Best Time to Visit Japan

When is the best time to travel to Japan? Japan is an island country enclosed by the Pacific Ocean, thus has temperate marine climate. This country offers distinctive scenery at different times, which is a great place to visit all year round. Mid March and early April are cherry blossom season in Japan, making it the best season to visit Japan. Summer runs from June to August, and is known for the various Japanese festivals. The best cities to visit in this season are Hokkaido, Okinawa, and Kitakyushu. Fall runs from September to November. It is known for the red maple leaves and Chrysanthemum in Japan. You will also find a lot of expositions and concerts during the period. Then the best cities to visit are Kyoto, Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka. Winter in Japan, runs from December to February, offers one of the most amazing snow scenery and the best season for skiing in Japan. Both Hokkaido and Nagano are good choices to visit in Winter. As one of reliable Japan tour operators, here, we provide some useful tips on the best travel season and the cherry blossom season in Japan. If you have any questions on Japan Travel Season, please contact our Japan travel specilalists.

Most Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to travel to Japan?

Most people visit Japan during the spring and autumn season. In the springtime, you can enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms, which is the symbol of Japan. Autumn season in Japan has many festival days with themed activities, and the well-known maple leaf bloom. The summer season is a rainy season but is still suitable for a summer vacation in Japan. Although it is cold during the winter season, there are many themed activities such as Christmas and New Year celebrations, which may also attract many tourists.
When is the cherry blossom in Japan?

The cherry blossom season in Japan is usually around the mid of March to the end of April in different cities. It changes slightly every year, but it usually ranges between this time. Note that the cherry blossom season is relatively short. Generally, if it rains the sakura will fall about a week earlier.
Can I see the autumn leaves in Japan during November?

Yes, you can. The autumn leaves in the Kanto area usually turn red around late October. The best viewing times for different parks can last from late October to early December. And around the middle of November is the most beautiful time to visit Kansai for their maple leaves. During this time, the area has decent weather, basically the most beautiful and comfortable time to visit. Most of the time it is sunny, with temperatures under 15 to 20 degrees Celsius (59 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit), but it may be a little colder in the morning and evening.
What is the weather like in Kansai, Japan during December?

Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto in Japan are close together, so there will be no temperature differences between the cities. December is already chilly, as the temperatures range between a low of 5 degrees Celsius (41 degrees Fahrenheit) and 12 degrees Celsius (53 degrees Fahrenheit). It is best to bring a warm coat or winter jacket. In addition, December is not a rainy season as there will be very little precipitation.
Will there be a typhoon in late October in Japan?

Going to Japan in October, you may have a chance of running into a typhoon going through Japan, as it does have an impact in Osaka, Kyoto, or even Tokyo. But during the rainy season, you can choose to go to do the indoor tours or go to the indoor shopping malls.
Is it suitable to go to Japan during Christmas?

Yes, it is suitable to visit Japan during Christmas. In addition to feeling the holiday spirit and New Year celebrations, the December New Year's discount season in Tokyo is something you don't want to miss.
Is cherry blossom season worth it?

The cherry blossom season is an extremely popular and crowded time of year to visit Japan if you don’t mind braving the crowd. It begins towards the end of March and into the beginning of April.

Customers' Reviews

Rosalind Wong 

Travel Date：April. 15th 2024
Travel Route: 7 days to travel out of Tokyo to the north of Honshu

I booked Japan Holiday for a car and driver for 7 days to travel out of Tokyo to the north of Honshu. Our group of 8 fitted into the 9- seater comfortably with luggage in April 2024. I planned the itinerary with their rep Lydia, who was always prompt and helpful with her replies and suggestions. She was quick to respond to queries which made the overall planning and booking process easier. The guide and driver Snake-San was wonderful, on time and accommodating. Everything was done professionally and we had a wonderful time. The price of the private tour was very reasonable as well. We were very happy with the service. I would recommend this company.
Anthony Lobo 

Travel Date：Feb. 19th 2024
Travel Route: Narita Airport Private Transfer Service

We used the driving service for our first trip to Japan, and it could not have gone smoother. It was easy to find and meet our driver when we arrived at the airport and when we were picked up to head back to the airport. I would definitely recommend this service for any first timers. Honestly, it took the stress out of traveling to and from the airport and easily accommodated my family of 5. Communication was easy and everyone was extremely helpful/friendly. If you are concerned about using the subway system for the first time, I’d use this driving service to ease your mind.
Glen Saro 

Travel Date：Feb. 8th 2024
Travel Route: Hakuba Bus Tour from Tokyo

Japan Holiday Transport and Chauffeur.
We booked several transfers within Japan, Firstly, from the Airport to our accommodation in Tokyo and then to and from Hakuba. Their buses and bus drivers were always on time and comfortable for our party of 13 people + luggage. Great experience. Driver was very safe and polite. He was professional and able to guide/explain about Hakuba. It was snowy and Safety is the upmost important. Lydia from their office was always polite and she also responded within 24 hours. Trustworthy company with local knowledge.
Lydia Cheam 

Travel Date：January 25th 2024
Travel Route: Hakone Day Tour

My family and I took an 8/9 hours transportation/tour of Hakone with Japan Holiday, and they were amazing! Our driver was very gentle, helpful and thoughtful :) we were traveling with an infant and elderly parents, and he would inform us if the weather seemed colder and that he would wait nearby if we wanted to run back into the car quickly, or he would head over to the restaurants/tea house to check if they were open before letting us out. Really appreciated it! Also, James was very responsive and helpful when coordinating our travels prior to the trip. Thanks so much and would definitely book again when we need a tour/transport!
Sandeep Khosla 

Travel Date：November 26th 2023
Travel Route: Osaka-Hakuba-Kyoto-Tokyo

Please convey our gratitude to the company that employs him. And thank you for making wonderful arrangements for us. We have already told many of our friends and relatives about your company and excellent service.

We were reasonably satisfied with the return trip. I used this service for a business day trip meeting from Tokyo to Hakone. prompt service! on time! and thanks to them I had a good meeting and got back to Tokyo in time for business dinner meeting. thank you!

We are in awe of Japanese culture and hospitality. We will surely be returning for another trip.

Many thanks again