Best Time to Visit Japan: Month-by-Month Weather & Travel Guide
🗓️ Best Time to Visit Japan: A Month-by-Month Travel Guide
Japan is stunning year-round — but the best time to visit depends on what you want to see. Whether you're chasing cherry blossoms, snow in the Alps, or fall foliage, this month-by-month guide will help you choose the perfect season for your trip.
✈️ Quick Tip: Planning ahead? Book your JR Pass, pocket Wi-Fi, and hotels early to lock in the best prices. Click here for my favorite booking sites.
🌸 March – April: Cherry Blossom Season (Spring Magic)
Why Visit: The most iconic time to visit Japan! Expect mild weather, vibrant festivals, and sakura trees in full bloom.
- Best spots for sakura: Tokyo (Ueno Park), Kyoto (Maruyama Park), Osaka (Osaka Castle), and Mount Fuji (late April).
- Average Temp: 8–18°C
- Top Activities: Hanami picnics, temple walks, seasonal food menus
✅ Book your accommodation and JR Pass at least 2–3 months in advance!
🌱 May – Early June: Green, Warm & Less Crowded
Why Visit: Golden Week crowds ease off, and Japan turns lush green with comfortable weather.
- Great for: Hiking, countryside travel, visiting lesser-known temples
- Events: Sanja Matsuri in Tokyo, Aoi Matsuri in Kyoto
- Average Temp: 15–25°C
🚄 Get a JR Pass here to easily travel between cities without breaking the bank.
🌧️ Mid-June – July: Rainy Season (Tsuyu)
Why Visit: Fewer crowds and discounted prices. Rain is light but steady — perfect for indoor activities.
- Best places: Tokyo museums, Kyoto tea houses, onsens in Hakone
- Tip: Bring an umbrella and waterproof shoes
🎟️ Book a traditional ryokan like this one to enjoy Japan’s rainy charm.
☀️ Late July – August: Summer Festivals & Fireworks
Why Visit: High energy, lively festivals, and amazing fireworks displays.
- Events: Gion Matsuri (Kyoto), Tenjin Matsuri (Osaka), Sumidagawa Fireworks (Tokyo)
- Average Temp: 25–35°C (hot + humid!)
- Top tip: Visit Hokkaido for cooler weather and flower fields
🔥 Pre-book festival tours, especially in Kyoto and Tokyo here.
🍁 September – November: Fall Foliage Season (Perfect Weather)
Why Visit: Arguably the best time to visit Japan. Cool, dry weather and breathtaking autumn colors.
- Best foliage spots: Kyoto, Nara, Nikko, Mount Takao
- Average Temp: 12–22°C
- Tip: Travel mid-November for peak colors in Kyoto
❄️ December – February: Winter, Snow & Illuminations
Why Visit: Experience snow in the Japanese Alps, soak in steaming onsens, and enjoy magical light festivals.
- Best for: Skiing (Hakuba, Niseko), snow monkeys in Nagano, onsens in Beppu
- Events: Sapporo Snow Festival (Feb), Christmas markets, New Year shrine visits
- Average Temp: -2–10°C depending on region
🎿 Book ski resorts and snow tours here or grab a JR East Pass for access to ski towns.
📌 So, When Is the Best Time to Visit Japan?
| Season | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Cherry blossoms, festivals | Book early, popular season |
| Summer | Festivals, fireworks | Hot, vibrant, avoid mid-August |
| Autumn | Fall foliage, perfect weather | Ideal for first-timers |
| Winter | Snow, skiing, hot springs | Romantic, cozy, festive |
🧭 Final Travel Tip
No matter when you go, Japan always delivers something magical. Want to make the most of your trip?
✅ Plan your route early
✅ Book transportation & tours in advance
✅ Use my favorite sites here for deals on passes, Wi-Fi, and stays