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The best times to visit Japan: What to expect in every season
By Nici Davies, Japan travel expert
Japan is one of those rare destinations where every season feels like a new experience.
I’ve planned countless trips over the years and no two have ever been the same. That’s what I love most. From cherry blossoms in spring to snow-covered temples in winter, the rhythm of the year brings fresh beauty, energy and flavour to every journey.
And there’s no single ‘best’ time to go, it all depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for. Festivals or food? Slow-paced hikes or powdery ski runs? Here’s how the seasons unfold, and how to choose the one that suits you best.
Nici Davies
With over 30 years of expertise at Travelwise, Nici specialises in family adventures, luxury ski holidays and indulgent beach escapes. Her extensive knowledge of diverse destinations allows her to offer the perfect suggestion, even when you're not exactly sure what you're looking for.
Spring: March to May
Japan in spring is iconic – and for good reason. Cities and countryside alike burst into bloom, with delicate pink cherry blossoms lining parks, rivers and temple gardens. Kyoto is especially beautiful this time of year, where you’ll find locals enjoying hanami (flower viewing) picnics beneath the trees.
The weather is fresh and clear, perfect for exploring gardens, soaking up culture or sampling seasonal dishes like sakura sweets and bamboo shoots. It’s also one of the busiest times to visit, so early planning is essential. I think it’s best for first-timers, photographers and culture lovers.
Summer: June to August
Summer in Japan is bold, lively and full of energy. Yes, it’s hot and humid, but it’s also festival season. Which means lanterns, taiko drums, yukata and street food. Gion Matsuri in Kyoto is a standout, but you’ll find celebrations across the country.
If you prefer cooler climes, escape to the Japanese Alps for mountain hikes and fresh air or head to Okinawa (early summer only for the best weather) for coral reefs and white-sand beaches. Seasonal food is designed to cool you down like chilled noodles, fresh eel and shaved ice (don’t knock it ’til you’ve tried it!)
Autumn: September to November
Autumn is a quieter, slower time to see Japan and it’s one of my personal favourites. The heat eases, skies turn crisp and clear, and the landscape transforms into warm reds, oranges and golds. Kyoto, Nikko and Kurashiki are particularly beautiful.
It’s also harvest season, which means deep, comforting flavours like chestnuts, mushrooms, persimmons and warming bowls of oden. I recommend it for food lovers, couples and slow travellers.
Winter: December to February
Winter is peaceful, restorative and full of contrasts. Powder snow in Hokkaido, steaming hot springs in Hakone, quiet city streets and cosy izakayas. And, of course, the chance to see snow monkeys. If you’re here for skiing, Niseko and Furano are among the best in the world. But you don’t have to ski to enjoy winter, just sitting in an open-air onsen as snow falls around you is magical.
Winter food is rich and hearty: try hotpot, roasted yams and fresh seafood. It’s a season for slowing down and soaking it all in. I think it’s best for skiers, onsen lovers and winter adventurers.
Choosing your season
Every trip to Japan can be completely different – and that’s exactly why so many people go back again and again. You can even plan a trip that spans two seasons, like catching autumn leaves in Kyoto and the first snowfall in the Alps.
If you’re not sure when to go or how to plan it, I’m here to help. I know the timing, the regions and the details that make all the difference.
Ready to plan your Japan escape?
Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, I’ll help you experience Japan in a way that feels right for you. Just get in touch and we’ll start building something truly special.
