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When is Peak Travel Season in Japan?

Peak Travel Season in Japan

People often ask me about the ideal time to travel to Japan . While there are many things you should consider, one of them is certainly the peak travel seasons in Japan.

High travel season means that prices for flights and accommodation will skyrocket and everything is booked out far in advance. However, some of these seasons you just don’t want to miss, so after reading this article it’s up to you whether you want to avoid them or not.

1. Cherry Blossom Season / Spring Vacation (late March – early April)

Needless to say that cherry blossom season in spring is one of the most favorite travel seasons in Japan. Additionally, schools close for spring vacation, so it does get crowded, especially at the most popular tourist attraction (e.g. Kyoto, Miyajima, Tokyo).

peak travel season in japan

Cherry blossoms usually only last for about a week . But there’s something called the “ cherry blossom front ” wandering from southwest to northeast. If you follow that and travel around, you can enjoy the sakura for much longer. It’s one of the most beautiful sights, so you shouldn’t avoid it . Definitely plan ahead of time. Especially in and around Kyoto it’s almost impossible to find rooms if you don’t book far in advance.

Consider less known cherry blossom spots instead. You can enjoy sakura everywhere in Japan. It’s impressive no matter where you go.

Here are just a few examples to avoid the massive crowds and yet enjoy cherry blossoms:

  • Hyogo Prefecture: Izushi (castle town and soba noodles)
  • Shiga Prefecture: Miidera Temple , Ishiyamadera
  • Shizuoka Prefecture: Hamamatsu , Kakegawa , Atami (nice castles)
  • Kyoto: Shoryuji Castle
  • Chiba Prefecture: Tateyama Castle

2. Golden Week (late April – early May)

If you can, please try to avoid Golden Week at all costs.

It’s the most crowded time of the year in Japan. There are four different national holidays (April 29, May 3-5) and most companies let the people take off the days in between as well – resulting in one of the very few occasions to take a longer vacation in Japan.

Below you’ll find the exact dates for the upcoming years.

  • Golden Week 2018 : April 28-30 + May 3-6
  • Golden Week 2019 : April 27-29 + May 3-6

That being said, it’s a nice season to visit, because you can still catch cherry blossoms in Tohoku and Hokkaido or enjoy other flower such as azaleas, wisteria or “ shibazakura ”. Simply go a few days before or after Golden Week and you’ll be fine.

peak travel season in japan

Especially the well-known spots will be insanely crowded. There are less crowded, hidden gems, but those might not be the first choice for first-time visitors. Also, prices tend to be much higher during high season in Japan, so simply just avoid it if you can.

As I used to live in Japan, I had no other choice but to travel during Golden Week. That’s when we all get our time off. If you’re interested, you can read about my Golden Week 2013 and Golden Week 2014 .

3. Obon and Summer Vacation (middle of August)

Summer is extremely hot and humid in Japan and comes with a lot of monster insects . It might not sound like it, but it’s still a good time to visit. Only then can you climb Mt. Fuji and a lot of great summer festivals take place – including fireworks !

There’s a short time span in August called “ obon ” where people usually travel back home. It can also become crowded, but in my experience it’s not as bad as during other seasons.

In 2018 the peak is to be expected during Aug 11 – 19 .

peak travel season in japan

There are certain destinations that are extremely popular among Japanese people in summer such as Hokkaido or Okinawa . It will be crowded there and prices will also skyrocket during that time, so you might want to avoid these destinations from late July to mid August.

4. Silver Week (end of September)

“Silver Week” is a rather new term in Japan and is derived from the more popular “Golden Week”. The term became popular in 2009 when 3 national holidays followed a weekend, resulting in a really long vacation for many people.

Unless such a rare occurrence happens again, “Silver Week” is usually not a big deal at all.

In 2018, the only national holidays in September are both on a Monday, namely Sep 17 and 24 . So, some people will certainly travel during those extended weekends, but it’s nothing to worry about if you consider visiting Japan during that time.

The reason I mention “Silver Week” here is because the term has gained popularity and some people are worried if they should come to Japan during that time.

5. Autumn Foliage Season (esp. end of November)

Almost as popular as cherry blossom season is autumn when the leaves change colors. For the main tourist regions (Hiroshima, Kyoto or Tokyo ) that peak is usually from the end of November to the beginning of December . Other parts of Japan get autumn colors as early as September. Tohoku, for example, is thus quite popular in October.

You also don’t want to miss the peak of the foliage, so make sure to check the status, e.g. by following the japan-guide autumn color reports .

Certain spots can be crowded, hotels might be booked out way in advance and prices might be higher than usually.

peak travel season in japan

Don’t avoid this season! It’s the most beautiful time of the year. But try to at least avoid visiting popular sights during the weekend. Don’t even think about going to Kyoto during that season on a weekend! Be aware that because of a public holiday in November , there’s sometimes an extended weekend at the end of November – which you should avoid at all costs! In 2018 that’s Nov 23 – 25 .

Again you can avoid the crowds by going to less known places.

6. Nenmatsu (= time around New Year’s Eve / Day)

Most Japanese get days off from Dec 29 to Jan 4 . That’s another travel peak time. The majority of people spend their time with their families, but some also use that time to travel within the country.

It’s usually not that crowded, but be aware of “ Hatsumode ” (the first visit of a shrine in the new year on the first few days of January). Shrines might be insanely crowded. It’s a nice experience, but not if you wanted to enjoy the shrine itself and take photos there.

If you decide to come to Japan during that time, it’s a good chance to experience Japanese New Year’s Eve . Just don’t expect loud parties and fireworks.

It’s also a great time for discount shopping ! In the first few days of January many department stores will sell “ lucky bags ” (fukubukuro). People will line up to grab these from early in the morning. So it does get very crowded in many department stores and shops.

Also, keep in mind that a lot of sightseeing spots , especially museums, will be closed during that time (~ Dec 29 – Jan 4), so plan your trip accordingly.

How to Survive Peak Travel Season in Japan?

One of the most important things to keep in mind is that you have to book everything you need far in advance (accommodation, rental car, domestic flights etc.). This is especially true if you want to visit the most popular tourist regions (e.g. Kyoto, Hiroshima).

For Kyoto in particular travel experts suggest to book up to 6 months in advance for cherry blossom and autumn foliage season! Otherwise you’ll only find hotels far, far away. You’ll only lose money and time that way.

As for train reservations (Shinkansen), I wouldn’t worry too much. Usually you always get a seat. I’ve rarely experienced any issues – and I never reserved a seat.

Please consider that post offices and banks will be closed during public holidays, so you won’t be able to withdraw money at ATMs . Especially during Golden Week with so many consecutive public holidays, this could become a problem. So make sure to plan accordingly.

This is all I can think of based on my personal experience.

Don’t be shy and share your experience with travelling during high season in Japan!

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12 comments.

Thank you for this great article. However, even on peak season you can get money from ATMs at 7-Eleven stores. ;) Best Wishes from Tokyo Tessa

Yes, of course. :) It’s difficult during public holidays, especially if there are consecutive public holidays like during Golden Week.

In spring 2016, I travelled Japan from March to late May, so of course the Golden Week was included. As a fan of matsuri, I wouldn’t want to miss Golden Week, because it features a large number of spectacular events all over the country, and this allows the masses to spread out somewhat. However, due to travel plans, I spent the earlier park of Golden Week in a remote spot of Hokkaido (Shiretoko-Shari) and hardly noticed anything unusual up there. The night from 2nd to 3rd May, which is probably oine of the most busy nights,I didn’t spend in a regular hotel but in a 24h sauna/spa named “Aomori Kenkô Land” in Shin-Aomori which is – or was – a rather remote location (I write “or was” – in 2016, with the extension of the Shinkansen to Hakodate-Hokuto, Shin-Aomori became a through station instead of a terminal, and a lot of building activity was in progress so I guess that sparked development of this area). For Golden Week, the sauna doubled the overnight surcharge but it was still quite affordable at 2740 Yen total. On May 3rd, I went to the Uesugi Kenshin samurai battle re-enactment in Yonezawa, and it was a fabulous experience. Actually, on May 3rd I would have liked the ability to split myself and attend multiple events, this is the day when the highlight of many Golden Week festivals takes place all over Japan. In a future trip in spring, I would deliberately include Golden Week to witness some other matsuri. As a single traveller I consider it fairly easy to find some sort of accomodation, but I totally understand that a tour group will avoid that week like the plague.

That’s exactly my experience. I’ve been to more remote places during Golden Week and it wasn’t crowded at all. However, first-time visitors don’t know about Golden Week and usually head to Kyoto, Tokyo, Hiroshima where it can get very crowded indeed.

The festivals during that time are nice indded. Good point. :)

Thanks for sharing your experience.

hokkaido is never crowded except for getting convenient hotel rooms for June “dancing in the street” and February snow festival. it is not hot in summer and offers beer festivals and so many other festivals. peak seasons there are normally not an issue

I remember Lake Kussharo was quite crowded. The tour to Rishiri and Rebun was crowded as well. When a typhoon hit Hokkaido and the streets where closed down and the trains weren’t running up to Wakkanai, I was forced to re-schedule and couldn’t find a hotel in Asahikawa. I had to call over 30 different accommodations. All of that was in August. Lake Toya also was kind of busy and Mt. Hakodate at night as well. :) (August and Golden Week)

It doesn’t get at crowded as other places, but that’s mainly because it’s luckily so spacious. :)

going to Furano during lavender season is busy as are other places during high season-crowded is Sapporo Ramen Festival, Sapporo Bier Festival in Odori Park but the term crowded means longer lines or wait for a yable to open up–i was recently in a typhoon in Hakodate. we got on the last bus leaving for Sapporo at 11:30 at night- the bus was full (does not mean it was crowded)—i’m sure the ski areas are “crowded” in peak season—-you don’t build extra hotels to take care of a few times a year the demand exceeds the supply

That’s true. The only thing I didn’t like about my vacation in Hokkaido during peak season were the expensive prices. The rental car and the domestic flights were really pricey.

there are many, many complaints on the cost of domestic flights within Japan. this has been going on for years. there are some discounts (10,000 yen) flights that are offered. the super railroad is not any cheaper. i am not familiar with rental companies. two considerations– the route corridor between Chitose and Tokyo is the busiest in the world and the cost of Hokkaido hotels is not expensive at all

I have a question. Everyone says that Kyoto is more expensive in peak season. I’m still thinking of going in early November. How much more expensive is accommodation then 30% more? Or higher? I need to do a budget for my friends. thanks.

Actually I don’t think early November will be too expensive, but why don’t you just have a look at hotel prices right now? A lot of hotels allow reservations up to 6 months in advance. I’d recommend to also look outside of Kyoto (e.g. Otsu) because it tends to be cheaper there and yet you’re at Kyoto Station in just a few minutes.

I also enjoyed spring season in japan lots of times and every time get great experience there.

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

  • 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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japan tourist high season

We made a private tour through South China in January 2024. Altogether Chengdu was the highlight. We had an incredible day at Emeishan. In Chengdu our guidewas Helen. She was the diamond of all. Speaking fluently English, full of interesting stories, laughing and talking all the time. We missed her the rest of our tour. We highly recommend to go to Chengdu for 3 days when visiting China, especially with Helen.

japan tourist high season

Other highlights are too many to mention but here are a few Ken taking us to the Terracotta Warriors and our food tour in Xian was amazing,

Our day volunteering at the Panda Base was truly unforgettable. Helen, our guide, provided us with invaluable insights about Chengdu and the pandas, enriching our tour with her knowledge and expertise. We're grateful to Helen for accompanying us throughout the day and showcasing the highlights of China.

We had a booking with China Highlights through Silvia Ye who guarenteed a perfect organisation. In Chengdu our guide was Helen. She was the diamond of all. Speaking fluently English, full of interesting stories, laughing and talking all the time. We missed her the rest of our tour. We highly recommend to go to Chengdu for 3 days when visiting China, especially with Helen.

We traveled to China during the Chinese new year and we had Kris as our guide and he is simply knowledgeable,helpful and great.

We visited Guilin for 2 days and stayed in the Guilin Waterfall hotel. Guilin was absolutely beautiful! Our guide, William, was very knowledgeable and kind! He taught us so much about Guilin and the surrounding area! We really enjoyed trying the specialty rice noodles of Guilin. Our highlight was the Li river cruise.

Amazing tour and the guide Mr. 贺霄 was very accommodating with our needs and request as we have bought our 2 years old with us. Well explained for all the place we visited. Any additional cost were informed well ahead and didn't felt any pressure if we opt not to go for additional detour. The trip was relaxing/ laid back/no rushing with zero shopping!

We had an amazing to China. Our tour guide Martin in Shanghai was super knowledgeable, caring and very flexible with our itinerary. When my wife got sick in the Shanghai, he was able to arrange an English-speaking doctor on the spot and took us to the clinic. On top of the that, Martin and the driver stayed with us at the clinic for the whole duration and drove us back to the hotel afterwards. His genuine concern for our welfare and willingness to go the extra mile did not go unnoticed, and we were deeply touched by his kindness and compassion.

Guilin, but mostly Yangshuo was at the tail end of our China adventure so there was a lot to live up to. Having a guide like Gary Wei meant that our trip ended on a high! We arrived in Guilin very late from an 11 hour train journey. Gary met us with gifts of fruit, sweet bread and cakes which was so unexpected and thoughtful.Gary's knowledge of the area was exceptional and his attention to us the same. He really took our children under his wing - even tuning in to annoying sibling rivalry and managing to keep the peace very well! Gary was our personal photographer at times and even our Taiji instructor, making a beautiful video of us all doing Taiji in a scenic setting :)The cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is definitely worth taking and we enjoyed our few nights in the area, riding bikes along the river, doing a cooking class and enjoying the scenery

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When is best time to visit Japan?

David McElhinney

Dec 14, 2023 • 8 min read

Young woman walking under cherry blossoms trees in a park in Japan

Travelers who want to see Japan's stunning cherry blossoms should visit in spring © Oscar Wong / Getty Images

Japan may be small, but with its captivating blend of tradition and modernity, and its bustling cities and stunning countryside, it offers a mighty experience to visitors. No matter when you choose to visit, a wealth of experiences await you.

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

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

April to May is the time for cherry blossoms

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

This is a popular time to visit Japan with good reason, but it's wise to weigh up the undeniable beauty against the drawback of the vast crowds and the increased hotel prices.

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

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

In mountainous areas, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, rafting and camping are popular activities, though high-altitude trails may not open till July. In the cities, it’s the season for exploring by bike, parkland strolls and sitting out in rooftop beer gardens – the Omohara Forest on the 6th floor of Omotesando’s Tokyu Plaza mall is a recommended spot for a tipple. Tokyo’s spring sumo tournament also takes place in May, as well as the explosion of culture that is the  Roppongi Art Night .

Autumn color at Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku in Autumn

August to November is the time for hiking through fall foliage

Late summer and fall bring another surge in visitor numbers and big crowds of domestic tourists. Mid-August is the start of the busy O-Bon (Festival of the Dead) season – the summer counterpart to Golden Week. National holidays, colorful festivals and blistering temperatures (over 38°C/100°F) keep sights crowded and accommodations expensive (and often fully booked). 

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

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

In September, days are still warm – hot even – but less humid. Though the odd typhoon rolls through at this time of year, major cities are well-equipped to deal with bad weather, and this is generally a great time to travel in Japan. Coastal towns such as Kamakura and Shimoda on the Izu Peninsula provide the perfect combo of sunny afternoons, beachfront Airbnbs and temperate waters, making this a great time to hit the beach .

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

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

Late November is the most scenic time for hiking through the forests of Mt Takao and Mt Mitake on the outskirts of Tokyo, though early mornings and weekdays are recommended to avoid the weekend crush. The autumn leaves linger much longer than the cherry blossoms, so there’s less urgency among locals to charge out in great numbers, and it's a quieter experience than the spring melee to view sakura . In old daimyo (feudal lord) gardens, such as Rikugi-en in Tokyo and Kenroku-en in Kanazawa, the fiery leaves are illuminated after nightfall.

June and July are great for alpine hiking and summer festivals

June and July are the best months for hiking in the Japanese Alps, and nature enthusiasts flock to the great outdoors. Mountain escapes are perfect for adventurous travelers looking to escape the cities as the summer heat brews. Early June is lovely, but by the end of the month, tsuyu (the rainy season) sets in. Many Japanese hikers will call off a day in the mountains at the slightest threat of rain, meaning hiking trails usually escape the mid-summer crowds. For the same reason, June is a good time to take advantage of cheaper hotel and flight prices.

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

Taking a yakatabune (riverboat) tour during the 300-year-old Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival in Tokyo is strongly recommended; it's well worth the high price tag to avoid the gargantuan crowds (which can reach up to one million people). It gets very hot and humid as July draws to a close; savvy travelers head to cooler Hokkaidō or the Japanese Alps or hit the slopes of Mt Fuji, which opens to hikers in the middle of the month.

A small Japanese child sits playing in the snow on a ski slope

December to March is the best time for snow and low prices

In winter, sights are uncrowded, and accommodation is at its cheapest, except in Japan's ski resorts. Snow bunnies insist that Japan has some of the finest powder on the planet, particularly on the slopes of Hokkaidō in the far north. It’s worth digging deep and accepting the expense if you're a serious skier or boarder. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Meanwhile, the festival season gets into full swing, from the Omizutori Fire Festival at Nara’s Tōdai-ji temple to the curiously translocated I Love Ireland Festival and St Patrick’s Day parade in Tokyo in mid-March. As April nears, cherry blossoms start to bloom across Honshu.

This article was first published February 2021 and updated December 2023

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

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

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

This is Japan in August… can you feel the humidity just by looking at the picture?! Because I sure can!

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

So this begs the question: 

What time of year is best to visit Japan?

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

Dotonbori neighborhood Osaka Japan

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

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

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

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

Answer these questions to get started:

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

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

Best time to visit Japan guide

Our experience, japan geography overview, weather in japan.

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

Overall BEST time to visit Japan

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

  • Our Recommendation…

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We visited Japan in summer, fall & winter

best Japanese cuisine

When: mid-August (2019) 

Our experience:

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

Would we recommend visiting Japan in August? 

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

Autumn in Japan momiji

When: mid-November (2023) 

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

Would we recommend visiting Japan in November? 

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

Things To Do in Japan | Two Wandering Soles

When: early February (2015)

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

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

Things to do in Japan Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fun Facts about Japan Okunion Cemetery Koyasan

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

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

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

Stats on Japan weather & seasons:

  • Hottest month in Japan: August (average 80°F/41°C)
  • Coldest month in Japan: January (41°F/5°C)
  • Rainiest months in Japan: June and September
  • Driest months in Japan: December and January
  • Most crowded month in Japan: late April – early May (aka “Golden Week”, explained in the section about Spring )
  • Least crowded months in Japan: January – early March are the least popular times to visit, which can mean cheaper prices and less crowds
Note: Again, these stats are for the central island of Honshu. If you are planning to visit the northernmost island of Hokkaido, or Okinawa in the very south, be sure to look up their specific weather, as they vary from the rest of the county.

Rainy season in Japan: Early Summer

Best Time to Visit Japan Rainy Season

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

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

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

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

Typhoon season in Japan: Late Summer

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

What is a typhoon?

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

What is a typhoon like in Japan?

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

So how bad was it, really?

This was our experience: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best time of year to view Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji Japan

Many visitors to Japan will want to glimpse the country’s most famous mountain, and for good reason — it’s absolutely stunning. Well, we think it is. We’ve only seen her beauty in photos.

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

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

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Japan Viewing Mount Fuji

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

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

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

Japan’s seasons at a glance

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

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

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

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

Winter in Japan

Spring in japan, summer in japan.

  • Autumn in Japan

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

But before we dive in…

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

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

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Japan Winter in Japan

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

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

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

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

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

Winter months at a glance

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

Best things to do in the winter in Japan

Best Time to Visit Japan Snow Monkey Hot Spring

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

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

Best times and places to ski in Japan

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

Winter is the best season to travel to Japan if…

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

What to pack for winter in Japan

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

Nakasendo Japan

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

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

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

What is Golden Week in Japan?

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

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

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

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

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

Should you avoid visiting during Golden Week in Japan?

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

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

When and where can you see cherry blossoms?

Best Time to Visit Japan Cherry Blossoms

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

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

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

Spring months at a glance

Shirakawa-go Japan

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

Best things to do in the spring in Japan

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

Spring is the best season to travel if…

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

What to pack for spring in Japan

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

Best Time to Visit Japan Summer in Japan Swimming

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

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

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

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

How bad is the heat in summer, really?

Best Time to Visit Japan Summer in Japan Hiking

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

So what was it like?

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

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

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

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

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

Summer months at a glance

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

Best things to do in the summer in Japan

Best Time to Visit Japan Summer in Japan

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

  • Check out Tokyo’s digital art museum on a day that’s too hot or rainy to be outside
  • Enjoy festivals including Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri and Osaka’s Tenjin Matsuri
  • Go hiking through the Japanese Alps or venture up to Hokkaido
  • Scuba diving (apparently the diving is actually really good in Japan!)
  • Head to the beach
  • Watch a baseball game
Ever thought of going  scuba diving in Japan ?  Being an island nation, the diving in Japan is actually quite good, and being an off the radar scuba destinations means less crowded dive sites! If you are visiting Japan in the summer time, you’ll have the best conditions for diving all over the country.

Summer is the best season to travel if…

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

What to pack for summer in Japan

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

Fall in Japan

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

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

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

When can you see fall foliage in Japan?

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

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

Autumn months at a glance

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

Best things to do during the fall in Japan

Nara Japan

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

Autumn is the best season to travel if…

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

What to pack for fall  in Japan

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

Holidays & festivals in Japan

Where to stay in Tokyo | Asakusa Tokyo Japan

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

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

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

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

Festivals in Japan

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

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

Best time of year to travel to Japan based on activity

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

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

In our opinion…

Us wearing Yakata that was provided by our guesthouse.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How many days do you need in Japan?

couple holding hands in Japan

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

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

What to pack for traveling to Japan

Mt Fuji Japan autumn

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

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

Japan Packing list Opt-In banner

More resources for traveling in Japan

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

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

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Best Time to Visit Japan | Two Wandering Soles

We’d love to hear from you!

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

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

Such a nice article. Thanks for sharing

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

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

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

I want to travels Japan

Thanks for sharing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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.

The Best Time to Visit Japan

japan tourist high season

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.

When is the best time of year to visit? Japan is beautiful even in the rain, as shown here in Kyoto.

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.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Japan Fushimi Inari Taisha Kyoto summer 1140x655

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 .

Boats spring cherry blossoms Chidorigafuchi Tokyo Japan

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.

Cherry blossoms Kyoto Japan

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.

Cherry blossoms Nakameguro canal Tokyo Japan

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?

June flowers Japan

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!

Kinkakuji Golden Pavilion Kyoto Japan

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.

visit Japan without the crowds

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 leaves Showa Kinen Park Tachikawa Tokyo Japan

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.

Tokuyama Dam Ibigawa Gifu Japan

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.

Snowy winter Mount Koya Japan

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.

Snowy Buddha statues Setonaikai National Park Japan

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.

Waterfall garden Daigoji temple Kyoto Japan

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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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

japan tourist high season

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 .

japan tourist high season

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.

Cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan

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.

Obon festival: floating lanterns (toro nagashi)

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.

Tengu (heavenly dog) are a type of legendary creature found in Japanese folk religion

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.

Gion Matsuri, Kyoto

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 .

Hanabi, the japanese fireworks

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.

Okinawa Island

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).

autumn japanese landscape

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?

Best Japanese Winter Illuminations

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.

Shiga Kogen Resort, Japan

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.

Nabana No Sato Winter Illuminations, near Nagoya

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 .

Plum blossom tree

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.

Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma. Photo courtesy of EM7/Shutterstock.

  • 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.

Ashikaga Flower Park wisteria tunnel

  • 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.

japan tourist high season

  • 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.

Climbing mount Fuji

  • 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! ).

japan tourist high season

  • 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.

Shirakawa-go Winter Light-up

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.

Japanbased

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

  • June 3, 2022

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

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

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

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

How to Choose the Best Season to Visit Japan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Northern Japan

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

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

Winter Sports in Hokkaido

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

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

Hokkaido is Temperate in the Summer

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

Late Cherry Blossoms & Beautiful Fall Colors

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

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

What to Look For

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Hokkaido

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

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

Hot Springs Resorts in Tohoku

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

Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival

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

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Tohoku

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

Eastern Japan

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

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

Hokuriku Offers Great Summer and Fall Hiking

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

Kanazawa is a Gorgeous, Historical City in Spring and Fall

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

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Hokuriku

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

Kanto/Koshin

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

Tokyo Thrives in Spring

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

Beat the Crowds in November and December

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

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

Matsumoto in the Koshin Region is a Thriving Cultural Hub

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

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Kanto/Koshin Region

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

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

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

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

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

Nagoya is a Bustling City with Great Transport Links

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

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Tokai

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

Western Japan

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

Kinki/Kansai

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

Kyoto is Best Enjoyed During Cooler Months

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

Try Smaller Villages in the Fall

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

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Kansai/Kinki

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

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

Chugoku Has an Incredible Cherry Blossom Season

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

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Chugoku

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

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

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Shikoku

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

Southern Japan

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

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

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

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

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

Best Time of Year to Visit Kyushu

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

Amami & Okinawa

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

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

When to Visit Amami & Okinawa

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

Best Time to Season to Visit Japan

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

Visiting Japan in Spring

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

Visiting Japan in Summer

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

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

Visiting Japan in Fall

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

Visiting Japan in Winter

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

Our Verdict on the Best Time to Visit Japan

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

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

Best Time to Visit Japan FAQs:

Typhoons typically occur in late summer.

Most of Honshu is unpleasantly humid through the summer months.

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

Cherry blossom season starts in March and ends in May.

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

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

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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More from Oyster.com :

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

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

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  • General Information
  • When is peak travel season?

The difference between the peak and off-peak travel seasons in Japan is severe.

If you have a flexible schedule, try to avoid these particular time periods when prices skyrocket and transportation and hotels tend to be fully booked.

New Year?: December 27 to January 4 and adjacent weekends.

Golden Week?: April 29 to May 5 and adjacent weekends.

The Summer Bon Holiday?: The week centering on August 15.

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Articles in this section

  • Do I need a visa to enter Japan?
  • Is it necessary for overseas visitors to show their passport upon checking in at accommodations?
  • When do the cherry blossoms bloom?
  • When can we see autumn foilage in Japan?
  • Will travel in Japan be difficult without Japanese language skills?
  • Is Japan expensive?
  • How can I find accommodations/hotels and reserve a room?
  • What kind of accommodation is available in Japan?
  • I have heard that I can only visit Katsura-rikyu Palace with a permit. How can I get this authorisation?
  • When is the best time to visit Japan?
  • Is a biometric passport necessary?
  • Where are the JNTO offices located?
  • What can I import into Japan?
  • Which tour operators specialise in Japan?
  • Climbing Mt. Fuji
  • Pass/Tickets
  • Safe Travel
  • Maps & Brochure Request
  • Novel coronavirus (COVID-19)

japan tourist high season

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 visit Japan - great! But now comes the hard part: planning. 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!

Here's the best time to visit Japan

Pros and cons of traveling in each month 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, check out ‘any wear, anywhere’ for smart travel to japan.

Calendar of when to expect crowds in Japan

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 . With sunny skies and low rainfall, winter is also a great season to spend in cities like Tokyo and Osaka, and, being the off- season , tourist numbers will drop significantly.

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.

Pros and cons of traveling in each month in Japan

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

  • Pro: Fine powder snow - "Japow" - is everywhere in ski resorts. This makes it a fantastic time for skiing, especially in Hokkaido.
  • Pro: While chilly, the weather in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto is often clear and calm. It likely won't drop below freezing.
  • Pro: Stunning lights festivals, known as illuminations, are held all around.
  • Con: New Year, which spans the first week of January, is a Japanese national holiday . Shops, tourist destinations, transport, and temples are bustling during this time.
  • Con: Some places may close for New Year.
  • Con: The winter weather can turn sour at any moment. Northern Japan is prone to train cancellations and dangerous conditions.
  • Pro: Ski conditions are now at their peak! The best time to visit Japan for skiers.
  • Pro: Snow Festivals, such as the Sapporo Snow Festival and the Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival , are in full swing. Many illumination festivals continue until mid-February or longer.
  • Pro: Early-blooming cherry blossoms can be seen in places like Atami, near Tokyo. Plum blossom season begins.
  • Con: The coldest month in Japan. Temperatures will often drop below freezing in some areas.
  • Con: Snow and ice can delay transport and make driving very dangerous.
  • Con: Depending on the date of Chinese New Year , which always falls between late January to mid-February, popular areas may see even more tourists from abroad than usual.
  • Pro: Warmer and calmer weather will begin to show.
  • Pro: Cherry blossoms will bloom from Kyushu to Tokyo during late March.
  • Con: Famous cherry blossom spots are packed with people, particularly on weekends.
  • Con: Cold, wintery days will continue, especially north of Tokyo.
  • Pro: Gorgeous blue skies and pleasant temperatures are abundant.
  • Pro: Beautiful Japanese flowers , including roses, tulips, wisteria, and rapeseed, will bloom.
  • Pro: Cherry blossoms can still be enjoyed north of Tokyo - even as far back as late April in Hokkaido .
  • Con: April is still cold in Tohoku and Hokkaido, sometimes dropping below freezing.
  • Con: While not as intense as Tokyo, cherry blossoms can attract large crowds in the north.
  • Con: The Golden Week public holiday period can start in late April, resulting in busy accommodation and transport.
  • Pro: Fantastic weather will continue.
  • Pro: Wisteria flowers are in full bloom in early May. Dazzling wisteria tunnels are found across Japan.
  • Pro: Rice fields are flooded with water to prepare for planting. This spectacle makes for some great photos!
  • Pro: Several large festivals, including the popular Sanja Matsuri , are held.
  • Con: Golden Week, which occurs from late April to early May, is an extremely popular time for travel. Many accommodations will be booked out, and trains packed.
  • Pro: Often there are no public holidays in June, making tourist attractions quiet.
  • Pro: The humid and wet weather will keep most people indoors, resulting in easier travel.
  • Pro: Temperatures are comfortable, with an average high of around 25°C (78°F) in Tokyo.
  • Pro: Hokkaido's weather is mild, without much of a rainy season.
  • Con: The rainy season begins for most of Japan. The weather will quickly become humid with heavy downpours.
  • Con: Famous scenery, including Mt. Fuji, is often obscured by clouds .
  • Pro: The rainy season will begin to wind down towards the end of July.
  • Pro: Many summer festivals are in full swing, such as the Gion Festival in Kyoto and the Ise Shrine Fireworks Festival in Mie Prefecture.
  • Pro: Early July brings colorful decorations and tanzaku, paper on which to write a wish, covering parks and towns for Tanabata, the Star Festival .
  • Con: The rainy season will continue until around mid-July, causing the same problems as June.
  • Pro: Summer festivals are everywhere, including traditional parades, jaw-dropping fireworks, and lively music concerts like Fuji Rock . Something is happening across Japan every week!
  • Pro: Clear skies make a return - a great season to enjoy the beach!
  • Pro: Many Japanese return to their hometowns during the Obon public holiday week. Larger cities will become a little quieter.
  • Con: August is very hot, with temperatures exceeding 30°C (86°F).
  • Con: Typhoons can occur , resulting in hazardous conditions and canceled transport.
  • Con: Bugs, such as the infamously loud cicada, are everywhere.
  • Con: The homecoming trips during Obon can cause congested trains and highways.
  • Pro: The intense heat of August will begin to subside.
  • Pro: The unique 'Spider Lily' flower and cosmos will bloom in late September.
  • Pro: With the local summer holidays over, tourist attractions will quieten down.
  • Pro: The peak season for international tourism finishes.
  • Con: Sweltering heat can continue for much of September.
  • Con: Peak typhoon season.
  • Pro: The forests of mainland Japan will slowly turn bright red as stunning autumn colors make an appearance.
  • Pro: Cooler weather will emerge, making October one of the most pleasant months to visit Japan.
  • Pro: Massive Halloween parties can be easily found, especially in places like Shibuya.
  • Con: Locals and tourists alike will flock to parks and mountains to see the autumn leaves, making these areas extremely busy.
  • Con: Streets and trains are flooded with party-goers during Halloween.
  • Con: Depending on the date of China's National Day (October 1) and the Mid-Autumn Festival, which tends to be in late September or early October, popular areas may see even more tourists from abroad than usual.
  • Pro: Mostly comfortable weather on the cooler side.
  • Pro: Low rainfall across most of Japan.
  • Pro: Red, yellow, and brown autumn foliage is everywhere.
  • Con: Chilly weather, especially during evenings and at night, will emerge. Winter will begin in Hokkaido.
  • Con: Parks will be busy with autumn sightseers.
  • Pro: The ski season begins, with excellent conditions in Hokkaido.
  • Pro: Beautiful Illumination festivals are set up across the country. Christmas markets are also a treat!
  • Pro: While cold, outdoor sightseeing is still a possibility in most places.
  • Pro: Clear, sunny days are common in Tokyo and Osaka.
  • Con: Cold weather returns to most of Japan.
  • Con: Many ski resorts lack enough snow to open yet.

Best season to travel in Japan

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

Visiting Japan in spring

Why visit Japan in spring ? Spring in Japan brings delightful weather, vibrant blooms, and an array of activities. Following winter , the season breathes life back into the nation with the advent of the new academic and business year, and the celebrated cherry blossom festivals, enhancing Japan's charm. Spring weather in Japan Spring features serene, warm days and cool nights. Although rain is common, it typically clears quickly, and low humidity allows for enjoyable outdoor activities . In April, Tokyo experiences comfortable highs of 19°C (66°F) and lows of 10°C (51°F), while Sapporo remains cooler, with average highs of just 11°C (53°F) and lows of 3°C (37°F). Cherry blossoms The highlight of spring is mankai - the full bloom of the cherry blossoms. Participating in flower-viewing picnics under these blossoms is a popular springtime activity. Mid-March is the prime time for these blossoms, though it also draws large crowds. Major cities and popular spots will be bustling, with busy trains and accommodations, particularly on weekends during the blooming period.

  • 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 6:00 pm.
  • If you’re allergic to pollen , spring may be a bad time to come to Japan.

Recommended spring clothing

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

Visiting Japan in summer

Why visit Japan in summer ? Early summer , an off- season for domestic travel, offers a tranquil experience of Japan. Despite mugginess in June and July, the warm temperatures permit light attire day and night. By late summer , particularly in August, Japan brims with numerous vibrant festivals, many free to attend. The stunning beaches with resorts and beer gardens enhance the season 's appeal. Summer weather in Japan Summer 's humidity often leads to it being the least favored season in Japan. The intensity peaks in June and July during tsuyu , the rainy season . Although not significantly rainier than spring , the rainfall is usually heavy. Post-tsuyu, August presents a typically sunny and hot summer . Tokyo averages highs of 31°C (88°F) and lows of 24°C (75°F), while Hokkaido enjoys a milder August, averaging highs of 26°C (80°F).

  • 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.

Recommended summer clothing

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

Visiting Japan in autumn

Why visit Japan in autumn ? Autumn competes with spring for the best season to visit Japan. Offering respite from summer 's heat, it gently transitions into winter with cooler days. The period is renowned for momiji , vibrant red fall leaves visible across Japan. Unlike cherry blossoms, momiji persist for months, providing ample opportunity for enjoyment. As autumn also marks the start of the off- season for international travel, tourist hotspots are typically less crowded. Autumn weather in Japan Autumn presents variable weather, suggesting a need for both summer attire and jackets. By October, cities like Sapporo and Sendai become chilly, with lows averaging 7°C (45°F) and 11°C (52°F) respectively. Meanwhile, Tokyo maintains a warmer climate with highs averaging 22°C (72°F). Stay alert for typhoons, particularly in September, as these severe storms can disrupt travel and daily activities.

  • 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.

Recommended autumn clothing

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

Visiting Japan in winter

Why visit Japan in winter ? Winter is a haven for skiers, with Hokkaido's slopes open by December. Cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto often have clear, dry, and sunny days, easing travel. Winter also brings splendid light shows , snow festivals, and charming Christmas markets. The season transforms Japan into a scenic wonderland and sees less tourism, making for peaceful exploration. Winter weather in Japan January's average lows hover around 5°C (41°F) in the south and 1°C (33°F) in Tokyo. Skiing destinations Niigata and Nagano frequently dip below freezing, and Sapporo averages lows of -8°C (17°F). While Tokyo and Osaka see little heavy snowfall, light dustings are not uncommon. Regions adjacent to the Sea of Japan and in Tohoku often experience significant snowfall leading to beautiful scenery but potential transport disruptions. Yamagata, not Hokkaido, claims the highest snowfall, with parts of the prefecture receiving a remarkable 11 meters of snow.

  • 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!

Recommended winter clothing

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

The least crowded time to visit Japan

International tourists: 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. Domestic tourists: 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.

The cheapest time to visit Japan

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.

List of Annual Events and Japan National Holidays

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

Other days of interest in Japan

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 approximately 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 Christmas, not a national holiday in Japan, 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.

japan tourist high season

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!

japan tourist high season

Travelers in Japan are increasingly drawn to clothing sharing services, which offer a convenient solution to minimize luggage. Enter Any Wear, Anywhere - an innovative trial service letting you rent clothes for your travels in Japan! Apart from the benefits of lighter luggage and freedom from outfit selection, the key highlight of this service is its eco-friendliness. It offers rental clothes sourced from surplus inventory and used garments collected from Japanese households, promoting a circular economy. And, by reducing luggage, you contribute to mitigating fuel consumption and carbon emissions during air travel. ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ has teamed up with Japan Airlines, offering services to passengers visiting Japan on JAL flights as part of a study on luggage weight and the benefits of reducing carbon emissions.

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Using ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ is easy! How to make the most of this service

Using ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ is easy! How to make the most of this service

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

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Upon arrival in Japan, pick up your new stylish rental clothes at the hotel where you plan to stay. You can return the clothes after use at your hotel just as they are – no cleaning required.

japan tourist high season

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. Prices during the trial period are very reasonable, starting at 4,000 yen (under US$40) for up to two weeks rental.

Curious about the available clothing options? 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 !

japan tourist high season

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.

japan tourist high season

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.

japan tourist high season

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.

‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ is an innovative service that allows you to rent clothes for travel in an easy, eco-friendly way. Enjoy a wide variety of stylish clothes for all seasons and most sizes – and lighten your load while exploring Japan! Register and apply before your Japan trip!

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!

japan tourist high season

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  • How To: Sightseeing

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The best season to visit Japan

The Japanese archipelago extends a long way from north to south, so its climate ranges from continental to subtropical. In Hokkaido , winters are long, snowy and very tough; while in Okinawa the temperature rarely drops below 15°C. The most touristic areas on Honshu island, such as Tokyo and Kyoto , have relatively mild winters with little snow, but hot, humid summers. The seasons in Japan are very distinctive.

Regardless the period, make sure to check the weather forecast on the evening or the morning before deciding on the day's activities, this will help you avoid any unpleasant surprise. Even if you do not speak Japanese or do not have access to Internet  📶 , you can watch weather forecasts on TV or in the newspapers, where pictures are quite self-explanatory.

Of course, you can always check weather information on Kanpai-Japan. We provide ten-day forecast for many cities in Japan.

What is the ideal moment to go to Japan?

It is of course impossible to decide *THE* absolute ideal season for travel for all, as Japan is enjoyable at any time of the year, be it for its various landscapes or according to the travelers’ personal interests. There is not really a bad time to travel in Japan .

We can however say that the best seasons to explore Japan are mainly:

  • Spring (from mid- February to the end of May ), and,
  • Autumn (from early September to mid- December ).

Those seasons are characterized by a mild weather, offering beautiful and colorful landscapes, with astonishing flowers blooming and vibrant autumn leaves.

But this advice is only based on weather considerations. Summer is the season when foreign visitors flock to Japan: therefore, touristic places are more crowded and it can be sometimes difficult to enjoy them. Moreover, flights  ✈️ and accommodation prices tend to be higher.

For those who wish to travel when tourists are fewer and for a lower budget, other periods are to be seriously considered:

  • Winter (early December to early March ) is naturally colder, but the weather is generally sunny, and it does not rain much,
  • In June , if you do not mind humidity due to tsuyu   ☔️ , the rainy season,
  • In September , a month surprisingly avoided but a pertinent choice if you are not bound by school holidays .

To help guide your choice, the following paragraphs will give you some indications, with specific details about each month in Japan.

Choose your ideal period

🌸spring (march to may).

Springtime in Japan is the sakura   🌸 or cherry blossom season: Cherry trees bloom throughout Japan from mid-late March to early or mid- April . Their sublime colors range from white to pink. The Japanese are keen on the subject and sakura flowering is monitored carefully and discussed a lot.

People get together in parks, with family and friends, to celebrate Ohanami : the contemplation of cherry blossoms. Be warned: the most popular sakura spots tend to be increasingly overrun by tourists and it might bother those who do not like crowds. Moreover, it is hay fever season! Beware of Japanese Cedars ( sugi )’s pollen that will bother even people who are not allergic!

japan tourist high season

Important: Spring is also the time of the Golden Week , spanning from late April to early May, a series of public holidays during which a lot of Japanese people travel around the country. As a consequence, accommodations and transports are often booked long in advance and prices even tend to rise even more!

Once the Golden Week is finished, May is the ideal month to visit Japan : tourists are fewer, weather is sunny but not too hot and greeneries are fully fledged.

☀️Summer (June to August)

Summer is very hot and humid. If you already cannot bear dry heat, you should avoid travelling during Japanese summer , characterized by high temperatures and a high humidity. The beginning of summer from mid-June and for one approximatively one month is also the rainy season, and typhoons   🌀 cross the archipelago throughout summer.

Japanese salarymen, or office workers, are even allowed to wear a lightweight outfit in summer, called "cool biz": a short-sleeved shirt without jacket or tie. Prepare to feel sweaty and to seek out shaded and cooled down places!

japan tourist high season

Even though summer and school holidays overlap, we therefore do not recommend going to Japan in summer with small children (as well as during pregnancy or with persons in frail health).

Try to mix outdoor tours with air-conditioned indoor visits, such as museums , shopping malls or leisure centers. In the evening there are lots of matsuri (festivals) to enjoy and wonderful Japanese fireworks  🎆 . Summer is also the only official period for climbing Mount Fuji   🗻 (but remember its summit is still very cold).

🍁Autumn (September to November)

Autumn and spring are, in some ways, mirror seasons. Whereas spring has sakura , in fall the contemplation of momiji  🍁 , the red maple leaves, starts from mid- November . Their red and orange colors combine harmoniously with the vibrant yellow of ginkgoes.

Autumn is a good period to relax and enjoy the Japanese countryside thanks to mild temperatures until late in the season (from late October to early November).

japan tourist high season

September in Japan is offering a nice Indian summer, with very few tourists and affordable prices. If you do not have children, September is an excellent choice worth to be considered.

At the end of fall, in the same way as in the cherry blossom season, the best spots for viewing koyo (or autumn leaves) are often overcrowded, especially in Kyoto’s most majestic temples .

❄️Winter (December to February)

Lastly, winter is chilly, but coldness is still totally bearable with warm clothes. It is in fact the best time to enjoy onsen   ♨️ ♨️, the natural hot springs! Do be careful when choosing your accommodation as many old Japanese houses have poor thermal insulation and are prone to icy air flows. Fortunately, hotels in Japan  🏨 are well-equipped against cold.

Snow occasionally falls in Tokyo, but most certainly in northern Japan. Good to know: Japan has a highly developed ski area with over 500 resorts and small but modern amenities. They are mainly located in Hokkaido and northern Honshu.

japan tourist high season

Visiting Japan in winter is also a chance to experience Christmas (with your significant other) and New Year (at the Shinto shrine) in a new way. There are lots of winter illuminations, especially in large cities, that add a romantic, and even slightly magical, touch.

However, be aware that the New Year period, particularly between December 29 and January 2, is a second, shorter, Golden Week during which many businesses close.

January and February are the yearly lowest months regarding touristic frequentation. They are the ideal times for a tranquil discovery of Japan, without constraints. The weather is often sunny, and landscapes and sceneries are still beautiful.

In late winter, the plum trees come into flower with their beautiful colors heralding the coming cherry tree blooming season.

japan tourist high season

According to a Japanese idea , the country actually sees 72 (!) micro-seasons. They are called kô (侯) and each last about 5 days, along the solar year from February 4th.

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  • March 14 -- White Day in Japan
  • March 21 -- Spring start in Japan (sakura cherry blossom season)
  • April 1 -- Beginning of the fiscal year in Japan
  • From April 14 to 15 -- Sanno Matsuri (the Spring Takayama Festival)
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  • South: Kyushu , Okinawa , Yakushima ...
  • North: Hokkaido , Tohoku ...

japan tourist high season

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japan tourist high season

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japan tourist high season

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Ask any kind of question and share your knowledge about Japan in Kanpai’s community space, our Q&A section Kotaete.

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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 .

japan tourist high season

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  • Travel Destinations

Best Time to Visit Tokyo: A Season by Season Guide

Published: June 18, 2021

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Rina Bernardo

  • Plan Your Trip
  • Travel Guide
  • Travel Tips
  • Tokyo Sightseeing

Locals and tourists crossing the street in Tokyo

For every traveler, Tokyo is a must-visit city on their bucket list. Whether it be shopping in Harajuku, heading to the top of the Tokyo Skytree, witnessing the cherry blossom trees in hanami, or visiting the Tsukiji fish market, the Japanese capital has been a well-loved destination for so many years. After all, it is the country’s cultural, political, and economic center. But before booking your plane ticket and checking out the best Japanese onsen , it’s important to know the best time to visit Tokyo.

Knowing when is the best time of the year to visit Tokyo is also important as it can make or break your whole trip. The last thing you want on your trip is to miss the cherry blossom viewing season when that was the whole point of your trip or not being able to enjoy most of the attractions at Disney Resort because there are twice as many people.

So if you’re planning to spend a week or two in Tokyo, here’s everything you need to know about the weather in Tokyo, its high and low tourist seasons, and the best time to visit the city depending on your purpose of travel.

Best Time to Visit Tokyo

Shopping district in Tokyo

Photo by Jezael Melgoza on Unsplash

In short, the best time to visit Tokyo depends on your purpose of travel. If you want to see the cherry blossoms in Ueno and other city parks, plan your visit in late March or early April . On the other hand, fall foliage is best seen from late October to November . For shopping aficionados, grab the best deals at clearance sales in December and July . If you want to avoid the crowds, plan your visit during the low season in winter . Additionally, any of the shoulder season s between spring, summer, and autumn is also a good season.

For Shopping

Shopping is easily one of the best things to do in Tokyo. From the high-fashion shops of Harajuku to the endless boutiques at Shinjuku , Tokyo has pretty much anything and everything for you. Although it can be intimidating to find out which district in Tokyo to visit depending on what you want to buy, shopping in Tokyo is an exciting experience. Most stores in Tokyo also offer tax-free shopping, so all you need is your passport and you’ll be able to find great deals.

That being said, the best time to shop in Tokyo is during its clearance sales by the end of July and during the year-end holiday season . You can find irresistible deals at both department stores and smaller boutiques along the street. Do note that these sales attract plenty of crowds, almost like a festival, so expect a huge number of shoppers. Most shops are closed on Mondays while some close on Wednesdays. Sunday is usually the busiest day where families tend to go out together. If you plan on shopping in Tokyo, make sure to arrive before the shops open and go on a weekday.

For Sightseeing

Sightseeing is without a doubt the most popular activity in Tokyo, with hanami being the most-awaited sightseeing event. Although hanami varies every year, these trees normally bloom from late March to mid-April . During the cherry blossom viewing season, find city parks, gardens, and castles surrounded by breathtaking sakura trees. Under the trees, people sit on picnic mats having a drink or two while admiring the beauty of the trees. Since this also occurs in the high tourist season, expect plenty of crowds. Even the Imperial Palace, one of the best places to view the cherry blossoms, is flocked by tourists and locals. On the other hand, if you go in early March or late February, you’ll be able to see the plum blossoms which are equally as charming.

October to November  is another best time to visit Tokyo for sightseeing as the weather is chilly and mild. There’s little rainfall and the temperature is perfect for heading to the temples and taking photos of the autumn foliage. If your main purpose in going to Japan is to see its popular landmarks like the Tokyo Skytree , Tokyo Disneyland, and more, avoid July and August. As these are the peak months, the weather is hot and humid, and you’ll encounter a lot of other tourists.

For Fewer Crowds

If you want to avoid the huge crowds, it’s best to visit Tokyo during the low season in winter, from December to February . While most tourists escape to places with warmer climates, winter in Tokyo is a wonderful experience. You can witness the winter illuminations, see the light show at Tokyo Tower, and shop at the Christmas markets. Aside from exploring Tokyo itself, winter is also a great time to explore other cities. You may find and take advantage of the hot spring resorts and traditional inns. One advantage of traveling during the low season is the cheaper rates for plane tickets, hotels, and activities.

February is also a quiet month in Tokyo, perfect for tourists who prefer crowd-less sightseeing trips. There are few festivals in February and the cherry blossom trees are not yet in bloom. However, this month is when plum trees shine. The Yushima Tenjin Shrine in particular celebrates its Ume (plum blossom) Festival sometime from February to March. Since February is also one of the coldest months of the year, this is a great time to visit an onsen or take a trip to the mountains for skiing and other winter sports.

Seasons in Tokyo

Understanding the weather is one important step in knowing when is the best time of the year to visit Tokyo. If you’re planning on viewing the gorgeous fall foliage from the temples or enjoying the crisp summer weather, it’s best to get a better understanding of the weather in Tokyo.

Spring in Tokyo

Best time to visit Tokyo in spring, A couple walks together under the cherry blossoms

Photo by Amy Tran on Unsplash

Spring in Japan is from March to May , marked by the much anticipated cherry blossom viewing season. The weather is generally cool and sunny, although rainfall is still common at night, so it’s best to pack an umbrella and light jackets for the weather. In April, the weather then turns pleasantly warm, with the weather at night perfect for evening hanami parties. Towards the start of May as the temperature rises, expect rainy days and higher humidity levels, so you can switch your thick jackets and coats for long-sleeved tops and cardigans.

Generally speaking, spring is the best time to visit Tokyo although it is also the busiest. The months of spring are also famous for the iconic hanami season and other festivals in Japan like the Doll Festival and the Three Shrine Festival. If you plan on visiting the city, make sure to secure your tickets and accommodation in advance.

Festivals and Events in Spring

Aside from hanami, Tokyo celebrates different festivals and events that center around spring. Given the beauty of the surroundings brought by the cherry blossom trees, adding in the lively festival happenings gives it an unforgettable touch.

Sanja Matsuri (Third Sunday of May) – One of the biggest and wildest festivals in Tokyo. Held at Asakusa Shrine in honor of the three men who founded the Sensō-ji Temple.

Tokyo International Anime Fair (Late March) – The largest anime trade fair in the world and one of the more modern events held in spring. It covers anime and manga-related conferences, interviews, and performances.

Ueno Sakura Festival (Dates subject to change every year) – In spring, Ueno Park turns into an ethereal venue to watch the cherry blossoms. At nighttime, there are plenty of lanterns on display, making it a must-see hanami spot.

Weather in Spring

Summer in tokyo.

Best time to visit Tokyo in summer, Japanese women wearing a yukata

Photo by cegoh on Pixabay

The months of June, July, and August are Tokyo’s summer months and thus, the hottest and busiest months. June starts the so-called 6-week rainy season, so have your light jackets and umbrellas prepared. Given the rainy weather, the hydrangeas are in bloom and are a sight to behold and you can visit Sumida Park or Tokyo Summerland to see these. July sees a transition from rainy weather to hot. By August, you can start wearing short-sleeved shirts and sundresses with breathable fabric, as it is the hottest month.

Despite the humid and rainy weather, summer is the best time to visit Tokyo for festival enthusiasts. The Sannō Festival and Obon Festival are two popular festivals in the city and are the perfect opportunities to learn more about the culture. Fireworks festivals, firefly-viewing festivals, and other summer events attract plenty of tourists as well. Beaches, amusement parks like Disney Resort, and other attractions are packed with families and locals enjoying the beautiful weather.

Festivals and Events in Summer

Summer is definitely the best time to visit Tokyo if you want to witness gorgeous fireworks festivals. Because of the beautiful weather, you can also witness street dance parades and other jovial events in the city.

Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival (Last Saturday of July) – Attracting over a million spectators, this is one of the biggest summer festivals in the country. The riverbank of the Sumida River provides an excellent view of the breathtaking fireworks.

Fukagawa Matsuri (Between June and August) – One of the three great Shinto festivals along with Kanda Matsuri and Sannō Matsuri. More than 50 mikoshi (portable shrines) are paraded along the neighborhood accompanied by a thrilling water-splashing event.

Harajuku Omotesando Genki Matsuri (Last weekend of August) – A multi-day street dance festival featuring the Yosakoi dance, a traditional dance that originated from Kochi Prefecture.

Weather in Summer

Autumn in tokyo.

Best time to visit Tokyo in autumn, Autumn foliage brightens the Meiji Jingu Outer Garden

Photo by Tom Tor on Unsplash

Autumn in Tokyo runs from September to November and transitions from rainy to picture-perfect thanks to its fall foliage. September is the city’s wettest month and not exactly the best time to visit Tokyo, as it is the height of the typhoon season. In addition, the city is also at its gloomiest, and humidity levels are high. As mid-October approaches, the weather becomes milder and once again pleasant. Autumn is in full swing by November and it is the best time to visit city parks and gardens to admire the red and gold leaves. Because the whole country turns into an autumn paradise, autumn festivals celebrating this change are popular.

Aside from festivals, the cool and crisp weather is perfect for hiking and heading to different autumn foliage spots. In addition, the summer crowds have gone back, and going on day trips from Tokyo is also a good idea if you’re staying for a longer time. Autumn is also a great time to visit Tokyo since hotels and airfare are relatively cheaper. If you’re a budget-savvy traveler, this is a great time to get bargain deals.

Festivals and Events in Autumn

Like the rest of the nation, Tokyo celebrates the change of the season in fall with harvest festivals. Aside from traditional festivals, Tokyo also celebrates Halloween, one of the more contemporary and Western-influenced events of the year.

Kichijoji Autumn Festival (Early September) – Held in autumn at Musashino Hachimangu, a Shinto Shrine dedicated to Hachiman, one of the Seven Gods of Fortune.

Halloween (End of October) – Find lively street parades and parties in Roppongi, Shibuya, and other districts. Don’t forget to come in your best costume as the Japanese like to don their best Halloween looks!

Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Matsuri (mid-November to early December) – Marvel at the scenic ginkgo trees lined up at Meiji Jingu Outer Garden. It is one of Tokyo’s most popular foliage spots where you can also find stalls offering local delicacies.

Weather in Autumn

Winter in tokyo.

Best time to visit Tokyo in winter, Snowy evening in the city

Photo by Ryoji Iwata on Unsplash

Winter in Japan starts from December to February . Sightseeing opportunities may be limited in winter, but that doesn’t mean that it isn’t the best time of the year to visit Tokyo. December is a dry month, but expect rainfall and snow on some occasions. Typically, there is little snowfall in Tokyo. So if you are looking for snow, consider going for day trips outside of Tokyo instead. The city then welcomes the new year with the coldest weather of the year, and although it still snows, they don’t last long like in December. Winter comes to a close in February and there may be a few instances of rain and snow.

Nonetheless, winter is a great time to visit and discover a different side of Tokyo. Christmas in Tokyo is also an exciting experience. The streets are all illuminated by colorful lights and end-of-year sales abound enticing avid shoppers. There are also several hot spring resorts near Tokyo, including Hakone where you can get a view of Mount Fuji while soaking in a hot tub. On January 2 and the Emperor’s Birthday on February 23, the inner grounds of the Imperial Palace are open to the public, giving its visitors a chance to see the gardens. For budget travelers or those who prefer few crowds and low-priced deals, winter is perhaps the best time to visit Tokyo for budget travelers. The only downside is that due to the New Year festivities, some businesses may close for a couple of days.

Festivals and Events in Winter

End the year with a bang and celebrate the start of a new year in Tokyo! Festivals and events in winter are generally centered on the concept of endings and new beginnings, making it the best time to visit Tokyo to witness these changes.

Tokyo Winter Illuminations (Dates vary from October to January) – Gorgeous lights illuminate its trees, city parks, and buildings during this time. In some areas, you can also witness spectacular light shows.

Hatsumōde (January 1) – Technically not a festival, Hatsumōde is an important event as it is the first shrine visit of the new year. Visitors wish for good fortune, and old omamori (small amulets) are returned in exchange for new ones.

Setsubun (First week of February) – Setsubun marks the first day of spring in the traditional lunar calendar. As such, the festival is held to pray for good fortune and ward off evil spirits as a new season starts.

Weather in Winter

Tourist seasons in tokyo.

Tourists taking photos of sake barrels

Photo by Hakan Nural on Unsplash

Knowing about the different tourist seasons is a great way of finding out the best time to visit Tokyo. If you’re particular about the crowds or budget, it’s best to avoid the high tourist season where there’s plenty of crowds. Prices for hotels, tickets, and activities are also more expensive in the high season. However, unlike other cities whose tourist seasons fall in between consecutive months, tourist seasons in Tokyo are scattered.

High Season

As Tokyo has many different sightseeing opportunities, there are several high tourist seasons. These high seasons generally have the best weather and tourism options. On the other hand, this also brings the most crowds. If you plan on braving the crowds, make sure to book your hotel and tours months in advance. That way, you can avoid overpaying or running out of places to stay at.

In Tokyo, the high tourist season is from late April to early May during the cherry blossom viewing season. In addition, the country’s Golden Week, a week containing several national holidays in Japan, is also celebrated. During this period, there will be plenty of Japanese traveling locally or abroad. Mid-June to mid-September is another peak tourist season for the city as it is the summer season. July to August also marks the summer vacation for most schools. Thus, large crowds are expected at popular tourist destinations like Tokyo Disneyland, museums, and beaches. The climbing season for Mount Fuji, one of the most iconic mountains in Japan , starts in July, making it a popular time for climbers to visit.

Shoulder Season

A destination’s shoulder season is normally in between the high and low travel season. These months usually occur one or two months before or after the high tourist season. As compared to the high tourist season, shoulder season has fewer crowds and lower prices. On the other hand, shoulder season generally has better weather as compared to the low season. With cheaper airfare and accommodation plus the mild weather and fewer crowds, who wouldn’t be enticed to travel? If you want to enjoy the benefits of the high tourist season without the expensive fees and thick crowds, the shoulder season is the best time to visit Tokyo for you.

Because Tokyo has several high tourist seasons, its shoulder seasons fall between different seasons. The weather from late May to mid-June transitions from pleasant to rainy. But on the upside, you can see the hydrangeas during the rainy days of June. Lastly, mid-September to November are the best months to enjoy the autumn foliage. Crowds from summer would be gone by then, so you can freely explore the temples and other attractions without having to queue for a long time.

Weather-wise, the low season in Tokyo usually coincides with the rainy, snowy, and even typhoon season. Tourism-wise, there are fewer tourism opportunities during the low season, which is why airfare, hotel prices, and activities are affordable. This may not be the best time of the year to visit Tokyo if you want to explore, climb mountains, or go sightseeing. However, this is ideal for getting the cheapest deals for plane tickets, hotels, and seasonal tours. You may not get to see much of the city, but who knows what you might discover?

In Tokyo, the low season is from December to February . Winter is a good time to visit Tokyo as it doesn’t get too cold and snowfall is a rare occurrence. Humidity levels are also low so you’ll be able to do a bit of winter sightseeing in comfortable weather. You might not be able to see the fall foliage or the cherry blossom trees, but the winter illuminations of Tokyo make up for that! Christmas markets, end-of-the-year sales, and hot spring baths are also some of the highlights of visiting Tokyo in winter. By the end of February to March, the city slowly starts to bloom when the plum blossoms come to life, ushering in the beginning of spring.

Learn the Seasons to Know the Best Time to Visit Tokyo 

When you ask “When is the best time of the year to visit Tokyo?” The answer is simple: all-year-round! The best time to visit the Japanese capital generally depends on your purpose of travel. Do you want to visit when the weather is perfect or when there are fewer tourists? Is there a particular festival or event you plan on catching? These are just some of the important things you have to ask yourself before planning an itinerary.

Now that you’ve figured out the different seasons in Tokyo, and its festivals and events, knowing when is the best time to visit Tokyo is made easier. From the beautiful cherry blossom trees in spring and the stunning winter illuminations, it’s never too late to visit Japan’s capital!

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The Travel Intern

13 Tips to Travel in Japan Over Peak Seasons — Cherry Blossoms, Autumn Foliage, Golden Week

japan tourist high season

Large crowds are expected during the hanami season, Golden Week, and Tokyo Summer Olympics this year, so here are tips to make your peak season Japan trip more survivable.

I love Japan to bits but if I had to name one thing I don’t like about Japan, it’ll be how uncomfortably crowded it is during peak travel seasons. Whether it’s the trains, streets or malls, people are packed elbow to elbow.

I’m especially talking about Japan in the spring, autumn, and during the Golden Week (yikes!). Japan is almost always brimming with people, and it takes more than studying calendars to figure out when’s the best time to visit.

japan tourist high season

My very first trip to Japan in 2011 was a very uneducated choice — I chose to visit in the month of August, right in the middle of the hottest period of the year that also coincided with the summer holidays. This Singaporean almost melted through her skin, while many times near-losing her temper at the throngs of selfie sticks that came her way.

I had then resigned to the fate that Japan will always be crowded, so why leave out on charming seasonal sceneries or delightful festivals when there are ways to get around the mass?

Smart travellers avoid peak periods, but smarter ones find ways to work around them. Here are 13 pro-tips on how to better enjoy Japan during the peak travel seasons. ✌️

1) Take note of crucial dates in Japan

Tokyo Sakura - Japan cherry blossom

Photo credit: TokyoCheapo

Being a popular travel destination, there’s no obvious low-peak season in Japan. But on certain times of the year, national holidays and seasonal festivals will mean shutdowns (hopefully not meltdowns) in parts of Japan:

– Late March – Early April: Hanami season . Cherry blossom trees in full bloom make spring the most popular season to visit Japan. – Late April – Early May: Golden Week, which comprises four national holidays — Shōwa Day (29 Apr), Constitution Memorial Day (3 May and observed on 6 May in 2020), Greenery Day (4 May), Children’s Day (5 May). It’s common for locals to take the other days off to travel within the country. – 24 July – 9 August 2020 : 2020 Summer Olympics held in Tokyo. 10 million people are expected to visit Japan during this period! – Mid-August: Summer holidays. Also the warmest period of the year where local Japanese travel around. – November: Koyo season, when autumn foliage shroud the streets in beautiful shades of golden hues.

Read also: 6-Day Kyushu Japan Itinerary in Autumn

2) Book flights and accommodation early

Kappa Bridge - Nagano Guide

Price hikes during peak seasons are inevitable, so it’s a must to book flights and accommodations early. Fortunately, Singapore is a major transportation hub with numerous flights to many cities in Japan, and low-cost carriers like Scoot and Jetstar operate direct flights to cities such as Tokyo , Osaka, Sapporo , and Okinawa .

* Pro-tip: Book your flights six weeks in advance for the best prices. Check flights here:

If you can’t see the widget above, check out flight prices from Singapore to Tokyo here.

ART HOTEL Kokura New Tagawa japanese style room - Japan Travel Tips Peak Season

Almost as anxiety-inducing as securing flights is the accommodation crunch, especially in more touristy cities such as Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto. It may be tempting to simply book an apartment on Airbnb, but legalised listings were halved after a major clampdown in 2018.

Be prepared to pay a lot more (we’re talking about an increment of at least 100%) for accommodation within the city during peak season. Hence as a rule of thumb when visiting Japan, look for accommodation options just outside the city centre for cheaper stays.

A neat trick is to use always check the “Deals” filter function on Booking.com to get exclusive member deals, as well as setting perimeters for areas, property type, and your preferred budget.

ART HOTEL Kokura New Tagawa western style room - Japan Travel Tips Peak Season

If you’re a solo traveller with more spending power,  HOTEL MYSTAYS ’ no-frills accommodation options are comfortable stays at reasonable rates. But if you’re not a hard planner and is someone more spontaneous or adventurous, capsule hotels and youth hostels might be more suitable.

Read also: Unique and Stylish Capsule Hotels in Japan

3) Fly into Tokyo’s Haneda Airport instead of Narita Airport

Tokyo Haneda and Narita airport time taken to city - Japan Travel Tips Peak Season

Tokyo has two international airports, with Narita (NRT) being the bigger facility servicing more international flights. Narita will hence be seeing a higher tourist volume during peak seasons such as the upcoming 2020 Summer Olympics !

The wiser choice will hence be arriving at Haneda (HND) instead. Haneda Airport is also located a lot nearer to Tokyo city than Narita, so you’ll save both time and money getting to the city. Check flight prices to Haneda Airport here:

If you can’t see the widget above, click  here to check flights from Singapore to Haneda Airport  instead.

4) Get a transportation pass

JR East Travel Service Center - Japan Travel Tips Peak Season

Getting a transportation pass can save you a lot of time, especially when you’re planning a trip to Japan during peak seasons. One way to beat the high traffic is to get your transportation tickets before everyone else!

The holy grail of convenience in Japan, the hugely popular JR pass is useful especially if you’re travelling long distances across Japan (e.g. Tokyo to Osaka, or Hiroshima to Kyushu).

Many times, the cost of the JR Pass can be covered with just one round trip long-distance ride. For instance, a 5-day Kansai-Hiroshima JR Pass costs ~S$169 while a single-trip ticket costs ~S$122.

Whole Japan JR Pass - Japan Travel Tips Peak Season

If you’re not a planner, get the JR pass to give yourself the flexibility to hop on trains as and when you want. On the other hand, if you’re a rigid planner, do your homework and find out how much your trips will total up to — you might find getting single-trip tickets more economical (though rare in most cases).

Read our ultimate JR Pass guide for more JR Pass tips and tricks!

5) Pack small and light

CabinZero Bag on the streets of Osaka - Japan Travel Tips Peak Season

Unless you’re travelling in winter, it’s always smarter to pack small and light on trips to Japan. While major subway stations have escalators and lifts, smaller stations usually only have stairs. You won’t want to find yourself in a situation where you’re lugging your luggage up a flight of stairs while being nudged around by the crazy human traffic.

Also, luggage restrictions will be introduced on shinkansen of the Tokaido , Sanyo and Kyushu lines from May 2020 ahead of the Olympics. Baggage bigger than 250cm in size will not be allowed on the bullet trains.

A reservation will have to be made for baggage between the sizes of 160 – 250cm, and if failed to do so, a fine of ¥1,000 will be imposed upon boarding. The luggage area booking can be done online starting from April 2020 on the JR Tokai (Tokaido Line), JR WEST (Sanyo Line) or JR Kyushu (Kyushu Line) websites.

6) Use HyperDia to plan your routes (and avoid traffic congestions!)

Hyperdia search Tokyo to Osaka - Japan Travel Tips Peak Season

HyperDia is a mapping website (similar to Google Maps) that will come in handy when you’re in Japan. Not only does it show the best routes towards your intended destination, it even has the feature of letting you customise your search to omit trains not covered by JR Passes.

Train schedules are also listed accurate to the minute (and we all know how Japan is with punctuality), so it’s also the best way to know how long your transfer windows between trains (if any) would be.

*Pro-tip: HyperDia isn’t available as a mobile app in many countries, but an excellent substitute is Japan Travel by NAVITIME .

7) Dig deep into the unknown

Outlook Point for Unkai Sea of Clouds in Miyashi City in Tokushima Prefecture - Japan Travel Tips Peak Season

Despite being one of the most visited tourist destinations, Japan still has many “hidden gems” that have yet to be discovered by the masses. Skipping the crowds in Tokyo can be as easy as visiting nearby areas such as Hakone , Narita City , Yokohama, Kamakura and  Kawaguchiko .

Here are some guides to lesser-known cities of Japan you might find useful: – 2D1N Matsumoto Itinerary – Nagano Guide: Gateway to the Japanese Alps – Hidden Gems in Kanto and Chubu regions – Shikoku: The Laidback Island of Japan Undiscovered by Most Tourists – 4D3N Chiba Itinerary beyond Disneyland – 7 Reasons Why Tochigi Needs to Be in Your Tokyo Itinerary

8) Be the early bird

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest - Japan Travel Tips Peak Season

As a great percentage of visitors in Japan visit with a tour, they’ll likely to be at attractions only in the late morning or early afternoon. This means most attractions are relatively less crowded in the early mornings.

Also, the temperatures are lower in the morning so activities such as hiking will not be as unpleasant compared to being done in the afternoon (the sun rises real early anyway!).

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in the early morning - Japan Travel Tips Peak Season

We headed to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto right after the first light and managed to enjoy the peace and serenity before it got crowded.

9) Or visit slightly before closing hours

Himeji Castle - Japan Travel Tips Peak Season

Another travel tip that can be applied to most attractions is to visit just before the closing time. Though it can be risky to visit paid attractions at the last minute, some places such as castles and temples can be covered in a short amount of time, and will definitely be worth the risk to visit just before the closing hours to miss the crowd.

On a previous trip to Tokyo, we visited the Himeji Castle just before its last admission at 4PM and was able to walk through all six floors to the top without having to squeeze with the crowd.

10) Avoid touristy activities at all cost

Walking down Nakamachi and Nawate Streets in Kimono - Japan Travel Tips Peak Season

Dressing up in a kimono ? KimoNO. There’s always a right time for everything, and donning a kimono when everywhere is packed in Japan is not. Leave the Instagram-worthy experiences to off-peak seasons when there are fewer photobombers in your way.

Disneysea Tokyo Story Mania in the day - Japan Travel Tips Peak Season

Theme parks are also absolute NOs. Disneyland, Disneysea , Fuji-Q Highland , and Universal Studios Japan are expected to be packed to the brim, with waiting times for rides up to 300 minutes 😱.

So if there’s a friendly no-brainer tip we can share, avoid overly touristy activities during peak season no matter how attractive or alluring they can be — save it for the off-season.

11) Look for alternative places that offer similar sights

Fushimi Inari Taisha peak crowd - Japan Travel Tips Peak Season

The Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine in Kyoto one of the most visited attractions in Kyoto .

Like it or not, many travellers travel for the gram . There’s nothing wrong with that, and I’d love to post a posed photo of myself among the Torii Gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto too. But jostling with strangers or queuing up at a photo spot feels too much like I’m in Disneyland waiting for a photo opportunity with Mickey.

Vermilion Torii Gates of Hanazono Inari Shrine Ueno Park Tokyo - Japan Travel Tips Peak Season

Vermilion Torii Gates In Hanazono Inari Shrine, Ueno Park

A simple hack for travellers who’d still want to score the likes for the gram — try looking out for quieter places that offer similar views in terms of architecture, scenery, and vibes. A good example is the Vermilion Torii Gates of Hanazono Inari Shrine , a less popular set of torii gates at Tokyo’s Ueno Park . While it may not be as impressive as the Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine in Kyoto, it’s still a pretty charming photo spot that’s a lot quieter.

Sensoji Temple Tokyo - Japan Travel Tips Peak Season

Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons

Senso-ji Temple (pictured above) is the oldest and most significant Buddhist temple in Tokyo and sees huge crowds of visitors throughout the year. A quieter alternative would be the Tocho-ji Temple (pictured below) in Fukuoka, the oldest Shingon Buddhist temple in the Kyushu prefecture.

Tochoji Temple in Fukuoka - Japan Autumn foliage

Below are some alternatives to popular attractions in Japan:

12) Steer clear of public transportation during rush hours

Tokyo subway station rush hour crowd - Japan Travel Tips Peak Season

What’s more packed than a can of sardines? A subway train in Tokyo during rush hours.

The public transportation system in Tokyo is quite a sight during the rush hours, especially at stations with higher ridership such as Ikekuburo , Shibuya , and Shinjuku stations. Salarymen literally squish themselves into the trains, whether or not there’s visible space in the carriage.

Commuters in a Tokyo Subway train - Japan Travel Tips Peak Season

Choose to ride the subway trains outside rush hours instead if you’re not in there for the morning or evening madness. Rush hours are from 7AM to 9AM in the morning and 5PM to 7PM in the evening.

13) Or simply embrace the crowd

Just like the iconic Shibuya crossings, Tokyo’s intense crowd is part of what intrigues and attracts people. Sense the rhythmic crowd and follow the pace. Once you’ve found the momentum of the masses, you’ll be likely to gel within it nicely without feeling claustrophobic (and I guess it’s also a rite of passage for every visitor to Japan!).

Crowded street of Tokyo - Japan Peak Season

Peak period or not, travellers are still loving Japan for its beautiful sights, delectable cuisine, and multifaceted culture. As long as you’ve done adequate preparation for your trip, as well as applying the travel tips above, no crowd is great enough to shun you away from Japan.

Do you know of other peak period travel tips? Share them with us in the comments below! 🙂

Follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Youtube , and Telegram for more travel inspiration!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Travel Intern (@thetravelintern) on Dec 9, 2019 at 4:33am PST

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Cherry-blossom season is one of the best times to visit Japan. Here's how I make the most of it as an American who's lived here for 5 years.

  • Japan is recognized across the world for its stunning cherry blossoms that bloom every spring.
  • The sakura season, which peaks in March and April, attracts crowds of tourists.
  • Some of the best ways to see the flowers are by visiting Hamani festivals or walking along rivers.

Insider Today

There are plenty of iconic symbols that come to mind when I think of Japan — like towering pagodas and red torii gates. But the country has also become famous for its breathtaking cherry blossoms.

I moved from the US to Japan five years ago, and I've watched crowds of tourists flood the country to enjoy the annual sakura, or cherry blossom, season each spring.

It typically lasts from late March into early May, and the views really are priceless.

Here are my top tips for taking in the blooms like a local .

Pay attention to the sakura forecast.

japan tourist high season

One of the reasons sakura is so beloved is its impermanence.

Cherry blossoms reach full bloom in just a few weeks and only stay in full bloom for about one or two weeks. If rain and strong winds coincide with this, the flowers could be completely gone in just a few days.

In order to witness peak blooming, I recommend referring to the sakura forecast calendar from the Japan Meteorological Corporation.

When American tourists think of spring, they typically picture April or May. But Japanese spring starts in early March.

The most recent forecast, released on February 22, estimates the peak bloom to be around March 21 in Tokyo and most of mainland Japan and between April 4 and 20 in most of northern Japan.

Hanami festivals are a great way to get the full sakura experience.

japan tourist high season

Hanami festivals are held across Japan to celebrate sakura.

The largest are held in Tokyo's public parks, including Ueno Park, Yoyogi Park, and Shinjuku Gyoen. But there are also smaller festivals in Chidorigafuchi Greenway and Inokashira Park.

Locals typically bring a picnic and spend the entire day relaxing with their friends under the beautiful blossoms.

Most festivals also have special activities or attractions, like the cherry-blossom shrine at Ueno. And at night, the streets light up with glowing pink lanterns, making for another unique experience.

River walks are a great spot to see some of Tokyo's most famous cherry-blossom groves.

japan tourist high season

If you're looking for a more active experience, I recommend checking out one of the many cherry-blossom groves located along the rivers in Tokyo. You can walk along the water while admiring the blooms.

Nakameguro is one of the most popular and well-known sakura viewing spots, but the crowds can be overwhelming . Get there early and avoid weekends if you don't want to be packed like sardines on the street.

For a quieter spot, check out the Bokutei Sakura Festival along the Sumida River.

Outside of Tokyo, the Ōoka River Promenade in Yokohama and the Shukugawara Moat in Kawasaki are beautiful. Plus, they're less than an hour from Tokyo by train.

There are so many delicious treats available during sakura.

japan tourist high season

There are plenty of beloved Japanese snacks for sale at cherry-blossom festivals, like candied apples and yakisoba noodles.

Don't forget to bring cash as many booths don't accept cards.

But beyond the festivals, it's really hard to miss all the gentei, or seasonal, items available across the country. The limited-edition experiences, snacks, and goods are everywhere.

Starbucks Japan is especially known for its seasonal Frappuccino . This year's drink, the Hanami Dango Frappuccino, takes its color inspiration from the blossoms.

There's no right way to enjoy the cherry blossoms, but I try to make the most of the season.

japan tourist high season

As an American expat and a cherry-blossom enthusiast, I can never get enough of sakura.

Even if I'm not going to a festival or river walk, I take the time to enjoy any blooming trees I pass in my neighborhood or along city streets. I'll never miss an opportunity to snap a picture and take a deep breath of the sweet fragrance.

Although it takes a little bit of advanced planning, cherry-blossom season is an incredible time to visit Japan . I highly recommend that every experiences it at least once.

Business Insider agreed to withhold Abi's last name for privacy reasons. We have verified her identity.

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Use your star sign as a guide to step into Japan's cherry blossom season in 2024

This year’s vernal equinox falls on March 20, commencing the first day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere and the start of the astrological new year with the sun’s ingress into Aries ― the first of the 12 zodiac signs.

Marking a moment where daylight and darkness are in equal measure, the gentle scent and exuberant sight of cherry blossoms set against a brilliant blue sky are tell-tale signs that waxing days of sunlight are upon us.

Before finding ourselves on this precipice of change, however, we must paddle through the nebulous waters of Pisces season (Feb. 19 to Mar. 20), whose co-rulership falls under enlightening Jupiter and illusory Neptune. This entails deceivingly cold days of distorted reality when bright-colored plum blossoms beckon us to abandon our coats at home — despite being in the gray grip of winter’s passage.

In actuality, the guise of spring having arrived in full force is a subtle reminder of the Piscean-like Japanese motto mono no aware : the art of impermanence of all transient things.

Whether waving goodbye to the gently melting snow or welcoming nature’s awakening from its winter slumber, these transitional weeks reflect new beginnings that come with the annual promise of light overcoming darkness ― a solar principle pioneered by the zodiacal leader, Aries.

This monthly travel series is sprinkled with astrological insights ― from your sun and rising sign ― to personalize travel destinations across Japan alongside the zodiac constellations and their ruling planets.

1. Aries (Mar. 20-Apr. 20): Ryogoku Spring Grand Sumo Tournament

Ryogoku_Taiki-Kawasaki-iStock-1433026689.jpg

Like rams going head to head, the sight of rikishi (professional sumo wrestlers) battling for a win inside the dohyo (sumo ring) is an adrenaline-pumping experience for athletes and spectators alike.

Under rulership of swift and sharp Mars, Arians possess a primal “need for speed” ― to quote the maverick fighter pilot in the testosterone-filled Top Gun . Similarly, the Haru Basho (Spring Grand Sumo Tournament) is not only where the top dog of the dohyo is crowned, but a high-ranked combatant may snag yokozuna (grand champion) status.

Held from March 10 to 24 at Edion Arena Osaka, this 15-day match ― one of six annual honbasho , or tournaments, is the year’s second competition following the Hatsu (New Year) Basho at Tokyo’s famed Ryogoku Kokugikan in January. See bare-chested sumo heavyweights thrusting their opponents with open palms while raucous fans scream support from their seats or hurl zabuton (cushions) when a favorite loses. ​​

The raw enthusiasm for Japan’s national sport, from the stands to the sumo ring, will pump up the passionate Aries! So get in on the action and chant: “Dosukoi!”

2. Taurus (Apr. 21-May 21): Sakura Fes Nihonbashi

Somei-Yoshino-Cherry-Nihonbashi-magicflute002-iStock-1493911030.jpg

From ancient Egypt’s devout deity worship of Apis to legends of the golden calf in the Exodus, the bull has long been regarded as a sacred animal of fertility. It was believed to provide fertile land, producing plentiful crops and economic prosperity.

The same symbolism is attributed to Taurus, the sign where Venus ― the luxury-loving goddess governing wealth ― calls her planetary home. The Moon ― the luminary associated with the Part of Fortune ― is welcomed as an honored guest.

Taureans need to look no further than Nihonbashi , the financial district housing the Tokyo Stock Exchange and the Bank of Japan, to get a taste of the “Charging Bull” cloaked in cherry blossoms come springtime. Held annually from mid-March to early April, Sakura Fes Nihonbashi is where historical landmarks (known as Japan’s “Wall Street”) get a pretty-in-pink makeover with cherry blossom-themed art installations, illuminations and pop-up food stalls.

Catch sight of around 170 Somei-Yoshino cherry trees in full bloom along the namesake street, Edo Sakura-dori, while savoring seasonal treats during hanami (flower-viewing) season.

Then at nightfall, Taureans can marvel at immersive art illuminations that set office buildings and shopping malls, including the Mitsui Building and Coredo Muromachi, alight with a shimmering sakura backdrop.

3. Gemini (May 22-June 22): Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

kitano-plum-blossom-1.jpg

Merchants, mercantile transactions and marketplaces all fall under Mercury’s domain.

That’s because the winged messenger is a jack of all trades. Ever-omnipresent at commercial hubs where bustling exchanges take place (think Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar or New York’s Wall Street), and the communication gap between customers and vendors is bridged ― not unlike the gap bridged by our brain and neural pathways in speech.

Bestowed with the gift of gab, Geminis will be in their element at the lively flea market held on the 25th of each month at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine in Kyoto. Dedicated to the deity of learning, Sugawara no Michizane (845-903) ― another nod to Mercury’s mental faculties, who rules the celestial twin ― the premises come alive with about 50 varieties of plum blossoms from early February to late March.

Among the 1,500 plum trees ― a personal favorite of the deified Heian scholar and poet ― Geminians will spot swarms of students twinning in prayer positions during entrance exam season in winter. Aside from petitioning for academic success, the twins can place their faith in finding treasure at the shrine’s flea market, affectionately coined Tejin-san by locals.

From stalls selling antiques to second-hand kimono, the monthly market will be a mecca for great fun and great finds to add to the Gemini’s cabinet of curiosities.

4. Cancer (June 23-July 22): Ueno Park Cherry Blossom Festival

Ueno-Park-pond-and-boats.jpg

Ever the family-oriented water sign ― the element most associated with connectivity and emotional connections ― Cancerians relish any opportunity to spend time with their tight-knit tribe. In other words: the hard-shelled crustacean has a soft spot for kinship, whether between one’s biological bonds or chosen family.

Come spring, Tokyo’s Ueno Park is the perfect venue to pack a bento lunch box and partake in the Japanese pastime of hanami under pale-pink cherry trees. As the planetary abode of two planets conducive to life ― the nurturing, nocturnal moon bestowed rulership and seed-sowing Jupiter as its exalted guest ― the season most synonymous with life’s awakening is exponentially more fun when you bring the fam!

The Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival, a much-anticipated annual tradition from mid-March to early April, sees the premises transformed with nearly 800 blossoming Somei-Yoshino trees illuminated with hundreds of hanging bonbori (paper covered lanterns) and lively hanami-goers partaking in the seasonal pairing of sake and sakura. There’ll also be plenty of food stalls to satisfy the stomachs of Cancers, a sign known for providing and prizing creature comforts.

After getting the “crabby” crew together, swap your picnic blanket for a waterproof blue tarpaulin and savor this fleeting moment of ephemeral beauty ― much like the moon’s ever-changing phases ― while seated under the pale blooms.

5. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22): Nikko Toshogu Shrine

Nikko-Toshogu-Shrine-.jpg

February’s new moon in Aquarius ushered in the start of a new Chinese zodiac sign at the Lunar New Year. It was a changing of the guard involving the swift-footed rabbit replaced by the divine dragon.

Call it coincidence or fate, the mythical creature in Chinese folklore and the “king of the beasts” in the 12 astrological signs are both fifth in line among their respective pantheon. Plus, the auspicious dragon and light-shining Leo boast shared symbolisms of strength, prosperity and imperial power.

Hence, the rationale behind this month’s travel pick for Leonians being the Baroque-like Nikko Toshogu Shrine in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture. This architecturally elaborate sanctuary ― lavishly decorated with gold leaf and wood carvings featuring all manner of beasts ― is also home to the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu (1543-1616), the famed feudal warlord who was enshrined following his death.

Leo’s correspondence with the Strength card in the tarot’s major arcana is equally fitting for this shogun who seized power across Japan during the 17th century.

So don’t be fooled by shrine-goers swarming around the Sanzaru (Three Wise Monkeys)! There are serpentine pillars and grand imagery of dragons galore, including the gigantic Nakiryu (Crying Dragon) soaring on the panel-lined ceiling of Yakushi-do Temple within the precinct.

6. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Mount Yoshino

Mount-Yoshino_SeanPavonePhoto-iStock-488852217.jpg

If you’re a Virgo, has the thought of heading to the mountains to renounce the material world ever crossed your mind?

Although ruled by multitasking Mercury, this winged maiden is a mutable (aka double-bodied) earth sign who generally has her feet on the ground ― as opposed to soaring the high skies like airy Gemini, the other mercurial sign governed by the winged messenger.

Thus, mindfulness and meditation for the practical, productive yet anxiety-prone Virgo may just be what the naturopath ordered.

Mount Yoshino in Nara Prefecture is the perfect natural remedy for Virgoans to get away from the demands of the physical plane. This sacred summit has been a spiritual mecca beckoning shugendo (mountain asceticism) practitioners, spiritual seekers and pilgrims from ancient times to the present day. Comprising a series of pilgrimage routes, this relatively remote location secured UNESCO World Heritage status in 2004 ― cementing its reputation not only among ascetics here but also across the globe.

So take some deep belly breaths ― a nod to the sign’s anatomical rulership over the abdomen ― and sink into serenity with Mother Nature.

7. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Hotel Gajoen Tokyo: Hyakudan Hina Matsuri 2024

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Literary masterpieces and poetic prose flourished during the peaceful Heian period (794-1185). This era spanning roughly 390 years literally translates to “peace and tranquility.”

Librans, “the great equalizer” whose glyph depicts balancing scales, are well aware that lofty ideals of peace and justice are not simply ethical pillars of civil society. Rather, this sociable air sign is convinced these principles contribute to the aesthetic backdrop of intellectual pursuits and cultural refinement ― Venusian values of diplomacy intertwining with the finesse of fine art.

The historic Hotel Gajoen Tokyo in Meguro Ward is one such venue where Librans can revel in the refinements of Hina dolls dressed like court nobles from Jan. 20 to March 10. This custom of displaying opulent emperor and empress dolls, or hina , dates back to Heian times and marks the annual celebration of Hina Matsuri (Girls’ Day) on March 3.

As advocates of equality, Librans know you don’t need to be female to partake in the seasonal fun at this year’s Hyakudan-Hina Matsuri event. Each room in the hyakudan kaidan (100-step staircase) will elicit “oohs” and “aahs” as 1,300 diminutive dolls donning kimono showcase various classical periods and prefectural variations.

8. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22): Tagata Shrine's Honen Festival

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Synonymous with fertility, vitality and rebirth, spring has long been celebrated as a season of sexual awakening by monotheists and pagans alike.

One particularly sultry zodiac sign is already “in the know” about the subterranean powers of sexuality, harnessing its transformative energy as a creative force.

Look no further than the glyph for Scorpio and its traditional planetary ruler, Mars, to see the blatantly phallic symbolism. Yes, I’m referring to the upward-pointing arrow acting as an emblem of manhood. There’s no innuendo with Scorpios, known for cutting to the chase and getting straight to the down-and-dirty point.

Once a year, Tagata Shrine in Aichi Prefecture ’s Komaki City exhibits this scorpionic ethos with private parts ― anatomically associated with Scorpio ― paraded out in the open! A slab of hinoki (Japanese cypress) carved into a two-meter-long phallus is the pinnacle of the parade procession during the Honen (fertility) Festival held annually on March 15.

With the water signs being the most fertile among the zodiac bunch, this is especially fitting for Scorpios who don’t bat an eye to taboo topics ― be it sizzling, steamy or seedy acts done behind closed doors.

However, be forewarned: this lively festival may not be ideal for shrinking violets!

9. Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 22): Philosopher's Path

Kyoto-Philosophers-Path_SeanPavonePhoto-iStock-534664279.jpg

“Optimist” and “idealist” are adjectives commonly attached to Sagittarians, a sign susceptible to becoming naive Pollyannas at the best and worst of times.

But don’t downplay their jolly demeanor! Under the expansive influence of Jupiter, Sagittarius has the mental capacity to see beyond the rose-colored veil and philosophize about the nature of reality. Better yet, the centaur can pontificate about its philosophy of “living the good life” along the Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto.

This scenic pathway in the Higashiyama district is bursting with cherry blossoms along the sakura-lined canal come spring. Beyond a breath of fresh air, the contemplative centaur can connect to something bigger than the self ― spiritual and philosophical pursuits prompted by high-minded Jupiter ― while strolling this well-trod footpath.

In fact, it was a favorite spot for meditative walks among Japanese intellectuals, scholars and  philosophers — most notably Kitaro Nishida (1870-1945).

Gain freedom ― another Jupitarian principle ― from your thoughts through this stress-busting, mood-boosting mindful walk amidst the ephemeral beauty of cherry blossoms.

10. Capricorn (Dec. 23-Jan. 21): Sagano Romantic Train

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All work and no play makes Capricorn a dull sign. That’s because under the rule of restrictive Saturn, the serious sea-goat can easily forgo fun for the call of duty.

Instead, why not answer to the call of nature? After all, Capricorn is a sign operating in the realm of earthly experiences, which encompass the physical, practical and material world.

Aboard the Sagano Romantic Train, Capricorns will still ascend to new heights ― just not the heights of power and prestige hungered by the hardest-working sign in the zodiac.

Located next to JR Saga-Arashiyama station, this retro red torokko ressh a (trolley train) departs from Saga Torokko station in Kyoto’s scenic Arashiyama district. After marveling at the massive collection of model trains inside the station, Capricorns won’t have to completely abandon their stoic mindset while riding an old-fashioned trolley reminiscent of the little engine that could.

A stickler for punctuality and time ― a nod to Saturn’s Greek name, Kronos, where the etymology for “chronology” is derived ― Capricorns will feel relieved that the sightseeing route spans 25 minutes to Kameoka Torokko station, the final stop after the open-air trolley courses along the Hozukyo Gorge.

Not a second is wasted with the sea-goat, who has likely already reserved tickets in advance online knowing spring is peak travel season.

11. Aquarius (Jan. 22-Feb. 20): Sumida Park

Tokyo-Skytree.jpg

Never one to follow the crowd, Aquarians may cringe at the thought of shuffling alongside throngs of visitors to ascend the Tokyo Skytree : the world’s tallest broadcasting tower in Sumida Ward.

That’s because the water bearer is traditionally ruled by Saturn, the furthest of the seven visible planets, whose modus operandi is setting boundaries and limitations. So what is a saturnine air sign to do?

Why, head to Sumida Park, of course! Only a few minutes on foot from Asakusa station, this riverside park offers the best view of the slick, neo-futuristic architectural feat from afar. Come springtime, the Sumida River Terrace ― a paved promenade spanning about 28 kilometers ― is bursting with the country’s iconic blossoms from Somei-Yoshino cherry trees lining the path to the public park.

While iconic is fine, Aquarians want innovation. For all the talk of Saturn’s constricting and restricting force, Aquarius has a bone to pick with rules that restrict personal freedom ― acting as an agent provocateur under modern rulership of revolutionary Uranus, the Greek sky god. And as an air sign, Aquarians are brimming with innovative ideas ― no different from their overflowing water jug ― that seem to appear out of the ether.

All this is to say that Sumida Park is the perfect backdrop to objectively admire some 510 cherry trees blooming during sakura season with the Tokyo Skytree: a forward-looking emblem that embraces the Aquarian archetype for advancement.

12. Pisces (Feb. 21-Mar. 19): Chidorigafuchi Moat

Chidorigafuchi-Moat_f11photo-iStock-1210862878.jpg

Pisceans are starry-eyed romantics whose imagination conjures tales of undying love that stand as a metaphor for a deep sea of secrets, to paraphrase Rose in Titanic .

This Piscean penchant for romanticism ― mirroring TikTok’s “main character” trend ― comes from Venus, who governs the forces of attraction and repulsion, being exalted in this mutable sign that exhibits Yin-Yang polarities. Moreover, Pisces gets its spiritual street cred under joint rulership of Jupiter and Neptune ― visionary planets comparable to a cosmic ocean ― that make up the opposing philosophies of “love and loss.”

While Pisceans are undoubtedly dreamers, they simultaneously sense sentimentality and sorrow in impermanence, be it the cycle of life to love. So why not ponder this Japanese principle of mono no aware around a moat surrounded by petals imbued with ephemeral beauty?

Chidorigafuchi, a moat northwest of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, becomes awash in a fantastical ambiance come spring, when the 700-meter-long greenway transforms into a canopy of cherry blossoms. But this spellbinding season is heartbreakingly brief, spanning a two-week period from late March to early April when LED fixtures exponentially magnify the allure factor after dark.

While admiring the mankai (full bloom) blossoms, Pisceans can muse on the fleeting nature of life in a world obsessed with permanence, as the symbolic petals bestow the unsung teachings of beauty and decay.

Jessica Sayuri Boissy is a practicing traditional Western astrologer in Tokyo. She has a Practitioners Level Horary Certificate from The School of Traditional Astrology (STA) and earned her Fundamentals Certificate for natal and predictive techniques at Kepler College.

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1 Comment Login to comment

japan tourist high season

Gene Hennigh Mar. 2 02:41 am JST

Too bad my sign isn't one of the best ones. It's not bad at all, but other signs have really good ones. It's a neat concept though and I would like to visit these places, regardless of whether it's mine or not.

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Visiting Japan off-season 日本でオフシーズンに旅行する

  • Published on : 30/08/2018
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Golden Pavilion

Here are the reasons to travel to Japan during off-peak season

Visiting the Japanese archipelago off-season can be a great idea, with many advantages compared with traveling at the most popular times. Discover another side of Japan...

The peak tourist seasons of Japan are mainly during the periods of hanami (cherry blossoms) and koyo (red maple leaves), occurring respectively from early March to mid-May, and from early October to late November. The low Japanese seasons are the two months of summer, and particularly the months of December, January and February. Winter is undoubtedly the least-visited season of the year for tourists.

So, what are some of the benefits of visiting Japan off-season?

Raisonnable prices

This is definitely worth taking into account! In low season, many prices are lower. This will help with the two biggest expenses of any trip, namely the flights and accommodation . With far more affordable prices at off-peak times, this can, for example, give you the opportunity to afford a stay at a very nice ryokan (traditional inn), complete with meals, which might have been impossible during high season when availability is low and prices soar! Not only that, but by booking in advance you can make even better savings.

Our guide : Visting Japan on a budget

Alone in the world

It may not seem like a big deal at first, but when you're traveling at a less popular time, you'll avoid the crowds . It's admittedly not ideal to walk around Nikko , explore the foot of Mount Fuji or wander through picturesque Gion among hordes of tourists... In January or February, you can visit the most popular tourist places in complete tranquility and get that picture-perfect shot. There will also be shorter queues at entrances to museums and temples. Do yourself a favor and avoid the extra stress!

Enjoy winter-specific activities

Visiting in January and February gives you the chance to see Japan in a whole new light. The landscapes are beautiful and appear completely different in winter, sometimes even under a layer of snow, which creates a magical atmosphere . In addition, the weather, although cold, remains pleasant during the Japanese winter, which tends to be rather dry and sunny.

A lesser known event than the hanami can also make your winter trip special: the flowering of the ume , Japanese plum trees. They bloom as early as February in Tokyo and Kansai (Kyoto and Osaka region), and their intense pink flowers appear in parks and temples all over.

  • 5 reasons to visit Japan in winter
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Winter is also the best time to admire Mount Fuji , its summit covered with snow, as there are usually fewer clouds in winter. It is also the ideal time to enjoy an  onsen , especially outdoors (rotenburo) . What could be better than enjoying the steaming hot waters surrounded by charming snow-dusted landscapes?

See : 5 onsen with a view

Winter can also be an opportunity to try skiing , as well as to discover what Hokkaido has to offer, including the impressive Sapporo Snow Festival .

And in summer?

Of course, the summer also has much to offer visitors! Certainly, the heat and humidity of the Japanese summer is not for everyone. However, Japan has some beautiful beaches to cool off at, so this season can be an opportunity to relax, and perhaps even enjoy the incredible beaches of the islands of Okinawa .

Read : Visiting Japan in summer

In addition, summer is the period of matsuri , traditional annual festivals. In Kyoto especially, the streets come alive in the evening, and some events shouldn't be missed, like Gion Matsuri and its parades of floats, or Motomiya festival at Fushimi Inari shrine, where temples and the tunnels of  torii gates are adorned with thousands of red lanterns... Finally, July and August are also the time of year for fireworks displays   (hanabi) , which the Japanese take to a whole new level!

Read more : 

  • Events and festivals in Japan
  • 5 of the best summer fireworks displays
  • Beaches in Japan
  • Five summer festivals not to be missed

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Weather officials describe this winter in Japan as unusually warm

Weather officials in Japan have described this winter season as unusually warm, as it marked the second-highest national average temperature on record.

The Japan Meteorological Agency convened an expert panel on Monday to analyze the weather conditions from December to February.

The panel cited a tendency for warm air to cover Japan this winter. The national average temperature during the period was 1.27 degrees Celsius higher than in the average year, making the season the second warmest since record-keeping began in 1898. The warmest was in 2020.

Agency officials attributed this year's result to global warming. They added that westerlies flowing in high altitudes, including the subtropical jet stream that meandered north near Japan, caused the archipelago to be covered by warm air from the south.

They say another westerly, the polar front jet stream, made only small movements near Japan, preventing cold air from proceeding south.

The panel concluded that the chance of unusually high temperatures would have been extremely low if not for the rise in temperatures due to global warming.

Panel head Nakamura Hisashi, a professor at the University of Tokyo's Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, said it would be safe to call this winter unusually warm. He added that more similarly warm winters could be in store in the future, depending on weather conditions.

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COMMENTS

  1. When is Peak Travel Season in Japan? » Zooming Japan

    5. Autumn Foliage Season (esp. end of November) Almost as popular as cherry blossom season is autumn when the leaves change colors. For the main tourist regions (Hiroshima, Kyoto or Tokyo) that peak is usually from the end of November to the beginning of December. Other parts of Japan get autumn colors as early as September.

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

    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.

  3. Best time to visit Japan

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

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

    Driest months in Japan: December and January. Most crowded month in Japan: late April - early May (aka "Golden Week", explained in the section about Spring) Least crowded months in Japan: January - early March are the least popular times to visit, which can mean cheaper prices and less crowds.

  5. Best Times to Visit Japan

    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 ...

  6. The Best Time to Visit Japan

    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 ...

  7. When is the Best Time to Visit Japan?

    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.

  8. When to Visit Japan? Bests Times and 2024 Travel Tips

    Winter. 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.

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

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

  10. 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 ...

  11. When is peak travel season?

    If you have a flexible schedule, try to avoid these particular time periods when prices skyrocket and transportation and hotels tend to be fully booked. New Year?: December 27 to January 4 and adjacent weekends. Golden Week?: April 29 to May 5 and adjacent weekends. The Summer Bon Holiday?:

  12. Here's the best time to visit Japan

    With sunny skies and low rainfall, winter is also a great season to spend in cities like Tokyo and Osaka, and, being the off-season, tourist numbers will drop significantly. 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.

  13. When Is The Best Time To Visit Japan? When To Go And Avoid

    In fact, this is peak travel season for the country. Foreign visitors may crowd the country during cherry blossom season, but summer holidays are when families and friends travel trying to beat the heat. ... Sticky August is high season, because Japan, like most places in the world, has their school summer holidays during this time. Cue friends ...

  14. The best season to visit Japan

    September in Japan is offering a nice Indian summer, with very few tourists and affordable prices. If you do not have children, September is an excellent choice worth to be considered. At the end of fall, in the same way as in the cherry blossom season, the best spots for viewing koyo (or autumn leaves) are often overcrowded, especially in Kyoto's most majestic temples.

  15. When Is the Least Expensive Time to Visit Japan

    Sakura Season: Last Week of March to Early April. The cherry blossom season's popularity makes this time of year perhaps the most expensive for visiting Japan. Although the exact dates for the cherry blossom bloom depend on location and weather, the last week of March and the first week of April generally see the most flowers.

  16. When to travel to Japan

    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 ...

  17. Best Time to Visit Tokyo: A Season by Season Guide

    The climbing season for Mount Fuji, one of the most iconic mountains in Japan, starts in July, making it a popular time for climbers to visit. Shoulder Season. A destination's shoulder season is normally in between the high and low travel season. These months usually occur one or two months before or after the high tourist season.

  18. When to travel to Japan? Which season to choose?

    Winter in Japan The advantages of Japan in winter: Travel in winter to avoid the crowds.As the least popular season for tourists, it's also the least expensive.Airfare, hotels, and ryokan are the most affordable during this period.; In the Kantō region, the sun often shines brightly and the sky is clear.If you don't mind the cold, the temperatures are bearable (with an average of about 10°C ...

  19. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT JAPAN?

    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.

  20. Best Time to Visit Japan: Weather By Month and Season

    Travelling to Honshu (Japan's main island) or Hokkaido works better. By September, the high tourism season in Japan is over. You'll enjoy a little extra breathing room through the country. Digging into Tokyo's cool tourist attractions is a great idea in September.

  21. 13 Tips to Travel in Japan Over Peak Seasons

    Smart travellers avoid peak periods, but smarter ones find ways to work around them. Here are 13 pro-tips on how to better enjoy Japan during the peak travel seasons. ️ . 1) Take note of crucial dates in Japan. Photo credit: TokyoCheapo. Being a popular travel destination, there's no obvious low-peak season in Japan.

  22. When Is The Best Time To Visit Japan? Seasons, Festivals & Weather

    The most popular time to visit Japan is spring (March - April) when the beautiful Sakura/ Cherry Blossoms turn the parks and landscape of Japan pinkish. The autumn (September - November) is a good number two in popularity as the fall foliage make the Japanese landscape into a colorful sea of yellow, orange, red, and brown. These two seasons ...

  23. Best Tips for Visiting Japan for Cherry-Blossom Season, From Local

    The most recent forecast, released on February 22, estimates the peak bloom to be around March 21 in Tokyo and most of mainland Japan and between April 4 and 20 in most of northern Japan ...

  24. Use your star sign as a guide to step into Japan's cherry blossom

    This monthly travel series is sprinkled with astrological insights ― from your sun and rising sign ― to personalize travel destinations across Japan alongside the zodiac constellations and their ruling planets. 1. Aries (Mar. 20-Apr. 20): Ryogoku Spring Grand Sumo Tournament

  25. Visiting Japan off-season

    The peak tourist seasons of Japan are mainly during the periods of hanami (cherry blossoms) and koyo (red maple leaves), occurring respectively from early March to mid-May, and from early October to late November. The low Japanese seasons are the two months of summer, and particularly the months of December, January and February.

  26. Hotels Across Japan Are Gearing Up For Cherry Blossom Season

    In 2023, sakura season brought the highest number of travelers since the country re-opened its borders to travelers according to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO). Tokyo, which was ...

  27. Weather officials describe this winter in Japan as unusually warm

    The national average temperature during the period was 1.27 degrees Celsius higher than in the average year, making the season the second warmest since record-keeping began in 1898. The warmest ...