Not quite sure of when the best time to visit Japan is? Generally, the country experiences ideal weather from March to May and September to November, but some months are better for certain activities. If you’re into outdoor activities or learning more about their culture, we have something for everyone!
Read on for a month-by-month guide on where to go and what to do in the Land of the Rising Sun!
- January: Hit the slopes in Hokkaido
- February: Relax at Osaka’s onsens
- March: Travel around Japan via the JR pass!
- April: Marvel at Mt. Fuji’s beauty
- May: Experience flowers in full bloom
- June: Try out different sakes
- July: Explore Okinawa’s oceans
- August: Celebrate Osaka’s festivals
- September: Drive around Osaka using a go-kart
- October: Treak or treat at Universal Studios Japan
- November: Learn more about Japanese culture
- December: Enjoy Christmas at Tokyo Disney Resort
January: Hit the slopes in Hokkaido
January is the best time to go to Japan for winter sports.
Hokkaido is a haven for winter sports lovers, and among its top destinations is Kiroro Resort Snow World. January marks the peak of the season, with the heaviest snowfall creating ideal conditions for skiing and snowboarding. Whether you're looking to hit the slopes or try out other winter activities, there's no shortage of exciting adventures to be had!
Need more slopes? Here’s our ultimate ski guide!
February: Relax at Osaka’s onsens
Rejuvenate at Osaka's premier hot spring resort!
Take a step back and relax at Solaniwa Onsen in Osaka!
The facility features various hot springs and baths, saunas, and a fitness centre. February is a particularly inviting time to visit, as the cold winter weather makes the warm and soothing waters of the hot springs even more enjoyable!
March: Travel around Japan via the JR pass!
Unleash your inner adventurer with the JR Pass! Credits to Fikri Rasyid on Unsplash.
Go on an ultimate Japan adventure when you explore the country using the Japan Rail Pass (aka the JR Pass)!
It’s a convenient and cost-effective way to get to many destinations. With the pass, you’ll have unlimited travel on Japan's extensive rail network and is particularly worth purchasing if you plan to visit multiple cities during your trip. The best time to go to Japan is in the month of March, as the weather begins to warm up!
April: Marvel at Mt. Fuji’s beauty
Make sure to visit Japan’s most iconic mountain. Credits to Daniel Hehn on Unsplash.
The Mt. Fuji Cherry Blossoms Day Trip in Tokyo is a fantastic opportunity to experience the beauty of their iconic cherry blossoms while taking in stunning views of the mountain. One of the best times to go to Japan is in April when the flowers are in full bloom and the weather is mild and pleasant!
May: Experience flowers in full bloom
Wander through a sea of blue nemophila at Hitachi Seaside Park. Credits to Nguyen TP Hai on Unsplash.
If you wanna see more of Japan’s flowers, the Hitachi Seaside Park in Tokyo is a must-visit attraction!
The perfect time to visit the park would be in May, when 4.5 million nemophila flowers have fully bloomed. Besides Hitachi, you can also visit nearby parks like Ashikaga Flower Park or Mito Kairakuen Park, which are equally stunning and offer a different variety of flowers during the same month.
June: Try out different sakes
Say cheers to a one-of-a-kind experience!
Learn more about Japan’s culture by going on the Sake Tasting Tour by Kunimare Sake Brewery K.K. in Hokkaido!
June is the perfect time to visit, as it's the beginning of the sake brewing season. Here, you can expect to learn about the history of sake brewing, how it's made, and even sample some of the brewery's award-winning sake.
July: Explore Okinawa’s oceans
Keep an eye out for sea turtles! Credits to Stefanie Akkerman on Unsplash
Calling all marine lovers! Visit Kerama Tokashiki Island in Okinawa and immerse yourself in the beauty of the prefecture.
July is the perfect time to go as the waters are crystal clear, and the sea turtles come out to play. You'll get to snorkel in the beautiful coral reefs and swim with schools of tropical fish!
August: Celebrate Osaka’s festivals
Feel the beat and join the fun! Credits to @k456.awa on Instagram.
Join the locals when they celebrate Tokushima's Awa Dance Festival in Osaka, where dancers perform the lively Awa Odori dance! It’s celebrated during the Obon season in August and has a rich history dating back over 400 years.
September: Drive around Osaka using a go-kart
Race through the streets in style!
Explore the streets of Osaka by going on a street go-karting adventure dressed up as your favourite character!
The best time to go is during September, with good weather that allows you to fully enjoy the thrill of the ride. See iconic landmarks of the city, such as the Dotonbori area, Tsutenkaku Tower, Osaka Castle, and the Nakanoshima area!
October: Trick or treat at Universal Studios Japan
Even Hello Kitty dresses up for Halloween! Credits to @dnub_gt on Instagram.
Ready for something scary? Visit Universal Studios Japan in October as they host Halloween Horror Nights!
The park turns into a thrilling experience, with haunted houses, scare zones, and frightening live shows. You can also visit the park’s classic attractions, such as the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, and more!
November: Learn more about Japanese culture
Step into history and experience the grandeur of Wakayama Castle!
Discover the Wakayama region on a day trip to Nara, Todaiji Temple, and Kuroshio Market from Osaka!
November is the best time to go, with autumn foliage providing breathtaking views. Meet the friendly deer in Nara's deer park, visit the Todaiji Temple, and explore the bustling Kuroshio Market.
Can’t get enough of autumn in Japan? Here’s our guide to finding the best spots during the season!
December: Enjoy Christmas at Tokyo Disney Resort
Experience the magic of the holidays at Tokyo Disney Resort! Credits to @kingdomsofdreamsandmagic on Instagram.
The best time to go to Japan with the whole family is in December when you can visit Tokyo Disney Resort and join in on their Christmas at Disney celebrations!
The park becomes a winter wonderland with spectacular decorations, dazzling lights, and festive shows, perfect for all ages. It's the perfect way to spend the holidays!
Now that you know the best times to go to Japan, pack your bags and get ready to explore this vibrant country full of rich culture, delicious food, and endless fun!
Written by: Nina Marable
