Japanese season forecast first.
City guide: When to visit Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto

Tokyo: Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Tokyo. The weather ranges from 10-23°C. Popular places to enjoy hanami and fall foliage in Tokyo are Yoyogi Park, Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, Meiji Jingu Forest, Kiba Park, and Sensoji Temple in Asakusa. Our ultimate Tokyo itinerary will help you make the most of your trip.

Osaka: Autumn and spring are also perfect seasons to visit Osaka. The best places to see cherry blossoms and autumn trees are Osaka Castle Park, Hoshida Park, Minoo Park, and the Daisen Japanese Garden.

Kyoto: Late November is one of the best times to visit Kyoto. Since Kyoto is known for its scenic beauty, you will be thrilled to find trees in red, gold, and yellow hues.
The worst time to visit Japan
Summer months like June and July are not the best time to visit Japan. Heat and humidity make travelling long distances unbearable. You may also encounter typhoons during this time. Since typhoons bring in powerful winds and rains, this can lead to train delays, road accidents, and flight cancellations.
shop the best travel experiences here
(Feature Image Credit: David Edelstein/Unsplash)
Related: Take The Hidden Trails To Explore Japan’s Most Scenic Offbeat Destinations
Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Despite the summer heat, one can still enjoy fireworks festivals, hiking, short treks, and water sports at the beach.
Travellers seeking pleasant weather and fewer crowds should visit Japan from March to mid-April in spring and late September to early December in autumn.
If large crowds, jam-packed public transport, and long lines do not bother you, visiting Japan during Golden Week is a good idea. Plenty of local events and activities take place during this time.
Cool and pleasant. Expect temperatures between 10-23°C.
Japan’s autumn weather is similar to spring. The temperature ranges from 8 to 24°C and is cooler at night than during the day.
Japan has plenty of festivals throughout the year, but the main ones are:
New Year’s Celebration (Shogatsu) from 1st to 3rd Jan
Cherry Blossom Festival (Hanami) from late March to April
Golden Week from late April to early May
Obon Festival in August
Tanabata (star festival) in July.
Late April to early June for Okinawa. The climate is ideal for watersports on the beach. For Hokkaido, visit in winter from December to February to enjoy winter sports and snowfall.
In Japan, New Year is more of a family event. As part of Japanese tradition and culture, from the 1st to the 3rd of January, Japanese visit shrines and indulge in traditional bento meals.
Mid-January to mid-March is the best time to go snowboarding in Japan.
Although there aren’t many outdoor activities during the monsoons, Japan offers indoor attractions including museums, aquariums, hot springs, tea houses, arcades, cozy cafes, and shopping malls.
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