A month-by-month guide of when to visit Japan
Japan's climate offers year-round appeal, featuring four distinct seasons, each with its unique attractions.
Japan’s seasons offer something for every kind of traveller. In winter, the northern regions—especially Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps—transform into snowy playgrounds for skiers and snowboarders. Come summer, those same mountains turn into lush hiking trails, while the southern islands, including Okinawa, offer sun-drenched beaches and world-class diving.
Spring and autumn are especially popular, thanks to the cherry blossoms (sakura) and vibrant autumn leaves (koyo). Honshu, Japan’s largest island, sees sakura bloom between March and April, and colourful foliage from late September to early November. Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka can be hot and humid in summer, with June marking the rainy season.
Hokkaido stays cooler year-round, with pristine snow in winter and mild, sunny summers that avoid the southern typhoons. Its autumn colours arrive early, typically by mid-September. Kyushu, in the south, mirrors southern Honshu’s climate with warm springs, humid summers, and a brief typhoon season in late summer. Once it passes, autumn brings clear, comfortable days.
Okinawa enjoys a subtropical climate—warm year-round with cherry blossoms as early as January. Summers are hot and ideal for beach lovers, though typhoons are most likely between August and September. Autumn is warm and dry, making it a great time to visit.
Whether you're chasing snow, sakura, or sunshine, Japan offers unforgettable experiences in every season.
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January
January welcomes visitors to Japan with a winter wonderland. While northern regions like Hokkaido are blanketed in snow, Tokyo and Kyoto experience chilly but clear days. It's an ideal time for winter sports in Nagano and Hokkaido. In Kyoto, don't miss Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year, and warm up with hot sake.
February
February continues the winter charm, offering perfect conditions for skiing and snowboarding. The Sapporo Snow Festival in Hokkaido showcases stunning ice sculptures. Kyoto hosts Setsubun, a bean-throwing ceremony to drive away evil spirits. Nagasaki's Lantern Festival is a mesmerizing event with thousands of glowing lanterns. The plum blossoms start to bloom in warmer regions like Kyoto and Tokyo.
March
March marks the arrival of spring, with cherry blossoms starting to bloom in southern regions. Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima offer picturesque views of sakura. The annual Hina Matsuri, or Doll Festival, is celebrated with ornate doll displays in households. Springtime hiking in Yoshino's cherry blossom-covered hills is a must-do.
April
April is the peak of cherry blossom season, with hanami (blossom-viewing) picnics happening nationwide. Tokyo's Ueno Park and Kyoto's Maruyama Park are vibrant with pink hues. Golden Week, a series of holidays, falls in late April to early May, creating a festive atmosphere across Japan. The Sumo Spring Grand Tournament is a major sports event in Tokyo.
May
May sees pleasant weather, making it a great time for outdoor activities. Golden Week continues with parades and events. The Kanda Matsuri in Tokyo showcases grand processions. In Kyoto, Aoi Matsuri features a historic costume parade. Hakodate in Hokkaido is known for its early cherry blossoms.
June
June is the start of the rainy season, known as tsuyu, which lasts until mid-July. While it's a wet period, the countryside becomes lush and green. Explore Kyoto's temples and gardens amid light crowds. Early summer festivals like the Sanno Matsuri in Tokyo and the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto offer a glimpse of Japanese traditions.
July
July continues the rainy season, but festivals like Tanabata, the Star Festival, brighten the skies with colourful decorations. Gion Matsuri in Kyoto features grand floats. Hokkaido sees the Lavender Festival, with fields covered in purple blooms.
August
August marks summer, with festivals and fireworks across Japan. The Obon Festival celebrates the spirits of ancestors, with colourful lanterns and folk dances. Tokyo's Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival is a highlight. Hokkaido offers summer flower festivals, and it's a great time for hiking.
September
September brings pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures. Nagasaki's Kunchi Festival is a must-see, featuring dynamic dances and parades. Hokkaido hosts the Sapporo Autumn Festival with delicious local cuisine. It's a great time to explore Tokyo and Kyoto with fewer tourists. Head to Okinawa to soak up some sun before the rainy season hits in the islands.
October
October offers stunning autumn foliage, especially in Kyoto and Nikko. Tokyo's Meiji Shrine holds the Meiji Jingu Festival with traditional performances. Oktoberfest celebrations are popular in major cities. The pleasant climate is perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures.
November
Kyoto is stunning with its vibrant red and yellow foliage, particularly at Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Tokyo, too, offers delightful autumn scenery, especially in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. Don't miss the cultural festivals like Shichi-Go-San, celebrating children's growth, and the Chrysanthemum Exhibition. Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park is a poignant place to reflect on history. Lastly, Hokkaido is perfect for early winter activities. In November, Japan's culinary scene is rich with seasonal delicacies, like the famous matsutake mushrooms.
December
December welcomes winter, with holiday decorations and illuminations brightening cities. Christmas is celebrated with festive lights and decorations. Hokkaido's Sapporo Snow Festival is a must-visit, featuring impressive ice sculptures. Ski resorts in Nagano and Hokkaido open for winter sports enthusiasts.
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