Best Seasons to Visit Japan Ranked

Japan is a country where you can enjoy the beauty of four distinct seasons, each offering its own unique charm. The weather and precipitation, as well as events vary by season, making the timing of your visit an important decision.

According to a survey by Tokyo Creative, about 50% of respondents said autumn was the season they most wanted to visit Japan. However, data from the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) shows that July and April were the months with the highest number of visitors in 2019, pre-COVID-19. This indicates that popular seasons and actual tourist traffic don't always align.

In this article, we'll explore the characteristics and appeal of each season, including climate comfort, natural beauty, and tourist events, to help you decide the best time to visit Japan.

Best Seasons to Visit Japan

1. Autumn
2. Spring
3. Winter
4. Summer

1. Autumn (September - November)

Autumn is one of the most popular seasons for tourism in Japan, with many believing it is the perfect time to visit. As the heat of summer subsides and the humidity decreases, the air in Japan’s autumns is crisp and refreshing. Daytime temperatures are around 20°C (68°F), and it gets cooler in the evening, so a light jacket is recommended. The weather is relatively stable with little rain, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Autumn in Japan is particularly famous for its stunning foliage, with renowned spots such as Kyoto, Nikko, and Hakone attracting many visitors. In Kyoto, you can enjoy vibrant autumn leaves at historic sites like Kiyomizu Temple and Arashiyama. Nikko offers a spectacular contrast of foliage with the Toshogu Shrine, and Hakone is popular for combining hot springs and autumn leaves, with breathtaking views from the ropeway.

Autumn is also a season of abundant harvests in Japan. You can enjoy seasonal flavors such as new rice, mushrooms, chestnuts, and sweet potatoes. Sanma (mackerel pike) and matsutake mushrooms are also in season, allowing you to savor the changing seasons through food. Food events held across Japan offer a chance to taste local specialties and experience regional culture through cuisine.

‍

Below are some reasons tourists favor travelling to Japan in autumn:

• "Seeing the foliage and trying seasonal foods." (Ireland, Male, 25-34 years old)
• "The weather is not too hot or too cold, and it's less crowded than other seasons. It was also recommended on Tokyo Creative's account." (UK, Male, 18-24 years old)
• "It's less crowded than spring, and the weather is nice." (Serbia, Female, 35-44 years old)

‍

About 30% of respondents who chose autumn (48 votes) had never visited Japan before but learned about its appeal through social media like YouTube. As these opinions suggest, autumn offers a comfortable climate, beautiful foliage, rich food, and diverse cultural experiences, making it an ideal season for travelers. Visiting Japan during this time allows you to fully enjoy the country's beauty and rich culture.

An autumn trip to Japan is a wonderful opportunity to experience both natural beauty and cultural richness. From visiting famous foliage spots to savoring autumn flavors and participating in regional cultural events, you can fully enjoy the charms of the season. Consider visiting Japan in autumn to make the most of its beauty and vibrant culture.

2. Spring (March - May)

Spring season in Japan is beloved by travelers worldwide for its cherry blossoms. Hanami, or cherry blossom viewing, is an iconic springtime event in Japan, where you can enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms across the country. The blossoms usually only last about a week, drawing many visitors eager to witness their fleeting beauty. Spring weather is warm during the day and cool at night, making it a pleasant time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Temperatures from March to May range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), perfect for strolling or picnicking.

Spring in Japan also offers a rich food culture. Seasonal ingredients like bamboo shoots, rapeseed blossoms, and butterbur sprout are in season, and dishes made with these ingredients captivate visitors with their seasonal flavors. Sakura-themed sweets and dishes are also popular, allowing you to enjoy spring through sight and taste.

3. Winter (December - February)

Winters in Japan are known for their snowy landscapes, especially popular in Hokkaido and the Tohoku region. These areas offer stunning views of snow-covered scenery, creating a special atmosphere like stepping into a storybook. Winter activities like skiing and snowboarding are abundant, attracting many tourists from both Japan and abroad. Places like Niseko, Sapporo, and Zao are famous for their excellent snow quality and well-equipped facilities, making them world-renowned ski resorts.

Winter also brings a wealth of events such as Christmas and New Year's celebrations. During the Christmas season, cities are adorned with illuminations, creating a magical atmosphere. Tokyo's Omotesando, Marunouchi, and Kobe's Luminarie are known for their beautiful lights, captivating visitors. These illumination events offer warm light in the cold winter nights, perfect for romantic moments. New Year's is an excellent opportunity to experience unique Japanese culture and traditions. During Hatsumode, people visit shrines and temples to pray for peace and happiness in the new year. Special dishes like osechi ryori and ozoni are prepared, and families and friends celebrate the new year together.

4. Summer (June - August)

Summer ranks fourth in the best seasons to visit Japan due to its intense heat and high humidity, which can be challenging for travelers. The temperature often exceeds 40°C (104°F) from July to August, and the humidity can be stifling, making it difficult for some travelers to enjoy their visit. Summer is also typhoon season, which can lead to canceled or changed travel plans due to weather conditions.

However, summer offers many attractions. It's the best season to enjoy Japan's beautiful beaches and marine activities like swimming, surfing, and diving. The clear sea and blue sky make summer activities enjoyable. Summer is also the season for various festivals and fireworks displays across Japan. Events like Tokyo's Sumida River Fireworks Festival, Osaka's Tenjin Festival, and Kyoto's Gion Festival are extremely popular. These events offer a chance to experience traditional Japanese culture for a glimpse into summer for Japanese locals.

Conclusion

We have introduced the characteristics and highlights of each season in Japan. Each season offers a unique way to experience Japan's beautiful nature and rich culture. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip to Japan. No matter when you visit, you're sure to make unforgettable memories. Plan your trip according to the season and fully enjoy the wonderful attractions Japan has to offer.