Best Time to Visit Japan: Cherry Blossom, Weather, and Festivals by Month

Japan is beautiful all year round. But if you’re planning your first trip, choosing the right time can be tricky: you want fewer tourists, more sunny days, and ideally a chance to see the cherry blossoms in spring or the red maple leaves in autumn. In this article, I’ll explain when is the best time to visit Japan, how the seasons differ month by month, which events are worth keeping in mind when planning your itinerary, and why the weather is not the only important factor.

Best months to travel to Japan

The high tourist seasons in Japan are spring and autumn. The most popular months are April, when the cherry blossoms bloom, and November, the season of red maple leaves momiji. During these periods, prices are high, there are lots of tourists, and guides and accommodation need to be booked 4–6 months in advance. From June to July, most of Japan experiences the rainy season. July and August are very hot and humid, while August and September are the peak of typhoon season. On top of that, there is Golden Week, the Obon festival, Christmas, and New Year – times when all of Japan is on holiday together with tourists, and it feels crowded absolutely everywhere.

So when to go? If you dream of seeing sakura, the highest chances are in late March and early April. But be prepared for crowds and high prices. Red maple season is a bit quieter, but also very popular. It usually falls at the end of November. If sakura and maples are not important to you, early March, late May, late October or early December is a great time to enjoy Japan without the hustle and bustle.

How to get to popular places in season, as well as interesting non-tourist locations – I tell you in my Japan Itinerary and Guide

Japan in January

Japan in January is a great option for those who love cold weather, culture, onsen and winter sports. After the New Year holidays, there are fewer tourists in Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, so walking around temples, museums and old neighborhoods is much more comfortable than in high season. January is especially good for traveling to snowy regions of Japan: Hokkaido, Nagano, Niigata, Tohoku, Shirakawa-go and mountain onsen towns. It’s also one of the best months to see the famous snow monkeys bathing in the onsens.

During the first days of the New Year, many Japanese go to temples and shrines for ceremonies, and major stores hold sales and sell fukubukuro – surprise packages with unknown contents.

In January, Tokyo hosts the January Grand Sumo Tournament, the first official sumo tournament of the year. It’s a great chance to see sumo live, especially if you’re planning a few days in the capital.

Pros of January: Fewer tourists after the New Year holidays, dry weather in central Japan, good conditions for skiing and snowboarding, onsen, winter illuminations, calmer atmosphere.

Cons of January: It’s cold, it gets dark early, a lot of things may be closed in the first few days of January because of New Year’s Eve.

READ MORE: Jigokudani Snow Monkeys

Japan in February

Japan in February is a good month to travel to Japan’s winter regions. Hokkaido, Nagano, Niigata and Tohoku are at their peak season with skiing, snowboarding, onsens and snowy landscapes. And in central and southern Japan, plums are already starting to bloom – ume, a beautiful and fragrant alternative to spring hanami. February is also famous for its winter festivals. For example, Hokkaido hosts the Sapporo Snow Festival with huge snow and ice sculptures, Nagasaki hosts a colorful Chinese lantern festival to celebrate the Lunar New Year, and Hakusan hosts a snowman festival.

In Japan, Valentine’s Day is celebrated in a slightly different way: on February 14, women give chocolates to men – their loved ones, friends or colleagues. And exactly one month later, on March 14, there is “White Day”, when men give reciprocal gifts to those from whom they received chocolate.

Pros of February: Few tourists on the classic route, winter festivals, onsens, skiing and snowboarding, plum blossoms.

Cons of February: Cold, snowfall and transportation delays are possible in northern regions.

ALSO READ: What You Need to Know Before Traveling to Japan

Japan in March

March in Japan marks the beginning of the spring travel season. In central regions and farther north, ume plum blossoms are still blooming, while in Tokyo and other warmer areas, cherry blossoms usually start to open toward the end of the month. On March 3, Hinamatsuri, or Girls’ Day, is celebrated across the country. The weather in March is noticeably warmer than in winter, but it can still be quite changeable, so it’s best to dress in layers.

One of the six official sumo tournaments , the March Grand Sumo Tournament, takes place in Osaka in March. It lasts about two weeks and tickets must be booked in advance.

Pros of March: Fewer tourists at the beginning of the month, plum and sakura blossoms at the end of the month in the central region, comfortable weather for walking.

Cons of March: Changeable weather, high prices, and many tourists at the end of the month.

READ ALSO: 15 Things to do in Osaka

Japan in April

April is one of the most beautiful and popular months to travel to Japan. Blooming cherry blossoms, pleasant weather, and spring festivals make it a wonderful time to visit. But cherry blossoms are not the only highlight of the season: at Ashikaga Flower Park in Tochigi, wisteria season usually runs from mid-April to mid-May; at Tonami Tulip Park in Toyama, you can see vast tulip fields from mid-April to early May; and at Hitachi Seaside Park, the hills are covered in blue nemophila flowers from mid-April to early May — that famous “blue sea” of flowers.

From the second half of April, mountain routes begin to open, including popular destinations such as the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, Kamikochi, and the Snow Corridor in Murodo.

There is a geisha festival in Kyoto in April – Miyako Odori. I highly recommend attending one of the performances. In mid-April, Takayama hosts the Takayama Spring Festival, which is considered one of the most beautiful in Japan.

Pros of April: Hanami season and other spring flowers, comfortable weather, beautiful parks and gardens, the geisha festival in Kyoto, and the spring festival in Takayama.

Cons of April: at the beginning of the month, prices are high, there are many tourists, popular places are overcrowded, and accommodation and good restaurants need to be booked several months in advance.

READ ALSO: 10 Kyoto places every traveler should see

Japan in May

May begins with Golden Week, a period when several national holidays fall close together. It is one of the busiest times for domestic travel in Japan, so hotels, trains, and popular attractions should be booked in advance — or, if possible, it’s best to avoid these dates altogether. The second half of May, however, is a wonderful time for a Tokyo–Kyoto–Osaka itinerary and for a first trip to Japan in general: the weather is comfortable, everything is lush and green, and there are fewer tourists.

In the third week of May, Tokyo hosts Sanja Matsuri, a popular Shinto festival that attracts around 1.5 to 2 million visitors every year. May is also when the third sumo tournament of the year takes place in Tokyo.

The Fuji Shibazakura Festival – when fields of pink moss phlox bloom against the backdrop of the famous volcano – lasts until the end of May. At the end of May, Japanese iris blooms in various botanical gardens.

In late April and May, the spring harvest of Japanese tea begins. At this time, the most tender young leaves are harvested, which are used to make especially high quality green tea and matcha with bright color, mild flavor and pronounced umami. May is a great month to travel to tea regions like Uji, Shizuoka, Nishio or Kagoshima.

Pros of May: Comfortably warm weather, lots of greenery, few tourists after Golden Week. One of the best months to see the standard Tokyo-Osaka-Kyoto route in peace.

Cons of May: The first week of the month can be very busy due to Golden Week, sakura is already over in most popular cities.

READ ALSO: Uji, Kyoto: What to See in Japan’s Matcha Capital

Japan in June

In June, the rainy season begins in Japan. It may not be the best month for a dream first trip, but it can be a great option for those who want to save money. Hotel and ryokan prices drop to some of their lowest levels, and popular tourist spots become less crowded. Hydrangeas are in bloom, too. And here’s a travel hack for anyone who doesn’t like rain but loves good food: in June, Hokkaido usually has pleasant weather with low humidity, and the region is considered one of Japan’s top foodie destinations.

Pros of June: Few tourists, lots of greenery, low prices.

Cons of June: The rainy season.

READ MORE: 27 Ways to Save Money in Japan

Japan in July

Japan in July means heat, humidity, and festival season. By the middle of the month, the amount of rain usually decreases, while temperatures rise noticeably. For a first trip along the Tokyo–Kyoto–Osaka route, July is not the most comfortable month, especially if you don’t tolerate heat well and plan to do a lot of walking. On the other hand, this is when one of the most vibrant times of the year begins: summer matsuri, fireworks, and evening events take place all across the country. Nagoya also hosts one of the six official sumo tournaments in July.
July is also when major summer sales begin in stores.

Gion Matsuri in Kyoto is one of Japan’s most famous festivals. It lasts for almost the entire month and is known for its grand processions, music, traditional costumes, and the festive atmosphere of old Kyoto. In Osaka, the large-scale Tenjin Matsuri takes place in late July, with fireworks, boat performances, and evening celebrations. If you want to attend these festivals, accommodation in Kyoto and Osaka for July should be booked well in advance.

July officially marks the opening of the Mount Fuji climbing season. During this period, the trails are usually snow-free, the weather is relatively mild, and the mountain huts are open to travelers. For a beach vacation in July, head to Okinawa.

The Fuji Rock Festival, Japan’s largest outdoor music festival, takes place at the end of July.

July pros: Summer festivals, beaches, Fuji climbing season, sumo tournament in Nagoya, rock music festival, sales.

Cons of July: Heat, high humidity, risks of heat stroke.

READ ALSO: What to bring from Japan: 13 things you won’t regret buying

Japan in August

Japan in August means peak heat, humidity, and summer festival season. During the day, it is often very muggy, temperatures can rise to around 40°C, and the risk of typhoons increases. At the same time, August is when Japan hosts a huge number of beautiful festivals, including Aomori Nebuta Matsuri, Sendai Tanabata Matsuri, Akita Kanto Matsuri, Awa Odori, and many others. For travelling in August, it is best to choose Hokkaido, Tohoku, or the Japanese Alps.

The main event of the month is Obon, a Buddhist tradition of honouring ancestors. During this period, many Japanese people return to their hometowns, so transport, hotels, and restaurants become especially busy.

Summer Sonic, an international rock and pop music festival, takes place in Osaka and Tokyo in mid-August.

Fireworks festivals are one of Tokyo’s main summer traditions. In August, the Itabashi Fireworks Festival is held at the same time as the Todabashi Fireworks Festival, on both banks of the Arakawa River. Thanks to this, the show features thousands of fireworks and feels especially large-scale and spectacular.

Pros of August: Festivals, fireworks, beaches, Fuji climbing season.

Cons of August: Very hot and humid, typhoon season starts, congestion during Obon.

READ ALSO: 25 Things to do in Tokyo

Japan in September

Japan in September is a transitional month. Summer holidays come to an end and there are fewer tourists, but the beginning of the month can still be hot and humid. It can be a good option for those who want a cheaper and quieter trip, but it is not the best choice for a first visit to Japan. The main downside of September is typhoon season: strong winds, heavy rain, and local flooding are possible. The weather can be unpredictable, so it is best to plan your itinerary flexibly and leave some room for unexpected delays.

In September, Japan celebrates the start of the harvest season, with grapes, figs, sanma, and Japanese pears at their best. Tokyo also hosts the fifth sumo tournament of the year. In the mountains and northern regions, the first autumn colours begin to appear.

At the end of September, Kyoto hosts the annual KYOMAF international manga and anime fair. And not far from Tokyo is the Tokyo Game Show, Asia’s largest gaming exhibition.

In Kamakura, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Reitaisai is held from September 14 to 16, with Shinto ceremonies, traditional performances, processions, and yabusame — horseback archery. Near Osaka, in the city of Kishiwada, the Kishiwada Danjiri Festival takes place, one of Japan’s most spectacular September festivals. Its main highlight is the huge wooden floats, which teams of participants pull through the streets at high speed and turn sharply around corners.

Pros of September: Fewer tourists, lower prices, harvest, lots of seasonal fruits and vegetables, first fall colors in northern and highland regions, game and anime exhibitions, festivals.

Cons of September: Can still be hot and humid, high risk of typhoons.

Download: Japan 2 Weeks Itinerary and GuideGuide

Japan in October

October is one of the best months to travel to Japan: the weather is comfortable, and the autumn colours begin to appear in the mountains and northern regions. The rice harvest comes to an end, and late-season fruits such as pomegranates, persimmons, and chestnuts ripen. Be sure to try Fuyu persimmons.

Lots of traditional festivals. Among the main events are the Takayama Autumn Festival in Gifu, Jidai Matsuri, one of Kyoto’s three major festivals, and the Kurama Fire Festival. In Tokyo, the Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Festival takes place — Japan’s largest Halloween-themed cosplay event. One of the most unusual festivals is also held in Tokyo in mid-October: the Kagurazaka Bakeneko Festival. It is dedicated to the Japanese “monster cat,” and all participants come dressed as cats.

In October, Japan celebrates Tsukimi, the tradition of moon viewing in autumn. It is not an official holiday, but many historic gardens, shrines, and temples in Tokyo and Kyoto hold evening events with tea ceremonies and music. Restaurants and cafés often serve seasonal dishes with raw or fried egg yolk, symbolising the full moon — for example, tsukimi udon or McDonald’s tsukimi burgers.

October is a good time to visit Koyasan, a sacred town on Mount Koya. It is a place where you can escape the tourist crowds, slow down, meditate, and spend the night in a real temple with monks. The temperature in Koyasan is a few degrees lower than in Osaka, so the autumn colours usually appear there earlier.

In Kyoto, Tokyo, and Osaka, momiji season usually falls in November. In October, it is better to look for autumn colours farther north or higher in the mountains — in Hokkaido, Tohoku, Nagano, Nikko, Kamikochi, and the Japanese Alps.

Pros of October: Comfortable weather, festivals, seasonal food, red leaf season in the northern and mountainous regions.

Cons of October: If your main goal is to see red maple leaves in Kyoto, Tokyo, and Osaka, October may be too early. For momiji in these cities, late November is usually a better choice. By the second half of October, there are already quite a lot of tourists.

READ ALSO: Koyasan (Mt. Koya): visiting Japanese monks

Japan in November

November in Japan is the month of red maple leaves, known as momiji. The weather is usually cool and comfortable for walking. Many tourists visit during this time, so hotels and activities should be booked well in advance.

Fukuoka hosts the last sumo tournament of the year . Tokyo’s Fuchu Racecourse hosts the Japan Cup, one of the most prestigious events in the world of horse racing, at the end of November.

On November 15, Japan celebrates Shichi-Go-San, a traditional festival that marks children’s health and growth. On this day, three-, five-, and seven-year-old children are dressed in kimono, and families visit Shinto shrines to thank the gods for the child’s health and pray for their happy growth and well-being.

November in Japan is known as the “season of appetite.” It is a time to enjoy delicious seafood, sweet autumn fruits, and cozy seasonal dishes. November is the peak season for citrus fruits, and it is also when the ban on crab fishing is lifted. One of the best places to try crab in central Japan is Omicho Market in Kanazawa.

In November, Tokyo hosts Art Week Tokyo, an annual contemporary art week featuring more than 50 museums, galleries and art spaces.

Another important theme in November is winter illuminations. Sagamiko Illumillion in Kanagawa and Nabana no Sato Winter Illumination in Mie are especially worth mentioning.

Pros of November: Comfortable weather, beautiful fall leaves, seasonal food, onsens, illuminations.

Cons of November: Lots of tourists, high prices.

READ ALSO: 10 Things to do in Kanazawa

Japan in December

Japan in December is for those who want to soak up the festive winter atmosphere, relax in hot onsen, and explore the cities without large tourist crowds before the New Year holidays. In the northern and mountainous regions, the ski season begins. In the first half of December, the weather is often clear, with good visibility of Mount Fuji.

Christmas in Japan is more of a decorative and romantic occasion. Many people go on dates and exchange small gifts. A classic Christmas dinner is traditionally ordered from KFC, and special festive sets of fried chicken are extremely popular.

Japanese New Year, or Oshogatsu, is the main family holiday of the year-end season. It usually lasts from around December 29 to January 3, and during this time travel becomes more expensive and more complicated, while some businesses close for several days. In cities across Japan, you can see beautiful winter illuminations and traditional European-style Christmas markets. On December 31, many shrines hold New Year’s events. Food has special meaning during this period. Japanese people eat osechi-ryori, a beautiful set of festive dishes where each ingredient symbolises health, prosperity, or good luck. There are also several interesting New Year traditions, such as hatsumode and hatsuhinode. Hatsumode is the first visit to a temple or shrine in the new year, when people pray for health, luck, and well-being and buy amulets. Hatsuhinode is the first sunrise of the new year. Japanese people watch the sunrise on the morning of January 1, often by the sea, on a mountain, at an observation deck, or in a beautiful natural setting. It is believed that the first sunrise brings good luck and symbolises a new beginning.

Pros of December: Winter illuminations, clear skies, onsens, start of ski season, fewer crowds in the first half of the month, beautiful views of the mountains and Fuji.

Cons of December: Cold weather, early sunsets, and the New Year rush toward the end of the month.

When to go to Japan for cherry blossom?

Unfortunately, the exact dates of cherry blossom season cannot be guaranteed in advance. Every year, the blossoms bloom a little differently, so meteorological agencies release and regularly update special forecasts by region. The bloom moves from south to north: cherry blossoms open first in Kyushu and central Japan, and later in Tohoku and Hokkaido. If you dream of seeing sakura in Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, your best chances are usually in late March to early April.

For an up-to-date cherry blossom forecast – look here (in the news section) or here.

The best places to view sakura in Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka shared in the guide.

When to go to Japan for red maples?

Japan’s red maple momiji season is usually more predictable and lasts longer than the sakura season. Autumn colors move from north to south: leaves begin to turn red in Hokkaido in mid-September, in Tohoku and mountainous regions in October, and in Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, the peak of momiji is most often in the second half of November to early December.

Look for the current red maple forecast here (in the news section) or here.

For the best places to see momiji in Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, look up the guide.

When is it not a good idea to go to Japan?

A trip to Japan is always a good idea. But there are a few periods that I would still advise you to avoid for your first trip.

Late April to early May: Golden Week is one of the busiest periods for domestic tourism. Japanese people travel extensively around the country, so hotels, transportation, popular attractions and restaurants are overcrowded. Everything needs to be booked well in advance.

Mid-June to mid-July: the rainy season. This doesn’t mean that it rains every day, but the weather is quite unpredictable. It’s not the best time for your first “perfect” trip.

August: hot, humid and Obon. One of Japan’s toughest months in terms of weather: hot, sweltering, and an increasing chance of typhoons. The middle of the month is Obon, an important family period. During this period, many Japanese return to their hometowns, so transportation, hotels and restaurants become especially busy.

September: typhoon season. Although prices are very attractive at this time, there is a high chance of typhoons, heavy rains, train delays and canceled flights. For a flexible trip, it’s fine, but for a first trip it’s not the most reliable choice.

End of December – first days of January: New Year’s Eve. This is an atmospheric and interesting time, but prices are higher than usual and hotels/transportation/activities need to be booked strongly in advance. Some museums, restaurants may be closed.

Japan by month: summary table