Best Times of Year to Visit Japan

 

 

If you're considering a trip to Japan, you're probably wondering what time of year is best to visit. The wonderful thing is every season is a great time to visit Japan, and you will have a completely unique experience. We'll lay out what to expect in each season, as well as the pros and cons of visiting during these times. 

Note: The weather is based on averages, though it can vary a lot throughout the country.

Japan in the Spring (March - May)

• Cherry blossoms in bloom; lots of festivals
• Pleasant temperatures and not much rain
• Lots of crowds for cherry blossoms

Japan in the Summer (June - August)

• Hot and humid weather
• 3-4 week rainy period (usually mid-June through mid-July)
• Festivals and fireworks starting in July
• Mount Fuji is opened for climbing in July
• Good time for beach holidays in places like Okinawa

Japan in the Fall (September - November)

• Colorful leaves make the landscape spectacular (October is the best month for leaves)
• Temperatures are comfortable 
• Lots of festivals, concerts, sports tournaments and exhibitions during this time 
• Less crowds

Japan in the Winter (December - February)

• Less crowds
• Skiing in Japan is said to be some of the best in the world!
• Ideal temperature for soaking in outdoor onsens
• Small towns look magical covered in snow

For more info: This website does a good job describing the average temperatures and rainfall around Japan each month. 

Before you book a trip to Japan in the spring, know this...

Spring is considered by many as a great time to visit Japan for its comfortable temperatures, cherry blossoms and little chance of rain.

One thing you should be aware of is the so-called "Golden Week" which falls in the springtime and is made up of 4 national holidays which fall into a 7-day span. This means many Japanese people will also be traveling around the country and accommodation and tours are often booked far in advance. 

Golden Week in Japan Dates

• 2018: April 28 - May 6
• 2019: April 27 - May 12 (Holidays are more spread out)
  
  
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