Explore Japan

The Best Time Of Year To Visit Japan: Complete Guide

Not sure when you want to travel to Japan? In this month to month guide, we break down the best times of year to visit Japan! Lets take a look at the weather, tourism seasons, and national events and holidays, so that you know exactly what it is you can expect.

Japan Travel Seasons

Japan is a country of incredible natural beauty and fascinating traditions. Each season offers something unique, from cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant autumn foliage. To make the most of your visit, consider the best time to travel to Japan based on your interests and budget.

Peak Season

The peak tourist months in Japan are April, May, and October. During this time, the weather is usually pleasant, with mild temperatures and low rainfall. Spring, especially, is famous for cherry blossoms, attracting visitors from all over the world. Fall offers breathtaking autumn colors, making it another popular time for tourists.

Weather: Spring temperatures range from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C), while autumn is similar. Rainfall is moderate, with occasional showers.
Travel Tips: Book accommodations and popular activities months in advance to secure the best options and prices.

Shoulder Season

The shoulder months of March, June, September, and November are great times to visit Japan. The weather is generally good, with fewer crowds and slightly lower prices.

Advantages: These months offer a balance of good weather, lower prices, and fewer tourists. It’s a great time to enjoy Japan's attractions without the peak season crowds.
Weather: Temperatures in March and November are cooler, ranging from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C), while June and September are warmer, around 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 27°C).

Off-Season

Japan’s off-season is during the winter months of December, January, and February, as well as the summer month of August.

Benefits: Visiting during the off-season can mean reduced prices and a quieter experience, particularly in winter.
Downsides: Winter can be cold, especially in the north and mountainous regions, with temperatures dropping below 32°F (0°C). Summer, particularly August, is hot and humid, often with temperatures above 85°F (29°C), and there can be heavy rainfall and typhoons.
Closed Attractions: Some attractions, particularly those in mountainous or rural areas, may have reduced hours or be closed in winter.

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Japan's Monthly Weather, Tourism, and Events

Here are Japan's weather, events, festivals and holidays broken down for each month of the year, so you know exactly what to expect when traveling to Japan, for each month of the year.

chart shows the average monthly temperatures and rainfall for Japan — Avg. Rainfall & Temperatures In Japan

Japan in January

January in Japan is characterized by cold weather, especially in the northern regions and mountainous areas. It is a great time for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.

Tourism Scene: Visitor numbers are low after the New Year’s celebrations, offering a quieter experience at popular attractions.
Events: New Year's celebrations continue into early January, with many temples and shrines hosting traditional events.
Temperature Range: 37°F to 50°F (3°C to 10°C)
Average Rainfall: 2 inches

Japan in February

February is still winter in Japan, with cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. It’s a great time to experience winter sports and festivals.

Tourism Scene: Fewer tourists make it a good time for budget travelers. Ski resorts are busy, especially at Hokkaido and Nagano Ski Resorts
Events: The Sapporo Snow Festival is a major attraction, featuring spectacular ice sculptures.
Temperature Range: 37°F to 50°F (3°C to 10°C)
Average Rainfall: 3 inches

Japan in March

March marks the beginning of spring in Japan, with gradually warming temperatures and the start of cherry blossom season in some areas.

Tourism Scene: Visitor numbers start to increase as cherry blossom season approaches, but crowds are still manageable.
Events: Plum blossoms begin to bloom, and cherry blossoms start in southern regions by late March.
Temperature Range: 41°F to 57°F (5°C to 14°C)
Average Rainfall: 4 inches

Japan in April

April is one of the most popular and expensive months to visit Japan due to the cherry blossom season.

Tourism Scene: Tourist numbers peak as visitors flock to see cherry blossoms. Popular spots can be crowded, but the experience is unforgettable.
Events: The Cherry Blossom Festivals happen nationwide, with famous spots in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.
Temperature Range: 50°F to 66°F (10°C to 19°C)
Average Rainfall: 4 inches

Japan in May

May is a beautiful time to visit Japan with pleasant weather and lush greenery.

Tourism Scene: The Golden Week holiday occurs in early May, leading to a huge increase travel for within the local citizens. After Golden Week, tourist numbers drop a lot for the locals, but really start picking up for visitors, so the tourism only slightly drops after Golden Week.
Events: Golden Week is a series of national holidays, and Children’s Day is celebrated on May 5th.
Temperature Range: 57°F to 72°F (14°C to 22°C)
Average Rainfall: 5 inches

Japan in June

June marks the start of the rainy season in Japan, with increased rainfall and humidity.

Tourism Scene: Fewer tourists visit during the rainy season, making it a good time for those who don’t mind the rain.
Events: Hydrangea festivals take place, celebrating the beauty of these colorful flowers.
Temperature Range: 64°F to 76°F (18°C to 24°C)
Average Rainfall: 7 inches

Japan in July

July is the beginning of summer, with warm temperatures and high humidity.

Tourism Scene: Tourist numbers increase as summer festivals and fireworks displays draw visitors.
Events: Gion Matsuri in Kyoto is one of Japan’s most famous festivals, featuring parades and traditional events.
Temperature Range: 70°F to 82°F (21°C to 28°C)
Average Rainfall: 6 inches

Japan in August

August is hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 85°F (29°C). It’s also the peak of the summer holiday season.

Tourism Scene: Domestic and international tourists visit for summer festivals, making it a busy time at popular attractions.
Events: The Awa Odori Festival and Obon holiday occur in August, with dancing and traditional ceremonies.
Temperature Range: 73°F to 86°F (23°C to 30°C)
Average Rainfall: 5 inches

Japan in September

September is a transitional month, with the end of summer and the start of autumn.

Tourism Scene: Fewer tourists visit as summer ends and children return to school. The weather is still warm but more comfortable than August.
Events: Autumn festivals and moon-viewing festivals take place, celebrating the harvest.
Temperature Range: 68°F to 80°F (20°C to 27°C)
Average Rainfall: 8 inches

Japan in October

October is a fantastic time to visit Japan, with pleasant weather and beautiful autumn colors.

Tourism Scene: Visitor numbers increase as people come to see the fall foliage, but crowds are not as intense as in spring.
Events: Koyo (autumn leaves) viewing is popular, with stunning displays in parks and gardens.
Temperature Range: 59°F to 72°F (15°C to 22°C)
Average Rainfall: 5 inches

Japan in November

November offers cooler temperatures and stunning autumn foliage, especially in the mountainous regions.

Tourism Scene: Tourists flock to see the fall colors, especially in Kyoto and Nikko, making it a busy month for tourism.
Events: The Shichi-Go-San festival celebrates children’s growth and is held on November 15th.
Temperature Range: 50°F to 64°F (10°C to 18°C)
Average Rainfall: 3 inches

Japan in December

December marks the start of winter, with cooler temperatures and festive celebrations.

Tourism Scene: Visitor numbers drop as winter sets in, but Christmas and New Year’s festivities attract travelers.
Events: Illuminations light up cities, and Christmas markets offer holiday treats and gifts.
Temperature Range: 41°F to 55°F (5°C to 13°C)
Average Rainfall: 2 inches

The best time to visit Japan is going to depend on what you would like to accomplish during your trip, and whether or not you are wanting to go when it's cheaper during off-peak season, much cheaper during off-season, or during peak season during the Cherry Blossom crazy that brings travelers from all over the world.

FAQ

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