Want to see Japan at its finest? Aim for spring or fall. That’s between March and May, or September through November. Japan’s beauty is at its peak then; pretty cherry blossoms and fiery fall leaves enhance the scenery. Be aware, it can get busy. If you’re an outdoor type and adore hiking, summer is primarily around the Japanese Alps and Hokkaido’s national parks. But be warned, it gets warm and moist elsewhere. Consider the best time to visit Japan winter visit – specifically December to February – for something different. Sure, there’s snowfall, but festive events lighten the mood. Japan’s national holidays are worth noting too. Shogatsu (New Year), Obon (usually mid-July or mid-August, depending on the area), and Golden Week (April 29 to May 5) pull in the crowds.
Neonpolice’s article offers a deeper dive into the best time to visit Japan. If you need more reasons, booking.com’s official website has ample advice on optimal times to explore Japan.
Different Seasons & Best Time to Visit Japan
There are multiple ways to find the best time to visit japan. Therefore, Neon Police has curated a list of the best time to visit japan for easy research. The list of the best time to visit japan is as follows:
Spring (March-May)
Spring (March-May) | Neonpolice
In spring, from March to May, Japan has a range of temperatures, 3 to 26 degrees Celsius. At the season’s start, it can be chill, even hitting -4°C, but warms up as it progresses. It’s a prime time to explore Japan.
Weather: The clear spring air is a little chilly in the mornings. The temperature rises but remains nice throughout the day. The north remains chilly, but the south has delightful warmth that gradually grows until summer arrives in June.
Spring is Sakura season, the finest time to visit Japan. The country is booming, with plum and cherry blossoms covering the ground. It is an excellent time to enjoy strolls around Japan’s blossoming gardens. A lightweight jacket or a thin sweater will provide adequate protection.
Why you should go – The temperate spring season is ideal for discovering Japan’s wonders. Ueno Park in Tokyo is a treat, including a zoo, temples, and museums. It has approximately 1000 cherry trees bordering its paths and is ideal for a Hanami picnic. At Lake Kawaguchi, you may also see cherry blossoms against the beautiful Mount Fuji.
Spring also brings a variety of festivities, including Sanja Matsuri, Takayama Spring Festival, and Aoi Matsuri, the world’s longest continually operating festival.
Things to know before you go – Spring is a busy season in Japan as residents take advantage of Golden Week. Most tourist attractions will be active, and hotel reservations will be necessary.
Summer (June – August)
Summer (June – August) | Neonpolice
Temperature: Japan’s summer is warm and muggy. Even though 31°C may not seem too hot, the dampness causes discomfort. Yet, by summer’s end, northern regions cool down to 12°C.
Weather: Summer in Japan is an intriguing mix of heat and rain. June is the wettest month of the year, although it is simply a forerunner to the summer heat. The mountain locations will provide some relief. Typhoon season begins around the conclusion of summer. Summer brings heat, yet it’s also the time for Japan’s top festivals. You’ll find the nation’s most loved tourist spots with fewer crowds than usual.
You can make the most of your vacation.
Why you should go right now: You may attend several fantastic local events during the summer. During the Obon Festival, Japan honors its ancestral spirits. The Fukugawa Hachiman Festival featured a massive water battle to beat the heat. Take in the music at the Fuji Rock Festival and wander through history at the Hiroshima Lantern Festival.
Enjoy the Aomori Nebuta Dastori Festival’s float parades and the fireworks at the finish. You can consider this time as the best time to visit japan.
Winter (December – February)
Winter (December – February) | Neonpolice
Temperature: During the peak of the season, temperatures in Japan can plummet to -8°C. As spring approaches, temperatures rise to roughly 19°C.
Weather: While snowfall falls in the northern alpine regions, the south stays dry. However, the temperatures remain low throughout the day, with a crisp, clear sky. It is the ideal weather for some sightseeing.
Significance: The north of Japan boasts some excellent ski slopes that rival Europe. Despite this, Japan stays quiet throughout the winter since tourists prefer to avoid the country. That implies there will be no crowds at Japan’s famous tourist attractions.
Why you should go right now: In the winter, the Jigokundani Snow Monkey Park is a snowy paradise. The main draw is the monkeys hanging around in the natural hot water springs. The Sapporo Snow Festival gathers amazing skills from all over the nation. You might encounter snow monsters at Zao Onsen while skiing, or take on the hills at Yuzawa in the Japanese Alps for some winter fun. Think of now as the perfect time to explore Japan.
Things to know before you go – During the winter, you may enjoy peace in Japan. You may explore your heart’s content without being distracted by fewer people. Take advantage of the opportunity.
Also, Read- Discover The 10 Best Places To Visit In Europe
Conclusion
While planning your next trip with family and friends, these are the best time to visit japan. Moreover, you can also check out the official website of Neonpolice to learn more about the best times to visit japan and the best season to visit Japan.