The Best Time of Year to Visit Japan
Discover the best ways to enjoy Japan throughout the seasons…

In a country as wonderfully diverse as Japan, it doesn’t matter what time of year you choose to travel, there will always be plenty to enjoy. At Scott Dunn, our travel experts know the best times to visit Japan for a range of experiences and can help you plan the perfect trip based on what you want to see and do.
Typically, spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the best times of year to go to Japan, since this is when the country’s naturally breathtaking scenery comes alive. Spring marks the anticipated cherry blossom season, with beautiful pink and red blooms appearing everywhere you go. If you are planning to take in the blossoms, it’s worth noting that spring is the busiest time of year to visit, with tourists flocking to destinations across the country to see it.
What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Japan?
If you’re wondering when is the best time to go to Japan, it all depends on the kinds of experiences you’re looking for.
During the summer months, Japan’s northern national parks and mountainous regions are ideal for hiking, biking and exploring, while the south becomes hot and humid. Alternatively, if you’re a fan of skiing, winter is no doubt the best time of year to visit Japan, offering fresh white powder piled high and plenty of stunning routes both on and off-piste.
If you’d like to visit Japan’s largest cities, Tokyo and Osaka, spring or fall are the best times to travel, as these areas can get extremely hot and sticky during the summer months.
No matter when you’d like to travel, our experts will gladly plan you a customized itinerary that combines the best experiences for each of Japan’s seasons - so just sit back, relax and focus on making the most of your luxury Japan vacation.
Our Experts Say...
While there are so many different climates in Japan, I think November is the best time of year to visit the “main” island of Honshu. Japan celebrates every season to its fullest, and autumn is no exception! The heat and humidity of summer are fully behind you, and there are not quite as many tourists as there would be in spring. To top it off, Japanese maple trees put on a breathtaking show of colors this time of year. Meanwhile, you can still enjoy some beach time down in Okinawa or skiing up north in Hokkaido.
Corey Weiss, Asia Specialist
Climate guide for Japan
, Japan
Average temperatures (Fahrenheit) and rainfall (mm)

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