Japan holds a special place in my heart. Though not my birthplace, I’ve visited countless times since childhood, making it feel like a second home. My grandparents lived there, and our spring visits were filled with wonder. As a kid, Japan was a magical realm of anime characters and delicious treats. Leaving was always bittersweet.
We’ve been lucky enough to visit Japan a couple of times with our kids, and they’ve always had a blast. Last summer, we embarked on an incredible 4-week journey through Japan. You can read more about our adventures in my blog post, Best time with my children: Trip to Japan.
Japan, a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern marvels, offers year-round fun. However, specific seasons shine brighter, influenced by weather, cultural events, and natural beauty. Let’s delve into the best times to visit based on your preference.
Spring (March-May): A Blooming Delight
Cherry Blossom Season: One of Japan’s most iconic seasons, spring brings a breathtaking display of cherry blossoms across the country. Cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka transform into a pink paradise.
Hanami culture: Hanami, which translates to “flower viewing,” is a traditional Japanese custom of enjoying the transient beauty of cherry blossoms (sakura). During this time, people gather under the blooming trees to have picnics, drink sake, and appreciate the delicate beauty of the flowers.
Hanami is a celebration of the fleeting nature of life, as the cherry blossoms bloom for only a short time. It’s a reminder to cherish the present moment and appreciate the beauty around us. The best month to visit Japan to see cherry blossoms is typically March or early April.
While I have the privilege of seeing cherry blossoms locally, I long for a true Japanese hanami experience. A picnic with bento boxes, surrounded by blooming cherry trees, would be the perfect way to celebrate spring with family and friends.
Pleasant Weather: Mild temperatures and occasional rain showers make it ideal for outdoor activities. The ideal time to witness cherry blossoms is around mid March to early April. While daytime temperatures are pleasant, evenings can be chilly, so a light sweater is recommended. As we move into May, the weather becomes warmer and more humid.
I highly recommend exploring local clothing stores to find stylish and affordable pieces that suit the weather. Shopping malls are a great place to discover a wide range of fashion options.
Cons:
- Crowds: Spring, especially during the cherry blossom season, is the peak tourist season in Japan. Popular destinations can become overcrowded, making it difficult to enjoy the sights and sounds. Popular hotels and restaurants may be fully booked, especially during peak periods.
- Higher Prices: Due to increased demand, accommodation and flight prices can be higher during this time. Although flight prices can be high, you might find it reasonable price once you get to Japan compared to other countries. I believe the quality of goods and clothing in Japan is worth the investment.
- Rain Showers: Spring in Japan can be unpredictable, with occasional rain showers. While this can add a touch of romance, it may also disrupt outdoor plans. Since you might have to walk a lot in Japan, raining might bother you but good news is that you can get umbrella in almost any convenient stores for reasonable price and quality.
- Seasonal Allergies: Be aware that cherry blossom season can also bring seasonal allergies for some people. While mask-wearing is less common than during the pandemic, it’s still a common practice in Japan, particularly during allergy season. If you’re prone to allergies, consider wearing a mask for comfort. Local pharmacies are a great place to find masks and other health products. You should definitely check out cosmetics as well!
Summer (June-August): A Vibrant Experience
Festivals (Matsuri): Matsuri in Japan are so much fun with Mikoshi (Portable Shrine). Many festivals involve carrying a mikoshi, a portable shrine, through the streets. Participants enthusiastically shoulder the mikoshi and chant as they parade through the crowds. There is often traditional dances and music such as Bon Odori and Yosakoi Soran, are performed by both locals and visitors. Traditional Japanese music, including taiko drumming and shamisen, accompanies these performances. You can also enjoy food stalls. Festivals are a great opportunity to sample a variety of delicious Japanese street food, from yakitori to takoyaki. There is always colorful decorations. Streets and shrines are adorned with vibrant decorations, such as colorful banners, lanterns, and paper streamers. Never miss fireworks if you go to a Japanese festival. Some festivals conclude with spectacular fireworks displays, illuminating the night sky.
There are big and famous festivals in Japan:
Gion Matsuri (Kyoto): One of Japan’s most famous festivals, featuring colorful parades, traditional dances, and beautiful floats.
Tenjin Matsuri (Osaka): A grand festival with a river procession, fireworks, and lively street performances.
Awa Odori (Tokushima): A famous dance festival where people dance in the streets all night long.
Nebuta Matsuri (Aomori): A spectacular festival with giant, illuminated floats depicting historical and mythological figures.
Tanabata Matsuri (Sendai): A star festival with colorful decorations and wishes written on paper.
Sumida River Fireworks Festival (Tokyo): A stunning display of fireworks over the Sumida River.
Popular matsuri, while exciting, can be overwhelming, particularly for families. Consider attending local matsuri for a more relaxed and family-friendly experience. Most local festivals take place in late July and August, aligning with school summer breaks. You can also search Matsuri at Live Japan Perfect Guide if you want to attend one.
Cons:
- Hot and Humid Weather: Japan’s summer, particularly in cities, can be very hot and humid, which can be uncomfortable, especially for those not used to such conditions. As someone with wavy hair (like me!), I find humidity to be particularly challenging. One of my must-do activities in Japan is visiting a hair salon. I highly recommend Japanese hair salons for their affordable and effective services, such as straight perms.
- Typhoon Season: Japan’s typhoon season typically occurs between May and October, peaking in August and September. These storms can disrupt travel plans, leading to flight cancellations and causing heavy rain and strong winds. I once experienced a typhoon in October, which forced me to cancel social plans. Even after the typhoon passed, public transportation disruptions limited my activities for several days. Be sure to check cancellation policies when making hotel reservations.
- Crowds: Popular tourist sites can become crowded during the summer, especially during festivals and holidays. While avoiding crowds entirely can be challenging, visiting Japan in July, when many Japanese children are still in school, can offer a less crowded experience. That is what we did last year. However, it’s important to check the operating hours of attractions, especially those geared towards children, as some may have adjusted schedules during this time.
- Higher Prices: Travel costs, including flights and accommodations, tend to be higher during peak summer months. To make the most of your trip, focus on creating unforgettable experiences.
Autumn (September-November): A Colorful Retreat
Fall Foliage (Koyo): Maple, ginkgo, and other trees paint the landscape with vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. This seasonal transformation is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, inspiring activities like hiking and tea ceremonies. The meticulous tracking of the foliage season allows visitors to plan their trips accordingly. Japan’s diverse landscapes, from urban parks to rural mountains, provide the perfect stage for this natural spectacle.
Pleasant weather: Autumn in Japan is a delightful season with pleasant weather. The temperatures are mild, with cooler evenings and warm afternoons. The humidity levels are significantly lower compared to the summer months, making it comfortable for outdoor activities. As autumn progresses, the weather becomes cooler, especially in the northern regions. However, the temperature remains pleasant in most parts of Japan, making it a great time to explore outdoors.
Autumn of appetite (Syokuyoku no aki): The Japanese phrase ‘Shokuyoku no Aki’ encapsulates the idea that autumn is a season of heightened appetite. With the harvest season bringing an abundance of fresh produce, the cooler weather encouraging hearty meals, and traditional autumnal delicacies like chestnuts and sweet potatoes, it’s no wonder that autumn is a time for indulging in delicious food. If you’re a fan of chestnuts and sweet potatoes, you absolutely must try them in Japan. You’ll be amazed at how sweet and flavorful they are! Don’t miss out on the delicious chestnut desserts, like Mont Blanc, and be sure to try sweet potatoes on their own.
Fall is generally a more budget-friendly time to fly to Japan compared to peak seasons like summer and spring. Consider checking flight prices during the autumn months for potential savings.
Cons:
Typhoons: Japan’s typhoon season typically lasts from May to October, and some typhoons can impact travel plans, causing flight delays or cancellations. This could be said to summer to fall but just make sure to check on cancellation policies to make it easier when needed.
Crowds: Popular tourist destinations can become crowded during the peak fall foliage season, especially on weekends and holidays.
Winter (December-February): A Snowy Wonderland
Hot Springs (Onsen): I love hot springs any time of year, but there’s something particularly soothing about soaking in warm water during the cold winter months. It’s a great way to relax and rejuvenate.
I’ve had the pleasure of visiting numerous hot springs in Japan, each with its own distinct charm. I truly appreciate the unique qualities of each one.
Hot springs can be found in various locations throughout Japan. Consider staying at a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn offering tatami rooms and kaiseki cuisine. Many ryokans have on-site hot springs, but it’s always a good idea to double-check. Staying in a ryokan allows you to immerse yourself in Japanese culture, experience traditional hospitality, and relax in a serene and tranquil environment.
My favorite places to go to hot springs are in Hakone and Arima.
Hakone: Hakone is located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, and is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. It’s easily accessible from Tokyo, making it a popular day trip or weekend getaway. This scenic area offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, especially from Lake Ashi. Visitors can explore historic sites like Hakone Shrine and the Open-Air Museum, and enjoy scenic boat rides on Lake Ashi. For a unique perspective, take a ride on the Hakone Ropeway and Hakone Cable Car.
Arima: Nestled in Hyogo Prefecture, Arima is a historic hot spring town. Renowned for its therapeutic waters, Arima offers a variety of hot springs with unique mineral compositions. Immerse yourself in the town’s traditional charm, explore ancient temples and shrines, and experience the tranquility of its historic atmosphere.
I went to Arima hot springs for the first time last year and we loved it! You can read my blog where we stayed but Ryokan we stayed, Hyoe Koyokaku was amazing!
Cons:
- Cold temperatures: Winter temperatures, especially in northern regions like Hokkaido, can be quite cold. Be prepared for chilly weather and take appropriate precautions.
- Crowds: Popular tourist destinations can become crowded during the peak winter season, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Higher Prices: Travel costs, including flights and accommodations, tend to be higher during peak winter holiday season. To make the most of your trip, focus on creating unforgettable experiences.
Personally, I prefer visiting Japan in the fall. The prices tend to be more reasonable compared to peak seasons, and the weather is mild and comfortable. However, with school schedules, summer might be a more practical option for family travel. While summer can be hot and humid, it offers plenty of opportunities for fun and outdoor activities for children. If we plan another summer trip to Japan, we’ll aim for July to minimize crowds and reduce the risk of encountering typhoons.
The best time to visit Japan ultimately depends on your individual preferences and priorities. Consider your ideal weather conditions, specific events, and desired activities to choose the perfect season for your trip. I hope this blog has inspired you to plan your dream trip to Japan!
No matter when you choose to visit, you’re sure to be captivated by Japan’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, warm hospitality and its cleanliness.
