Best Time to Visit Japan: Weather, Seasons & Travel Tips by Month

Japan offers something magical every month — cherry blossoms in spring, colorful foliage in autumn, snow in winter, and festivals all year round.

But when should you go?

This complete month-by-month breakdown helps you choose the best time to visit Japan based on weather, crowds, cost, and seasonal experiences.

January ❄️ – Snowy Escapes & New Year Vibes

• Weather: Cold, snow in northern/central Japan
• Best For: Skiing in Hokkaido, onsen in Nagano, quiet temples
• Events: New Year celebrations, Hatsumode (first shrine visit), Sapporo Snow prep
• Tips: Great time for fewer crowds and winter wonderlands

February ⛄ – Snow Festivals & Romance

• Weather: Very cold, snowy in north
• Best For: Sapporo Snow Festival (early Feb), snowy scenery
• Tips: Warm clothing essential; winter sales in Tokyo!

Winter in Japan is magical with snow-covered temples and cozy hot springs.
Plan your trip with our “Japan Winter Trip Itinerary” featuring ski resorts and snowy towns.

March 🌸 – Start of Spring & Sakura Season Begins

• Weather: Chilly to mild, blooming starts in south
• Best For: Early cherry blossoms in Kyushu, white plum blossoms
• Events: Hina Matsuri (Girls’ Day)
• Tips: Book sakura-viewing hotels early

April 🌸 – Cherry Blossom Peak

• Weather: Mild, comfortable
• Best For: Full bloom across Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka
• Events: Hanami parties, flower festivals
• Tips: Most photogenic time to visit Japan; also the most crowded!

May 🌿 – Green, Clean & Golden Week

• Weather: Warm, sunny, very pleasant
• Best For: Garden visits, hikes, cultural exploration
• Events: Golden Week (late April–early May) – super crowded
• Tips: Avoid traveling during Golden Week if you hate lines

June ☔ – Rainy but Lush

• Weather: Start of tsuyu (rainy season)
• Best For: Fewer crowds, hydrangea flowers, temples in mist
• Events: Rice planting, iris festivals
• Tips: Bring an umbrella and enjoy indoor attractions

July 🎆 – Summer Kicks Off

• Weather: Hot and humid
• Best For: Fireworks, summer festivals, hiking in the Alps
• Events: Gion Matsuri (Kyoto), Tanabata (Star Festival)
• Tips: Wear breathable clothes, hydrate!

August 🔥 – Hot, Bright & Festive

• Weather: Very hot, humid
• Best For: Festivals, beach trips, Aomori Nebuta Matsuri
• Events: Obon Week (mid-Aug) – busy domestic travel
• Tips: Escape to cooler regions like Hokkaido or mountain towns

Despite the humidity, Japan’s summer has fireworks, hiking, and fun.
🗻 Want to hike Mount Fuji? Read our full “Mount Fuji Travel Guide” for trails, views, and timing.

September 🍂 – Typhoons & Transition

• Weather: Still warm, occasional typhoons
• Best For: Cheaper prices, post-summer calm
• Tips: Watch weather forecasts; great month for budget travel

October 🍁 – Autumn Colors Begin

• Weather: Pleasant and dry
• Best For: Hiking, early foliage in northern Japan
• Events: Harvest festivals, Halloween in Tokyo
• Tips: A favorite month for photographers and foodies

November 🍁 – Peak Autumn Foliage

• Weather: Cool, crisp air
• Best For: Red maple leaves in Kyoto, Nara, Tokyo
• Events: Autumn light-ups at temples
• Tips: Less crowded than spring but just as beautiful

December 🎄 – Cozy Lights & Culture

• Weather: Cold but dry in most areas
• Best For: Illuminations, Christmas in Tokyo, onsens
• Events: Christmas lights, hot pot season!
• Tips: Book early for New Year’s if staying through Jan 1st

🔗 Useful Travel Planning Links

• Japan Meteorological Agency – Weather by Region
• Japan Guide – Monthly Travel Updates
• JR Pass – Official Website

Japan shines year-round. Match your trip with the season that fits your travel style best!

🧭 Need help choosing where to go next? Browse our guides to “Tokyo“ and “Osaka“.

— Joy