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Best Time to Visit Japan: Complete Guide

Team AckoFeb 1, 2024

If you plan a trip to Japan, you've got great taste in destinations. Japan is a wonderful place to explore and enjoy. However, it's worth noting that it's a popular spot, and certain times of the year can be quite rainy.

To make things easier for you, we've put together a handy guide that goes through the best time to visit Japan by month. This guide will also give you a closer look at Japanese culture and events, which can help you plan your trip even better.

So, let's get started!

Contents

When is the best time to visit Japan?

The best time to go to Japan depends on what you want to experience. However, if you want to know which months are typically considered the best, refer to the table below

Best time to visit Japan	Unique Attractions and Highlights
March-May	Witness the cherry blossoms (Sakura) in full bloom.
September-November	Experience the vibrant colors of autumn leaves.
December-February	Enjoy winter activities in Hokkaido or relax in hot springs.
June-August	Indulge yourself in summer festivals, despite the heat.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the best time to travel to Japan. It might come in handy for your trip planning.

Best months to visit Japan from India

Japan in January

Japan's ski season is in full swing this month, and it's the perfect time to plan a trip. Whether you're exploring the country or flying in from abroad, January is one of the best time to go to Japan.

The weather is usually dry and sunny, and popular tourist spots tend to be more peaceful and calm. Plus, towards the end of the month, the number of tourists tends to decrease, so you can enjoy a budget-friendly trip with lower prices.

Temperature range to expect: -8 Degrees Celsius to 19 Degrees Celsius

Events: Ski season, New Year, Low Season Advantages

Japan in February

February is the coldest month in Japan, with winter at its peak. It's also the perfect time for skiing, and there are so many beautiful snow sculptures to see at the Snow Festival in Sapporo. Plus, if you venture to the central and southern parts of Japan, you can see stunning plum blossoms blooming, which signals the upcoming spring season.

Just keep in mind that the days are relatively short during winter, with sunset as early as 5:30 pm in Tokyo. But the good news is that February is still considered the low season, which means you can avoid the crowds and score better deals on flights and accommodations.

Temperature range to expect: -8 Degrees Celsius to 19 Degrees Celsius

Events: Ski season, Snow Festival in Sapporo, Plum Blossom Viewing, Unique Winter Experiences, Low Season Advantages

Japan in March

It's peak tourist season in Japan as spring begins. While it might still be a bit chilly at the beginning of the month, the weather gets warmer and more pleasant as it goes on. If you're into skiing, Northern Japan is still a great place to go, but the real highlight is the beautiful cherry blossoms that bloom in spring.

These pink wonders are a must-see for visitors from India, but keep in mind that there will be large crowds and higher prices due to the influx of tourists with the same idea. Just be aware that Japanese schools also have a spring break, so public transportation might be crowded.

Temperature range to expect: 3 Degrees Celsius to 26 Degrees Celsius

Events: Cherry blossom season, Hina Matsuri

Japan in April

April is the best time to visit Japan and see the cherry blossoms. During this time, prices for transportation and hotels might be a bit higher due to high demand during this time. the weather is perfect for a pleasant trip and the cities are lively and bustling.

Keep in mind though, Golden Week (a collection of four national holidays - Showa Day, Greenery Day, Constitution Day, and Children's Day) from April 29th to May 5th can make things even busier, as the Japanese have a week off along with spring school holidays. To avoid any hassle during your trip, it's always a good idea to book your travel and accommodations in advance. And if you're a foodie, you'll love the Sakura-based delicacies (food and drinks) available during this season.

Temperature range to expect: 3 Degrees Celsius to 26 Degrees Celsius

Events: Sakura-based delicacies, Cherry blossom season, Golden Week

Japan in May

A bit of the Golden Week falls in the first week of May. This exciting event combines four national holidays and offers free entry to some amazing museums, parks, and attractions. You'll also get to experience traditional celebrations like the thrilling flying of carp kites on Children's Day.

Just keep in mind that it can get pretty busy during this time, so plan accordingly and expect higher prices. If you're looking to avoid the crowds, consider scheduling your trip for later in the month.

Temperature range to expect: 3 Degrees Celsius to 26 Degrees Celsius

Events: Sanja Matsuri, cherry blossoms, Golden Week

Japan in June

If you're thinking of visiting in June, just keep in mind that it can get pretty warm and rainy in most parts of the country. Although, early June can still be a good time to go. The humidity can also make it a bit uncomfortable, but if you're heading up north to Hokkaido or to Okinawa, you'll find much better weather towards the end of the month. Plus, there are some cost savings to be had as this is the start of the shoulder season due to the weather.

Tip: Even if it does rain, don't let it ruin your trip! You can still explore some beautiful traditional gardens that are at their best in the rain.

Temperature range to expect: 12 Degrees Celsius to 31 Degrees Celsius

Events: Hyakumangoku Matsuri Festival, Golden Week

Japan in July

If you're visiting in July, the rainy season ends early in the month. It stays hot and humid, but there are lots of fun events with fireworks to enjoy. This is when people start hiking the legendary Mount Fuji as the weather gets better.

You can escape the heat by going to Okinawa's beaches or enjoying cooler temperatures in Hokkaido. Towards the end of July, Japanese schools have summer holidays, so more locals will be on the move.

Temperature range to expect: 3 Degrees Celsius to 26 Degrees Celsius

Events: Mount Fuji hiking season, Gion Festival, Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival, Peiron Dragon-Boat Races, Osaka Matsuri, Kamakura Fireworks Festival

Japan in August

If you're planning a trip in August, be ready for more heat and humidity. This is also the start of typhoon season. But don't worry, there are lively summer festivals that can make your visit exciting. Keep in mind that this is a popular time for local travelers heading to beaches or cooler areas.

Around mid-August, there's the Obon Festival, a time to honor the departed. It's quite busy with domestic travelers, so prices for places to stay might go up. This makes August likely not the best time to visit Japan, but if you're up for the festivals and the heat, it can still be a fun experience.

Temperature range to expect: 3 Degrees Celsius to 26 Degrees Celsius

Events: Obon Festival, Nebuta Matsuri, Kanto Matsuri, Awa Odori

Japan in September

When September rolls around, you'll start to see the signs of autumn in Japan. Just keep in mind that this is also typhoon season, so you might need to plan accordingly. The good news is that September is much less crowded than August, which means you can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.

While it's still pretty warm, you'll start to feel the humidity letting up a bit. And as the month goes on, the temperature will start to drop, so you can look forward to a cooler vibe towards the end.

Temperature range to expect: 1 Degree Celsius to 30 Degrees Celsius

Events: Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri

Japan in October

Japan's late summer is an awesome time for adventure and culture. The crowds thin out, and the weather is just right. You can do cool things like hiking, biking, and kayaking in places with amazing views.

Tokyo is an amazing city that offers breathtaking sights and experiences. If you're a cycling enthusiast, you should definitely check out the famous Shimanami Kaido cycling route. And while you're at it, don't forget to treat yourself to some delicious ramen in Onomichi. Even though September marks Japan's typhoon season, the chances of typhoons hitting are rare, so you can plan your trip with peace of mind.

Temperature range to expect: 1 Degree Celsius to 30 Degrees Celsius

Events: Nagasaki Kunchi, Jidai Matsuri, Oktoberfest, Halloween

Japan in November

November is also the best time to go to Japan. The weather is really nice, not too hot or cold. One of the best things to do in November is to see the beautiful autumn leaves. It's not too crowded, so you can take your time and enjoy the stunning colors of fall. Towards the end of the month, it gets a bit chilly, but that just means you might get lucky and see the majestic Mt. Fuji covered in snow.

Temperature range to expect: 1 Degree Celsius to 30 Degrees Celsius

Events: Shichi Go San

Japan in December

December is such a great month to visit the mineral-rich hot springs in northern Japan. The weather is just perfect with bright blue skies and a pleasant chill in the air. You might even get to see some snow! Even though Christmas isn't a traditional Japanese holiday, it's definitely celebrated by locals with a delicious dinner.

Just keep in mind that some attractions and businesses might be closed around December 29th. Locals usually go to temples to celebrate the new year, so plan your temple visit a few days later. Also, if you are a snow lover out there, the ski season officially kicks off this month!

Temperature range to expect: -8 to 19 Degrees Celsius

Events: Joya-no-Kane, Christmas

When is the best season to visit Japan?

The best season to visit Japan is spring and fall. Keep reading to find out why!

Peak season

The first peak season in Japan is during spring, from March to May. This is when the beautiful cherry blossoms bloom and both locals and tourists flock to parks and gardens to enjoy their delicate beauty. The second peak season is between September and November when the weather is perfect and you can admire the stunning autumn colors.

Shoulder season

If you're looking for a more laid-back experience, then the summer months of June and July may be better for you. Although it's still Japan's shoulder season, the heat can be a bit too much for some tourists. However, this is a great time to find some discounts and deals on your trip.

Off-season

Finally, while winter may be the low season, it's still a great time to visit. The powdery snow and festivities surrounding Christmas and New Year can be a real draw, and prices are usually lower. So, no matter what season you choose to visit, there's always something to love about Japan!

When is the cheapest time to visit Japan?

If you are looking to visit Japan without breaking the bank, plan your trip between January and mid-March. This period is considered the cheapest time to visit Japan due to the cold weather that discourages most travelers.

However, if you are unable to travel during this period, consider visiting during the shoulder season between June and July. Although you may miss the opportunity to see cherry blossoms or autumn leaves, summer festivals and ski season are exciting alternatives that make it worth the trip.

When is the worst time to visit Japan?

If you're planning a trip to Japan, it's good to keep in mind that the rainy season (June to Mid-July) and typhoon season (mostly in September) can be challenging due to the weather. Additionally, if you're not a fan of crowds, it's best to avoid the cherry blossom season (late March to early May) and public holidays like Japan's Golden Week (April 29 to May 5) and Obon (mid-August, August 13 to 16 in 2023). However, the worst time to visit Japan also come with some benefits, such as lower crowds and more reasonable prices. So plan your trip accordingly.

When is the best season for diving in Japan?

Japan truly offers incredible opportunities for diving enthusiasts. With its subtropical climate, Okinawa provides the perfect conditions for diving from April to November, when the water temperature is just right. On the other hand, Hokkaido, located in the country's north, is renowned for its ice diving, a unique experience that can only be enjoyed during the deep wi.

So diving all around the year is possible in Japan due to the varying temperatures that the country witnesses in different regions. However, it's important to note that diving can be enjoyed throughout the year, except during stormy weather.

Prioritizing safety, you should consider securing comprehensive and affordable travel insurance like Acko International Travel Insurance to protect against unexpected incidents and hospital expenses in foreign countries. To gain a detailed overview of our offerings, please refer to our - Travel Insurance.

Have a great trip!

Frequently asked questions on best time to visit japan

Here are some common questions and answers related to the best time to visit Japan.

What is the best time to visit Mount Fuji?

One of Japan’s most well-known tourist hotspots is Mount Fuji. It is possible to go hiking here, but only for three months in a year, usually between early July and early September, though this time frame may vary from year to year. Summer is the ideal time to go to Japan if you want to climb this mountain.

When is the best time for moon viewing in Japan?

Autumn offers great views of the moon in Japan. This is between September and October. Moon-viewing parties are an ancient tradition and happen to this date.

What should you avoid doing in Japan?

Japanese society places a lot of emphasis on good manners and etiquette. So here are some things to keep in mind when you are visiting Japan so that you don’t end up offending anyone. You will have to be quiet when taking public transportation. Also, try not to take calls there or do so discreetly in other public places. Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Don’t eat while walking; instead, stand and eat. Use your entire hand to point towards things instead of a finger, which is considered a threatening gesture. Avoid tipping, as it is considered rude.

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Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet, and is subject to changes.