Best Time to Visit Japan

Low Season: January • February • Early March • December

In low season, snow can blanket the ground from central to northern Japan, thinning at the beginning of spring.

These months provide a great time to indulge in sports like skiing or snowboarding, enjoy hot bowls of ramen, or soak in the steaming waters of a customary onsen.

It is also the start of diving season, resulting in sightings of humpback whales, sea turtles, sharks, and manatees.

High Season: Late March • April • May

High season is an excellent time to go to Japan as the temperatures are warm and the foliage changes, capturing the height of cherry blossom season.

Viewing the flowers is particularly popular leading into early April. By late that month, crowds erupt across the country because of “Golden Week”, four national holidays that fall within a seven-day period.

Shoulder Season: January • February • March • October • November

The shoulder travel season in Japan from January to March and October to November provides the most consistent weather and fewer crowds.

Whether on 7-day Japan trips or for longer, November is comfortable across the country and can still allow for excursions like hiking or outdoor arts and cultural festivals in crisp temperatures.

Best Months: March • April • May • October • November

Spring and autumn will give you Japan’s best weather and the most diverse experiences. Depending on where you travel, crowds may be prevalent because of the cherry blossoms, but this is one of the most authentic cultural experiences you can have in the country.

The great weather and changing colors in spring and autumn make for fantastic scenery and give you excellent opportunities to sample the seasonal cuisine of Tokyo, wander the colorful lanes of historic Kyoto, or visit the countless museums and heritage villages across the country in comfort.

Learn more: Best Places to Visit in Japan

Best Months: March • April • May

The best time to visit Japan to see cherry blossoms is in March, April, and May, but wholly depends on where you plan on seeing the annual event.

The cherry blossoms bring huge crowds to places like Fukuoka and Hiroshima. The most popular destinations, like Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo, usually experience their blossoms in April, and you can experience the beauty on our Japan cherry blossom tours.

Learn more: Japan Cherry Blossom Travel Guide

Best Months: July • August

Peak summer in July and August is the best time to travel to Japan’s lavender fields, which thrive in the cooler districts around places like Nagano and Hokkaido.

An annual herb festival takes place during their blossoming near Mount Fuji to celebrate the different types of flowering lavender in the area. The bloom reaches its peak around mid-July, but lasts until mid-August, especially with late-blooming varieties.

Best Months: January • May • September • November

In Japan, sumo tournaments are held in odd months, celebrating the ancient sport and its traditions.

Tournament dates vary from one location to another, with Tokyo hosting in January, May, and September, and Fukuoka hosting in November. For a unique experience, you can choose Japanese-style seating, box or ringside.

Best Months: June • July • August

Summer in Japan has the most festivals, offering a fantastic picture of the country. The season is an active one, especially in August, when schools are out, making it a great time for longer, 14-day tours of Japan.

The high humidity and heavy rainfall of typhoon season may not feel ideal, but captivating festivals like the Gion Matsuri festival in Kyoto or Osaka’s Tenjin Matsuri festival that highlights the country’s deep cultural connections abound.

Best Months: End of April • Beginning of May • June • Mid-July • September

Avoid travel at the end of April and beginning of May during “Golden Week”, June to mid-July, and during the rains in September.

“Golden Week” is Japan’s biggest holiday and takes place from the end of April to the beginning of May. The crowds soar, along with the prices, in every corner of the country. June to mid-July, in addition to September, are very rainy and can hinder your ability to explore certain places or experience certain activities.

By visiting outside of these times, you have a better opportunity to enjoy the weather, natural beauty, and culture within a more comfortable and relaxed travel environment.

Best Months: March • April • May • October • November

Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Japan with family. The mild weather makes it easier to travel with children of all ages and the changing scenery makes it a majestic experience, whether you wish to view the cherry blossoms or partake in harvest festivals.

Family-friendly excursions can reveal the diversity of the culture and activities, with stunning hikes, onsen visits, or even scuba-diving adventures. The entire family will enjoy the celebrated cuisine of Tokyo and the heritage of Kyoto, in addition to trekking destinations like Mount Ishikawa.

Learn more: Japan Family Vacations & Tours

Best Months: March • April • May • October • November

Spring and fall are the best times for couples to visit Japan. The mild temperatures and changing landscape bring hints of romance.

Spring pays homage to the famous cherry blossoms, while autumn sees active hiking across the country, remarkable seasonal dishes, and changing leaves captured in the Kochia Carnival, when the renowned bushes turn red around Hitachi Seaside Park.

You can discover Japan during the best time to visit for couples or honeymooners in our Japan tours for couples or Japan honeymoon packages.

Learn more: Most Romantic Places in Japan for Couples

Best Months: March • April • October • November

The best time for seniors to visit Japan is from March to April and October to November, which coincide with the best weather and possibly fewer crowds.

Planning your senior trip around the shoulder season can help you discover Japan’s scenic beauty and distinctive culture according to how you wish to travel. Visit the famous cultural landmarks or dine at restaurants famous for their cuisine and limited seating. Walk trails at your pace or cross the infamous Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo with fewer pedestrians.

The optimal weather conditions create a more pleasant travel experience for Japan tours for seniors.

Best Months: March • April • May

March to May is the best time to visit Japan for spring and summer activities. Certain of these, like visiting museums or a heritage village, can take place year-round, while others can be weather-dependent.

March, April, and May give you the best weather to enjoy seasonal possibilities, from particular cuisine to festivals, as well as the famous scenery.

Activities: Trekking • Cherry blossoms • Cycling the countryside and mountains • Green tea plantations • Miyako Odori Festival

Best Months: October • January

October and January offer incredibly different experiences, but are the best times to visit Japan during fall and winter.

In the autumn, the changing temperatures result in fantastic colors spreading across the countryside. While cold, January is a great time to enjoy Japan for things like winter festivals and snow sports.

Activities: Visit onsens • Snowboarding • Skiing • Snow Festival • Sumo Grand Tournament

Japan offers countless year-round opportunities to explore and experience culture and scenery, with the best time depending on the experience you wish to have.

Dive deeper into what this country has to offer with Zicasso’s Japan travel guide and top things to do in Japan, or take inspiration from our sample Japan tours and vacations.