Best Time to Visit Japan

Japan's Four Distinct Seasons

Japan has four clearly defined seasons, each offering a very different travel experience, deciding when to go often comes down to whether you want cherry blossoms, autumn colours, festivals or fewer crowds.

Spring (March-May)

The most popular season thanks to cherry blossoms, typically peaking late March to early April in Tokyo and Kyoto. Book well ahead, as this is Japan's busiest and priciest travel period.

Summer (June-August)

Hot and humid, with a rainy season in June. Summer festivals (matsuri) and fireworks displays are a highlight, though the heat can be intense, especially in cities.

Autumn (September-November)

Autumn foliage rivals cherry blossoms for beauty, peaking mid-to-late November in Kyoto. Mild temperatures and slightly thinner crowds than spring make this many travellers' favourite season.

Winter (December-February)

Cold but clear, with excellent skiing in Hokkaido and Nagano, and Mount Fuji views at their best. It's also the cheapest and least crowded time to visit major cities.