HOME When is the Best Time to Visit Japan in 2024? Here’s When to Go & How to Dress For the Season
When is the Best Time to Visit Japan in 2024? Here’s When to Go & How to Dress For the Season

When is the Best Time to Visit Japan in 2024? Here’s When to Go & How to Dress For the Season

Last updated: 25 January 2024

When is the best time to visit Japan? When is the best time to visit Tokyo? You have decided you want to visit Japan - great! But now comes the hard part: planning.

Everyone says to visit during cherry blossom season, but is that really the best time to travel? The pictures you’ve seen of cherry blossom festivals look really crowded.

From flower viewing in spring, festivals in summer, and skiing in winter, each season is a brand-new Japan! That’s why careful attention needs to be paid to the when, not just the where, when planning your Japan adventure!

To help you with your planning, we’ve created the ultimate guide to Japan’s seasons, weather, and trends. Use this information to pick a time confidently and get the Japan you’ve dreamed of!

Table of Contents
  1. Here's the best time to visit Japan
  2. Pros and cons of traveling in each month in Japan
  3. Best season to travel in Japan
  4. The least crowded time to visit Japan
  5. The cheapest time to visit Japan
  6. List of Annual Events and Japan National Holidays 2024
  7. What to pack for Japan
  8. Check out ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ for smart travel to Japan!
  9. Final Word

Here's the best time to visit Japan

Calendar of when to expect crowds in Japan
Calendar of when to expect crowds in Japan

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.

With sunny skies and low rainfall, winter is also a great season to spend in cities like Tokyo and Osaka, and, being the off-season, tourist numbers will drop significantly.

It all depends on you!

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.

Pros and cons of traveling in each month in Japan

Pros and cons of traveling in each month in Japan

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!

Visiting Japan in January
  • Pro: Fine powder snow - "Japow" - is everywhere in ski resorts. This makes it a fantastic time for skiing, especially in Hokkaido.
  • Pro: While chilly, the weather in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto is often clear and calm. It likely won't drop below freezing.
  • Pro: Stunning lights festivals, known as illuminations, are held all around.
  • Con: New Year, which spans the first week of January, is a Japanese national holiday. Shops, tourist destinations, transport, and temples are bustling during this time.
  • Con: Some places may close for New Year.
  • Con: The winter weather can turn sour at any moment. Northern Japan is prone to train cancellations and dangerous conditions.
Visiting Japan in February
Visiting Japan in March
  • Pro: Warmer and calmer weather will begin to show.
  • Pro: Cherry blossoms will bloom from Kyushu to Tokyo during late March.
  • Con: Famous cherry blossom spots are packed with people, particularly on weekends.
  • Con: Cold, wintery days will continue, especially north of Tokyo.
Visiting Japan in April
  • Pro: Gorgeous blue skies and pleasant temperatures are abundant.
  • Pro: Beautiful Japanese flowers, including roses, tulips, wisteria, and rapeseed, will bloom.
  • Pro: Cherry blossoms can still be enjoyed north of Tokyo - even as far back as late April in Hokkaido.
  • Con: April is still cold in Tohoku and Hokkaido, sometimes dropping below freezing.
  • Con: While not as intense as Tokyo, cherry blossoms can attract large crowds in the north.
  • Con: The Golden Week public holiday period can start in late April, resulting in busy accommodation and transport.
Visiting Japan in May
  • Pro: Fantastic weather will continue.
  • Pro: Wisteria flowers are in full bloom in early May. Dazzling wisteria tunnels are found across Japan.
  • Pro: Rice fields are flooded with water to prepare for planting. This spectacle makes for some great photos!
  • Pro: Several large festivals, including the popular Sanja Matsuri, are held.
  • Con: Golden Week, which occurs from late April to early May, is an extremely popular time for travel. Many accommodations will be booked out, and trains packed.
Visiting Japan in June
  • Pro: Often there are no public holidays in June, making tourist attractions quiet.
  • Pro: The humid and wet weather will keep most people indoors, resulting in easier travel.
  • Pro: Temperatures are comfortable, with an average high of around 25°C (78°F) in Tokyo.
  • Pro: Hokkaido's weather is mild, without much of a rainy season.
  • Con: The rainy season begins for most of Japan. The weather will quickly become humid with heavy downpours.
  • Con: Famous scenery, including Mt. Fuji, is often obscured by clouds.
Visiting Japan in July
  • Pro: The rainy season will begin to wind down towards the end of July.
  • Pro: Many summer festivals are in full swing, such as the Gion Festival in Kyoto and the Ise Shrine Fireworks Festival in Mie Prefecture.
  • Pro: Early July brings colorful decorations and tanzaku, paper on which to write a wish, covering parks and towns for Tanabata, the Star Festival.
  • Con: The rainy season will continue until around mid-July, causing the same problems as June.
Visiting Japan in August
  • Pro: Summer festivals are everywhere, including traditional parades, jaw-dropping fireworks, and lively music concerts like Fuji Rock. Something is happening across Japan every week!
  • Pro: Clear skies make a return - a great season to enjoy the beach!
  • Pro: Many Japanese return to their hometowns during the Obon public holiday week. Larger cities will become a little quieter.
  • Con: August is very hot, with temperatures exceeding 30°C (86°F).
  • Con: Typhoons can occur, resulting in hazardous conditions and canceled transport.
  • Con: Bugs, such as the infamously loud cicada, are everywhere.
  • Con: The homecoming trips during Obon can cause congested trains and highways.
Visiting Japan in September
  • Pro: The intense heat of August will begin to subside.
  • Pro: The unique 'Spider Lily' flower and cosmos will bloom in late September.
  • Pro: With the local summer holidays over, tourist attractions will quieten down.
  • Pro: The peak season for international tourism finishes.
  • Con: Sweltering heat can continue for much of September.
  • Con: Peak typhoon season.
Visiting Japan in October
  • Pro: The forests of mainland Japan will slowly turn bright red as stunning autumn colors make an appearance.
  • Pro: Cooler weather will emerge, making October one of the most pleasant months to visit Japan.
  • Pro: Massive Halloween parties can be easily found, especially in places like Shibuya.
  • Con: Locals and tourists alike will flock to parks and mountains to see the autumn leaves, making these areas extremely busy.
  • Con: Streets and trains are flooded with party-goers during Halloween.
  • Con: Depending on the date of China's National Day (October 1) and the Mid-Autumn Festival, which tends to be in late September or early October, popular areas may see even more tourists from abroad than usual.
Visiting Japan in November
  • Pro: Mostly comfortable weather on the cooler side.
  • Pro: Low rainfall across most of Japan.
  • Pro: Red, yellow, and brown autumn foliage is everywhere.
  • Con: Chilly weather, especially during evenings and at night, will emerge. Winter will begin in Hokkaido.
  • Con: Parks will be busy with autumn sightseers.
Visiting Japan in December
  • Pro: The ski season begins, with excellent conditions in Hokkaido.
  • Pro: Beautiful Illumination festivals are set up across the country. Christmas markets are also a treat!
  • Pro: While cold, outdoor sightseeing is still a possibility in most places.
  • Pro: Clear, sunny days are common in Tokyo and Osaka.
  • Con: Cold weather returns to most of Japan.
  • Con: Many ski resorts lack enough snow to open yet.

Best season to travel in Japan

Best season to travel in Japan

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!

Visiting Japan in spring

Visiting Japan in spring

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.

Tips for visiting Japan in spring
  • In terms of clothes, bring both light clothes, along with a few jackets, sweaters and pants.
  • Be prepared for crowds, even before peak cherry blossom bloom, and try to get most of your sightseeing finished before rush hour, starting at around 6:00 pm.
  • If you’re allergic to pollen, spring may be a bad time to come to Japan.
Recommended spring clothing
Recommended spring clothing

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.

Recommended reading

Visiting Japan in summer

Visiting Japan in summer

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).

Tips for visiting Japan in summer
  • You'll need plenty of light, breezy clothes to endure the heat.
  • If you’re planning on mountain climbing or visiting Hokkaido, then pack some jackets and pants.
  • The humidity will make you sweat a lot, so bringing or buying deodorant is also recommended.
  • The summer sun is very glary, especially on concrete streets, so decent sunglasses are necessary.
  • Buy a cheap plastic umbrella at a convenience store if you’re out on a rainy day.
  • Lastly, be careful of crowds at events, especially fireworks shows. Some of the larger ones will overburden trains for hours, and you may get stuck somewhere.
Recommended summer clothing
Recommended summer clothing

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.

Recommended reading

Visiting Japan in autumn

Visiting Japan in autumn

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.

Tips for visiting Japan in autumn
  • To beat the crowds, avoid foliage hotspots on weekends and public holidays. Aim to visit mid-week instead.
  • If a typhoon is predicted to hit your area, ensure you have accommodation and supplies for that period, and refrain from venturing outside. Keep an eye on the news for landslides or flood warnings, and ask your accommodation staff for information on evacuation points if the weather worsens significantly.
Recommended autumn clothing
Recommended autumn clothing

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.

Recommended reading

Visiting Japan in winter

Visiting Japan in winter

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.

Tips for visiting Japan in winter
  • If you're planning on enjoying cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, or Hiroshima, simple winter clothing, such as sweaters, jackets, and scarves will suffice.
  • However, if you're heading to ski resorts, mountains, or snowy regions, specialized snow boots, puffer jackets, raincoats, and other winter protections are a necessity to survive the harsh conditions.
  • Train delays are common during heavy snowfall, along with heavy traffic on the road. Be prepared for your trip to be affected.
  • Be wary of New Years, known as oshogatsu, which is a public holiday week. While it is common for most Japanese to stay home, shops, restaurants, ski resorts, and other attractions are usually busy, and some may decide to close. Be sure to double-check the places on your itinerary before you go!
Recommended winter clothing
Recommended winter clothing

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!

Recommended reading

The least crowded time to visit Japan

The least crowded time to visit Japan

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.

The cheapest time to visit Japan

The cheapest time to visit Japan

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.

List of Annual Events and Japan National Holidays 2024

List of Annual Events and Japan National Holidays
List of Annual Events and Japan National Holidays

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.

  • January 1 - New Year
  • January 2-3 New Year (Obs.)
  • February 12 - National Foundation Day (Obs.)
  • February 23 - Emperor's Birthday
  • March 20 - Spring Equinox
  • April 29 - Showa Day
  • May 3 - Constitution Memorial Day
  • May 4 - Greenery Day
  • May 6 - Children's Day (Obs.)
  • June 15 - Sea Day
  • August 12 - Mountain Day (Obs.)
  • September 16 - Respect for the Aged Day
  • September 23 - Autumn Equinox
  • October 14 - Sports Day
  • November 4 - Culture Day (Obs.)
  • November 23 - Labor Thanksgiving Day

Other days of interest in Japan

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.

What to pack for Japan

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 drawn to clothing sharing services, which offer a convenient solution to minimize luggage. Enter Any Wear, Anywhere - an innovative trial service letting you rent clothes for your travels in Japan!

Apart from the benefits of lighter luggage and freedom from outfit selection, the key highlight of this service is its eco-friendliness. It offers rental clothes sourced from surplus inventory and used garments collected from Japanese households, promoting a circular economy. And, by reducing luggage, you contribute to mitigating fuel consumption and carbon emissions during air travel.

‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ has teamed up with Japan Airlines, offering services to passengers visiting Japan on JAL flights as part of a study on luggage weight and the benefits of reducing carbon emissions.

Using ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ is easy! How to make the most of this service

Using ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ is easy! How to make the most of this service

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

Upon arrival in Japan, pick up your new stylish rental clothes at the hotel where you plan to stay. You can return the clothes after use at your hotel just as they are – no cleaning required.

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.

Curious about the available clothing options? Take a look at these examples of seasonal garments for rent!

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.

Check out ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ for smart travel to Japan!

‘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!

Final Word

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!

*This information is from the time of this article's publication.
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.

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