Best time to visit Japan

January is a chilly winter month in Japan, with snow blanketing the northern regions, making it ideal for snow activities. This month attracts local and international ski and snowboarding enthusiasts. In Tokyo, you might experience a few days of snowfall, but average daytime temperatures hover around 10°C (50°F).

February in Japan: Best for snow sculptures

In the north, winter is in full swing, marking the peak season for ski resorts. February is also when the famous Sapporo Snow Festival occurs, featuring impressive snow sculptures in Odori Park. Meanwhile, the southern regions are starting to experience spring, with Okinawa welcoming its first cherry blossoms. In Tokyo, temperatures are similar to January, lingering around 10°C (50°F).

March in Japan: Best for Cherry Blossom

March marks the official arrival of spring in Japan. Renowned for hanami, or cherry-blossom viewing, this season offers some of the most romantic scenery you can imagine. Be aware that this is also one of the peak tourist seasons in Japan. While the weather begins to warm up after winter, you’ll still need a warm jacket in Tokyo, where temperatures are around 13°C (55°F). In contrast, Okinawa enjoys milder weather, with temperatures reaching about 20°C (68°F).

April in Japan: Best for Warmer Temperatures and Cherry Blossoms
April ushers in spring, making it the prime time to see cherry blossoms across Japan. Iconic spots in Kyoto, like the Silver Pagoda and Philosopher’s Walk, are especially stunning framed by soft pink blooms. In Tokyo, daytime temperatures rise to around 19°C (66°F).

May in Japan: Best for Golden Week Festivities
May is pleasantly warm, with temperatures around 22°C (73°F). Golden Week, a major holiday during the first week, brings lively celebrations in cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. It’s a busy but vibrant time to visit, though southern regions like Okinawa start to enter the rainy season.

June in Japan: Best to See Beautiful Gardens
June is humid, with increasing rainfall, but also offers sunny breaks. Tokyo’s temperatures reach about 25°C (77°F). The rainy season, or tsuyu, typically begins mid-month, creating lush gardens perfect for exploration, such as Kanazawa’s Kenrokuen Garden.

July in Japan: Best for Hiking on Mount Fuji
July is hot, averaging around 29°C (84°F) in Tokyo, with occasional rain. The warm weather makes it ideal for hiking Mount Fuji’s higher trails, as air-conditioned venues keep the heat manageable.

August in Japan: Best for Natsu Matsuri (Summer Festivals)
August is peak summer and often the hottest month, with temperatures surpassing 31°C (88°F) in major cities. This month features numerous summer festivals, including the vibrant Awa Odori Matsuri and the Obon holiday, which honors ancestral spirits.

September in Japan: Best for the Start of Autumn Leaves and Quieter Travels
September is a great time to visit as crowds thin out and temperatures remain warm at about 27°C (81°F) in Honshu. By month’s end, beautiful autumn leaves start to appear in places like Hakone and the Mount Fuji area.

October in Japan: Best for Warm Days and Autumn Leaves
October marks the beginning of autumn, showcasing stunning red, orange, and yellow foliage. Cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka enjoy daytime temperatures in the low 20s °C (70s °F), though evenings can be chilly.

November in Japan: Best Time to Visit Tokyo
November features cool autumn weather. While northern regions like Hokkaido transition to winter, areas further south, especially Tokyo, are vibrant with colorful koyo (autumn leaves), with comfortable daytime temperatures around 16°C (61°F). Expect more crowds this month.

December in Japan: Best for Winter Celebrations
December begins winter across Japan, bringing cooler temperatures but often clear skies. Tokyo’s daytime highs around 12°C (54°F) contrast with chilly mornings at 2°C (35°F). End-of-year festivities fill small bars and restaurants, and while many businesses close for the holidays, temples and shrines remain open for visits.