The best times to visit Japan are the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) seasons, with May and October-November being the optimal months to balance good weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.

The periods between March to May and October to November have the best weather. These times, which line up with spring and most of autumn, are filled with calm days and comfortable temperatures.

Nature lovers will appreciate the blooming flowers of spring, including the famed cherry blossoms, along with the equally stunning foliage of late autumn.

September-November are recommended as good alternatives to avoid the peak crowds and prices, while still enjoying pleasant weather and scenery.

Finally, the winter months can also be a good time to visit, with fewer tourists (except for snow resort areas like Niseko in Hokkaido) and lower prices, though the weather may be colder, especially in northern regions.

Japan is a beautiful country 365 days a year, and you won't regret your trip no matter when you go. However, depending on the season, you may see a very different Japan from the one you imagined.

That's why it's essential to create a list of goals for your trip, then compare them against each month to find the Japan you want to see the most.

To help you choose the best time to visit Japan, we've broken down each month into a handy pros and cons list. After you've decided what you'd like to see and do, use this list to select the best time to go!

Japan has four seasons. Each begets a new set of activities, so you should first consider your objectives, then choose when to go.

For example, if you want an outdoor adventure, such as hiking, then the cooler weather of spring and autumn is ideal.

If beaches are your thing, then late June and August are perfect!

If a ski holiday is on your mind, you should pack your bags for January, February, and March.

Plan your activities first, then use this guide to find the season that will suit your needs best!

Why visit Japan in spring?
Spring in Japan brings delightful weather, vibrant blooms, and an array of activities. Following winter, the season breathes life back into the nation with the advent of the new academic and business year, and the celebrated cherry blossom festivals, enhancing Japan's charm.

Spring weather in Japan
Spring features serene, warm days and cool nights. Although rain is common, it typically clears quickly, and low humidity allows for enjoyable outdoor activities. In April, Tokyo experiences comfortable highs of 19°C (66°F) and lows of 10°C (51°F), while Sapporo remains cooler, with average highs of just 11°C (53°F) and lows of 3°C (37°F).

Cherry blossoms
The highlight of spring is mankai - the full bloom of the cherry blossoms. Participating in flower-viewing picnics under these blossoms is a popular springtime activity. Mid-March is the prime time for these blossoms, though it also draws large crowds. Major cities and popular spots will be bustling, with busy trains and accommodations, particularly on weekends during the blooming period.

Bottom Line
In terms of weather, spring is one of the best times to visit Japan. However, choosing another season is recommended for those wanting to avoid crowds.

Why visit Japan in summer?
Early summer, an off-season for domestic travel, offers a tranquil experience of Japan. Despite mugginess in June and July, the warm temperatures permit light attire day and night. By late summer, particularly in August, Japan brims with numerous vibrant festivals, many free to attend. The stunning beaches with resorts and beer gardens enhance the season's appeal.

Summer weather in Japan
Summer's humidity often leads to it being the least favored season in Japan. The intensity peaks in June and July during tsuyu, the rainy season. Although not significantly rainier than spring, the rainfall is usually heavy. Post-tsuyu, August presents a typically sunny and hot summer. Tokyo averages highs of 31°C (88°F) and lows of 24°C (75°F), while Hokkaido enjoys a milder August, averaging highs of 26°C (80°F).

Bottom Line
Despite its reputation, summer is a great season to spend in Japan. Through the huge array of local festivals, it is arguably when the roots of traditional Japan are felt most strongly. For those sensitive to humidity, perhaps wait for another time.

Why visit Japan in autumn?
Autumn competes with spring for the best season to visit Japan. Offering respite from summer's heat, it gently transitions into winter with cooler days. The period is renowned for momiji, vibrant red fall leaves visible across Japan. Unlike cherry blossoms, momiji persist for months, providing ample opportunity for enjoyment. As autumn also marks the start of the off-season for international travel, tourist hotspots are typically less crowded.

Autumn weather in Japan
Autumn presents variable weather, suggesting a need for both summer attire and jackets. By October, cities like Sapporo and Sendai become chilly, with lows averaging 7°C (45°F) and 11°C (52°F) respectively. Meanwhile, Tokyo maintains a warmer climate with highs averaging 22°C (72°F). Stay alert for typhoons, particularly in September, as these severe storms can disrupt travel and daily activities.

Bottom line
If you can successfully navigate around typhoons, you'll be rewarded with amazing scenery, fantastic weather, and quiet tourist attractions. Autumn is a strong contender for the best time to visit Japan.

Why visit Japan in winter?
Winter is a haven for skiers, with Hokkaido's slopes open by December. Cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto often have clear, dry, and sunny days, easing travel. Winter also brings splendid light shows, snow festivals, and charming Christmas markets. The season transforms Japan into a scenic wonderland and sees less tourism, making for peaceful exploration.

Winter weather in Japan
January's average lows hover around 5°C (41°F) in the south and 1°C (33°F) in Tokyo. Skiing destinations Niigata and Nagano frequently dip below freezing, and Sapporo averages lows of -8°C (17°F). While Tokyo and Osaka see little heavy snowfall, light dustings are not uncommon. Regions adjacent to the Sea of Japan and in Tohoku often experience significant snowfall leading to beautiful scenery but potential transport disruptions. Yamagata, not Hokkaido, claims the highest snowfall, with parts of the prefecture receiving a remarkable 11 meters of snow.

Bottom line
While winter is not for everyone, most major cities enjoy mild and consistent weather. However, some prefectures are prone to harsh conditions, and care should be taken before traveling. Crowds will be thin and most attractions quiet outside New Years and public holidays. For skiers, there's no better time!

International tourists:
As seen in the above chart, August to December is low on international tourists, with the quietest month being September. For those looking to beat the crowds, this is the best time! January and February are also scarce on European and North American travelers; however, mostly due to the Chinese New Year and summer holidays, thousands of additional tourists will flock from Asia and Oceania, making it not as ideal.

Domestic tourists:
To avoid crowds of local travelers, stay clear of these three periods!
・March – Very busy due to the good weather and cherry blossoms.
・Late April/early May – The week-long holiday of Golden Week occurs.
・Mid-August – The most popular time for Japanese to travel due to the Obon holiday period.

Airfares to Japan often decrease from September as tourist numbers dwindle and flight prices adjust. Depending on your travel dates, you could find flights for less than US$1,000!

For accommodation, winter, excluding ski resorts, is typically the least expensive period. Many hotels offer off-peak specials, including weekday discounts. However, note that hotel rates often increase during public holidays, so check the calendar to prevent unexpected costs.

Following are Japan's national holidays. Particularly around the row of holidays in May (known as Golden Week), you can expect sightseeing areas, attractions, and major cities to be more crowded.

If you plan on traveling around these dates, be sure to make hotel, train, and activity reservations in advance to avoid inconvenience. You may also wish to consider booking tables at popular restaurants as well.

February 14 - Valentine's Day
Not a national holiday but celebrated in Japan, women present chocolates to men, including male colleagues, on Valentine's Day.

March 3 - Doll's Festival (Hina Matsuri)
Families with girls observe this day for their happiness and success, displaying special hina dolls at home and participating in community events.

March 14 - White Day
This day mirrors Valentine's Day, with men giving chocolates or sweets to women.

July/August 7 - Star Festival (Tanabata)
This festival period, rather than a national holiday, commemorates the meeting of deities Orihime and Hikoboshi. Notable celebrations occur in Hiratsuka in July and Sendai in August.

Mid-August - Obon
From approximately August 13-15, this Buddhist event honors ancestral spirits and is a period for family reunions.

November 15 - Seven-Five-Three Day (Shichi-Go-San)
This day marks a traditional rite of passage where families visit shrines and temples to pray for their children's well-being and growth, according to customs established over 800 years ago.

December 25 - Christmas
Christmas, not a national holiday in Japan, brings festive decorations and intimate celebrations, often involving a chicken dinner with loved ones or seeing Christmas illuminations.

December 31 - New Year's Eve (Omisoka)
Despite not being a national holiday, many businesses close early in preparation for New Year celebrations.

With Japan’s four distinct seasons and subtle climate changes, travelers often question what clothes to pack. But bringing extra clothes “just in case” can make for one crammed suitcase!

Travelers in Japan are increasingly using clothing-sharing services like Any Wear, Anywhere to minimize luggage. This service lets you rent clothes for your travels in Japan, promoting eco-friendliness by using surplus and used garments. Teaming up with Japan Airlines, it aims to reduce luggage weight and carbon emissions for passengers visiting Japan.

Using ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ is easy. Simply access the official website from your PC or smartphone and reserve your wardrobe before traveling to Japan.

When you arrive in Japan, simply pick up your stylish rental clothes at your hotel. After use, return the clothes to your hotel without the need for cleaning.

Clothing sizes range from S to XL, in a total of 36 patterns. Clients can choose from a combination of styles (for men or women), season (spring/autumn, summer/winter), usage scenario (casual, smart casual, or a mix of both), and number of clothing items included in the set (basic or variety pack).

The basic set includes three tops and two bottoms, while the variety set includes five tops and three bottoms, with the option of adding outerwear as needed.

Prices during the trial period are very reasonable, starting at 4,000 yen (under US$40) for up to two weeks rental.

Next, let’s look at some of the menswear and womenswear rental clothes in three different seasonal styles: spring/autumn, summer, and winter!

First up is clothing for spring and autumn. In Japan, spring and autumn are both mild with daytime temperatures of around 20°C (68°F). However, it often gets chilly during the evenings and overnight, and there’ll occasionally be an uncharacteristically hot or cold day, making clothing selection particularly tricky at these times of year.

‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ boasts a line-up of shirts and T-shirts that can be easily layered to cope with temperature differences.

Summer in Japan is hot, humid, and sunny. If you reserve rental clothes during your summer travels, you’ll receive light and airy items such as T-shirts and sleeveless tops to help you stay comfortable while sightseeing under the hot summer sun.

Heavy rainstorms and typhoons can be expected between July and September, so short-length pants can alleviate any worries about wet legs and feet in the event of sudden showers.

Warm clothes are essential for winter in Japan. It can get so cold that the temperature drops below freezing in some areas! The ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ winter line-up also includes down jackets and other outerwear to protect against the cold.

Winter jackets are bulky and take up luggage space, so renting one at your destination makes life so much easier. Popular rental clothing items to wear underneath your jacket include sweaters, long-sleeved tops, and other clothes that’ll help you stay warm.

*All accessories belong to the stylist.

‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ is an innovative service that allows you to rent clothes for travel in an easy, eco-friendly way. Enjoy a wide variety of stylish clothes for all seasons and most sizes – and lighten your load while exploring Japan! Register and apply before your Japan trip!

No matter when you visit Japan, you'll have a good time! Japan is a country that celebrates each season accordingly, making for year-round fun! However, if you have a specific activity or interest, choosing the best time to visit Japan for you is extremely important.

Balancing this with crowds and costs will also help you get the most out of your Japan trip. By reading this guide, you'll have all the information you need to enjoy Japan's wonders to their fullest extent!