Best Time to Visit Japan: The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) estimates that 3,135,600 foreign visitors visited Japan in June 2024 (+51.2% yearly growth rate), surpassing 3 million for four consecutive months. Tourism in Japan holds a large share of the Japanese economy with foreigners visiting Japan to see its beauty, the natural landscape, buzzing and colorful cities, historic landmarks, and entertainment places.
Japan has 21 world heritage sites, which include Himeji Castle, Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto and Nara. As Japan reopens its borders to welcome visitors to enjoy its breathtaking beauty and world-famous dishes including sushi, ramen, and tempura, visitors in large numbers make their way to Japan with their families.
This guide will cover various topics, including the best time to visit Japan, places to see, activities to engage in, and unique foods to try. Let me begin by giving a concise overview of the nation.
Japan: The Land of the Rising Sun
Japan is an Icelandic nation also known as the “land of the rising sun” for it appears that the Sun rises from the direction of Japan when we see it from China. Also, the reference to the sun is deeply inhibited in Japan’s cultures and traditions.
Being among the most sophisticated nations, its future view and deeply ingrained traditions from the past have formed its present. Its people, who take great pride in their nationality, preserve its unique culture. Japan is endowed with the glories of its nature and modern technology.
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Why is Japan Such a Popular Destination?
Japan’s tourism industry is booming and contributing a large share of its economy. It is one of the most popular destinations for tourists. The reason behind as the country smoothly blends its natural landscape with advanced technologies.
Japan receives most of its tourists during the cherry blossom season when the beautiful city streets are adorned with papery pink blossoms otherwise known as Sakura. Hanami, or “flower viewing,” is a springtime event in Japanese culture when people get together to enjoy each other’s company and take in the fleeting beauty of the spring blooms. Visitors enjoy this scenic landscape and capture this exquisite beauty. Hence, spring is also the best time to visit Japan for cherry blossoms. Also, it receives most visitors during Golden Week in Japan due to various national holidays.
Japanese cuisine is the favorite among the global population. Sushi, Ramen, Tempura, and Udon are world-famous Japanese cuisines. However, the most authentic taste one can have is by visiting there. The hustling buzzing cities of Japan also attract visitors for their lights, dazzling urban skylines of Tokyo, museums, adventurous parks, and more.
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Quick Highlights of Japan
| Population | 123,753,041 |
| Languages | Japanese, Amami, Kyukyu, Kikai, Miyako, Ainu |
| Currency | Japanese Yen |
| Capital | Tokyo |
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Weather & Temperatures in Japan
Japan’s beautiful climate and weather bring crowds making it the most attractive holiday destination.
Here is the Month-By-Month Guide on Japan’s Climatic Conditions.
| Months | Weather | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
| Tokyo | High | 9°C | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C | 24°C | 25°C | 30°C | 31°C | 27°C | 22°C | 17°C | 11°C |
| Low | 2°C | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C | 17°C | 20°C | 24°C | 25°C | 22°C | 16°C | 11°C | 5°C | |
| Rainfall | 21 days | 20 days | 21 days | 17 days | 17 days | 19 days | 20 days | 18 days | 19 days | 17 days | 18 days | 21 days | |
| Osaka | High | 9°C | 9°C | 14°C | 19°C | 25°C | 27°C | 31°C | 33°C | 28°C | 23°C | 17°C | 11°C |
| Low | 3°C | 3°C | 6°C | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C | 25°C | 26°C | 21°C | 16°C | 10°C | 5°C | |
| Rainfall | 21 days | 20 days | 21 days | 17 days | 17 days | 19 days | 20 days | 18 days | 19 days | 17 days | 18 days | 21 days | |
| Kyoto | High | 8°C | 8°C | 14°C | 19°C | 25°C | 27°C | 32°C | 33°C | 28°C | 23°C | 16°C | 10°C |
| Low | 1°C | 2°C | 5°C | 9°C | 15°C | 20°C | 24°C | 25°C | 20°C | 15°C | 9°C | 3°C | |
| Rainfall | 21 days | 20 days | 21 days | 17 days | 17 days | 19 days | 20 days | 18 days | 19 days | 17 days | 18 days | 21 days | |
| Sapporo | High | -2°C | -1°C | 4°C | 11°C | 17°C | 21°C | 26°C | 26°C | 23°C | 15°C | 9°C | 2°C |
| Low | -7°C | -7°C | -2°C | 3°C | 9°C | 14°C | 19°C | 20°C | 16°C | 8°C | 2°C | -3°C | |
| Rainfall | 21 days | 20 days | 21 days | 17 days | 17 days | 19 days | 20 days | 18 days | 19 days | 17 days | 18 days | 21 days |
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Best Time To Visit Japan Month-by-Month Guide
Peak Season
Japan’s crucial seasons are said to be spring, which runs from March to May, and autumn, which runs from September to November. You may travel over Japan without any delays because of the nice and temperate weather and it is also the best time to visit Japan with kids to enjoy festivals and skiing in the colder northern region of Japan.
Shoulder Season
Shoulder season is the period between the peak season and the offseason and in Japan, a great season to experience both spring and winter.
In Japan, the summer is not a busy season. The weather can interfere with plans to go sightseeing because of the high temperature, humidity, and rain. Typhoon season, which hits coastal locations, also begins at the end of summer.
Offseason
If you are a winter person and love stepping out in the cold, with less crowd than in Japan’s winter months, December through February with the lowest tourist numbers. Despite having some excellent skiing and other winter sports, most tourists avoid Japan due to its extremely low temperatures. This might allow you to save yourself from overcrowding and enjoy the magical experience of tourism in Japan simultaneously.
Visiting Japan in Spring (March-May)
The temperature at the beginning of the season is as low as -4°C but it gets better as the season progresses. The northern part is comparatively cooler than the South.
This season is the best to fly to Japan as the entire nation is beautifully covered with plum and cherry blossoms, enhancing Japan’s beauty. This season is called the season of Sakura. A mild climate, flowery nature, and lush vegetation give a sightseeing landscape during the Golden Week in Japan.
Mount Fuji covered with snow and cherry blossoms in Lake Kawaguchi is a treat to the eyes. Also, attend several spring festivals here like Sanja Matsuri, Takayama Spring Festival, and Aoi Matsuri, the world’s oldest festival that is still being held.
| Things to know: The locals also enjoy the sightseeing view of Japan during this time, and the tourists also crowded the country. Hence, book hotels and stay houses beforehand. Tip: Carry a light jacket or a thin sweater to protect yourself from climate change. But as you move towards the north, you might require a heavy jacket or woolen covering. |
Visiting Japan in the Summer (June-August)
The weather during the season is hot but more sticky due to humidity. Japan’s summer is a distinct combination of heat and rainfall. Japan receives most of its rainfall in June, and hence is known as Minazuki, “the month of water”. The heat that follows after this is very bad. You might find some relief in mountainous areas.
Although this is the hottest time in Japan, it is also the time for most of the best Japanese festivals. You can find popular tourist spots free from natives and can enjoy your holiday without any distractions. Enjoy the Obon Festival, a Japanese way to honor their ancestral spirits. There’s Fukugawa Hachiman Festival where people play big water fight. Enjoy Fuji Rock Festival, Hiroshima Lantern Festival, and Aomori Nebuta Dastori Festival.
During rainfall, plan to visit indoor places like museums or enjoy the weather with delicious foods. Go to beaches and opt for sunbathing, snorkeling, and swimming during the scorching summer heat.
| Things to know: Trekking in the highlands is best done in the summer, especially on Mount Fuji. Because it is a shoulder season, you may negotiate on travel and lodging reservations. Tip: Keep light clothes with you and carry rain protection. Also, take a light jacket for cool mountain treks, and stay hydrated. |
Visiting Japan in Autumn (September-November)
The weather is light and begins cooling by the end of September, as this month is the full-fledged typhoon season and it experiences temperature variations.
Japan experiences harvest during this time of the year. People in thousands gather and enjoy harvesting with dance and celebration. Takayama Autumn Festival, Japan’s third largest festival is celebrated during this season. the Meiji Jingu Gaien Gingko Festival celebrates the autumn leaves. The country is painted in yellow and orange hues of trees. Autumn is also the best time to visit Japan with kids to enjoy special food events like Hokkaido Food Festival and Tokyo Wagyu Show and also attend the Sumo Grand Tournament at the Tokyo Basho.
| Things to know: The weather is pleasant, and more tourists will be there. Also, due to various festivals and celebrations, Autumn is a busy tourist season. Tip: Pack light clothes. Carry heavy woolens if you fly to Japan by the end of Autumn. |
Visiting Japan in Winter (December-February)
Winter in Japan goes down to -8°C during the peak of the season. The northern alpine region receives snowfall while the southern area is dry. Although the temperature is low at all times, it is the best time for sightseeing.
While December allows you to bathe in natural thermal hot springs, January is good for skiing. February is beautiful and allows for celebrating the Sapporo Snow Festival. This season is less crowded and allows tourists to explore the snowy scenic views of Japan. Go ahead and explore the Japanese Alps’ Yuzawa ski resort or join the snow monsters at Zao Onsen.
| Things to know: It is less crowded in winter, so explore iconic tourist spots without distractions. Avail of offers and discounts on travel and accommodation bookings. Tip: Keep heavy woolen clothes, snow boots, and sunglasses. Stay hydrated. |
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Foodie Destinations in Japan
Japan is famous for its food as much for its cities, customs, traditions, and scenic beauty. For many, Japanese cuisine attracts visitors from across the globe. Every region of the country offers some exquisite delights and specialties with unique gourmet traditions. Here are some places in Japan that offer lip-smacking delicacies.
- Osaka: Also called the “Kitchen of Japan”, Osaka indeed has the best food offerings. From local food stalls to themed luxury restaurants, it presents food at inexpensive rates. The Dotonbori district, which is close to Namba Station with a wide variety of restaurants along its streets, is a favorite destination. the Shinsekai neighborhood, with its Kushikatsu stores, is recommended. Foods that you must try are Takoyaki, Okonomiyaki, and Kushikatsu.
- Hokkaido: Hokkaido is the perfect place to go if you want to taste the best seafood and agricultural products. Sapporo’s Nijo Market, Kushiro’s Washo Market, or Hakodate’s Morning Market are the best to sample seafood. Do not miss out on Hokkaido’s Seafood, Cheese tart, Genghis Khan (Jingisukan), and Sapporo Beer.
- Kyoto: Japan’s former capital, Kyoto comprises rich food culture and traditions. The city offers traditional establishments to the best of fusion foods including the cooking style of different countries. Enjoy the lip-smacking Japanese cuisines and foods like ramen, sushi, udon, and tempura in the Pontocho district, Gion district, or Nishiki Market. Further, try Kawayuka or Kawadoko restaurants along the Kamogawa River in central Kyoto. Don’t miss Kaiseki Ryori, Shojin Ryori, and Obanzai Ryori while being in Kyoto.
- Tokyo: The capital city of Japan offers a lot of dining styles, from local to regional to international, and even themed dining. Good food at all prices is available in the city, from roadside stalls to the top floors of the skyscrapers with a dazzling view of the city. Savour the best foods in Shinjuku, Shiodome, and Tokyo Station. Make sure to visit Tsukiji Outer Market and don’t miss nigiri-zushi, tempura, chankonabe and tsukudani.
- Fukuoka: This city gives you the best Korean and Chinese cuisine experience in Japan, due to its proximity to the Asian Mainland. Yatai food stalls on the Southern end of Nakasu Island give the best outdoor dining experience. Available alcoholic drinks let you interact with residents. Enjoy the finest of Tenjin’s downtown, Hakata Station, and the Nakasu entertainment district as well. Fukuoka’s unmissable are Hakata Ramen, Mentaiko, Motsunabe, and Tetsunabe Gyoza.
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FAQs
1) When is the best time to visit Japan?
The best time to visit Japan depends on what you want to explore. For instance, spring is best for cherry blossoms, while Summer is best if you wish to explore Japanese festivals like Obon Festival and Fukugawa Hachiman Festival. Winter is good for sightseeing.
2) What is the cheapest time to travel to Japan?
The cheapest time to fly to Japan is during January and February, this is because the crowds are small and avail various discounts and offers on traveling and accommodation and even in marketplaces.
3) When is the best time to visit Japan for cherry blossoms?
To enjoy the cherry blossoms, you should visit Japan during the spring season from March to May.
4) When is the best time to visit Tokyo?
You should visit Tokyo in the peak season, during March, April, and May as this time Tokyo has pleasant weather, along with cherry blossoms enhancing the beauty of the city.
5) What is the worst time to visit Japan?
The worst time to visit Japan is during August and September, due to typhoon season and dangerous storms. Also, the Golden Week is worst in terms of finances and overcrowding.
