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Best (and Worst) Time to Visit Japan 2024, Cherry Blossom Time

Japan is a year-round popular destination with four distinct seasons. Each season offers a variety of charming scenery and culture-rich events for you to enjoy.

The best times to visit Japan are in spring (March to May) for cherry blossoms and in autumn (September to November) for colorful foliage. Both periods have pleasant weather.

Japan Weather and Climate

The worst time to visit japan.

• Best Time for Cherry Blossoms

Best Time for Pleasant Weather and Fewer Crowds

• Best Time for Cheapest Prices
• Travel Guide by Month

The first trip to Japan mainly includes visits to the central three cities: Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. The following two weather and rainfall infographics are based on these three cities.

• Sharon Huang (Japan Expert)
• 6 years of travel advisor experience
• Has helped 5,000+ clients

Summer (June to August) is the rainny season in Japan. It is hot and humid, with an average high temperature of about 31°C (88°F), which can feel like 41°C (106°F). It is considered to be the worst time to visit Japan, but it doesn't rain every day so it doesn't really hinder travel.

Plenty of indoor activities, such as ninja experiences and sushi-making, also minimize the impact of rainfall and humid heat. Additionally, July and August are the festival seasons in Japan, making it a good time for families with kids to immerse themselves in authentic Japanese traditions.

June is a better time to travel for families compared to July and August, as it offers slightly cooler weather and fewer crowds (the official summer vacation in Japan begins in July).

Just contact us if you are thinking of a trip to Japan. We'd like to create a wonderful trip based on your needs and interests, whatever the weather.

Best Time for Cherry Blossoms in Japan

• March to April: 10–18°C (50–64°F)

Cherry blossoms in spring (March to May) are Japan's most beautiful scenery, and you can admire them almost everywhere in Japan. They usually reach full bloom from late March to early April (March 24th to April 2nd), making the spring or Easter vacation the perfect time to travel to Japan.

If you want to avoid the large crowds and enjoy slightly lower prices in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka , the week before full bloom (around March 16th to 23rd) is your best time. Except for some trees where the cherry blossoms have not yet fully opened, the scenery during this time is almost as stunning as it is when the blossoms are in full bloom.

If you want to appreciate the cherry blossoms in April to early May with fewer crowds and lower costs , Hokkaido, the northernmost part of Japan, is an excellent destination for you. It is also the perfect place to experience Japanese indigenous culture. The best time to view cherry blossoms in Sapporo is in mid to late April (around April 15th to 20th).

Suggested reading: How to Plan a Japan Cherry Blossom Trip

Hotels around popular attractions are always booked up quickly, contact us at least 3 months in advance to have the best chance of room availability and choice.

1) May is the transitional month from spring to summer in Japan. It's warmer and has clear days, with an average temperature of 15–23°C (58–73°F). It is advisable to avoid Japan's "Golden Week" public holiday from April 29th to May 5th. After May 7th, it is a perfect time to travel as the crowds and travel costs decrease.

2) September and October are cooler months in Japan , the average temperature range from 18-25°C (64-77°F). While there are about ten rainy days in September, there are very few visitors during this time. In October, the number of sunny days increases, and it is also when the maple leaves start turning red, creating beautiful autumn scenery.

Get more ideas about best time to visit Tokyo , Kyoto , and Osaka >>>

Best Time for Cheapest Prices in Japan

Winter (December to February) is considered the cheapest time to visit Japan, except during Christmas and New Year. It is cold and dry, with an average daily high of 10°C (50°F). It is not too cold to travel, making it the ideal time to relax in the hot springs at a Japanese-style ryokan inn and take in the unique scene of snow monkeys.

Just let us know your interests and requirements , and we can help make it happen.

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Japan Weather Guide by Months

Click the sign of each month to check the travel guide information.

January and February: Cold and Dry

• Average temperature: 2–10℃ (36–50°F)
• Average rainfall: 70 mm (3 in)

January and February in Japan have cold weather with more clear days, but it is not too cold to travel. Top experiences in Japan in winter include soaking in hot springs, watching snow monkeys bathing in onsen hot springs, appreciating gassho-zukuri farmhouses (their steep thatched roofs named after 'praying hands' are extremely charming when covered in snow and illuminated during winter nights), and skiing in Hokkaido.

Festivals and events: New Year is the most important festival in Japan in January. You could experience a bell-ringing ceremony at a shrine to pray for luck in the coming year in a traditional Japanese way.

Get more ideas about plan a winter trip to Japan >>>

March and April: Best of Cherry Blossoms

• Average temperature: 7–19℃ (45–66°F)
• Average rainfall: 110 mm (4 in)

March and April, the cherry blossom season, is one of the best times to travel to Japan, thanks to the comfortable weather, clear days, and the most attractive scenery.

The cherry blossoms are generally in full bloom from late March to early April. Imagine wearing a kimono to take pictures or having a picnic under the cherry trees with your family/partner and watching the petals flutter in the breeze. It would definitely make some memorable moments.

Festivals and events in March and April: Hanami is a traditional term for viewing cherry blossoms, and it is the most popular activity in spring in Japan. Many traditional ryokans and excellent guides are also fully booked in advance, so we recommend you make your decision at least 3 months in advance. Our Japan expert would customized the trip based on your group size, budget, and requirements.

May: Warm and Sunny

• Average temperature: 15–23℃ (59–73°F)
• Average rainfall: 140 mm (6 in)

May is warmer and the skies are clear. The Golden Week (typically from April 29th to May 5th) is a public holiday in Japan and many Japanese choose to travel during this time. The crowds and costs tend to decrease after May 10th, making it a perfect time to visit Japan.

June: Coolest Summer Month

• Average temperature: 19–26℃ (66–79°F)
• Average rainfall: 178 mm (7 in)

June is the start of summer and the plum rain season. Rainfall is sometimes in the form of a steady drizzle, and it doesn't rain every day. It's suitable to wear both long sleeves and short sleeves to cater to the varying weather conditions.

June is a better month to spend your summer vacation, especially for families with school-age children. You could enjoy cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and favorable prices compared to July and August.

Check more details about plan a summer trip to Japan >>>

July and August: Best Time for Festivals and Fireworks Celebrations

• Average temperature: 24–31℃ (75–88°F)
• Average rainfall: 163 mm (6 in)

July and August are hot and humid in Japan. Japan offers abundant indoor activities inside air-conditioned buildings , such as ninja experiences, pottery making, and Pokémon Center fun. This helps to minimize worries about the heat and rain. Additionally, taking a private tour in a private air-conditioned car could help to minimize the inconvenience caused by rainfall.

Festivals and events in July and August: Both months host culture-rich festival celebrations and grand fireworks celebrations, such as the Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival in Tokyo, the Gion Festival in Kyoto, and Tenjin Matsuri in Osaka. These lively and amazing celebrations allow you and your kids to experience authentic float parades, enjoy the colorful fireworks in the cool summer breeze, and feel the cultural atmosphere deeply.

September and October: Cooler Weather with Fewer Crowds

• Average temperature: 17–24℃ (63–75°F)
• Average rainfall: 164 mm (6 in)

The weather becomes cooler in September and October, and typhoons sometimes hit Japan, bringing heavy rain and strong winds, especially in September. It does not rain every day (about 10 days a month) and it tends to be drier in October.

It's the low season to travel to Japan so you could expect fewer crowds and cheaper costs. If you are traveling in September, it is important to keep your itinerary flexible in case of flight delays or cancellations.

November: Best Time to Visit for Colorful Autumn Foliage

• Average temperature: 9–17℃ (48–63°F)
• Average rainfall: 86 mm (3 in)

November in Japan is one of the best times to travel due to the pleasant weather and many dry days. During this month, the whole country explodes with colors. You could appreciate red, orange, and golden autumn foliage scenery throughout Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and other parts of Japan.

December: Perfect for Soaking in Hot Springs and Celebrating Christmas

• Average temperature: 5–11℃ (41–52°F)
• Average rainfall: 65 mm (3 in)

Japan in December is not too cold. It's the best time for you to experience unique winter activities , such as soaking in the hot springs to enjoy the snow scenery, watching the snow monkeys bathe in their own "onsen" (hot spring bath), and appreciating the gassho-zukuri farmhouses' lighting at night.

Festivals and events in December: Japan is an excellent destination for families to celebrate Christmas in. Eye-catching Christmas illuminations and a fancy Christmas feast would help to make a Japan vacation a great experience for you and your family.

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The Best, Worst, and Most Affordable Times to Visit Japan

Whether you want to see the cherry blossoms or avoid the crowds, these are the best times to visit Japan.

A snowy getaway in Hokkaido, a beach vacation in Okinawa, or a photography trip to capture cherry blossoms in Tokyo — the best time to visit Japan depends entirely on what you want to do when you arrive.

As a country with a seemingly endless amount of activities and festivals on offer throughout the year, there really isn't a bad time to visit. But if you're interested in shrine-hopping in Kyoto, seeing the pink hues of cherry blossoms, or gazing at fall foliage, you'll want to carefully time your visit. Here are the tourist seasons to be aware of when planning your trip.

• High Season: March to May and September to November
• Shoulder Seasons:  June to August and December
• Low Season:  January to March

Use this guide to find the perfect time for your dream trip to Japan.

Best Times to Visit Japan for Smaller Crowds

Travelers from all over the world come to Japan to admire the cherry blossoms, so it should come as no surprise that sakura season (late March to April) marks the busiest time for tourism. Domestic travelers also take advantage of Golden Week (a series of four national holidays in Japan) from the end of April to the beginning of May. You'll want to avoid visiting during that time, unless you meticulously plan ahead, since trains, hotels, and sightseeing spots can often be overcrowded or booked out entirely. Stunning foliage tends to draw crowds in the autumn, especially when the leaves reach their colorful peak between mid-October and early November.

If you're looking to avoid the crowds, plan your visit during the rainy season, which typically begins in June and lasts until mid-July. Though this period tends to be humid and drizzly, it's one of the best times to enjoy the popular tourist spots without the crowds. Japan is also quieter between January and March, making it a perfect time to pair sightseeing with snow sports and onsen visits.

Best Times to Visit Japan for Good Weather

Japan, while not especially large, is surprisingly varied when it comes to weather. Frigid winters at the northernmost tip of Hokkaido make the subtropical islands of southern Okinawa seem worlds away. The rainy season typically runs from early June to mid-July throughout most of the country — Tokyo included — except in Okinawa where showers begin in early May. Meanwhile, in Hokkaido, summertime brings mild temperatures and blue skies.

If you aren't hitting the ski slopes, March to May and September to November are generally considered the best times to visit the country for pleasant weather. That's when travelers can find the iconic cherry blossoms that seem straight out of a postcard, or, on the other hand, vivid autumnal leaves. During these seasons, rainfall is minimal, skies are clear, and temperatures are mild, ranging from 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit most days.

For those not averse to heat and humidity, summer brings a different tempo to Japan. It's a time of year perfect for exploring nature — ideally, somewhere cool up a mountain or as far north as possible. The lusciously cooler climes of Hokkaido are heaven in the summer, with rainbow-bright flower fields and countless outdoor activities, from hiking to horseback riding.

In the winter, the northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido is undeniably the best place to ski or snowboard, but areas outside of Tokyo, such as Niigata, are only a Shinkansen ride away and boast great alpine resorts. Those who prefer the warmth would do best to fly south to Okinawa during the winter for a more subtropical climate.

Best Times to Visit Japan for Lower Prices

Japan has a reputation for being a pricey destination, but there are times of year when it's less expensive to visit. During the low season, between January and March, you may be able to find deals on airfare and hotel rooms. Prices tend to spike during the holiday season, especially around the New Year, so it's best to avoid the beginning of January if you're trying to save money.

Costs rise again in late March and April for the peak cherry blossom season and remain high throughout the spring and summer. For your best bet of scoring reasonably priced accommodations while also enjoying mild weather, aim to visit in September or October.

Best Times to Visit Tokyo Disneyland

Spring and autumn are generally the best, most temperate times of year to visit Tokyo Disneyland. It's worth avoiding weekends and national holidays — particularly Golden Week, which is one of the busiest periods at the theme park. The extreme heat in July and August can make it difficult to enjoy outdoor attractions. On the other hand, the temperatures rarely exceed 50 degrees in January and February, making those months less popular.

The period from mid-September through the beginning of December offers a combination of pleasant weather, thinner crowds, and seasonal entertainment. Spooky decorations and fall-themed events can be enjoyed in the weeks leading up to Halloween. Starting in November, the theme park celebrates the holiday season with its Christmas at Tokyo Disney Resort programming, which includes magical parades, characters in festive costumes, and heart-warming decorations that help offset the chill in the air.

Best Time to Visit Japan for Cherry Blossoms

If you're hoping to time your visit to Japan with the peak cherry blossom season, bear in mind that the bloom dates vary depending on the weather. The cherry blossom front — meticulously studied and broadcasted across the country — edges its way up, starting at the southernmost tip of Japan as early as January. The best times for cherry blossoms in Kyoto, Tokyo, and the surrounding regions are often from the last week of March to the first week of April. And for more northerly cities such as Sapporo? Don't expect to see any pink at least until May.

Best Times to Visit Japan for Food Lovers

Japan is a great destination for food lovers year-round — but it's also seasonal. So, if you have a favorite Japanese cuisine or ingredient, it's worth finding out when to visit to avoid missing out completely. Summertime treats include light, cool sōmen noodles, kakigōri shaved ice, and delicious unagi (eel); autumn is heaven for matsutake mushrooms, sweet potatoes, and sanma (Pacific saury); winter is all about warming nabe hot pots, citrus fruits, and kaki (persimmon); and spring goes hand in hand with sea bream, takenoko (bamboo shoots), and sakura mochi rice cakes.

Worst Times to Visit Japan

While there's no bad time to visit Japan, some months are worse than others, depending on your goals. If pleasant weather is a priority, avoid the rainy season, which typically runs from early June to mid-July throughout Japan (except in Okinawa, where it begins in May). This period is often preceded by extreme heat and humidity, with cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto being especially unbearable during the peak summer months of July and August.

Those looking to save money and avoid crowds should steer clear of Golden Week, which runs from the end of April to the beginning of May. This is when many domestic travelers take their holidays, so expect higher prices, less availability at hotels, and larger crowds.

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When Is the Best Time to Visit Japan?

By Amber Port

When is the best time to visit Japan?

It depends on what type of trip you’re looking to take. However, spring and autumn tend to be the most beautiful weather-wise. We’d recommend a trip between March and May or September and November. If you’re looking to steer clear of crowds, then a trip in May after Golden Week is for you.

When is the best time to visit Japan for cherry blossoms?

Cherry blossom season is one of the most popular times to visit Japan . Crowds of people excitedly welcome spring with the blooming of the beautiful Sakuras, with various festivals popping up across the country to celebrate.

The blooming timeline does depend on what region of Japan you’re in. For example, the bloom time in southern Japan is slightly earlier than the other regions, while the middle of April is the peak month for Tokyo. We recommend checking out the cherry blossom forecast via the Japan Meteorological Corporation if you want more information on the regions you’ll visit.

Need more inspiration? We've rounded up all the best reasons to visit Japan in 2024 after it was voted the best country in the world in our 2023 Readers' Choice Awards .

When is the best time to visit Japan for good weather?

The weather is the most mild and sunny during the spring months between March and May or autumn from September to November. The summer months see higher, humid temperatures with increased rainfall.

What is the cheapest time to go to Japan?

It’s always cheapest to travel during the off-season, which would fall between mid-January and March. The winter months see a decrease in the number of tourists, meaning airlines and hotels are eager to greet visitors.

When is the busiest time to visit Japan?

Cherry blossom season and Golden Week are the busiest times to visit Japan. The Sakura season sees many international tourists arrive, while Golden Week (a collection of four national holidays) at the beginning of May shows increased domestic tourism.

A version of this article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller .

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The best times to visit Japan

Editor's Note

There are many reasons visitors flock to Japan , the Land of the Rising Sun.

Here, you can immerse yourself in ancient traditions intertwined with modern innovation while appreciating majestic temples that coexist with bustling city streets. Each season paints a different picturesque landscape, creating something new to admire with every visit.

Given all the unique aspects of this captivating country, deciding on the best time to visit Japan can seem daunting. Fortunately, there are several times that stand out, whether you wish to witness the magical cherry blossom season, visit Tokyo Disney Resort or take advantage of flight and accommodation deals .

Here's everything you need to know about the best times to visit Japan so you can plan a memorable trip based on your priorities.

When to go to Japan for good weather

Japan's weather pattern exhibits four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter. Each season offers its own unique attractions and experiences to enjoy.

Spring (March to May) is renowned for its cherry blossoms and comfortable temperatures. With most days hovering between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, you'll generally find perfect conditions for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

Japan's summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, often exceeding 80 degrees. Even with the heat, the season draws visitors keen on trekking the country's stunning mountains and lounging on its beaches. Also, summer's long daylight hours allow ample time to get outside and experience all the country has to offer, including numerous vibrant festivals.

Autumn (September to November) brings a refreshing break from summer's humidity. The temperatures range from 50 to 70 degrees, making it possible to comfortably enjoy various outdoor activities. The changing colors of fall foliage , known as koyo ("red leaves" in Japanese) or momiji (the Japanese word for the red-tinted maple leaves in the fall), transform Japan's landscapes into riotous red, orange and gold hues.

Lastly, winter (December to February) can be cold, especially in the northern regions with heavy snowfall. Despite the chilly conditions — average temperatures sit between 40 and 50 degrees — winter illuminations and opportunities for snow sports in Japan's world-class ski resorts make the season a worthwhile time to visit.

While temperatures vary widely from season to season, each time of year brings noteworthy opportunities. The best time to visit for superb weather ultimately depends on your interests and preferences.

Related: Reader success story: How this couple used travel rewards to cover an epic $50,000 anniversary trip to Asia

Best times to witness Japan's festivals

Japan's festivals, known as matsuri, are colorful, vibrant affairs that provide unique insights into the country's cultural and spiritual life.

One of Japan's most renowned festivals takes place every summer in Kyoto. Gion Matsuri, a monthlong celebration in July, features elaborate processions with traditional yama and hoko floats.

If you're a fan of lively dance, the Awa Odori festival, held every August in Tokushima on Shikoku Island, is a must-see. It's one of Japan's most prominent dance festivals and is part of the Obon season, a Buddhist event that honors the spirits of ancestors. Thousands of dancers fill the streets to perform the characteristic Awa dance while spectators cheer, creating infectious joy and excitement.

As autumn begins, visitors head to Osaka to attend the Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri. Held annually in Kishiwada, this September festival is among Japan's most thrilling. It is known for its danjiri (ornately decorated wooden floats), which local teams pull through the city streets at incredible speeds. This daring festival is a heart-stopping spectacle that symbolizes community strength and unity.

The Takayama Festival, a charming event in the mountainous city of Takayama, is another one you won't want to miss. Taking place twice a year in October and April, the festival showcases traditional Japanese puppet theater, mikoshi processions and stunning lantern displays.

For winter visits, time your arrival around the Sapporo Snow Festival in February. This spectacular event in Sapporo showcases massive snow and ice sculptures, attracting millions of visitors.

Or, end the year with a flourish by partaking in December's Chichibu Night Festival. A fantastic winter event in Chichibu, just 90 minutes northwest of Tokyo, this celebration is considered one of Japan's top festivals featuring floats — and for a good reason. The dazzling floats adorned with intricate woodwork, detailed tapestries and gilded decorations are a sight to behold. Additionally, the festival includes a spectacular fireworks display, adding a sparkling finale to the year.

Best time to see cherry blossoms in Japan

Japan's cherry blossom (or sakura) season is a treasured time when landscapes transform into romantic canvases splashed with delicate pink hues. Sakura season typically begins in late March and runs through early April, though the exact timing varies from year to year and from south to north.

Popular cherry blossom viewing spots include Ueno Park and Chidorigafuchi in Tokyo, Maruyama Park in Kyoto and Hirosaki Park in Aomori. Hanami parties, where people gather under blooming sakura trees for picnics and celebrations, frequently occur during this time of year and shouldn't be missed.

Flower-watching celebrations happen across Japan from mid-March through early May, though peak bloom dates vary slightly depending on location. For 2024, the earliest peak bloom dates are expected by March 26 in Kochi, with peak bloom estimated for March 30 in Tokyo and April 1 in Kyoto. For estimated dates for more than 1,000 viewing locations, see the Japan Meteorological Corporation's 2024 forecast.

Related: The best places to see cherry blossoms around the US

Best time for skiing in Japan

Japan's winter sports scene is internationally recognized thanks to its powdery snow, top-notch facilities and stunning mountain scenery. The onset of snowfall typically occurs in mid-November on the northern island of Hokkaido, resulting in the first ski resorts — usually Niseko, Rusutsu and Kiroro — beginning to open during the third week of that month.

Related: How (and why) to plan a ski trip to Niseko, Japan, with points and miles

The powder snow, renowned in Japan, is usually abundant from December to February. For those seeking optimal powder conditions, January and February are the recommended months to visit. On Honshu, Japan's main island, Nagano — the host of the 1998 Winter Olympics — also offers excellent skiing opportunities at resorts like Hakuba.

Related: Why it might be cheaper to fly abroad to ski

Best times to visit Tokyo Disney Resort

Visiting Tokyo Disney Resort, home of Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, is a magical experience for all ages, with thrilling rides, enchanting parades and a chance to meet beloved Disney characters.

The parks are open throughout the year, but if you want to avoid the largest crowds, consider visiting between mid-January and mid-March or between mid-September and mid-November. The weather is generally comfortable during these periods, with fewer local and international tourists.

To truly bypass hordes of tourists, avoid visiting during Japan's major holiday periods, such as Golden Week (late April to early May) and Obon (mid-August), as these are peak times for domestic travel and can result in overcrowded conditions.

Related: A beginners guide to visiting Tokyo: Everything you need to eat, see and do

Cheapest times to visit Japan

For budget-conscious travelers, visiting Japan during the shoulder seasons — late May to early June and late November to early December — can be more economical. These times fall right after Golden Week in spring and autumn's koyo season but before the busy summer and winter holidays. You'll find fewer tourists, so flight prices can be significantly cheaper, costing up to 18% less than the average yearly prices, according to Skyscanner. Hotel rates also historically take a dip in these slower seasons.

In addition to the shoulder seasons, winter is an excellent time to visit when sticking to a tight budget. Japan becomes notably affordable once you steer clear of the holiday season. Moreover, from mid-January to mid-March, you can relish the added benefit of experiencing a less congested environment while out and about.

Related: The best ways to travel to Japan with points and miles

Bottom line

Ultimately, the best time to visit Japan depends on your interests and the experience you wish to have. Whether you want to view the ephemeral sakura, ski down powdery slopes, immerse yourself in vibrant festivals or witness the magic of Tokyo Disney Resort, Japan always has something to offer.

Each season and festival has its unique charm and allure, inviting you to uncover the multifaceted beauty of this incredible nation.

Related reading:

• 2024 cherry blossom forecast announced for Japan
• Peak bloom date announced: Best time to see DC's cherry blossoms in
• The 11 best hotels in Tokyo for your next Japan getaway
• Teppanyaki: Norwegian Cruise Line's take on the art of Japanese grilling (with menu)
• The best ways to travel to Japan with points and miles

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The Best Time to Visit Japan: A Month-by-Month Guide

For many, the cost of flights, food, and lodging coupled with the lengthy travel time make Japan a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Thus, picking the perfect time to visit is absolutely key. While cherry blossom season is a rightfully popular and unique time to visit, there are several factors to consider that can either make or break your best time to go. National holidays, high prices, weather, and what types of experiences you want to have while on vacation should all be taken into consideration. Since much of this relies on specific seasons and even months, we've made it easy by breaking down what you can expect, month by month, when visiting the Land of the Rising Sun. In fact, there's so much going on at any given time during the year, you're likely to find that you can't go wrong—or just once.

Snow usually blankets the ground in central Japan by now, making both January and February a perfect time to check out the famous snow monkeys in Nagano , grab serene stills of temples and castles covered in snow, soak in a steamy onsen, and really appreciate that piping hot bowl of ramen or udon. Plus, there’s less traffic at all the touristy spots, giving those who brave the cold a much more personal experience of Japan’s famous sites. In northern Japan, January — after the New Year’s holiday — marks a prime time to hit the ski slopes. January also marks the Sumo New Year Basho in Tokyo , and cherry blossom season kicks off in Okinawa as trees are already beginning to bloom.

February marks the official start of diving season in Japan. Sea turtles, sharks, seahorses, and manatees can be spotted all season long, but divers willing to brave the lower temperature waters of February will have the highest chances and best conditions for spotting humpback whales. Humpbacks start becoming more elusive come mid- to late March and disappear completely from late April through the end of November. Aboveground, on Japan’s central and northern islands, February is typically Japan’s coldest month. Most folks can be found keeping warm inside cozy izakayas or soaking in an onsen, while others indulge in winter sports, even pilgrimaging way up north to Sapporo ‘s fun Snow Festival.

March is one of the most popular times to visit Japan, thanks to warming temperatures and the start of the much-anticipated cherry blossom season . By mid-month, several areas of central Japan will start to see budding blooms on the trees, signaling the celebration of hanami (a.k.a. flower viewing) . This is an extremely festive and cheerful time to be in Japan and a great way to experience one of the country’s most social traditions. Typically, the blooms will only last around two weeks, and some people choose to follow them as they bloom their way up to Hokkaido through April. Expect nightly parties, tons of jubilant drunkenness on blankets under the cherry blossom boughs, and hotels to be pricey and booked.

March and April are also two of the best months to visit Okinawa . During this time, most tourists will be concentrated in the central and northern prefectures in order to experience the cherry blossoms, which are likely to be finished blooming in Okinawa by March. Those interested in a sumo match may want to head to Osaka in March for their annual Sumo Spring Basho.

Okinawa’s temperatures begin to heat up and remain hot and humid in April, with average temps in the low 90s through September. Divers should also mark their calendars as mid-April through May is the only time you won’t see either humpbacks or manta rays in the water. April’s rising temperatures also signal the end of Japan’s ski season. March’s expensive prices and booked hotels stay steady through April, so we highly recommend booking travel and planning well in advance to get the best deals and hotels.

If you’re looking to celebrate the beauty of flowers, but can’t make it to Japan during the March-April cherry blossom season, come in May (or head to Hokkaido , where the last of the cherry blossoms are beginning to bloom). You’ll be met with pink, white, and purple hues from several of Japan’s other flowers, like azalea, wisteria, and iris. However, we recommend skipping a visit that falls during Golden Week (the last Sunday in April through the first week of May). This is a week of compensatory holidays when most of Japan takes off work and several businesses are shut down. Flights, trains, hotels, and other activities often soar in prices and quickly become booked up. It’s also worth checking out specific dates for Tokyo’s Sumo Summer Basho, to either attend or snag a hotel before they get snatched up. Visitors to Okinawa should be warned that May is typically the wettest month.

June and July

Typhoon June is a thing; this month kicks off Japan’s rainiest weeks. Heavy rain can often be expected through July, though the rainy season can last up until September. June also marks Nagoya ‘s turn at the Sumo Basho, while the already-wet Okinawa area will start seeing typhoons in June that can last through August.

Those looking for a chance to climb Mount Fuji can start planning their hikes from July 1, when the mountainside opens back up for climbers. Late July through late August has the best weather conditions for climbing, but you’ll also find that this is when the mountainside is the most congested. (Even though it’s summertime and the weather is hot elsewhere, it still reaches freezing temperatures on the summit, so prepare accordingly.) Music lovers should take into account that Japan’s largest music festival, Fuji Rock Festival, kicks off the last weekend in July at the Naeba Ski Resort in Yuzawa, Niigata, and features both national and international artists. Previous performers have included Bjork, Queens of the Stone Age, Beck, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Muse, Deadmau5, The Cure, and Arcade Fire.

The massive Japanese holiday of Obon lands in the middle of August, and is a fun and vibrant time to visit Japan. Obon is an event in honor of the dead. It is a time when the Japanese believe the living and dead can be reunited to eat, drink, and be merry together. Expect streets to be blocked off with festivals and tons of dancing. It’s practically a given that hotels will be booked well in advance, so don’t be surprised if you see those unable to get a room happily sleeping on the floor of train stations. August is also Japan’s hottest month, no matter which island you find yourself on, though the highs can vary greatly, reaching into the 90s on Okinawa and just 72 in Hokkaido.

By the second week of September all of Mount Fuji’s hiking trails are closed. Weather during September can be somewhat of a wild card, with scattered showers and fluctuating weather that leans on the warmer side, especially in the southern prefectures. However, you’ll find considerably cooler temperatures creeping into the northern prefectures. It’s also the start of Okinawa’s high season, which lasts through December, and the Sumo Basho returns to Tokyo.

October and November

October and November are a gorgeous time to visit Japan. Falling temperatures start in Hokkaido during October, and the warm colors of autumn start to slowly push their way down the islands of central Japan. This is also the end of diving season in Okinawa, though several people still flock to the islands for its warm temperatures and beautiful beaches. The fall landscape and temperatures make it an excellent time to visit the deer in Nara , too.

December breaks in winter for Japan and snowfall is common. As it gets cold enough for snow to stick to the ground, ski slopes begin to open across central Japan and Hokkaido. It snows nearly every day in the winter on Hokkaido. The warmest temps only reach about 30 degrees, while the coldest plunge to a frigid 15 degrees. While you’ll definitely need to bundle up, don’t let this deter you. Winter is one of the most stunning times to visit Japan, when temples and landscapes are often covered with picturesque blankets or dustings of snow. However, keep in mind that there are a ton of activities and holidays in Japan between December 29 and January 10, so it’s best to time your visit around these dates to avoid full occupancy in hotels, overcrowded public transit, and higher room rates. Temples are often inundated over the New Year’s holiday, so its best to arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds. Visitors during the week between Christmas and New Year’s should also double-check to make sure museums and tourist attractions and points of interest are actually open.

If you aren’t quite ready for winter, head to Kyushu where fall is just starting to breach the island in December.

What to Wear in Japan

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More from Oyster.com :

• 6 Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Japan
• 24 Things You Should Know Before Traveling to Japan
• The Best Itinerary for Japan
• 12 Things You Should Never Do in Japan

Read the original story: The Best Time to Visit Japan: A Month-by-Month Guide by Katherine Alex Beaven, who is a regular contributor to Oyster.com

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Best Time to Visit Japan: A Comprehensive Guide by Region and Season

• June 3, 2022

Traveling to Japan is a dream for so many people. From the island’s rich culture to its unique geography, there’s a lot to look forward to – you could make a hundred trips and enjoy a completely different experience every time.

Because of this, knowing the best time to visit Japan depends on why you’re interested in going and where you want to be!

The more you know about Japan’s climate, geography, and where to find activities and festivals, the better. You’ll be able to choose the perfect time for your trip while dodging tourist rushes and typhoons.

Our comprehensive guide tells you all you need to know about the best time to visit Japan – let’s plan our visit!

How to Choose the Best Season to Visit Japan

Japan might not be a massive country by landmass, but its islands span almost 2,000 miles from north to south. Along with its position in the East Pacific and varied geography, this exposes it to various climatic conditions.

The north tends to experience extremely long winters and is famed for its skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Meanwhile, the beautiful southern islands of Okinawa and Amami enjoy a subtropical climate and are enduringly popular among visitors.

Most people head for the main island of Honshu. This region has perhaps the most balanced climate, with four distinct seasons.

Depending on where you’re from, you may still be surprised by what these seasons bring – if summer is a dry season back home, you may not anticipate what you’ll see if you visit Tokyo in July!

Honshu is also home to most of Japan’s largest cities, including:

We’ll cover each of these cities as we move through the districts of Japan. However, it would be remiss of us only to discuss Honshu – there’s so much to discover across all the islands, and you need to understand how wildly the climates vary if you want to know the best time to visit Japan!

We’ll start with Hokkaido in the far north, then work our way down through Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu, finishing with the southern island areas of Okinawa and Amami.

We’ll discuss the climate in the district to cover key cities, events, and geographical features in the area. This should give you a great idea of the best time to visit Japan, wherever you want to go – and maybe even discover places you hadn’t considered!

Northern Japan

The north is the coldest region of Japan. The island of Hokkaido is one of the main four islands of Japan and makes up its northernmost point, while Tohoku is a large district that comprises the northern area of Honshu. Here’s what to look out for, events and activities to enjoy, and when to visit to enjoy these regions at their best.

Hokkaido’s climate is a blend of Eastern Pacific and Subarctic. The first thing you need to know is that it snows in Hokkaido – a lot in winter. It gets so snowy in some areas that houses are built with an additional upstairs entrance in case the downstairs access gets blocked by snowdrifts.

Winter Sports in Hokkaido

The winters are very long. Temperatures drop towards the end of November, and you can expect heavy snowfall between December and March. The heaviest snows come in February, making this one of the best times to visit Japan if you enjoy winter sports such as skiing or snowboarding.

The mountainous geography of Hokkaido helps this – it boasts popular ski resorts across the center and southwest areas of the island. You’ll also find the wild and unspoiled Kitami range in the far north, which is virtually inaccessible in the depths of winter but spectacular if you enjoy hiking in the late spring and summer.

Hokkaido is Temperate in the Summer

Despite its reputation as the coldest part of Japan, Hokkaido’s summers are temperate and reasonably warm. Summer temperatures hover around 70-80F or in the low-to-mid 20C area. While we often think of southern climes as boasting the best summer weather, savvy travelers know that Hokkaido is arguably the best place to visit during the summer months in Japan. That’s because it avoids the heavy rainfall and high, muggy temperatures you’ll find across the rest of the archipelago.

Late Cherry Blossoms & Beautiful Fall Colors

Hokkaido tends to experience the cherry blossom (sakura) season later than the rest of Japan. Its cherry blossom season often begins in mid-April or even May due to its colder temperatures in the early months of the year. This means it’s an excellent choice if you want to avoid the tourist crowds heading for the earliest blooms but still appreciate the marvel of the sakura.

You’ll also witness fantastic fall colors in Hokkaido if you travel in September and October. While the fall weather is chilly in some parts of the island, there are many areas where towns and villages are built on hillsides otherwise covered by thick woodland, creating a breathtaking valley of color.

What to Look For

Summer: There are many remote areas of Hokkaido if you want to get off the beaten track. Sapporo is its central city and is a bustling cultural hub. You’ll find plenty to do and thriving nightlife, especially if you visit in the summer.

Winter: The island has a long history of volcanic activity and is famous for its hot springs . Enjoy these during the colder months as a reprieve from the snow! Something to not miss if you are in the North of Japan is probably the Sapporo snow festival.

Year-round: If you’re on a food pilgrimage, Hokkaido should be your first stop in Japan for seafood. Its cold waters are enriched by currents loaded with plankton and are teeming with sealife – Hokkaido is known for the freshest seafood in Japan.

Best Time to Visit Hokkaido

Hokkaido is a top destination for many travelers in late spring and early summer. Its temperate climate and the beautiful natural colors at this time of year are hard to match across Japan. Fall is also a superb choice – travel towards the end of September and through October. While there’s plenty to do if you enjoy winter sports in the cold months, you might find that the heavy winter snowfall restricts your activity list somewhat.

Tohoku is a large district covering the northern area of the main island of Honshu. It’s home to many mid-sized population centers, the largest of which is Sendai, with just over 1 million population. Like Hokkaido, it experiences cold, snowy winters but a temperate summer, with slightly more humidity in the warm months.

Hot Springs Resorts in Tohoku

Regardless of what time of year you’re visiting Japan, you’ll want to visit one of the many towns in Tohoku boasting hot springs. These are especially pleasant in spring or fall when the weather isn’t as biting as it can get during the winter – although if you enjoy winter activities, you’ll appreciate them all the more!

Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival

As its climate is cooler than much of Honshu, Tohoku is another excellent place to enjoy a later cherry blossom experience. Hirosaki Park is home to thousands of cherry trees and is one of the finest displays nationwide. Hirosaki is located towards the district’s northern end and has a spectacular sakura festival that usually runs from April through to early May.

Summer: Tohoku is renowned for its agricultural produce. This is where to go if you want an authentic trip through golden rice paddies in Japan.

Winter: Tohoku has many excellent winter sports facilities. The mountains that make up the district’s spine are dotted with top-quality ski resorts and beautiful places to stay during fall.

Year-round: a hidden gem is Morioka, a city in the north with lower tourist footfall. It’s overlooked by the majestic Mt. Iwate, which provides a stunning backdrop to wake up to whenever you visit Tohoku. There’s also a spectacular snow festival at Mt. Iwate in the winter.

Best Time to Visit Tohoku

There’s something for everyone at all times of the year! With slightly less snowfall than Hokkaido and better connections to the rest of Honshu, it’s an excellent choice for winter travelers. It’s another great destination for summer, as it avoids the heavy humidity of more southern areas.

Eastern Japan

Many travelers considering the best time to visit Japan will look to the eastern region. This encompasses most of Honshu and many of Japan’s major population centers, including Tokyo. The climate tends to be slightly heavier in summer, but the latter part of the year is temperate and balmy compared to conditions across much of North America and Europe.

Hokuriku is one of the least-known regions of Japan but has a distinct climate that sets it apart from the rest of the eastern area in terms of the best time to visit Japan. It’s a mountainous region with a more relaxed atmosphere and plenty of unique, unspoiled coastline.

Hokuriku Offers Great Summer and Fall Hiking

The region is dominated by the Japanese Alps, which means it has fewer major population centers than most regions. However, you’ll find no shortage of top-class accommodation along the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, one of the best hiking trails in the country. It’s open from April to November each year.

Kanazawa is a Gorgeous, Historical City in Spring and Fall

Kanazawa is located in the southern part of Hokuriku, so it experiences hotter summer temperatures and more rainfall. It also receives more snowfall than many areas in winter – the best times to visit are in spring and fall when you can appreciate the stunning history of this beautiful city in pleasant weather.

Summer: The Himi Seaside Botanical Garden is celebrated for its fantastic array of marine and seaside plants. It’s best to visit during the warmer months.

Winter: Niigata Prefecture experiences heavy winter snow because it’s towards the northern end of Hokuriku. However, it’s also renowned globally for its whisky production—a perfect tonic for winter travelers.

Year-round: This coastal region is a great place to view sea life and simply enjoy the proximity to the ocean. It also has the Marinepia Nihonkai aquarium, which is open year-round and a great spot to visit in winter. You’ll also find plenty of delicious seafood in Hokuriku.

Best Time to Visit Hokuriku

The end of summer brings cooler temperatures and ideal hiking conditions. As the mercury drops and hiking becomes less accessible, settle into one of the small settlements in this region and enjoy its incredible range of whiskeys. The latter half of the year has a lot to offer for this region – it doesn’t get the recognition it deserves, making it a perfect destination if you want to avoid the crowds!

Kanto/Koshin

The Kanto region is dominated by the Tokyo metropolitan area, the largest population center in Japan. Many people considering the best time to visit Japan will visit Tokyo at some point – so when should you arrive?

Tokyo Thrives in Spring

Arguably the best time to enjoy Tokyo is between March and May. The rainy season hasn’t yet begun as it starts in mid-July, and the pleasant climate gives you plenty of time to check out attractions and events. The Meiji Shinto Shrine and Imperial Palace are both glorious at this time of year, although note that you’ll experience busy tourist crowds.

Beat the Crowds in November and December

September brings lovely fall colors to Kanto, but the temperature has dropped to a pleasant level by November, and it’s a beautiful time to visit this usually busy region.

The weather in December is less pleasant, but it is a great time to visit the capital’s many museums and cultural attractions without large crowds.

Matsumoto in the Koshin Region is a Thriving Cultural Hub

The climate of the Kanto and Koshin regions is somewhat similar. The best time to visit Japan in this area tends to be spring or autumn, which is also a great time to take in the incredible Samurai castle at Matsumoto in Koshin. It also has a vibrant arts scene, making it an excellent place for an extended visit.

Spring: From mid-March, watch Tokyo transform as sakura season arrives. There’s no comparable spectacle in a city of this size.

Fall: Tokyo provides a comfortable base to explore the incredible geography of the Kanto and Koshin regions.

Year-round: Tokyo never sleeps! There’s something incredible going on whatever time of year you visit.

Best Time to Visit Kanto/Koshin Region

We generally avoid visiting in summer, as it’s hot and rains heavily. Spring and fall are the best seasons to visit, with November being a great choice. Note that spring is the primary tourist season, so expect it to be busy!

The Tokai region is almost at the center of Japan from east to west. While it’s an industrial center, it also has many attractive destinations for visitors. It experiences a more southern climate than other regions in the east and is home to several large cities.

Mt. Fuji is Most Visible in Winter – But Climbers Should Choose Summer

A significant reason to visit Tokai is the iconic Mt. Fuji. The best time to visit Japan to see Mt. Fuji is between October and February – in the summer, heavy clouds tend to obscure the view.

However, if you want to climb the mountain, you’re advised to arrive in summer. Trails and huts are only open during this period, and winter climbing isn’t recommended.

Nagoya is a Bustling City with Great Transport Links

Nagoya is Japan’s third-largest population center. Like Tokyo, the city can be stifling and muggy in summer – the best time to visit Japan in Tokai tends to be autumn, as the temperatures have cooled. You can take trains from this lively hub to many unique destinations.

Spring: Visit the Izu Peninsula for gorgeous white-sand beaches in late spring. The coastal breeze keeps it slightly cooler in early summer, and prices begin to fall around June.

Fall: The Ise Grand Shrine is always worth visiting – it’s one of the most important monuments in Japan. The Hannamesai Festival in fall is a great time to go.

Year-round: Tokai has some fascinating museums and excellent art galleries, including the legendary Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry & Technology in Nagoya.

Best Time to Visit Tokai

The ideal time tends to be between October and November, especially if you’d like to view Mt. Fuji. Spring and early summer on the coast can also be a wonderful experience – the only less recommended season is late summer.

Western Japan

Western Japan takes in the southern portion of Honshu and the smaller island of Shikoku. It enjoys an almost subtropical climate and some of the country’s best-loved cities. The best time to visit Japan in this area tends to be during the cooler months.

Kinki/Kansai

The Kinki or Kansai region is home to several of Japan’s major cities, including Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara. There’s no shortage of places to stay in this gorgeous, historic region. So when’s the best time to visit Japan if you want to see this area?

Kyoto is Best Enjoyed During Cooler Months

Kyoto is a must-see for many visitors to Japan. It’s the nation’s cultural capital and a wonderful place to discover Japan’s rich history. Spring and fall are the most popular times to visit. But note that tourist footfall tends to be very high. January and February are pretty cold but often more accessible.

Try Smaller Villages in the Fall

Try straying off the beaten path if you want to dodge the crowds in the fall. Many picturesque villages are lodged in the gorgeous countryside, including gems like Ine with its scenic boathouses, and Uji, which offers legendary green tea.

Spring: The cherry blossom season in Kinki/Kansai comes pretty early – usually between March and May. It’s truly spectacular in the beautiful historical cities of this region.

Fall: You can go anywhere in this region and enjoy its beauty in the fall. Osaka Castle is stunning, and this major city has so much to do.

Year-round: Enjoying some fine Kobe beef and the region’s legendary sake doesn’t rely on good weather; it’s always the best time to visit Japan for foodies! Kobe is also generally less expensive than Kyoto or Osaka.

Best Time to Visit Kansai/Kinki

As with most parts of Honshu, spring and fall are the preferred seasons. The summer months can experience monsoon-like conditions – however, January and February are a great choice if you don’t mind a chill in the air and are looking to save some money.

Chugoku is the southernmost part of Honshu. It contains the notable cities of Hiroshima and Okayama. It’s an important cultural region that enjoys a hot climate.

Chugoku Has an Incredible Cherry Blossom Season

This is one of the best places to enjoy the early sakura. Cherry, peach, and plum trees blossom earlier than in much of Japan, and the region is less crowded than Kansai or Kanto. This is especially true if you step off the well-worn path and try Shimane, Tottori, or Yamaguchi prefectures – these areas are gorgeous but see relatively few tourists.

Spring: The Koraku-en garden in Okayama is celebrated as one of the finest gardens in Japan. The best time to visit Japan for most formal gardens is spring.

Fall: Rural Chugoku is spectacular for hikers in the fall. Dazzling subtropical skies, cooler air, and excellent autumnal colors abound, while accommodation tends to be very affordable.

Year-round: The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is a critical part of Japanese and world history. Whenever you’re in Chugoku, you should schedule a visit.

Best Time to Visit Chugoku

The winter is temperate and a great time to enjoy the population centers. The summer can be prone to typhoons and monsoon weather, so it’s best avoided. However, spring and fall are the best times to visit Chugoku, with spectacular sakura displays and pleasant weather.

Shikoku is the smallest of Japan’s main four islands. It’s somewhat isolated and rural compared to the rest of the country, making it an excellent choice for visitors seeking a tranquil experience. The best time to visit Japan for a quiet stay in Shikoku doesn’t depend so much on festivals or events – the main trick is to avoid the rainy season.

Spring: The Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu is genuinely spectacular. If you’re looking for the best time to visit Japan for a peaceful experience, come to Takamatsu in spring and visit the Ritsurin Garden.

Fall & Winter: The cooler conditions are great for hiking. You could even follow the legendary 88-temple pilgrimage around the island – buses are available, but you’ll learn more on foot!

Year-round: Shikoku is legendary for its udon noodles. There’s never a wrong time of year to enjoy this wonderful dish prepared by masters.

Best Time to Visit Shikoku

Any time except the summer! You’ll find a tranquil environment, lower prices than more touristy areas, and many hidden gems from the fall through to spring. The summer months are simply too hot and humid for most travelers.

Southern Japan

Southern Japan includes the large island of Kyushu and the island chains of Amami & Okinawa. Its subtropical climate makes spring and fall the most attractive time to visit for most guests.

Historically known as the “gateway to Japan,” Kyushu’s main city is Fukuoka, with a population of around 1.5m. It boasts some stunning natural geography and important cultural centers. The island is renowned for its hot springs – winter is an excellent time to visit Kyushu, as you’ll avoid the tourist season but benefit from mild temperatures and wonderful hot baths!

Spring: Kyushu has many excellent seaside areas, and spring is the perfect time to enjoy them as the weather warms up.

Fall: Nagasaki is mainly known for its Peace Memorial Park commemorating its bombing in WW2. However, it’s a hidden gem of a city and especially lovely in the fall.

Year-round: The Uminonakamichi Seaside Park is famous for its seasonal flower displays – you can discover beauty here at any time of year.

Best Time of Year to Visit Kyushu

Spring is a great time to spend a few weeks in Kyushu. If the best time to visit Japan for you is winter, Kyushu is also an excellent choice owing to its temperate winter climate. The island also has plenty to offer in the fall, with summer the least attractive season due to the humidity.

Amami & Okinawa

Amami & Okinawa make up an island chain stretching out beneath Kyushu. They have a tropical climate that makes the islands more accessible in summer than the damp mainland areas – sparkling blue seas and glittering beaches await when you visit these gorgeous islands.

Year-round: the unique tropical climate means these islands are most famous for their fantastic seaside opportunities. The region offers incredible diving opportunities if you’re feeling brave. Otherwise, simply enjoy splashing around in the warm ocean – it’s even okay to swim in winter!

When to Visit Amami & Okinawa

You’ll enjoy these islands at any time of year. Seeking the hot tropical sun? Visit in July-September. Looking for lower prices and fewer crowds? Try the winter months.

Best Time to Season to Visit Japan

By covering each region of Japan, we hope we’ve shown why there’s no “best time to visit Japan.” The Japanese islands have a varied climate, and you’ll find unique opportunities in different regions at different times of the year. Here’s a breakdown of the best regions to visit by season.

Visiting Japan in Spring

The weather is pleasant everywhere, so it’s up to you where to go! Late March and April are the best times to visit Japan if you’re seeking the famous cherry blossoms. Areas like Kanto and Koshin tend to be busier and more expensive as they hold the island’s main cultural capitals. Golden Week in Japan (a yearly Japanese national holiday that lasts about a week) is happening during spring so expect a massive crowd at the beginning of May.

Visiting Japan in Summer

Summer is considered the least attractive season for visiting anywhere except Northern Japan. It tends to be muggy and humid across much of Honshu, although you’ll find lower prices in many areas.

On the other hand, summer is a great time to visit Hokkaido or Tohoku, where the climate is cooler. Okinawa and Amami also experience fantastic tropical summer weather, although there’s always the risk of storms.

Visiting Japan in Fall

Fall is another excellent choice wherever you go. From September to November, pleasant temperatures and coloring of the foliage characterize Fall in Japan. Visiting Japan in Fall is probably one of the best options so you can avoid golden week and the crowd of foreign tourists that come for the cherry blossom season but still enjoy pleasant weather.

Visiting Japan in Winter

Are you looking to travel in the winter? Hokkaido is covered in snow but offers excellent skiing, while you could try Amami and Okinawa for a winter island paradise. In the southern regions, you’ll find lower prices across Honshu and temperate climates.

Our Verdict on the Best Time to Visit Japan

The best time to visit Japan depends on your destination. For the popular parts of Honshu, such as Tokyo and Kyoto, we’d recommend late May or November as the ideal time of year. You’ll find a perfect blend of cheaper accommodation and beautiful weather, and there’ll always be plenty to do and see.

However, perhaps you’d like a summer trip up North or a bracing January trip to Shikoku for its unspoiled hiking opportunities. Matching the time to the destination is how you’ll know the best time to visit Japan – start planning now!

Best Time to Visit Japan FAQs:

Typhoons typically occur in late summer.

Most of Honshu is unpleasantly humid through the summer months.

Late May and November are good choices to enjoy fine weather with more affordable accommodation and flights.

Cherry blossom season starts in March and ends in May.

It rains across most of Japan through the late summer months.

Cherry blossom season tends to be very busy as people want to experience Hanami. Summer is also busy in some parts due to the Western school holidays though you can expect very hot and humid weather from early July to the end of summer.

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Experience Japanese Onsen: Tips for Visiting a Hot Spring in Japan

• 8 minute read

The Best Time to Visit Japan: A Complete Guide

• When Is the Best Time to Visit Japan?

This complete guide will give you all of the information you need to decide when the best time to visit to Japan is for you. We’ll take a look at the pros and cons of visiting Japan in certain seasons, and other factors (such as cost, weather, crowds and seasonal cuisine) which might influence your choice.

With so many season-specific attractions and events (such as cherry blossom viewing, hiking Mt. Fuji and attending vibrant festivals) the question of when to visit needs careful consideration by potential travelers.

Rated as one of the top ten countries in the world for tourism by the Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report , Japan outranked all other countries in Asia.  With all of it’s beautiful nature, technology, bright lights, and amazing food, Japan is a must-visit country.

The numbers of foreign visitors to Japan has more than tripled in the last fifteen years, with nearly 20 million international tourists visiting in 2015.  So what are you waiting for?  Use this guide and plan your next trip to Japan!

Temperature in Major Cities

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One of the major points to consider when choosing when to visit Japan is the season.

Japan is a country with plenty of natural beauty, and if there are certain events that you want to catch, you’ll have to visit at the right time.

When summers or winters are unexpectedly cold or hot, this can affect seasonal changes that bring the autumn leaves or the blooming of the cherry blossoms, sometimes by as much as several weeks.

If you’re booking flights months in advance, this can be a risky element to your trip. If there are certain events that you just have to see, I recommend coming to Japan for as long as possible to give yourself a good window in which to catch it. But however long you visit for, the season is of key importance.

Let’s take a look at each season in detail to see which time of year is best for you.

Springtime (March – May) is usually dubbed as the best time to visit Japan. However, there are pros and cons, and a lot of it depends on which part of the country you are visiting.

The north of Japan is often cold and snowy for about half the year, while the southern-most point is warm and tropical, and everything in between is a mix of the two. So saying whether a certain time of year is either cold or warm in Japan isn’t a cut and dried answer.

However, it is fairly universally held that spring is a nice time throughout all of Japan.

The weather is quite mild at both ends, with warm days and evenings that verge on chilly. You’ll need a warm sweater and jacket to visit Hokkaido at this time of year, but in the south, you could easily go out in a light sweater or even a t-shirt and shorts during the daytime.

Depending on where you are, spring can be a difficult season to dress for – in early spring, even if the day starts out warm it can soon turn cold once the sun goes down. The spring seasons usually starts off dry, but often ends on a rainy note after the cherry blossom season.

Looking at three major cities, average temperatures in spring get steadily warmer throughout the season.

• Tokyo : The beginning of spring sees lows of 6°C (43°F), while the end of the season sees highs of 23°C (73°F)
• Kyoto: The season starts with lows of 4°C (39°F) and ends with high temperatures of 24°C (75°F)
• Sapporo (Hokkaido): The spring is much colder than Tokyo, with lows in March of -3°C (27°F), and ending the spring with highs of 17°C (63°F)

Regarding attractions, the biggest draw for visitors in spring is the cherry blossom viewing.

One thing is for sure: you can chase the blossoms all the way up through the country from the south to the north – the warmer weather in Kyushu means that they get the cherry blossoms first, and it can be several weeks before the same flowers bloom up in Hokkaido. Check the annual cherry blossom forecast to see when the experts predict that they’ll bloom.

Other good reasons to visit in springtime include the festivals of the season.

There are many popular and unusual festivals at this time of year, including the Aso Fire Festival (March), the Kamakura Festival (April), Children’s Day (May 5th), the vibrant Hakata Dontaku Festival in Fukuoka (May 3rd and 4th), the Hamamatsu Kite Flying Festival (May 3rd – 5th), and Honbasho – The Great Sumo Tournament (May – although sumo tournaments are held year-round).

Golden Week is also in the spring, and is one of the worst times to visit Japan as an international tourist because this is the time of year when Japanese tourists are also flitting all over the country.

Seasonal cuisine in Japan is not so exciting in spring as it is in other seasons.

One of the main things you see a lot at this time of year are “picnic bentos” in the supermarkets, where you can buy a platter of snacks and salads to share when you go viewing cherry blossoms with friends and family.

Of course, there are dozens of cherry blossom flavored goodies, such as sakura ice-cream and sakura Kit-Kat chocolate bars. As well as cherry blossoms, the plum blossoms are also in season, and you can get sour pickled ume (plum) to snack on, as well as ume flavored potato chips and other treats. Bamboo shoots are popular at this time of year, as are strawberries.

While spring is popularly thought of as the best time to visit Japan, it certainly has its downsides too.

Firstly, the Golden Week holiday is a nightmare time to travel – attractions are crowded, accommodation books out fast and often costs more, and travel becomes more difficult too.

The weather can be unpredictable, and the beauty of the cherry blossoms can be cut short by an early rain. However, despite this, it still remains a favorite time to visit. The weather at this time of year is milder and less extreme than the boiling hot summer and cold winter, and while it can be rainy, it’s usually not too intense.

Festivals are popular in the spring season and, after the winter, people tend to be in a good mood at this time of year.

Another thing to take into consideration is that the spring season also brings about allergies for certain people.

Drifting pollen from Cryptomeria and Japanese cypress trees often peak during the spring season. If you have hay fever or are prone to allergies from pollen, the spring season in Japan may aggravate your symptoms.

• Nice, mild weather, perfect for walking around
• Cherry blossom viewing season
• Lots of festivals
• A popular time to travel for both locals and tourists, which make it very difficult to get around
• The end of March is when most public schools start their vacation, which results in more travel among Japanese locals. However, Golden Week (usually the end of April to the first week of May) is crazy busy.
• Try to avoid traveling during Golden Week if possible.  Bullet trains and buses are usually crowded,  making it difficult to get reservations
• Hotels and certain attractions also increase their prices during Golden Week
• Those with pollen allergies might want to be careful. Pollen in the air usually reaches its peak during spring

Summertime in Japan (June – August) is one of those times that some people love and some people hate. This depends on where you come from and the climate you are used to.

Japan rarely sees extreme temperatures in the summer, but with the high humidity, it makes walking or even standing outside uncomfortable.

Temperatures over 34°C (93°F) is rare but does happen occasionally, with the highest recorded temperature in Japan reaching over 40°C (104°F).

However, if you come from somewhere mild, even the high 20’s can seem unbearable with the very high humidity. If you don’t deal with heat well, this is something to consider seriously.

As well as the heat, the weather is not perfect at this time of year. Early summer (June) is usually when the rainy season starts – this is the time when rice farmers do lots of their planting and is a busy time of year for agriculture.

However, for tourists, it isn’t ideal to go sightseeing in the rain day after day for weeks on end. Once the rain stops, you’re blasted with the full heat of summer before typhoon season hits.

Typhoons that actually hit and do damage are not so common in Japan – just a few major ones tend to hit annually. However, there have been more in recent years. The days after a typhoon are called taifu ikka, which refers to the good weather which you see after a typhoon has passed.

In terms of temperatures, the south of Japan sees the hottest summers while it is relatively cool up in the north. Activities like hiking and camping are popular at this time of year as a way to escape the heat.

• Tokyo: Average temperatures for summer see lows of 19°C (66°F), going up to 31°C (88°F) by the end of August.
• Kyoto: Lows of 19°C (66°F) and highs of 33°C (91°F) in August.
• Sapporo: Lows are around 13°C (55°F) while the highest temperatures peak at a pleasant 26°C (79°F).

Warmer temperatures are common in the south. This is t-shirt weather through and through! Don’t forget your hat and sunglasses during these seasons, though of course you can also pick up any seasonal accessories you need at any of the 100 yen shops around the country.

Synonymous with summer in Japan is the wearing of yukata. Unlike kimonos (which are bulky, cumbersome and fairly uncomfortable) a yukata is basically like a Japanese dressing gown made of light cotton, and is comfy to wear when it is hot out.

Whether or not you’re interested in trying out the Japanese summer clothing styles, you absolutely must get yourself a traditional summer handkerchief.

Most Japanese people have one of these little rags stuffed into their pocket or handbag the whole year through, but they are particularly useful in summer when you sweat profusely and need to wipe your face every five minutes.

You can get cheap handkerchiefs in many shops in Japan (even supermarkets and convenience stores), but there are also specialist shops where you can purchase beautiful handkerchiefs in traditional designs, and even get your name embroidered on them. These make excellent souvenirs and are a lovely gift item too.

As well as visiting hot springs and going hiking, other popular pastimes in this season include visiting the beach (though watch out during jellyfish season) and of course attending the seasonal festivals. Fireworks play a heavy part in the summer celebrations, and you can see displays all around the country when the weather gets warmer.

Hiking Mt. Fuji is also another popular event in the summer.

While you may sweat and feel hot in the beginning, it will be very cold when you reach the top.  So prepare accordingly.

Top festivals include Osaka’s Rice Planting Festival (June 14th), Fukuoka’s spectacular Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival (July 1st – 15th), Osaka’s Tenjin Festival (July 24th and 25th), Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Ceremony (August 6th), the Yamaga Lantern Festival (August 15th and 16th) and Kyoto’s Daimonji Bonfire Festival (August 16th).

Like spring, summertime in Japan is also made difficult for travelers by a long national holiday.

Obon (mid-August event to pay respects to your ancestors) takes place during the best part of the summer and is one of the busiest, most expensive times of the year to travel. Even the bullet trains can get so crowded that there isn’t even room to stand (picture a can of sardines, but with people).

June is the rainy season, so if you plan on doing a lot of outdoor activities, you need to plan ahead and be prepared for possible rain.

As for food, the hot weather may cause you to lose your appetite, but there are plenty of refreshing snacks which have been tailor made for this season.

Cold somen noodles are a popular dish – after being cooked, they are plunged into icy water and served with cold vegetables and refreshing sauce. It doesn’t sound appetizing but, trust me, it does the trick!

Also, what with all the festivals that take place during the summer, this is the perfect time to try out some typical Japanese street food and snacks which you can buy at food stalls.

Yakitori (grilled meat on a stick), okonomiyaki (“Japanese pizza”), takoyaki (octopus balls) and fried squid are all top choices and available all over the place.

If you fancy something sweet, try out kakigori – shaved ice flavored with toxic-looking flavorings and a dollop of condensed milk. This is popular with kids and good to try once but, to be honest, you’re better off just getting a regular ice-cream from a convenience store unless you’re really in the mood for a snow cone.

Ice cream products in Japan are awesome, and there are great local choices to try such as green tea flavored ice cream, and of course yukimi daifuku – balls of ice-cream which are nestled inside a skin of chewy mochi (aka, mochi ice cream).

• Awesome festivals
• Lots of good summer foods to try
• Good for hiking (especially to hike Mt. Fuji)
• Unforgivingly hot and humid weather
• Traveling during the Obon season (mid-August) is very, very busy
• Traveling to and from Japan is generally more expensive in August

Fall/Autumn

Like spring, fall is a time when you can enjoy milder temperatures that are a great mid-point between the harsh heat of summer and the cold bite of winter. Typhoon season creeps into the first part of the fall but is usually over by mid/late September. After that, the weather is usually nice until winter, with relatively little rain at this time of year.

Fall in Japan is a wonderful time to enjoy the great outdoors.

Temperatures in the fall are still hot and summery during September, but cool down to warmer temperatures in October and November.

• Tokyo: The season starts with lows of 21°C (70°F) and highs of 28°C (82°F), and by the end of fall, temperatures are in the 10-17°C (50°- 63°F) range
• Kyoto: Temperatures start at 20°C (68°F) to 28°C (82°F), and then the season ends with temperatures of 8 – 17°C (46 – 63°F).
• Sapporo: Early fall temperatures reach highs of 22°C (72°F), but by the end of the season you’ll be somewhere in the 2-8°C (36 – 46°F) range. However, the change is gradual, and after the relentless heat of summer, it’s always nice to return to kinder temperatures

As for clothing, at the start of the season you’ll still be in summer-wear, but by the end of November it’ll be long-sleeved t-shirts and lightweight jackets, or something much warmer if you’re up in the north.

Both spring and fall have cooler temperatures and amazing, beautiful nature which is the main reason to visit at this time.

If you have the chance to visit somewhere away from the big cities, up in the hills and away from it all, these are the spots where autumn leaves are most majestic. An hour outside of Tokyo, Hakone is my personal favorite place for viewing autumn leaves.

Unlike the cherry blossoms, this change takes place from the top down, with leaves changing color in the north of Japan during mid-September, and finishing up in the south of Kyushu around mid-December. Like the cherry blossoms, it can be hard to predict exactly, but you can research the official autumn leaf forecast for updates nearer the time.

Aside from the autumnal leaves, there are other events to enjoy. There are some regional and small festivals to enjoy during your trip.

There is the Kumamoto Horse Festival (September), Okinawa’s Paantu Punaha Mud Festival (early September), the Naha Festival (October 10th) and the Nagasaki Kunchi Festival (October 7th – 9th).

While Japan may not have much going on in terms of festivals in the fall, it is certainly a peak time to visit in terms of cuisine. There are lots of delicious vegetables and fruits which are in season during the fall.

Many of them are featured on restaurant menus, and you can also pick them up fairly cheaply from local markets. Sweet potatoes, taro, pumpkin, and mushrooms are all popular vegetables in the fall.

You can buy yaki imo (baked sweet potatoes) from roadside stalls – a great and healthy snack for when the weather is getting colder.

Citrus fruits are available all year round in Japan. In the fall, the citrus fruit of choice is sudachi – it looks like a cross between an orange and a lime, and tends to be easy to peel with thin skin.

However, this fruit is not really eaten straight, as it is just as sour as a lemon or lime. It is more commonly used to flavor foods. Chestnuts are also popular in the fall, and can be found roasted or used in a variety of desserts.

• The weather is very comfortable (especially from late September – late October)
• Stunning natural beauty (autumn leaves)
• Attractions and transportation are less crowded than the summer or spring (except during Silver Week and three-day weekends)
• A lot less options when it comes to festivals and other events
• Weather in October – November can be unpredictable. It can be hot one day, and cold the next.

Wintertime in Japan (December – February) is cold across the board, with similar temperatures throughout the three months of winter.

The weather tends to be good at this time of year – cold, but crisp and dry, with little to no rain at all. You’ll need to dress warmly in these seasons, and the weather can be deceptive so be prepared.

During the Christmas holiday in the winter of 2016, daytime temperatures jumped from 4°C (39°F) to 19°C (66°F) with just a few days in between – so even if the weather looks like it’s going to be warmer than usual, it probably won’t last, so be prepared with hats, gloves and other accessories.

• Tokyo: Temperatures are similar in all three of the winter months, with lows of 2°C (36°F) and highs of 13°C (55°F). Last year, Tokyo saw snow in November for the first time in over half a century
• Kyoto: A little colder than Tokyo with winter lows of 1°C (34°F) and highs of 11°C (52°F)
• Sapporo: Winter is the perfect time for sports like skiing and snowboarding, with lows of -7°C (19°F) and highs of just 2°C (36°F)

The most well-known festival of the season is the Sapporo Snow Festival which runs for a week every February (usually early February). Roughly two million people attend the festival each year, where you can see ice sculptures and snow statues, many of which have been built by local residents.

Each year around 400 statues are built – a far cry from the first ever Sapporo Snow Festival in 1950 where six high school students built six snow statues in the city park. The exquisite statues often depict a celebrity, or something popular from the previous year. Illuminations bring the whole place to life at night.

Other festivals include New Year celebrations across the country (January), the Naked Festival at Okayama (February), the Nara Lantern Festival (February 3rd) and the Yokote Kamakura Snow Festival (February 15th and 16th).

A few days each year (usually on select days in January and February) they have a special “lite-up” event, where the houses are illuminated.  While the weather is freezing, the houses look absolutely magical, and are worth a visit if you have the time.

New Years Eve is a more reserved celebration than in other countries. In Japan the focus is more on New Years Day which is typically a family time.

Food in winter is typically warming and hearty, as one might expect from the weather.

Hot pots (known as nabe) are a popular dish, and there are many nabe restaurants where the food cooks in front of you – use your chopsticks to take what you want when it’s ready. This is a great meal to have with friends around a big table.

Popular winter vegetables are the giant Japanese radish and lotus root, which can be prepared in a variety of ways.

The famously poisonous fugu (puffer fish) is often eaten in winter, and the citrus fruits of the season are mikan (mandarin oranges) and yuzu (like a cross between a lemon and a grapefruit). Tofu is also popular in winter and you can usually see some creamy white chunks of it floating around when you order hot pot.

• Food is hearty and this time of year, and washed down with a warming glass of hot sake is the perfect way end a day full of traveling
• For seafood fans, winter is when crabs are in season, and taste the best.
• Great ski slopes around Japan for winter sports
• Amazing winter festivals
• Many attractions close their doors for at least a few days around the New Year
• Traveling the last week of December – the first week of January is busy and expensive

Aside from seasonal events and changes in the weather and temperature, there are other points to consider when choosing the best time for your trip to Japan.

Cost is often a major factor for travelers, particularly if you’re hoping to travel cheaply.

While Japan is a fairly cheap place to be a tourist (with good deals in restaurants and supermarkets, as well as reasonable entry fees to attractions) getting around can be expensive as the public transport is so costly, and accommodation prices rocket during the peak seasons.

As well as cost, there are certain times of the year when traveling in Japan is bound to be a nightmare.

Working life can be pretty rubbish in Japan, mainly because of the tiny amounts of holiday given to workers and the fact that everyone has to take their vacation at the same time – making life difficult for foreign tourists too. Let’s take a look at some of these issues which you need to consider when planning a trip to Japan.

Peak seasons should be avoided altogether if you can help it.

• Golden Week (late April – early May)
• Obon Festival (mid-August, lasting around a week)
• Silver Week (late September)
• The Month of June (Rainy Season – This isn’t a deal-breaker if you plan on doing indoor activities like shopping)

Silver week is certainly less crazy than the other two holidays but has been gaining popularity in recent years. These three times are when, basically, all of Japan goes on holiday.

What this means is that trains and buses are usually booked solid. If you try to take a train using an unreserved ticket (no seat assignment), you’ll face big queues and long waits. And the possibility of you having to stand the whole way is very possible.

Also, attractions are crowded, and this can ruin the point of visiting it in the first place. Accommodation books out way in advance or raises its prices, and restaurants book out or have long waits– the whole experience is basically crowded, expensive and stressful. Trust me, any other time of year is preferable!

The summer vacation when children are off from school (late July to September) can also be a busy time to travel. Like everywhere in the world, Saturdays and Sundays are often crowded and public transport can be cramped, and restaurants often offer certain deals which are only available during a weekday.

A few attractions close their doors on Mondays, so if it is possible, try to plan your trip to arrive on a Monday night or a Tuesday, and then leave Japan (a few weeks later!) on a Friday.

Perhaps you’re planning a trip to Japan especially for one of the popular events, such as viewing the cherry blossoms or the changing of the autumn leaves. These things are not to be missed, but also come with a price-tag as places tend to up their prices during these seasons.

If you can’t avoid visiting during a peak season, plan your trip as early in advance as you can and try to choose cheaper, local accommodation over these periods. Traditional ryokans (Japanese inns) raise their prices too, but can still be the cheaper option.

Depending on which regions you want to visit, one way to save money is with a Japan Rail Pass. This can’t be bought in Japan– it’s only for foreign tourists and so you’ll need to order one in advance. The pass is expensive, but way cheaper than buying individual tickets in Japan (train travel is very expensive).

If you plan to be darting all around the country and doing a lot of traveling outside of big cities, the rail pass is a must. However, if you don’t think you’ll get your money’s worth out of a pass, snub the rail altogether and fly.

Domestic flights in Japan are often really cheap, sometimes half the price of taking the bullet train to the same destination. Budget airlines and discount airfare companies like Jet Star, Star Alliance Japan Airpass, and OneWorld Yokoso/Visit Japan Fare are a much better alternative to costly rail travel.

Japan is an awesome place to travel, and one of the nicest places in the world to be a tourist.

People are polite and friendly, there is a good amount of English language information in the big cities, it’s safe and hygienic, travel is (usually) efficient and is just a beautiful place.

Hopefully this article has helped to shed some light on the impossible choice and you have a better idea about which season is suited to your Japan trip. Leave us a comment and let us know which season you think sounds the best!

Celia Jenkins

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The Best Time to Visit Japan

TripSavvy /  Elise Degarmo  

Weather changes, typhoon season, and busy festivals should all be taken into account while deciding when to go to Japan. The best time to visit Japan is during early spring when the short-lived cherry blossoms are blooming but before or after the busy stretch of Golden Week holidays.

Although avoiding lousy weather is usually the goal of vacations, consecutive sunny days draw bigger crowds to East Asia. You'll have to share transportation and attractions during high season. Hotels are already a bit pricey in Tokyo, but they skyrocket during some of Japan's busiest festivals.

The Weather in Japan

With an archipelago of close to 7,000 islands spread north to south in the Pacific, the weather in Japan can differ significantly between regions. Tokyo can be near freezing while people enjoy T-shirt weather just a little south.

Most of Japan enjoys four distinct seasons, with snow in the winter. However, Okinawa and the islands in the south stay warm throughout the year. Northern Japan often receives heavy snowfall that melts quickly in spring. Tokyo itself doesn't ordinarily receive much snow. The megalopolis got a dusting in 1962, and then snow made headlines again in 2014 and 2016. In January 2018, a massive snowstorm caused disruptions in Tokyo.

Rainy Season in Japan

Even when no typhoons are spinning nearby to mix things up, Japan is a relatively wet country with ample rainfall and high humidity.

The rainy season in Japan typically hits in the summer months , around the middle of June to the middle of July. In Tokyo, June is a stormy month. Historically, showers slack off just a bit in late July and August then return with force again in September.

Adding to the meteorological madness is the threat of typhoons. Typically, most typhoons cause trouble for Japan between May and October. As you can imagine, a typhoon in the area completely changes everything weather-related—and not usually for the better.

Dry Season in Japan

A better way to call the time of year most travelers visit Japan would be the "drier" or "less rainy" season. Rainy days are a thing throughout the year, so building too tight of a sunshine-based itinerary could lead to disappointment.

Fortunately, Japan has some exciting ways to spend time indoors during rainy afternoons.

The driest months in Japan are typically December, January, and February. November and March are "shoulder" months between the seasons—often an ideal time to visit any country to avoid peak-season prices and groups.

Typhoon Season in Japan

Typhoon season for the Pacific Ocean runs between May and October, although Mother Nature doesn't always go by the Gregorian calendar. Storms can arrive early or drag on later. August and September are usually the peak of typhoons in Japan.

Even if they don't threaten Japan, big typhoons in the area can cause severe delays and congestion for air traffic. Check the Japan Meteorological Agency website for current warnings before you plan to travel. Your ticket may be refundable if your travel insurance covers trip cancellation due to acts of nature.

Key Events & Festivals in Japan

Visiting Japan when big festivals are in progress is a great way to get in on the fun and see locals enjoying themselves. But on the other hand, you'll have to compete with crowds at popular sites and pay higher prices for accommodation. Either make a point to arrive early and enjoy the festival or avoid the area altogether until regular daily life resumes.

• Christmas and New Year: Celebrations for Shogatsu (Japanese New Year) can get busy. From the week before Christmas until a few days into January, malls and public transportation are even more crowded. During the holiday season, the Japanese public gets a rare chance to see the inner grounds of the Imperial Palace. This happens on only two days a year: the Emperor's Birthday (December 23) and on January 2.
• Obon : Temples and shrines get busy in the summer during the three-day Obon festival . Dates for Obon vary, depending upon the place in Japan. Obon, in Tokyo and eastern parts of Japan, is usually observed around July 15. Hachigatsu Bon, an even busier time, is celebrated around August 15. Although Obon, commonly just called Bon, is not an official holiday, many Japanese families take leave to pay homage to ancestors around that time of year.

When to Go to Kyoto

Kyoto is a favorite cultural destination for tourists in Japan . The busy season months here can become very crowded. Spring and fall are the busiest times in Kyoto; October and November are the peak months for tourism. Consider booking your trip to Kyoto in August when rain slacks off a little but crowds haven't surged yet. If cold weather doesn't scare you, January and February are good months to visit Kyoto. You'll certainly want to book accommodation in advance if visiting Kyoto in November.

January is winter across much of the country, although some areas like Okinawa remain semi-tropical year-round. This can be a much quieter time to visit, especially after the rush of the New Years holiday.

Events to check out:

• Seijin no Hi (Coming-of-Age Day) is celebrated on the second Monday of January. This date is considered the collective birthday for all who have turned 20, the country's age of majority, in the past year. 
• Shōgatsu is celebrated from January 1 through 3 each year. Many families gather together for meals and other celebrations.

February is generally Japan's coldest month, but if you like to ski, it's among the best times of year to visit. Many times, plum ( ume ) blossoms begin blooming toward the end of the month, signaling that spring is on its way. Temperatures in Tokyo typically average around 45 degrees Fahrenheit, while it can be as cold as 20 degrees up north in Sapporo.

• More than two million visitors head to Yuki Matsuri in Sapporo. This annual snow festival includes an international snow sculpture contest, ice slides, and more.
• February 3 marks the first day of spring on the traditional lunar calendar, and it's also celebrated in Japan as a day in which one must ward off evil. People often visit Buddhist temples and ward off the devil, while welcoming fortunes in.

Japan is extremely enjoyable to visit during the spring . Large crowds of people flock to local parks for picnics, parties, and to enjoy hanami —the deliberate viewing of cherry blossom and plum blossom flowers . Families, couples, and even entire offices get in on the fun. The timing of the blooms depends entirely upon the warming weather. The flowers begin in Okinawa and warmer parts of Japan around mid-March, then move north as the weather gets warmer until early May. Forecasters predict the timing as blooms appear from south to north.

• Tokyo's international anime fair, AnimeJapan, is the world's largest anime festival, held each March.
• By late March, Japan is in a full-blown cherry blossom craze. While it's hard to predict when exactly the season will fall, the last two weeks of March are typically a safe bet.

A tradition all over Japan, Hanami literally means viewing flowers. Picnic under the beautiful flowing trees in any public park during this special season. Usually lasting for only two weeks in March, the sakura (cherry blossom) schedule changes a bit every year, so it’s hard to nail down exactly when to come.

April gets extremely busy in Japan, as cherry blossoms are usually peaking. But why not join in on the fun? The weather is sunny, crisp, and clear. Beware, though: School holidays and Golden Week, at the end of the month, can cause crowds to swell.

• Takayama hosts a famous spring festival each year in mid-April. It includes floats lit with lanterns and a festive lion dance.
• Miyako Odori runs throughout April in Kyoto . This festival showcases geiko dances and music. Buy tickets in advance!

Golden week is the most significant, busiest holiday period of them all in Japan. It's the busiest time to travel in Japan; you'll have fun, but watch out! Golden Week starts up around the end of April and runs into the first week of May. Several consecutive national holidays fall within a seven-day stretch. Many Japanese families tack on a valuable week of vacation away from work, so transportation and accommodation fill up quickly on both ends of the holiday. Public parks will be busy.

• Golden Week officially begins with Showa Day and concludes with Children's Day. However, many families take additional vacation days before and after. The impact of Golden Week stretches to around 10 to 14 days.
• Sanja Matsuri is Tokyo's largest festival, bringing more than 1 million visitors to Asakusa. The highlight is an exciting parade of men and women in traditional dress.

Early June in Japan is quite nice, but tsuyu (rainy season) sets in later in the month. While it doesn't rain all day, the gloomy and wet weather is the norm. Despite this, there are still plenty of things to do in the rain: Hot springs and wooded mountain temples are still quite serene, rain or shine. Additionally, hiking season kicks off as the snow melts in the Alps.

• In June, Osaka is home to a major rice-planting festival that dates back more than 1,700 years. During this celebration, 12 women plant rice seedlings in the paddy at Osaka's Sumiyoshi Shrine.
• Yosakoi Soran Matsuri is an annual folk dance festival held in Sapporo. The event attracts almost 40,000 dancers from all over the country and even more visitors. Dancers perform all over the streets and throughout city parks.

Luckily, the rainy season in Japan is short-lived, and it's typically over by the end of July. The country is hot and humid this month, but abuzz with events and activities. This is a great time for a beach visit to Okinawa.

• Mt. Fuji officially opens to climbers on July 1.
• Gion Matsuri , one of Japan's most popular festivals, is held from July 17 to 24 in Kyoto. Intricate floats are pulled through the streets. This is a busy time to visit, so book well in advance.

August is also hot and humid and can be crowded as many school children, and their families take holidays within the country. Hokkaido is a popular destination in August since the weather is prime for outdoor activities.

• Obon, in mid-August, spans three days of honoring the dead, whose spirits are said to return to the earth during this time. Graves are swept and presented with offerings, while lanterns are floated down the country's rivers.
• Many Japanese cities host dramatic displays of fireworks in August. One of the best shows is the Lake Biwa Fireworks festival, held near Kyoto in early August.

September is still warm, but humidity begins to die down. This is the peak of typhoon season though, so Okinawa, Kyushu, and Shikoku are at risks of periods of extremely hard rain and high winds.

• Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri is an interesting festival held in Osaka each year. Danjiri (festival floats) are released in the streets.
• Seto is famous for its ceramics and commemorates the craft each year during the second week of September. The eponymous festival features pop-up stalls selling affordable pottery and other handicrafts. Around 500,000 people attend each year.

October is a fantastic month to visit, marked by bright, warm days, with little humidity. Fall foliage peaks in the Japanese Alps during this month.

• Roppongi Art Night is held each year in mid- to late October. Arts venues stay open all night and host large-scale installations and performances throughout this exciting weekend.
• Japan loves celebrating Halloween, and it's worth a visit to Tokyo's Shibuya district on October 31, if you want to see thousands of costumed revelers.

November has beautiful weather, with temperatures beginning to fall at higher elevations and further north in the country. Temperatures in Tokyo range from 45 degrees Fahrenheit to 65 degrees, while Sapporo is as cool as 35 degrees at night.

• The Ohara Festival, held in the southern prefecture of Kagoshima, features a street parade of more than 20,000 dancers.
• The Momiji Festival in Kyoto includes five incredible period-decorated boats that are meant to recreate the atmosphere of Japan's Heian court. Re-enactors play traditional instruments and recite noh and kyogen . (P.S. The best views of the event are from the Togetsu-kyo Bridge.)

If you are planning to visit Japan in December , avoid visiting during the last week of the month and the first week of January. While Christmas is not a celebrated national holiday, many people still take time off working during this period, which books up hotels and makes transportation more difficult. Many businesses close over the period leading up to New Year's Day.

• On December 31, temple bells ring 108 times at midnight as part of Joya-no-kane , an annual purifying ritual.
• Kyoto celebrates the unique Daikon radish during the Sanpoji Daikon Festival. The vegetable becomes available in late Autumn, but the festival takes place in mid-December. More than 10,000 people eat the hot radish, which is believed to have health benefits.

In March and April, you may be able to catch the cherry blossom season while enjoying crisp and sunny weather.

Japan's rainy season falls over the summer with June and July being the rainiest months. Late July and August tend to be a bit drier, but it gets rainy again in September.

Typhoon season typically lasts between May and October, reaching its peak in August and September.

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Choosing the best time to visit japan is personal to each traveler’s needs..

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There are certain times of the year where places in Japan are less crowded.

Photo by Anna Mazurek

Japan is a sensory wonderland of sorts, from the glowing skyscrapers of Tokyo to the bubbling onsens in the southernmost part of Kyushu. Visitors are drawn to the country for both its buzzing cosmopolitan streets and relaxing natural wonders.

In general, the best time to visit Japan is between March and May, which offers the most temperate climate and blooming cherry trees—but that also means more crowds. This peak season time may not be ideal for those looking to grab hotel reservations or roam less-crowded streets. Weather and location also play a major role for those planning a trip: The northernmost part of the country, like Hokkaido, has long, snowy winters, while popular inland locations like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka have four seasons.

Read on for an overview of the best time to visit Japan, based on travel interests.

Best time to visit Japan for viewing cherry blossoms

• Best month(s) : March–June

Once the chill of winter leaves most of Japan, the early spring and summer period sees a flurry of people looking to see major sights, including views from Tokyo Tower, the bamboo forests of Kyoto, and the hillside temples of Nikko.

The floral explosion of cherry blossom season in Japan, though, is worth the trip alone. From late March to early April, hillsides, parks, and city streets overflow with the glowing pastel pink of sakuras . In Tokyo, the Nakameguro Sakura Matsuri Festival in April brings with it some 800 trees that form a pink arch over the Meguro River. West of Tokyo and just under an hour’s train ride, Arakurayama Sengen Park blooms with over 600 trees in the springtime—with an added bonus of Mount Fuji as a backdrop.

Where to stay

• Book now : Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto

The intimate, 39-room Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto , on the banks of Hozu River, gives front-row views of Arashiyama Hills’ kaleidoscopic colors in the springtime.

Some places in Japan, like Shibuya Crossing, are known for the crowds.

Photo by Jezael Melgoza/Unsplash

Best time to visit Japan for avoiding the crowds

• Best month(s) : May–June, November–December

Often considered the off-season, late May to early June and November through December in Japan are great times to visit most major attractions with fewer crowds. (To see the country in an efficient way, buy a Japan Rail Pass and ride the sleek shinkansen bullet train.) The colder, less-crowded winter months are a time to take advantage of soaking in an onsen in regions like Beppu, which is home to more than a thousand hot springs.

• Book now : ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa

ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa offers guests an outdoor onsen, set against massive layered stones that cascade down a mountainside.

The Sapporo Snow Festival is held every February.

Photo by Denny Ryanto/Unsplash

Best time to visit Japan for festivals

• Best month(s) : All year

Although most of Japan is known for festivals year-round, a key celebration to note during the summer months is the Gion Matsuri in July, when over 30 floats and crowds of people take over the streets of Kyoto for a huge party, complete with yukata robe dress, street food, and lots of beer. In the winter, the Sapporo Snow Festival takes place for seven days in February in the capital of Hokkaido. Drawing over 2 million people per year, the winter wonderland includes elaborate snow sculptures that light up at night; family friendly activities during the day include a snow rafting slope.

• Book now: Shiguchi

Located in a secluded valley in Hokkaido, Shiguchi is a luxurious renovated farmhouse consisting of five villas and an open-air onsen.

Miyakojima Island is the most populous island of Okinawa Prefecture’s Miyako Islands.

Photo by yuri-ss/Shutterstock

Best time to visit Japan for beach getaways

• Best month(s) : July–August

Because Japan can be so hot and humid in cities like Tokyo and Kyoto in July and August, a coastal getaway is ideal during these months. When the urban hot spots become too hot, head south to the turquoise waters of Okinawa—which is home to over 100 beaches—or Naoshima, a remote island filled with impressive sculptures. For beaches closer to big cities like Tokyo, consider a train ride of one to two hours to Onjuku and Katase Higashihama Beach.

• Book now : Halekulani Okinawa

With 360 guest rooms on the main island of Onna, Halekulani Okinawa faces a mile of sparkling turquoise waters steps away from Busena Marine Park —the only underwater observatory tower in Okinawa.

When is the Best Time to Visit Japan in 2024? Here’s When to Go & How to Dress For the Season

When is the best time to visit Japan? When is the best time to visit Tokyo? You have decided you want to travel to Japan - great! But now comes the hard part: planning.

Here's the best time to visit Japan

Pros and cons of traveling in each season in japan, best season to travel in japan, the least crowded time to visit japan, the cheapest time to visit japan, list of annual events and japan national holidays 2024, what to pack for japan, try ‘any wear, anywhere’ to reduce your suitcase space.

Everyone says to visit during cherry blossom season , but is that really the best time to travel? The pictures you’ve seen of cherry blossom festivals look really crowded. From flower viewing in spring , festivals in summer , and skiing in winter , each season is a brand-new Japan! That’s why careful attention needs to be paid to the when, not just the where, when planning your Japan adventure! To help you with your planning, we’ve created the ultimate guide to Japan’s seasons , weather, and trends. Use this information to pick a time confidently and get the Japan you’ve dreamed of!

The best times to visit Japan are the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) seasons , with May and October-November being the optimal months to balance good weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. The periods between March to May and October to November have the best weather. These times, which line up with spring and most of autumn , are filled with calm days and comfortable temperatures. Nature lovers will appreciate the blooming flowers of spring , including the famed cherry blossoms, along with the equally stunning foliage of late autumn . September-November are recommended as good alternatives to avoid the peak crowds and prices, while still enjoying pleasant weather and scenery. Finally, the winter months can also be a good time to visit, with fewer tourists (except for snow resort areas like Niseko in Hokkaido ) and lower prices, though the weather may be colder, especially in northern regions.

It all depends on you!

Japan is a beautiful country 365 days a year, and you won't regret your trip no matter when you go. However, depending on the season , you may see a very different Japan from the one you imagined. That's why it's essential to create a list of goals for your trip, then compare them against each month to find the Japan you want to see the most.

To help you choose the best time to visit Japan, we've compiled a handy pros and cons list for each season . After you've decided what you'd like to see and do, use this list to select the best time to go!

• Pros: Excellent skiing conditions in Hokkaido, calm and clear winter weather in major cities, and widespread festive light festivals.
• Cons: Busy New Year holiday period with potential closures and unpredictable, sometimes harsh winter weather leading to travel disruptions.
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in January , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in January
• Pros: Peak ski conditions, vibrant snow and illumination festivals (such as the Sapporo Snow Festival and the Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival ), and Early-blooming cherry blossoms and plum blossoms can be enjoyed.
• Cons: Coldest month with sub-freezing temperatures, snow and ice disrupting transport, and potential influx of tourists during Lunar New Year .
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in February , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in January , Visiting Hokkaido in Winter , Enjoy Early-Blooming Sakura in February
• Pros: Warmer, calmer weather starts; cherry blossoms bloom from Kyushu to Tokyo in late March.
• Cons: Crowded cherry blossom spots, especially on weekends; persisting cold, wintry days north of Tokyo.
• Pros: Pleasant weather with gorgeous skies; blooming Japanese flowers like roses, tulips, wisteria, and rapeseed; late cherry blossoms in northern areas.
• Cons: Cold weather in Tohoku and Hokkaido; crowded cherry blossom spots in the north; busy travel and accommodation during the Golden Week public holidays .
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in April , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in April , Visiting Hokkaido in Spring
• Pros: Continuation of fantastic weather; dazzling wisteria tunnels in bloom; picturesque flooded rice fields; large festivals like Sanja Matsuri kick off.
• Cons: Golden Week leads to packed travel conditions and fully booked accommodations.
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in May , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in May , Visiting Hokkaido in Spring , 5 Fun Tours & Activities for Golden Week in Osaka & Kyoto
• Pros: Quieter tourist spots due to no public holidays; comfortable temperatures; easier travel with fewer people outdoors; mild weather in Hokkaido.
• Cons: The rainy season brings humidity and heavy downpours; famous landscapes like Mt. Fuji often obscured by clouds .
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in June , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in June , Visiting Osaka in Summer , 25 Beautiful Traditional Festivals in Japan
• Pros: Rainy season winding down by late July; vibrant summer festivals like the Gion Festival in Kyoto and the Ise Shrine Fireworks Festival ; colorful decorations for Tanabata, the Star Festival .
• Cons: Persistent rainy season until mid-July, continuing the issues from June.
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in July , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in July , Visiting Osaka in Summer , Tokyo Fireworks Guide
• Pros: Weekly summer festivals featuring parades, fireworks, and concerts like Fuji Rock ; clear skies perfect for beach outings; quieter large cities during Obon.
• Cons: Intense heat in August; typhoons risks increase , with potential transport disruptions; lots of insects; congested travel during Obon.
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in August , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in August , Annual Events & Festivals in Japan
• Pros: Decreasing heat from August; blooming Spider Lilies and cosmos in late September; quieter tourist attractions post-summer holidays; end of peak international tourism season.
• Cons: Continued summer heat into early September; peak typhoon season brings potential transportation disruptions.
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in September , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in September
• Pros: Stunning autumn colors make an appearance in northern Japan; cooler, pleasant October weather; widespread Halloween parties , particularly in Shibuya.
• Cons: Crowded parks and mountains for autumn leaf viewing; packed streets and trains during Halloween; increased tourism during Chinese holidays and the Mid-Autumn Festival in early October.
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in October , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in October , Visiting Osaka in Autumn: What to Wear & Must-Visit Attractions , Autumn in Japan -Fall Foliage Forecast
• Pros: Comfortable cooler weather; low rainfall; vibrant red, yellow, and brown autumn foliage.
• Cons: Chilly evenings with winter onset in Hokkaido; busy parks due to autumn sightseers.
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in November , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in November
• Pros: Start of Japan's ski season with favorable conditions in Hokkaido; beautiful illumination festivals and Christmas markets ; feasible outdoor sightseeing; common clear, sunny days in Tokyo and Osaka.
• Cons: Return of cold weather across Japan; many ski resorts in Honshu may not have sufficient snow to open early in the season.
• Read More: Best Things to Do in Tokyo in December , What to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in December , What's Christmas Like in Japan? , What to Do During New Year’s and New Year's Eve

Japan has four seasons . Each begets a new set of activities, so you should first consider your objectives, then choose when to go. For example, if you want an outdoor adventure, such as hiking , then the cooler weather of spring and autumn is ideal. If beaches are your thing, then late June and August are perfect! If a ski holiday is on your mind, you should pack your bags for January, February, and March. Plan your activities first, then use this guide to find the season that will suit your needs best!

Visiting Japan in spring

Spring weather in Japan Spring brings serene, warm days and cool nights, with common but quickly clearing rain. Low humidity makes outdoor activities enjoyable. In April, Tokyo sees highs around 19°C (66°F) and lows around 10°C (51°F), while cooler Sapporo averages highs of 11°C (53°F) and lows of 3°C (37°F). End of March – Mid-April: Cherry Blossom Season High crowds. The cherry blossom (sakura) season is a spectacular but extremely busy time of year. The beauty of the blossoms draws large crowds, making major tourist sites very crowded. Accommodations, especially in Kyoto, often need to be booked 6 to 8 months in advance. End of April – Around May 10: Golden Week (Japanese Holidays) High crowds. Golden Week is a peak travel period in Japan, as there are few public holidays and many people travel simultaneously. Expect high accommodation rates, with bookings required months ahead, and heavy congestion at popular sights and on transportation networks. After May 10 – End of June: Green Season /Early Summer Low crowds. This off- season period marks a transition from the unpredictable weather of early spring to a pleasant early summer , ideal for enjoying a variety of blooming flowers. Tourist sites are quieter, and accommodation prices are more attractive due to the lack of major holidays. Although occasional early summer rains occur, they are generally mild.

• In terms of clothes, bring both light clothes, along with a few jackets, sweaters and pants.
• Be prepared for crowds, even before peak cherry blossom bloom, and try to get most of your sightseeing finished before rush hour, starting at around 6 PM.
• Hotels in Kyoto get booked out as far as 6-8 months ahead. Reserve your accommodations as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
• If you’re allergic to pollen , spring may be a bad time to come to Japan.

Bottom Line In terms of weather, spring is one of the best times to visit Japan. However, choosing another season is recommended for those wanting to avoid crowds.

• Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast: When & Where To See Sakura in Japan
• Tokyo Sightseeing Done Right: What to Wear in Spring

Visiting Japan in summer

Summer weather in Japan Summer in Japan, particularly during the rainy season in June and July, is often unpopular due to high humidity. Rainfall, though not significantly more than in spring , is heavy. August brings sunny and hot weather, with Tokyo averaging highs of 31°C (88°F) and lows of 24°C (75°F), while Hokkaido enjoys milder temperatures of around 26°C (80°F) on average. July – Mid-August: Summer Season Moderate crowds. Japan's summer is hot and humid but is punctuated by vibrant festivals, which are free to attend, and lively beach resorts and beer garden activities. Early to mid-July might still see some summer rains, but they are generally sporadic. Mid-August / Obon Week High crowds. This period is akin to Golden Week in terms of busyness, with widespread travel across the country. Due to the heavy congestion, it's advisable to avoid traveling during this time. End of August – End of October Low crowds. Post- summer , when everyone returns to work or school, is an excellent time for off- season visits. The weather is warm, around 30°C (86°F), but less humid, making it more comfortable. Typhoons can occur but are typically short-lived, and indoor alternatives like museums and spas provide excellent rainy-day options.

• You'll need plenty of light, breezy clothes to endure the heat.
• If you’re planning on mountain climbing or visiting Hokkaido, then pack some jackets and pants.
• The humidity will make you sweat a lot, so bringing or buying deodorant is also recommended.
• The summer sun is very glary, especially on concrete streets, so decent sunglasses are necessary.
• Buy a cheap plastic umbrella at a convenience store if you’re out on a rainy day.
• Lastly, be careful of crowds at events, especially fireworks shows . Some of the larger ones will overburden trains for hours, and you may get stuck somewhere.

Bottom Line Despite its reputation, summer is a great season to spend in Japan. Through the huge array of local festivals, it is arguably when the roots of traditional Japan are felt most strongly. For those sensitive to humidity, perhaps wait for another time.

• Complete Guide to Surviving Japan's Rainy Season
• 18 Things to Know About Visiting Japan in Summer

Visiting Japan in autumn

Autumn weather in Japan Autumn brings variable weather, requiring both summer attire and jackets. By October, cities like Sapporo and Sendai become chilly, with lows around 7-11°C (45-52°F), while Tokyo maintains a warmer climate, with highs around 22°C (72°F). Beware of typhoons, especially in September, which can disrupt travel and daily activities. November / Fall High crowds. Autumn is a prime time for tourism, driven by the stunning momiji ( autumn leaves), which begin turning in mid-November. This season is very popular, often requiring accommodations to be booked months in advance, and it features cooler, rainier weather.

• To beat the crowds, avoid foliage hotspots on weekends and public holidays. Aim to visit mid-week instead.
• If a typhoon is predicted to hit your area, ensure you have accommodation and supplies for that period, and refrain from venturing outside. Keep an eye on the news for landslides or flood warnings, and ask your accommodation staff for information on evacuation points if the weather worsens significantly.

Bottom line If you can successfully navigate around typhoons, you'll be rewarded with amazing scenery, fantastic weather, and quiet tourist attractions. Autumn is a strong contender for the best time to visit Japan.

• Autumn in Japan: Autumn Leaves & Fall Foliage Forecast
• Visiting Tokyo in Autumn: Travel & Weather Guide

Visiting Japan in winter

Winter weather in Japan In January, temperatures drop to around 5°C (41°F) in southern Japan and 1°C (34°F) in Tokyo. Skiing destinations like Niigata and Nagano often see temperatures below freezing, while Sapporo experiences lows around -8°C (18°F). Snowfall is minimal in Tokyo and Osaka but common in regions near the Sea of Japan and in Tohoku, with Yamagata receiving up to 11 meters of snow. December (Until around Christmas) Low crowds. The early winter off- season period offers some of the clearest days, ideal for outdoor activities and viewing autumn leaves or Mt. Fuji. Hotel rates are more reasonable, and there's better availability compared to the peak seasons . December 20 – January 5th: Year-end Holiday Season High crowds. Travel during the year-end holiday season is not recommended due to the influx of both international and domestic travelers and widespread closures of tourist facilities. Accommodations are often fully booked far in advance due to the holiday demand.

• If you're planning on enjoying cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, or Hiroshima, simple winter clothing, such as sweaters, jackets, and scarves will suffice.
• However, if you're heading to ski resorts, mountains, or snowy regions, specialized snow boots, puffer jackets, raincoats, and other winter protections are a necessity to survive the harsh conditions.
• Train delays are common during heavy snowfall, along with heavy traffic on the road. Be prepared for your trip to be affected.
• Be wary of New Years, known as oshogatsu , which is a public holiday week. While it is common for most Japanese to stay home, shops, restaurants, ski resorts, and other attractions are usually busy, and some may decide to close. Be sure to double-check the places on your itinerary before you go!

Bottom line While winter is not for everyone, most major cities enjoy mild and consistent weather. However, some prefectures are prone to harsh conditions, and care should be taken before traveling. Crowds will be thin and most attractions quiet outside New Years and public holidays. For skiers, there's no better time!

• Complete Guide To Visiting Japan In Winter: Weather, What To See & Do
• Complete Guide to Skiing in Japan: Best Time and Where to Go
• Fun Things to Do in Winter: 12 Best Destinations to Enjoy Winter in Japan

• As seen in the above chart, August to December is low on international tourists, with the quietest month being September. For those looking to beat the crowds, this is the best time!
• January and February are also scarce on European and North American travelers; however, mostly due to the Chinese New Year and summer holidays, thousands of additional tourists will flock from Asia and Oceania, making it not as ideal.
• To avoid crowds of local travelers, stay clear of these three periods.
• March: Very busy due to the good weather and cherry blossoms.
• Late April/early May: The week-long holiday of Golden Week occurs.
• Mid-August: The most popular time for Japanese to travel due to the Obon holiday period.

Airfares to Japan often decrease from September as tourist numbers dwindle and flight prices adjust. Depending on your travel dates, you could find flights for less than US$1,000! For accommodation, winter , excluding ski resorts, is typically the least expensive period. Many hotels offer off-peak specials, including weekday discounts. However, note that hotel rates often increase during public holidays, so check the calendar to prevent unexpected costs.

Following are Japan's national holidays . Particularly around the row of holidays in May (known as Golden Week ), you can expect sightseeing areas, attractions, and major cities to be more crowded. If you plan on traveling around these dates, be sure to make hotel , train, and activity reservations in advance to avoid inconvenience. You may also wish to consider booking tables at popular restaurants as well.

• January 1 - New Year
• January 2-3 New Year (Obs.)
• February 12 - National Foundation Day (Obs.)
• February 23 - Emperor's Birthday
• March 20 - Spring Equinox
• April 29 - Showa Day
• May 3 - Constitution Memorial Day
• May 4 - Greenery Day
• May 6 - Children's Day (Obs.)
• June 15 - Sea Day
• August 12 - Mountain Day (Obs.)
• September 16 - Respect for the Aged Day
• September 23 - Autumn Equinox
• October 14 - Sports Day
• November 4 - Culture Day (Obs.)
• November 23 - Labor Thanksgiving Day
• February 14 - Valentine's Day: Not a national holiday but celebrated in Japan, women present chocolates to men, including male colleagues, on Valentine's Day.
• March 3 - Doll's Festival ( Hina Matsuri ): Families with girls observe this day for their happiness and success, displaying special hina dolls at home and participating in community events.
• March 14 - White Day: This day mirrors Valentine's Day, with men giving chocolates or sweets to women.
• July/August 7 - Star Festival ( Tanabata ): This festival period, rather than a national holiday, commemorates the meeting of deities Orihime and Hikoboshi. Notable celebrations occur in Hiratsuka in July and Sendai in August.
• Mid-August - Obon: From around August 13-15, this Buddhist event honors ancestral spirits and is a period for family reunions.
• November 15 - Seven-Five-Three Day ( Shichi-Go-San ): This day marks a traditional rite of passage where families visit shrines and temples to pray for their children's well-being and growth, according to customs established over 800 years ago.
• December 25 - Christmas: While not a national holiday in Japan, it brings festive decorations and intimate celebrations, often involving a chicken dinner with loved ones or seeing Christmas illuminations .
• December 31 - New Year's Eve ( Omisoka ): Despite not being a national holiday, many businesses close early in preparation for New Year celebrations.

With Japan’s four distinct seasons and subtle climate changes, travelers often question what clothes to pack. But bringing extra clothes “just in case” can make for one crammed suitcase!

‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ is an innovative service that allows you to rent stylish clothes for all seasons and most sizes, making travel in Japan lighter and more eco-friendly. By using surplus and used garments, this service not only reduces luggage weight but also cuts down on carbon emissions in partnership with Japan Airlines. Enjoy exploring Japan with a lighter load and a clear conscience!

Using ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ is easy. Simply access the official website from your PC or smartphone and reserve your wardrobe before traveling to Japan.

When you arrive in Japan, simply pick up your stylish rental clothes at your hotel . After use, return the clothes to your hotel without the need for cleaning.

Clothing sizes range from S to XL, in a total of 36 patterns. Clients can choose from a combination of styles (for men or women), season ( spring / autumn , summer / winter ), usage scenario (casual, smart casual, or a mix of both), and number of clothing items included in the set (basic or variety pack). The basic set includes three tops and two bottoms, while the variety set includes five tops and three bottoms, with the option of adding outerwear as needed.

Take a look at these examples of seasonal garments for rent

Next, let’s look at some of the menswear and womenswear rental clothes in three different seasonal styles: spring / autumn , summer , and winter !

First up is clothing for spring and autumn . In Japan, spring and autumn are both mild with daytime temperatures of around 20°C (68°F). However, it often gets chilly during the evenings and overnight, and there’ll occasionally be an uncharacteristically hot or cold day, making clothing selection particularly tricky at these times of year. ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ boasts a line-up of shirts and T-shirts that can be easily layered to cope with temperature differences.

Summer in Japan is hot, humid, and sunny. If you reserve rental clothes during your summer travels, you’ll receive light and airy items such as T-shirts and sleeveless tops to help you stay comfortable while sightseeing under the hot summer sun. Heavy rainstorms and typhoons can be expected between July and September, so short-length pants can alleviate any worries about wet legs and feet in the event of sudden showers.

Warm clothes are essential for winter in Japan. It can get so cold that the temperature drops below freezing in some areas! The ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ winter line-up also includes down jackets and other outerwear to protect against the cold. Winter jackets are bulky and take up luggage space, so renting one at your destination makes life so much easier. Popular rental clothing items to wear underneath your jacket include sweaters, long-sleeved tops, and other clothes that’ll help you stay warm. *All accessories belong to the stylist.

No matter when you visit Japan, you'll have a good time! Japan is a country that celebrates each season accordingly, making for year-round fun! However, if you have a specific activity or interest, choosing the best time to visit Japan for you is extremely important. Balancing this with crowds and costs will also help you get the most out of your Japan trip. By reading this guide, you'll have all the information you need to enjoy Japan's wonders to their fullest extent!

• Category Other Sightseeing
• How To: Sightseeing

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Best time to visit Japan

The best time to visit Japan is between March and May and between September and November as it's both warm and dry between these periods.  However, the joys of springtime and the iconic blooming of the cherry blossoms in Japan are no secret, which means you'll be sharing the space with plenty of other travelers. Depending on what you want to see, how many people you want to share it with, and your tolerance for rain, we’ve prepared a month-by-month breakdown to weigh up the best time and places to travel in Japan.

Southern Japan benefits from less tourism than the north and central regions of the country, which means that even if you travel in the traditional tourist 'high season' of spring and summer, you’ll find it quieter than the hotspots. The months of April and October offer warm weather without the excessive rain that hits the south hard in summer. If you plan on hiking through the deep south of Yakushima, keep in mind this rugged island is colder than the rest of the region. The forests of Yakushima are beautiful year-round, but trekkers should plan on layering up from November to April, as this island outpost stays chilly for much of winter and spring.

Tokyo is an attractive destination throughout the year, with mild temperatures (outside the depths of winter), though June and September can bring high rainfall. April offers a sweet spot that combines average temperatures of 57°F, less rain than the summer, and a respite from the crowds that descend on the city in May. Of course, as the most populated city in the world, Tokyo is always fairly crowded. The summer months of June, July, and August may be busy, but they also offer an abundance of festivals and revelry to indulge in, so don't write them off automatically.

Kyoto has a long summer, with temperatures warming up in May and staying hot through September. As with Tokyo, summer and late spring are the busiest tourist times. If you want to beat the bulk of the crowds, the best time to visit Kyoto is between October and March. That being said, the dead of winter can be a little, well, dead. October is still jeans and a light jacket weather, though, with fewer crowds and less rainfall, making it a good choice.

Cherry blossom season is a spectacular, albeit very crowded time to visit Japan. These blush-colored flowers begin emerging in spring, with a slightly earlier bloom time in the south than in the central and northern regions. Nagasaki and  Hiroshima , for example, sometimes see a full bloom emerge by the first week of April, while Tokyo sees its peak in the middle of the month. By mid-May, most flowers have usually opened, even in northern cities like Sapporo. There are no set dates for the season since the blooms rely on environmental factors, but there are many websites dedicated to keeping you updated on the status of the beloved trees. The Japan Meteorological Corporation starts providing bloom maps and forecasts beginning in January every year. If you’d like to maximize your chances of experiencing cherry blossom season in Japan, you should plan your visit for between the middle of March and the middle of April.

Best for: shredding the powder in Hokkaido

If the term "Japanuary" is in your vernacular, you're probably familiar with the epic amounts of powder that make Japan's northern island of Hokkaido a ski and snowboard paradise. Every winter, cold Siberian winds carry snow across the Sea of Japan delivering perfectly fluffy, deep, something-to-write-home-about snow. Japan has tons of ski resorts, and once you see powder like this, your first Japanuary pilgrimage definitely won't be your last. Save us a spot on the lift!

Best for: unwinding in an onsen

Whether you plan on spending your trip skiing or sightseeing, a  relaxing soak in an onsen  is a quintessential winter activity in Japan. Onsens, or mineral-rich hot springs, can be particularly relaxing in the winter. Japan has tons of onsen destinations, like Hakone; a must-visit mountain town nestled in the foothills of Mt. Fuji, where you can unwind in your bath while snow falls softly around you. If you plan on staying in a  traditional ryokan , many properties aren't equipped with proper heating, so the accommodations can be quite cold, but they make up for it with invitingly steamy baths.

Best for: day tripping on the shinkansen

March is a great time to hop on a shinkansen, or bullet train, and take some day  trips from Tokyo , especially if you're too early for cherry blossom season. In Japan,  bullet trains  have developed a bit of celebrity status for their ultra-fast speeds, efficiency, and reliability. From Tokyo, you can safely get to Kyoto or Osaka in just under three hours, or to Hiroshima in four. Temperatures in April are mild, hovering around 57°F, making sightseeing a pleasant experience.

Best for: cherry blossom parties

The best time to visit Japan to see sakura, or cherry blossoms, explode into fluffy pink blooms is in April. The Japanese custom of hanami, or flower viewing, is a magical time for both locals and visitors to come together and celebrate the beautiful blooms' short lifespan. You can participate in various hanami parties in parks across Japan; they're usually informal picnic gatherings of family and friends, but keep in mind that parks in larger cities like Yoyogi Park, Ueno Park, and Inokashira Park in Tokyo are very popular and may require some planning and finesse to find a spot.

Larger sakura events like the Meguro River Sakura Festival and the Ueno Sakura Festival take place in early to mid-April in Tokyo, while the cooler northern regions see festivals like the Hirosaki Castle Park Festival happening in late April to early May. While Hanami is certainly a must-see in Japan, expect delays on public transit and higher-than-average hotel prices during this celebratory time.

Best for: whirlwind Golden Week festivities

The first week of May in Japan is known as Golden Week, a collection of four national holidays (Shōwa Day, Constitution Day, Greenery Day and Children's Day) that has locals taking advantage of spring weather with some time off of work and school. During Golden Week you can expect free entry to many museums, parks, and attractions, as well as some authentic traditional celebrations, like the flying of koinobori, or carp kites, on Children's Day. While traveling during this period is sure to be exciting, it can also be crowded, costly, and hectic (albeit memorable) so you might want to consider a trip toward the end of the month. Plus, if you thought cherry blossoms were the only famous florals in Japan, think again! In the springtime, Japan's gardens are bursting. Plan a visit to the Ashikaga Flower Park (just over an hour outside Tokyo) to see jaw-dropping hundred-year-old wisteria trees in full bloom that get illuminated at night.

Best for: indoor activities, tea ceremonies and sake tasting

In Japan, June is the first (and wettest) month of the rainy season, and is known as minazuki, "the month of water". While you shouldn't expect a heavy daily deluge of rain in southern cities like Tokyo or  Kyoto , you should definitely be prepared to plan some indoor activities like going museum hopping, partaking in a traditional tea ceremony or just seeking refuge in a bar with a glass of  whiskey or sake  to warm your bones.

Best for: phone-background-worthy beach vacations

With humid weather in the cities, July is a great time to take a short flight (or ferry ride) to one of Japan's surrounding islands. By July, the rains have slowed down, and while you might not think of a beach vacation when you think of Japan, summertime visitors will be treated to tons of options for sunbathing, snorkeling, and swimming. Japan is an island nation, after all! The Okinawa Prefecture is home to over 100 white sand beaches, and with turquoise waters and a tropical climate for more than half the year, you'll feel like you're living inside of a screensaver. If you'd rather stay on the mainland, the Kamakura beaches are just over an hour from Tokyo and feature some killer views of Mt. Fuji.

Best for: treating the kiddos to a cultural experience

August is a great time to  visit Japan with kids  due to the number of Natsu Matsuri (summer festivals) and cultural events happening during this time. Treat your littlest explorers to the sights, sounds, and tastes of Japan at one of its famous dance festivals! At the Awa Odori Festival in Tokushima or the Hanagasa Festival in Yamagata, large groups of choreographed dancers parade through the streets in vibrant traditional dress. If you're visiting in the middle of August, you might witness locals celebrating Obon (a Buddhist event honoring the annual return of ancestors' spirits) with offerings of food, dance, and glittering floating lanterns. In cities like Tokyo, Nagaoka City, and Aomori, you can expect epic fireworks displays all month long.

Best for: exercising mind, body, and appetite in dreamy weather

The end of summer in Japan brings pleasantly perfect temperatures and fewer crowds, which is a perfect time to squeeze in a physical and cultural workout. With such a diverse landscape, you can  hike, bike and kayak  your way through the country; exercising your mind in dazzling Tokyo, your body on the famous Shimanami Kaido cycle route, and your appetite with delicious ramen in Onomichi. Temperatures typically hover around 75°F, and although September falls into Japan's typhoon season, your travel plans are unlikely to be affected as typhoons rarely make landfall.

Best for: Feasting on the bounties of harvest season.

The onset of autumn brings the harvest season in Japan, which is the perfect time to  join a food tour . As you travel from Tokyo to  Osaka  you might catch a glimpse of farmers harvesting rice, persimmons, chestnuts and Japanese pears, and many farms allow you to get in on the action by picking your own produce! The Takayama region, well-known for sake breweries and Hida-gyu (Hida wagyu beef), is home to Japan's third largest festival, the Takayama Autumn Festival. Every year, thousands gather to celebrate the good harvest with dances, marionettes and a parade with intricately decorated floats. Try some of Takayama's regional delicacies like mitarashi dango (rice dumplings roasted in soy sauce), houba miso (miso vegetables cooked in magnolia leaf) and chuka soba (a local ramen dish).

Best for: filling the scrapbook with nature photos.

November in Japan welcomes robust foliage across the country, giving already impressive  landmarks  a lively red, orange and gold backdrop. Japanese people use the word koyo to describe the transition of the leaves from green to orange to red and momiji to describe the deep red hues of maple leaves in fall. The word momijigari refers to the hunt for autumn leaves, which can be particularly spectacular at the Osaka Castle in Osaka, the Bishamon-do Temple in Kyoto, and the Momijidani Garden in Wakayama. Whether you're a novice photog or an expert shutterbug, extra memory cards are a must; the clear, cold air at the end of November increases the odds of sacred, snow-capped Mt. Fuji making a rare appearance.

Best for: a non-traditional and memorable holiday season

Welcome to Japan's sparkling silver season! Throughout December, cities will be aglow with illuminations to celebrate the festive holiday season, and in the northern parts of the country, you might even get some snow to complete your winter wonderland. Although not a traditional Japanese holiday, Christmas has become popular over the years with locals celebrating with a dinner at, believe it or not, KFC! If you feel like mixing up your holiday traditions, do as the locals do and grab a Kentucky fried dinner and marvel at the impressive lights displays. It will definitely be a holiday season to remember.

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WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT JAPAN | BEST SEASON TO TRAVEL TO JAPAN

“When is the best time to go to Japan?” I get this question at least once a week. I used to answer with a bunch of information about my favorite festivals , food , seasonal flowers , and so on. But now, I counteract it with this question: “What interests you about Japanese culture?” No matter when or where you go , you’ll have more than enough options for things to see and do. Here, we’ve broken down the best things about Japan by season and month to help you start planning your trip!

SPRING IN JAPAN

Japan’s spring season lasts from mid-March to early May, depending on where you visit. Most parts experience fluctuating temperatures with chilly mornings and evenings and warm afternoons. Average temperatures in Tokyo range between 40°F to 79°F (4°C to 23°C). Check your destinations’ weather reports before you pack and bring multiple layers.

Things to Do in Japan in March

Plum Blossoms

AnimeJapan Convention

Fire and Light Festivals in Kansai

Things to do in japan in april.

Takayama Sanno Spring Festival

Wisteria Bloom

Things to do in japan in may.

Mount Fuji Shibazakura Festival

Kyoto Aoi Matsuri

Baby Blue Eyes Festival

Ibaraki Prefecture’s newest claim to fame is the Baby Blue Eyes flower display in Hitachi Seaside Park. From mid-April to early May, 4.5 million flowers bloom on Miharashi no Oka Hill. Around the same time, you can also see thousands of tulips and some late-blooming cherry blossom trees. Average Temperatures in Tokyo in May High: 23°C/73°F Low: 15°C/59°F Click Here for More About May

VIEW JAPAN SPRING TOURS FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

Summer in japan.

There’s no getting around it. Many regions of Japan have subtropical climates, and they can get quite hot and humid. In Tokyo, the lowest average temperature in June is 66°F (19°C), and the highest in August is 88°F (31°C). That might not sound terrible to some, but take into account that the humidity level can reach 83%!

Things to Do in Japan in June

Yosakoi Soran Bushi in Sapporo

Hydrangea in Hakone

Things to do in japan in july.

Lavender Fields in Furano and Biei

Kyoto Gion Matsuri

Wear a Yukata

Things to do in japan in august.

Awa Odori Festival in Tokushima City

Attend Tohoku’s Three Great Festivals

Around the same time in August, three of Japan’s biggest festivals take place in the Tohoku region. Aomori City holds the Nebuta Festival , where teams pull massive paper floats through the streets. During the Kanto Festival in Akita, performers balance several-meter-high poles with dangling lanterns on different parts of their bodies. You can also celebrate Tanabata in Sendai , where paper decorations and streamers cover every inch of the downtown area. Average Temperatures in Tokyo in August High: 31°C/88°F Low: 24°C/75°F Click Here for More About August

VIEW JAPAN SUMMER TOURS FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

Autumn in japan.

Depending on where you go, you’ll start to feel the autumn chill at some time between September and early December. The temperate weather and fall foliage brings in almost as many visitors as cherry blossoms but is a little less overwhelming. The leaves’ brilliant colors stay around for about a month, which helps stagger the influx of crowds. Pack long sleeves and plenty of layers if you intend on racing around Japan’s rural areas.

Things to Do in Japan in September

Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri

Tokyo’s Sumo Tournament

Things to do in japan in october.

Takayama Hachiman Autumn Festival

Ride the Shimanami Kaido

Things to do in japan in november.

Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival

Shichi Go San

Though it isn’t an official holiday, it’s undoubtedly the cutest! In Japanese culture, seven, five, and three are lucky ages. Boys aged three and five and girls aged three and seven wear kimonos and receive blessings at shrines. This event takes place on the weekend closest to November 15th. Average Temperatures in Tokyo in November High: 17°C/63°F Low: 9°C/48°F Click Here for More About November

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Winter in japan.

If you’ve ever been traipsing about in Tokyo in midsummer , it might be hard to believe that it can get cold in Japan! Depending on how far north or south you are, winter in Japan is from December to mid-March with average temperatures swinging between 35°F and 53°F (2°C and 12°C) in Tokyo. Bring warm clothes no matter where you go, and consider packing snow boots if you’re headed north.

Things to Do in Japan in December

Winter Illuminations

Chichibu Yomatsuri

Celebrate the New Year

Things to do in japan in january.

Snow Monkeys at Yudanaka Onsen

Gassho Houses in Shirakawa-go and Gokayama

Things to do in japan in february.

Sapporo Snow Festival

Otaru Snow Light Path Festival

Kawazu Cherry Blossoms

Believe it or not, you can see cherry blossoms in winter! Kawazu is a small town near Tokyo where an unusual breed of sakura grows. These trees bloom earlier and at a slower rate than most cherry trees. The height of the festival usually happens around the last week of February and the first week of March. Average Temperatures in Tokyo in February High: 10°C/50°F Low: 2°C/35°F Click Here for More About February

VIEW JAPAN WINTER TOURS FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

When is the worst time to go to japan.

Golden Week

Lunar New Year

For China and other Eastern countries, the period before, after, and during the Lunar New Year is a peak period for travel. The annual dates generally fall in January or February. Not everyone goes to Japan, but it is a desirable destination because of its proximity. You can join in the fun in Yokohama , Nagasaki, and Kobe’s Chinatowns. Got a good idea of when you want to go to Japan?

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When to travel

The tables below list average daytime high and nighttime low temperatures and average percentages of sunny and rainy days for selected cities. A rainy day is defined as a day on which at least 1 mm of rain falls, while a sunny day is a day on which the sun shines at least 40% of the daytime.

(Source: Japan Meteorological Agency )

New Year is one of Japan's three major travel seasons with intensive domestic and international travel activity. Many shops, restaurants and attractions are closed for at least one day between December 29 and January 4. Read more about visiting Japan during New Year .

The remainder of January is a good time for visiting Japan, as the weather is usually sunny and dry and sightseeing spots are not very crowded (except possibly around Chinese New Year). Only in northern Japan and along the Sea of Japan coast, there is lots of snowfall , and conditions are good for winter sports . The downside of a visit in winter are the relatively short days (sunset is around 5pm in Tokyo) and the vegetation's barren state.

Like January, February is a good time for visiting Japan as the weather is usually sunny and dry and sightseeing spots are not very crowded (except possibly around Chinese New Year). The downside of a visit in winter are the relatively short days (sunset is around 5:30pm in Tokyo) and the vegetation's barren state.

Northern Japan and the Sea of Japan coast receive lots of snowfall . At the peak of winter, February tends to be the best time for winter sports and viewing winter sceneries, such as the drift ice off Hokkaido and the snow-covered farm houses of Shirakawago .

Early flowering plants and trees, such as plum trees , deliver the first signs of spring, while the weather is getting noticeably milder. Towards the end of March the cherry blossom season starts in certain regions, while in northern Japan conditions are still good for winter sports . Domestic travel activity increases in the second half of March due to spring school holidays.

Besides autumn, April is often considered the best time to visit Japan because the cherry blossom are in bloom and the weather is pleasantly mild. Domestic travel activity is increased in early April due to spring school holidays, in late April due to the start of the Golden Week and during most of the rest of the month due the cherry blossom season.

Golden Week , one of Japan's busiest travel seasons, takes place in the end of April and beginning of May and can be the cause of various travel-related concerns.

However, the remainder of May is one of the best times for visiting Japan, as the vegetation has become lush, the temperatures are still comfortable and tourists spots tend to be relatively uncrowded. In Hokkaido , the progress of spring is delayed by about one month compared to Tokyo . At the other end of the country, in Okinawa , the rainy season (tsuyu) typically lasts from early May to mid June.

From the beginning of June, the rainy season (tsuyu) visits most parts of Japan except Hokkaido . While it does not rain every day, the weather tends to be overcast and dreary. The duration and intensity of the rainy season can vary quite strongly from year to year.

Hot spring resorts like Hakone and the wooded temple mountain Koyasan are some places that can be quite attractive in rainy weather. Hokkaido is an attractive destination in June as it is least affected by the rainy season. Also, the weather in Okinawa takes a dramatic turn to the better after the end of the rainy season there in late June.

The rainy season (tsuyu) typically ends in the first half of July. It is hot and humid in most of Japan, and just standing outdoors can make you sweat. The conditions are more comfortable in higher elevations and in Hokkaido , a highly popular destination among outdoor lovers during the summer months.

Many local festivals and fireworks are held. Mount Fuji is opened for climbing . Cormorant fishing can be observed. It is also a very good time of the year for beach holidays in Okinawa . With the summer school holidays from late July through August, domestic travel activity increases considerably.

August is hot and humid in most of Japan. The conditions are more comfortable in higher elevations and in Hokkaido , a highly popular destination among outdoor lovers during the summer months. Many local festivals and fireworks are held in August. Travel activity is high during the entire month due to summer school holidays, but it is especially intensive during the Obon week in mid August.

The typhoon season reaches its peak in August and September. Typhoons usually hit the coasts of Okinawa , Kyushu and Shikoku and cause strong rain and wind in wide parts or all of Japan for about two days. Luckily, typhoons are often followed by very good weather. The weather in September can still be hot and humid, but tourist spots have become less crowded.

October is one of the most pleasant months for traveling in Japan as the weather remains warm, but is not hot and humid anymore. Trees begin turning colors in the northern regions and higher elevations.

November is one of the best times to visit Japan, as the weather is relatively dry and mild, and the autumn colors are spectacular in many parts of the country. Travel activity tends to be low except around popular autumn leaf spots .

December is a good month for traveling thanks to generally dry weather conditions. Domestic travel activity remains low during the first half of December until the beginning of winter school holidays towards the end of the month. The downsides of a visit in winter are the relatively short days (sunset is around 4:30pm in Tokyo) and the barren state of the vegetation. From around December 29 some tourist attractions close down for the New Year holidays . The ski season gets fully underway in December.

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When is the best time to visit Japan?

• Month-by-month

The best time to visit Japan is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). This is when Japan is at its most vibrant, with delicate cherry blossom or bright red leaves adding contrast to the scenery. Remember, it can also be very crowded at this time.

The summer months (June to August) offer ideal conditions for hikers and lovers of the outdoors, but only in the mountains of the Japanese Alps and Hokkaido’s wild national parks. Elsewhere, the weather is hot and humid. Rainy season occurs from the end of May until the middle of June or July.

For a very different experience, head to the north of Japan in winter (December to February). It’s snowy, but the people brighten the dark days with a variety of festivals and events.

It’s a good idea to take Japan’s national holidays into account, too. Shogatsu (Japanese New Year), Obon (in mid-August or mid-July, depending on the area), and the Golden Week (between April 29 and May 5) are busy times for residents.

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Month-by-month guide for travelling in Japan

Visiting Japan in January

The weather is usually cool, dry and sunny during January and sites are much less crowded than later in the year. In northern Japan there is heavy snowfall making conditions good for skiing.

Visiting Japan in February

February is the peak of the ski season in northern Japan. Across the country days are generally cool, dry and sunny and many attractions are less busy than at other times of the year.

Events & Festivals

• For one week in early February, Sapporo is overrun with enormous ice and snow sculptures, built in the central Odori Park as part of the Sapporo Snow Festival.

Visiting Japan in March

The weather starts to get milder in March and blossom on the plum trees marks the beginning of spring. Toward the end of March the cherry blossom begins to emerge in the south of the country, which is celebrated by the Japanese with picnics in local parks. As this season is a popular time to visit Japan, the country gets very busy toward the end of the month.

• The cherry blossom spreads north through mainland Japan.

Visiting Japan in April

This is the peak viewing time for the cherry blossom as the trees start to bloom further north. The blossom during this time is beautiful and provides a magical experience, but if you travel during this time you have to expect everywhere to be very busy, and hotel rates escalate too.

• Known as one of Japan’s top three most beautiful festivals, the Takayama Matsuri is held in the old town of Takayama where floats and shrines are paraded through the streets.

Visiting Japan in May

The weather in May is pleasantly warm and usually dry, and the vegetation is green and vibrant. Cherry blossom only reaches the northern parts of Hokkaido by this month, while in Okinawa , May is the rainy season. The first week of May is Golden Week, a national holiday and one of the busiest weeks of the year for domestic travellers.

• Asakusa in Tokyo is the centre for the Sanja Matsuri, held on the third full weekend in May. Colourful floats and shrines, accompanied by musicians and dancers in traditional Edo period costumes parade between Sensoji Temple and Asakusa Shrine.

Visiting Japan in June

This time of year is hot and humid and there is typically rain in most parts of Japan. This means that the trees and plants are at their most vibrant, and Japan’s gardens are particularly beautiful.

Visiting Japan in July

There are numerous festivals held all over Japan in July, making it a lively time to visit. The rainy season generally ends across most of Japan by the end of the first half of the month, but the humidity continues. July is also one of the best months to climb Mount Fuji , a hike which is only possible during the more favourable conditions of the warmer months. This is the peak season for domestic tourism and also sees the highest levels of rain and threat of high winds in Okinawa.

• Japan’s most famous festival, the Kyoto Matsuri, is held in Kyoto and dates back to the 9th century when it began as a religious ceremony to appease the gods. Enormous floats are marched through the streets throughout the month, although they are most impressive on July 17th.
• In the 7th lunar month, as part of the Obon Festival to honour the dead, the Awa Odori is held in Tokushima on Shikoku Island. Musicians and dancers flood the streets in vibrant costumes.

Visiting Japan in August

Festivals continue across Japan during August and this is a busy domestic travel period as it is the school holidays. The weather is generally hot and humid across the country, with Hokkaido  being cooler and more comfortable.

Visiting Japan in September

The domestic crowds associated with August have usually dissipated by September and skies are often clear and blue, although the weather can still be hot and humid. In late September the leaves start to change colour in Hokkaido , a process which makes its way south over the next few weeks. Toward the end of September there is a five-day national holiday known as Silver Week, during which prices increase dramatically as the Japanese travel about the country. Silver Week only occurs every few years.

Visiting Japan in October

This is the start of the autumn season for mainland Japan and brings striking red and gold hues to the landscape. The weather begins to cool down from the heat of the summer, making October a pleasant time to visit.

Visiting Japan in November

This is the peak time to see the colourful leaves in mainland Japan. Travelling around tends to be much quieter during this month, and the weather is pleasantly cool and mild.

Visiting Japan in December

The weather is cool and typically dry in December, and the country isn’t busy for the first couple of weeks which makes it a good time to visit if you don’t mind the chilly temperatures. Ryokan properties don’t tend to have much in the way of heating so staying here can be cold. However, outdoor onsens can be really special experiences during the winter months, particularly in the north of Japan where you can be bathing in natural thermal hot springs yet surrounded by snow. Toward the end of December it gets busier as the school holidays start, and some attractions close in the run-up to the New Year.

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35 Expert Tips for Visiting Japan (Dos and Don’ts!)

Home » Blog » Japan » 35 Expert Tips for Visiting Japan (Dos and Don’ts!)

In this article we’re covering essential tips for visiting Japan, plus helpful advice we learned from personal experience that’ll ensure you enjoy your time in the Land of the Rising Sun even more!

Before you hop on that flight to Japan, there are some things you should know. 

This country has a complex culture, and there are definitely some manners and “norms” you should be aware of. There are also some Japan-isms that will leave you scratching your head… like, what are all those buttons for on Japanese toilets anyway?!

Don’t worry, we’ll give you the scoop! We’ve traveled to Japan three times now (and counting!) and have picked up some pretty good travel tips along the way. In this article we’re going over the essential tips for visiting Japan you should know before you go. 

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This  FREE   PDF download  includes  everything  you’re going to want to pack for your Japan trip, including what NOT to bring, plus tons of insider tips!

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1. Don’t worry too much about the language barrier

One of the things we get the most questions on is the language barrier in Japan. And after reading guide books and articles online, it can seem like traveling in Japan without speaking Japanese is impossible. But that’s far from the truth.

Honestly, we didn’t feel like the language barrier was too bad. (That said, we’ve spent a cumulative 3+ years living in and traveling through Asia, so we are used to language barriers.)

It is always respectful and recommended that you learn a few helpful words or phrases in the country you’re visiting, but we want to point out that it is possible to have a fantastic trip to Japan without having mastered the language.

This should put you at ease:

• In the event that you have a question, go to the JR counter and speak to an employee. They should have a translation device, which will help in the event that they aren’t confident with their English skills.
• Oftentimes restaurants have English menus (some even have pictures!)
• Hotel staff usually speak a bit of English
• At most restaurants there is at least one staff member who will be able to communicate with English speakers
• Oh, and the Google Translate app is literally the BEST THING EVER. Read about more apps we recommend downloading for your trip to Japan !
• Japanese people, in general, are very polite and kind. While they may not approach you, if you ask for help they will usually do their best to assist you or point you in the direction of someone who can help.

Learn a few words in Japanese, as it will show you’re trying. And be patient. Remember, you are a guest in another country, and while some people may know a bit of English, it is not their first language.

Helpful words & phrases in Japanese

• Hello: Konnichiwa (also means “good afternoon’)
• Good morning: Ohayō gozaimasu
• Thank you: Arigato gozaimasu (the “u” on the end of the word is almost silent)
• Excuse me: Sumimasen
• Cheers!: Kanpai!
• Delicious: Oishī
• More practical Japanese words and phrases

If you take one thing away from this point, I hope that it’s this:

There will be a language barrier while traveling in Japan, and you can’t expect people to speak English. BUT, it is definitely possible to communicate with simple vocab words, the Google  Translate app, and a bit of patience.

2. Japan is super safe

Like, very safe. Of course, you’ll still want to use common sense on your travels in Japan, but the chances of you encountering any dangerous situations or theft are very slim.

We’ve known people who have left their wallet on a crowded subway in Tokyo, only to have it hand-returned to them hours later. The thing we had to get used to was being mindful of our belongings when we returned to the U.S. after our trip to Japan!

Psst! Here are some essential travel safety tips you should know before any travels!

3. Do look into getting a Japan Rail Pass to save money

Essentially, if you plan to visit more than 2 cities during your trip to Japan, the JR Pass will almost definitely save you money .

We have a whole article detailing it and even a quick way to calculate whether or not it will be worth it for you… but chances are it WILL .

Good to know: A JR Pass is essentially the same price as a roundtrip ticket from Tokyo to Osaka. So many travelers in Japan will save lots of money by getting the pass.

Also, we didn’t know this until we were in Japan, but Japanese citizens actually cannot get this pass, and therefore pay a lot more than most tourists for train travel.

4. Book your major train routes ahead of time

Many popular routes get fully booked up, so don’t wait until the last minute to reserve seats. For example, we had to stand for the 1.5-hour ride from Hiroshima to Osaka because we didn’t book our tickets in advance.

When you have the JR Pass , all train routes are free (there are a few lines that are not included, but you really don’t have to worry about those). 

We’d recommend on your first day in Japan, to go to the JR ticket counter at the train station and reserve all your seats for your routes at once. You can always change your time and book another ticket later, but it’s good to have seats reserved.

If your route is fully booked, on every shinkansen train (bullet trains) there are a couple of cars that are for passengers that don’t have reserved seats. However, there is a high chance that you’ll be standing for that ride.

5. Do eat more than sushi and ramen

Before our first trip to Japan, our knowledge of Japanese cuisine started and ended with sushi and ramen. We didn’t know much else about it. But we’re here to tell you there is SO much more to this cuisine.

Check out our guide to the best foods to try in Japan , which even has a checklist you can download so you can make sure you don’t miss any foods! The more you know before your trip, the more you’ll be able to try.

6. Mind your manners

Manners are important in Japan, and it’s a good idea to read up on some Japanese etiquette before your trip so you don’t embarrass yourself or offend someone.

Here are a few manners to keep in mind:

• Instead of pointing with one finger, use your entire hand
• Avoid physical touch, like hugging, until you know if someone is comfortable with it. Also, public PDA is kind of a no-no
• Don’t eat while walking
• Be quiet on public transportation and avoid taking phone calls if possible

7. Don’t tip your server

While it is a common practice in North America, Europe and many other parts of the world, tipping is not part of Japanese culture and can be seen as mildly rude in some instances. 

The Japanese believe that good service is expected (whether it be at a restaurant or tour) so there is no need to add extra money in the form of a tip.

Try to show your appreciation for a meal or tour by verbally thanking the staff, cook or guide. Leaving a review is always helpful so other travelers know what to expect.

8. Forks are few and far between

You’ll want to practice your chopstick skills before your trip to Japan because it is the utensil of choice, and very rarely will you find forks.

Hint: Chopsticks also make a great souvenir from Japan !

9. Do slurp your noodles

Everyone knows that slurping noodles is the best way to enjoy them , right? Well, here’s a fun fact about Japan you didn’t know you needed: it’s actually not considered rude!

In Japan, slurping your noodles is actually considered a sign of appreciation . It shows the restaurant or chef that you’re enjoying their food. Plus, slurping can even enhance the flavor! 

10. Don’t forget to take your shoes off

When entering guesthouses, homes, holy sites, and some stores, you will need to remove your shoes. This is typically indicated by floor that is different levels — either raised or lowered once you enter.

Usually there are indoor slippers that you can wear once you remove your shoes. The exception to this is in rooms where the floor is tatami mats — a delicate traditional flooring made of rice straw. These are common in traditional guesthouses and teahouses, inside which you can wear socks.

Also, some guesthouses have bathroom slippers. Yes, you read that right, shoes for the potty. Typically they will be sitting just inside the bathroom door and you’ll leave your indoor slippers outside of the bathroom.

11. Do learn onsen etiquette

Soaking in an onsen should definitely be on your list of top things to do in Japan !

Hold up, what is an onsen, exactly?

An onsen is a Japanese hot spring with a bathing facility.

Japan has a lot of volcanic activity, meaning there are many onsens to choose from all around the country!

But before you start shedding your clothes, there are some important rules you should know so you don’t embarrass yourself…

Basic onsen etiquette

• Shower before you get in , oftentimes it’s at a shower where you will sit on a stool and rinse yourself off.
• Unless otherwise noted, do not wear a bathing suit.
• You can bring a towel into the bathing area, but don’t let it touch the water (many people put it on top of their head).
• Tie up your long hair so it doesn’t touch the water.
• Know the onsen’s policy on tattoos. Many onsen do not allow guests with tattoos, so you’ll have to seek out onsen where it is accepted or opt for a private onsen facility.

We go into more detail about onsen rules in our Japanese etiquette article.

Alternative: For those of you who just can’t get over the whole naked in public thing (I get it!), you may want to consider staying at a ryokan with a private onsen. This means you can reserve a time slot for yourself (and a travel partner if you wish).

11. Understand the difference between a shrine and a temple

Before traveling to Japan, it’s very useful to know the difference between a shrine and a temple. Here is a general guide to help you:

Shinto Shrine:

• recognize them by the tori gates
• purification fountain (called chozuya ) with ladles

Buddhist Temple:

• large incense burner
• statues of Buddha
• sometimes a graveyard is attached

We have a whole section on how to visit a shine and a temple in our Japanese etiquette article.

12. Japan is not as expensive as you might think

We’ve traveled extensively around Asia, and it’s true — Japan is one of the more expensive places we’ve visited in this region of the world. That said, it is still possible to travel Japan cheaply.

You can find budget accommodation in hostels, capsule hotels, or even Airbnbs . You can save money on food by eating at convenience stores, cooking some meals yourself, and planning out “splurge meals”. Cut transportation costs by getting the JR Pass , and enjoy all sorts of free things to do around the country.

Psst! We have loads of info on how to book Airbnbs , including red flags to watch out for when booking and our favorite Airbnbs.

Traveling to Japan doesn’t have to be crazy expensive. We’ve rounded up some of our top tips for traveling to Japan on a budget .

Moral of the story: If Japan is a country you’ve been dreaming of visiting, don’t let costs inhibit or deter you from making your dream a reality!

Related: We’ve got tons of super practical tips to show you how we afford to travel !

13. Do carry cash AND credit cards

Many places in Japan accept foreign credit cards with no problem. And if you have one with no foreign transaction fees that earns good rewards, you’ll definitely want to bring it along and use it as much as possible.

That said, there are still small shops, restaurants, and even guesthouses that only accept cash , so you’ll definitely want to have some Japanese yen on hand.

14. Withdraw cash from 7-eleven ATMs

The ATMs in 7-elevens are the most reliable ATMs in Japan with no fees for international cards. As a bonus, you can find 7-elevens everywhere! However, it’s good to note that some of the 7-eleven ATMs in popular spots do now charge a fee, so try to withdraw in less touristy areas.

Insider Tip: We always get foreign currency by withdrawing from ATMs, as it gives you the best exchange rate. To avoid those pesky ATM fees, we use our Charles Schwab debit card, which reimburses all ATM fees at the end of each month. It is the BEST card ever! Read more about which travel credit cards we recommend . 

15. Don’t throw out your coins

Some of those yen coins are worth almost $5 USD! I don’t know about you, but I typically throw coins around without much care — I mean, it’s no big deal if I misplace 12 cents… But in Japan, losing a handful of coins could add up to big money.

While on a train, a bunch of coins fell out of Ben’s pocket and we had to get down on our hands and knees to find them all before our stop. When we counted them all up we realized we nearly lost $24 USD in coins. Yikes!

When traveling in Japan it’s a good idea to have a coin case to keep them secure.

Tip: We met another traveler who had two coin purses — one for the large coins and one for the small ones to keep them organized.

16. Don’t get lost

If you’re someone who’s not great with directions, you may find it alarming to find out that streets don’t have names in Japan… So how the heck are you supposed to find your way around?! 

Although there are no street names, it isn’t a free-for-all. Addresses in Japan use an area-based system, where each area is divided into smaller areas . 

The largest of these is called a prefecture. Prefectures are broken down into cities, and the cities are divided into wards. 

Getting around and following directions in Japan is definitely a learning curve, so it’s worth studying some maps and taking time to research the numbering system before visiting. 

17. Hold onto your trash

There are few trash cans on the streets in Japan. After hearing this, you might be surprised to learn that even though there is a shortage of garbage bins, there is very little litter in Japan.

Cleanliness is a big part of Japanese culture, which is reflected in the (mostly) litter-free streets.

So do as the Japanese do, and hold onto any wrappers until you find a bin. There are typically trash cans at convenience stores, meant for customers to dispose of their garbage.

18. Do the work to avoid plastic waste

On the surface, Japan seems to be environmentally conscious: there are recycling bins every so often and the streets are very clean. 

But as soon as you stop into a convenience store, you’ll notice that this country, like much of Asia, relies heavily on plastic packaging. And the super unnecessary kind, like plastic wrappers around single bananas.

As a traveler, there’s not too much you can do to change this, but you can reduce your own plastic waste by packing items that’ll help you turn down single-use plastic items.

Here are some items we’d recommend packing:

• reusable utensils
• reusable straw
• water bottle *
• reusable bag

*Yes, you can fill up from the tap and drink the water in Japan! There’s an app called MyMizu that has a map of refill stations (mostly in larger cities, but I’m sure they’re expanding it as data is available). 

Check out our eco-friendly packing list for some more ideas!

19. Choose an interesting hotel option

While traveling in Japan, you might want to try out a few unique hotel stays that you can find only in Japan.

• Ryokan: This is a traditional Japanese inn that typically provides guests with robes and meals. There is often a shared bathroom and onsite onsens that can be used by guests.
• Capsule Hotel: Made to maximize space in crowded cities, capsule hotels provide guests with privacy and an affordable stay. However, don’t expect to stand up in your pod! Staying in a capsule hotel is definitely a top Japanese experience to try out on your trip!
• Robot Hotel: There are even hotels run by robots! Like we said, #OnlyInJapan

20. Learn how to use a ​​Japanese toilet

You’ve probably heard about Japanese toilets, and what the rumors say is true!

There are all sorts of buttons that perform different functions. For example, one button may play waterfall sounds or music to cover up— ehem —some other sounds you may not want the person in the next stall to hear. Other buttons will trigger a bum wash and can be set at varying pressure strengths.

All those buttons can be a little intimidating at first, but try them out (locate the STOP button first) and take advantage of those fancy toilets while you can. Because you surely don’t have those fun features at home!

21. Download these apps before you get to Japan

We have a whole article detailing all the best Japan travel apps you should download before your trip, but the 2 best ones that you NEED to download are:

• Japan Official Travel App
• Google Translate

You will thank us because they will come in so handy during your trip!

22. It’s difficult to be gluten-free in Japan

While the abundance of rice may make you think Japan would be an easy country for gluten-free travelers, that’s simply not the case. Soy sauce and other wheat-based seasonings are an integral part of Japanese cuisine, making it hard to avoid gluten.

Read this for more info on gluten-free travel to Japan .

23. Be on time

In Japan, it is seen as rude to be late, and thus, everything in Japan is run very strictly according to the clock.

This means trains leave exactly as scheduled and guests are often asked to show up to guided tours 15 minutes in advance. If you have a tendency to be late (I’m right there with ya!), be sure to pay extra careful attention to the time during your trip to Japan.

24. Utilize coin lockers to make things easy

Nearly every train station has lockers which you can use to store belongings for a reasonable price. There are usually different sizes available, so you can store anything from a purse or small daypack to a large suitcase.

This is handy when you need to check out of your hotel but want to spend the day exploring.

Insider Tip: If you have a suitcase that you don’t want to bring with you on the train, there are luggage transport companies that can get it to your final destination for you!

25. Theme cafes are part of the experience

Japan is known for all things quirky, and this applies to restaurants and cafes. 

The famous Robot Restaurant , with its laser beams, giant robots and scantily clad performers, is an example of something you can only find in Japan. But the theme restaurants don’t stop there. There are plenty of other over-the-top themed restaurants and cafes in Tokyo and Osaka you can visit to get the full experience. 

However, it’s important to beware and do a little research before patronizing them. 

Some of these theme cafes have a dark side. For example, many of the animal cafes (hedgehog, owls, sheep, etc.) do not have a safe and healthy environment for the animals. Also, there are anecdotes of young waitresses being exploited in the infamous “maid cafes”.

And no matter which cafe you go to, just remember, you’re not there for the food, which is usually sub-par. And it’s also worth noting, you’re paying for the experience as well!

26. Staying connected is easy

Staying connected to the Internet is very useful when traveling in Japan. And not just because you can post your pretty pictures to Instagram to make all your friends jealous…

Having an Internet connection will make your travels SO much easier when it comes to translating Japanese writing and getting directions for the notoriously confusing train and metro systems. 

Trust me, having translating and navigating abilities in Japan is an absolute LIFESAVER.

The two best ways to stay connected is with a SIM card or via a hotspot. The best option is going to totally depend on your needs and budget, and we’ve compared them here so you can choose the best one for you.

27. Convenience store culture is a thing

Convenience stores are a big deal in Japan.

And the food options in Japanese convenience stores are much larger — and less sketchy — than in most other places around the world. I mean, I would NEVER get sushi from a convenience store in the U.S., but I definitely did just that in Japan. And it was good!

You can literally eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner (and all your snacks too!) from convenience stores. The most popular chains are 7-Eleven, Lawsons, and Family Mart, and you can find them on just about every city block. No joke.

I will say that at the end of the day, the food you’ll find — while good — is still processed, packaged food. Some people claim they would live off of convenience store food in Japan. I am not one of those people!

I did enjoy it in moderation, and loved being able to try some super quirky treats, like Sugar Butter Sand Tree Cookies , which are weirdly delicious and familiar-tasting!

28. Don’t expect to eat lots of fresh fruits & veggies

It might be good for some travelers to know that you should be prepared to go without a ton of fresh veggies and fruits for a while. We usually eat lots and lots of fresh vegetables and fruits, so we felt a bit “heavy/bloated” during our time in Japan.

You’ll find some vegetables cooked or fried in your meals or a shredded cabbage “salad” on the side, but not too much more than that. And fresh fruit is pretty expensive, so it’s more of a treat than a typical snack.

We had been living in Bali for 3 months before our trip to Japan, where our daily diet consisted of giant fresh salads and smoothie bowls. Let’s just say that Japan goes a lot heavier on the rice, noodles, meats and seafood than on fresh veg!

If you don’t eat that much fresh produce regularly, you might not notice too much of a difference.

Tip: Also, while convenience stores are great, and just that — super convenient! — I found it hard to find healthy snacking options. Next time I travel to Japan, I’ll pack some dried fruit (not covered in sugar), nuts, protein bars, etc.

29. Get a pre-paid transport card on the app

These are essentially the metro cards in Japan ( Suica is for Tokyo and the surrounding area, and ICOCA is for Kyoto/Osaka and the greater Kansai region).

They will save you money on each trip , and are more convenient than having to purchase a ticket each time.

Due to a shortage of physical cards, you are now required to get an app on your phone . Simply tap on and off, eliminating the hassle of purchasing individual tickets. Note that Visa isn’t accepted, so rely on Apple Pay, Mastercard, or American Express for top-ups.

You can use your card for purchases in convenience stores, which is handy when you don’t have cash.

30. Do pack light for Japan

We actually broke this rule, as we had been living in Asia for a year and were in the midst of bringing all our stuff back to the U.S.

But trust me when I say that carrying big backpacks or suitcases through crowded metros, trains and intersections is NOT fun.

We found a  luggage transfer service  that was able to send the luggage we didn’t need from Osaka to our hotel in Tokyo and store it for us. It was super simple and cheap! I’m sure there are more services out there, but it was a little hard to find when we were searching.

Before you leave, check out these super helpful guides full of  packing hacks and tips for traveling in Japan  that you won’t find anywhere else:

• Our  Japan packing guide  lists all the essentials (many of which you might not think about), as well as what you should NOT pack for a trip to Japan.
• This article on  what to wear in Japan  will help you create a perfect capsule wardrobe for every season and let you in on some cultural taboos so you can be sure to dress appropriately.
• With this  FREE Japan packing list PDF download , we’ll send checklists straight to your inbox for everything from clothing and toiletries (for both women and men!) to what shoes to pack and extra stuff you may want to have on-hand just in case. Click the image below to get your free copy!

31. Bring comfortable walking shoes

When people say you’ll be walking a lot in Japan, they ain’t lying! We walked an average of 10 miles (16 km) each day, so comfortable shoes are a MUST.

Psst! We have a list of must-see landmarks in Japan that’s sure to give you some inspiration for your itinerary!

32. Know about cover charges at Izakayas

Even though you’re not expected to pay gratuity in izakayas, it’s good to know that many establishments charge what’s called a otōshidai, or a “cover charge”.

Sometimes you’ll be given a small (aka TINY!) dish,  otōshi , for which the charge is attributed on your bill. However, it’s really just an extra fee for the seat you are occupying.

Usually it’ll be between 200 – 500 yen. It’s good to expect this so you’re not confused when your final bill comes.

33. Don’t try to split the check

Sometimes when we’re traveling on a budget, we like to split one large meal. Often times, we don’t feel the need to order two full entrees, plus, it cuts our food costs in half.

However,  this is usually considered rude in Japan  since seating is often limited and you are taking up a spot in the restaurant.

So for instance, it would be frowned upon for two people to go into a ramen shop at a busy hour, and only order one bowl of soup. If one party doesn’t feel like eating, it would be best to wait outside (I know, I know!).

An exception to this would be if you go at an off-hour, say 3 in the afternoon, when a restaurant is less busy. You can ask if it’s okay to split one meal.

We did this once at a restaurant where they served large seafood dishes. The restaurant was pretty much empty in the middle of the afternoon and we just wanted a light meal, not 2 huge entrees. They said it was fine, but I wouldn’t have done this at a busy time of day.

Note:  When we say this, we don’t mean you can’t  try  each other’s meals — we did this ALL the time — and find it the best way to taste as many dishes as possible.

34. Know you can’t see/do everything …

This can be a hard one to come to terms with, especially when you see all sorts of posts and advice. It can honestly get overwhelming (been there!). Just know that you’ll need to narrow down and prioritize the things you really want to do.

If you don’t get to everything — you likely won’t, there are ENDLESS  cool things to do in Japan  — you can always come back for a second, third, seventh visit down the road.

Need help deciding how long to plan your trip for? Our guide to how many days to spend in Japan will help you figure out how much time you need based on what you want to do.

35. Planning is your friend in Japan

We usually love to travel with a lot of room for flexibility. However, unless you’ve got a lot of time to travel around Japan, planning your route and accommodation in advance is going to help you maximize your time.

Add in some “flexible” time where you can just wander or relax, but our advice would be to come with a pretty solid plan (even if you don’t usually travel this way).

Be sure to check out our  ultimate Japan planning guide  to help prepare for your trip!

Japan Trip Planner: How to Plan Your First Trip to Japan

This information-packed Japan trip planner has the answers to all your questions. Find out the best places to visit, which Japanese foods to try, and how to ride the bullet trains. All the research is done for you to assist in planning a trip to Japan.

More resources for traveling in Japan

We have TONS of resources on travel in Japan and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Japan Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below!

• Best Time to Visit Japan: When to Go & When to Avoid
• Japan Rail Pass: Where to Buy & Is It Worthwhile?
• Renting a Car in Japan: Essential Driving Tips You Need to Know!
• Japan Travel Cost: Exactly How Much is a Trip to Japan?
• Japan on a Budget: Money-Saving Tips + Free Things to Do
• One Week in Japan: Best Itinerary for Your First Visit
• Japan Pocket Wifi vs. Japanese SIM Card: Review & Comparison
• Best Japan Travel Apps
• Foods to Eat in Japan: Guide to Japanese Cuisine
• Helpful Japanese Words & Phrases to Know for Traveling in Japan 

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The Perfect 7-Day Japan Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Japan captured my heart from the moment I firs visited. The delicious food, the rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant history, and the very friendly and polite people – it all blew my mind.

But Japan often feels impenetrable, especially to first-time visitors. While I think Japan deserves a minimum of 10 days, I get that some people might only have a week, so I wanted to write this, my ideal seven-day itinerary for Japan for a first-time visitor.

With only a week, there’s not much you can see unless you really rush it. And I don’t think you should do that.

So this itinerary only focuses on Tokyo and Kyoto (the most popular destinations) as well as some day trips from each. If you wanted to rush things a little, you could add in Osaka (more on that at the end).

(Note: If you purchased a Japan Rail Pass , activate it on arrival. That way, you can take advantage of the free JR trains throughout the city.)

Table of Contents

Japan Itinerary Day 1: Tokyo

Japan itinerary day 2: tokyo, japan itinerary day 3: tokyo, japan itinerary day 4: kyoto, japan itinerary day 5: kyoto, japan itinerary day 6: nara, japan itinerary day 7: tokyo, an alternative itinerary.

Tsukiji and Toyosu Fish Markets Cure your jet lag with some food! In 2018, Tokyo’s main fish market moved to Toyosu. It is now twice the size of Tsukiji (the old one), making it the largest such market in the world. Here you can eat fresh sushi for breakfast, just a few feet from where it was hauled in from the sea, while marveling at the chaotic atmosphere.

You can still head to the old market in Tsukiji to eat, shop, and wander as well. I like it a lot, because there are more food options! Food and drink tours of the Tsukiji Outer Market are available for around 15,000 JPY.

Toyosu Fish Market is open Monday-Saturday 5am-5pm, though most shops don’t open until 7am. Admission is free, but you have to pick up a visitor’s pass when you enter. Tsukiji Fish Market’s hours vary by shop (usually 5am-2pm). Admission is free.

teamLab Planets This digital art installation is a multi-sensory and immersive experience in which you become part of the artwork, walking barefoot through the four exhibition spaces and gardens as you interact with the installations’ elements in unique ways. It’s really fun! TeamLab is generally sells out in advance, so I recommend getting your tickets online ahead of time .

Take a walking tour Walking tours are a great way to get the lay of the land while connecting with a local guide. I always go on one or two when I arrive somewhere. Tokyo Localized offers many free tours, including a classic overview and ones of both the famed Harajuku and Shinjuku neighborhoods. Its Imperial Palace tour would be the most convenient one after teamLab.

The Imperial Palace Formerly Edo Castle, the Imperial Palace was built in the 15th century, and some of the walls and moats from that time are still in use to this day. When the emperor moved from Kyoto to Tokyo in 1869, he took Edo for his new palace and renamed it. While you can’t go inside, it is surrounded by beautiful grounds, a moat, and a park worth wandering through. You can also see the changing-of-the-guard ceremony (though it’s relatively low-key and unassuming). Admission to the grounds is free.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden This park is over 144 acres and home to some 20,000 trees. Most of the original park was destroyed in World War II but was rebuilt and reopened in 1949. During spring, it is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms. My favorite area is the landscape garden, which has several ponds with bridges and islands. It’s a peaceful oasis away from the urban hustle and bustle.

Depending on how you feel relative to your jetlag, you could fit a few more activities before you end your day. Check out this post for suggestions .

• Senso-ji – This is Tokyo’s most popular and famous temple. Beautifully painted, it sits in a scenic spot near a pagoda and the lovely Kaminari Gate. There’s a huge statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, inside the main hall. It’s very busy during the day, so maybe check out the grounds in the evening.
• Asakusa Shrine – This nearby Shinto shrine is much more peaceful, with fewer visitors, but with people praying, meditating, or performing traditional rituals. It was built during the Edo period (1603–1868) and survived the air raids of World War II.

Afterward, head to Ueno Park . Spanning over 133 acres, Ueno Park was established in 1873 on land formerly owned by a 17th-century Buddhist temple. It gets super busy in cherry blossom season, as there are over a thousand trees here. Throughout, you’ll find various stalls and vendors selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. On weekends, there are usually cultural events or festivals showcasing traditional arts, music, and dance. Four of Tokyo’s main museums are here:

• Tokyo National Museum – Established in 1872 on the north end, this massive building is the oldest and largest art museum in Japan. It houses one of the world’s largest collections of art and artifacts from Asia, particularly Japan.
• Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum – This museum showcases rotating exhibitions of contemporary and traditional Japanese art.
• National Museum of Nature and Science – This museum features a wide range of permanent and temporary exhibitions covering natural science and history.
• Tosho-gu Shrine – This beautiful 17th-century Shinto shrine has carved gold doors and other ornate carvings. It’s worth seeing up close!

Afterward, walk down to Akihabara to explore the video game parlors, arcades, and anime shops. This very buzzy area is ground zero for all things electronic, and it’s fun to play many of the games. This is where you’ll find the famous maid cafés, where servers dress up as maids and serve you food and drinks. These range from big touristy ones to holes-in-the-wall (the girls on the street are promoting the latter, which are a lot more culturally fun). They aren’t cheap, though, as you have to buy drink packages and pay a fee, but they’re kitschy and fun.

In the evening, visit Shinjuku and then drink in Golden Gai . In Shinjuku, you’ll find a plethora of cool bars, bright lights, and tiny hole-in-the-wall eateries. Be sure to wander down Memory Lane (aka Piss Alley) for tiny izakaya joints and bars. Afterward, head over to Golden Gai, a warren of narrow alleyways with a bit of a red-light-district feel, flanked by diminutive backstreet bars. It’s quite touristy but also a lot of fun. I’ve had some wild nights here!

With Arigato Tours , you’ll learn about the neighborhood while stopping to sample Japanese classics like sushi, yakitori, and ramen. The 23,900 JPY cost includes a drink and dishes at four stops.  

Kamakura Here you can see a 13-meter (43-foot) bronze statue of Buddha that was built in 1252. It was initially constructed within Kotoku-in Temple, but that has since been washed away by several storms, so it now sits in the open air. Admission to enter the temple grounds is 300 JPY, while it’s 20 JPY to go inside the statue. The journey there — around an hour — is free with a Japan Rail Pass .

Tokyo Disneyland I’m a sucker for Disney. You’ll find many of the same classic rides from Disney World here, like Splash Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain, The Haunted Mansion, and everyone’s favorite teacup ride, The Mad Tea Party. But there are several unique attractions as well, like Pooh’s Hunny Hunt and Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Ticket prices vary depending on the day and time, but full-day admission begins at 7,900 JPY for adults and 4,400-6,200 JPY for children. It’s best to book in advance .

Mount Fuji Mount Fuji is located an hour outside of Tokyo. An active stratovolcano (which last erupted in 1708) and covered in snow for almost half of the year, it stands an impressive 3,776 meters (12,389 feet) and provides one of the most iconic views in the country. One of the Three Holy Mountains of Japan, Mount Fuji is both a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and a UNESCO Cultural Site. In the summer, the mountain is open to hikers, who take 5-12 hours to reach the summit (traditionally, they depart at night to arrive at the top for the sunrise).

If you don’t want to hike, you can simply visit on a day trip. There are buses that can take you partway up, where you’ll be offered sweeping vistas of the surrounding area. Guided day tours from the city cost around 12,000 JPY.  

Wander the Bamboo Forest For a relaxing break, head to Arashiyama and let the dense and towering stands of bamboo envelop you. Located near the famous Tenryu-ji temple, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the entire country. It’s not that big, but there are some hidden areas to explore. Just make sure to arrive early if you want to enjoy it without the crowds (it fills up fast after sunrise).

While there, I would also recommend visiting the Okochi Sanso Garden, which (along with the home) belonged to the famous Japanese actor Denjir? ?k?chi (1898–1962). It’s not free (it’s 1,000 JPY), but it’s really nice and has some wonderful views.

Visit the Golden Pavilion Originally built in the late 14th century as a retirement villa for the shogun (military governor), this iconic structure was later converted into a Zen Buddhist temple. The present-day edifice dates only to the 1950s, however, when a monk attempting to kill himself burned the historic original to the ground. The rebuilt temple is covered in brilliant gold leaf, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. Each of the three stories exhibits a different architectural style. Completing the scene are the serene reflecting pool and traditional Japanese gardens that contain lush foliage, manicured trees, and scenic walking paths.

1 Kinkakuji-cho, Kita-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, +81 075-461-0013, shokoku-ji.jp. Open daily 9am-5pm. Admission is 500 JPY.

Admire Ryoan-ji Temple This is my favorite temple in Kyoto. Originally established in 1450 as a residence for a high-ranking samurai, it was soon converted into a Zen temple and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a mausoleum that houses the remains of seven emperors. Its traditional rock and sand garden is considered one of the best in the country. There’s also a teahouse where you can experience the traditional Japanese tea ceremony ( chanoyu ) as you overlook the Kyoyochi reflecting pool.

There are other temples in the area to check out as well:

• Daitoku-ji Temple – This massive complex dating back to 1315 covers almost 60 acres. It contains several dozen temples and is a good place to see a variety of Zen gardens and architectural styles. It’s also deeply linked to the Japanese tea ceremony, as several of the country’s most noteworthy masters studied here.
• Toji Temple – This is home to Japan’s tallest pagoda (five stories high). Founded in 796, just after Kyoto became the capital, it was one of only three Buddhist temples allowed in the city.

Go on a sake brewery tour Kyoto has a sake (rice wine) brewing tradition going back 400 years and is known for some of the best in the world, due to using the area’s pure natural spring water in the brewing process. Arigato Tours offers an excellent three-hour tour of Fushimi (the brewing district) for 23,320 JPY, including stops at several breweries, a guided tour of the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, and tastings.  

See the Fushimi Inari Shrine This mountainside Shinto shrine, dating back to 711, is dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and prosperity. It’s known for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates that form a network of trails leading up Mount Inari. You can hike the trails on your own while enjoying panoramic views of Kyoto below or join a guided hiking tour , on which you’ll get off the paved paths and into hidden bamboo groves. Get here as early as possible to avoid the crowds.

68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, +81756417331, inari.jp. Open 24/7. Admission is free.

Walk around Higashiyama Spend an afternoon walking along the narrow streets of one of the oldest and best preserved districts on your own or on a walking tour . The traditional machiya buildings (traditional wooden townhouses) are filled with small shops selling local specialties and handicrafts, as well as restaurants and teahouses. It’s a popular area in which to participate in a tea ceremony . Another nice place to stroll in this neighborhood is the Philosopher’s Path, which follows a cherry-tree-lined canal that’s beautiful and meditative even when the blossoms aren’t in season.

Visit Kiyomizu-dera One of a number of UNESCO sites in ancient Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera (meaning “pure water temple”) is located in the foothills of Mount Otowa in the eastern part of the city. It’s one of the most famous temples in all of Japan. It was established in 778, but most of the existing buildings date to the 17th century. There’s not a single nail used in the construction, which becomes all the more impressive once you see how large the temple is, which is best known for its wooden terrace that juts out over the hillside. The temple’s name comes from the nearby waterfall whose waters (from which you can still drink today) are said to have wish-granting and healing powers.

1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, +81 75-551-1234, kiyomizudera.or.jp. Open daily 6am-6pm. Admission is 400 JPY.

Explore Shorin-ji Temple This small temple dates back to the 16th century. What makes it worth visiting is its meditation classes. You’ll get to tour the temple and then be instructed in zazen , the Japanese style of meditation. It’s a very unique experience and something that I think will add a lot of depth and nuance to your visit (especially if you’ve seen a lot of temples). Just make sure to dress comfortably.

15 Chome-795 Honmachi, +81 75-561-4311, shourin-ji.org. Open daily 10am-4pm. Admission is 800 JPY.

Wander the Nishiki Market Nishiki Ichiba is now one of the biggest indoor markets in town. Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen” and spanning over five blocks, it is full of vendors selling traditional dishes from the region, classic Kyoto souvenirs, and really just about anything else. There are over a hundred stalls here, many of which have been in the same family for generations. Opening hours depend on the shop but are typically from 9am to 6pm.

To dive deeper into Japanese food culture, you can take a food tour of the market . It’s the best way to learn about all the food you’ll see, as well as the market’s history.

Explore Gion Gion, the historic geisha district, is renowned as being one of the most iconic and atmospheric areas of town. It’s known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, narrow alleyways, cobblestone streets, and preservation of geisha (known locally as geiko) culture. Lining the main street are ochayas (teahouses where geishas entertain), small shops, and many restaurants, ranging from upscale kaiseki restaurants serving traditional Kyoto cuisine to casual eateries.

To really learn more about this amazing party of town and its past, take a walking tour of Gion . You’ll learn a ton and get a lot of context. They cost around 1,800 JPY.

At night, go to the Pontocho Row , a narrow street lined with restaurants, hole-in-the-wall bars, and jazz clubs. It’s one of the more lively areas in Kyoto.  

Nara was the capital of Japan in the eighth century, so there are lots of buildings and temples here that are upwards of a thousand years old (which is rare in Japan, due to the prevalence of fires and earthquakes, as well as World War II). Some things to do:

• Frolic with deer – The real draw in Nara are the deer. Since the 17th century, those in and around the city have been considered sacred. You can buy crackers to feed them or just watch them stroll around carefree.
• See the Buddha – Don’t miss a visit to Todai-ji, the world’s largest wooden building, home to a 16-meter (52-foot) Buddha statue. It was built in 738 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Take a walking tour – This guided half-day walking tour for 11,500 JPY includes all of Nara’s highlights as well as a traditional lunch.

Ryogoku Kokugikan, Japan’s most famous sumo wrestling arena, hosts tournaments three times each year, in January, May, and September. Tickets sell out quickly, so book online in advance. Prices vary but start around 3,200 JPY for arena seats. You can book a ticket online here (you’ll be accompanied by a guide too, so you can learn more about the tradition as it unfolds before your eyes).

To learn more about the sport in in the off-season, book a tour of a sumo stable .  

So, if you want to add another city to this itinerary you can follow this breakdown:

• Days 1 & 2: Tokyo
• Days 3 & 4: Kyoto
• Day 5: Nara
• Days 6 & 7: Osaka

Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara are all covered above. As for Osaka, some of my favorite things to see and do:

Take a food tour Known as “the Kitchen of Japan,” Osaka boasts a diverse culinary scene. Mouthwatering sushi and sashimi, Kobe beef and Japanese BBQ, and flavorful ramen can all be found here in abundance. Plus, there are local specialties like okonomiyaki (a savory pancake with egg and vegetables) and kushikatsu (kebab skewers). You can take a food tour for around 13,000 JPY, a ramen and gyoza cooking class for 9,500 JPY, or just wander and eat.

Osaka Castle One of the most famous landmarks in the country, the castle was originally built in the late 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi and played a pivotal role in the unification of Japan during the Sengoku period (1467-1615). Over the centuries, it has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times due to wars, fires, and natural disasters. The current version dates to 1931. The castle is situated amid sprawling grounds and surrounded by a moat. It’s also home to a small but insightful museum and an observation deck that offers some picturesque urban views.

Dotonbori This is arguably Osaka’s most iconic district, known for its vibrant nightlife (bars, clubs, theaters, and music venues), colorful signage, and delicious food. It’s best seen at night due to the plethora of huge neon lights and signs lining both the canal and streets, which have become symbols of Osaka’s nightlife. A guided walking tour that includes Dotonbori as well adjacent neighborhoods is 6,500 JPY.

Shitennoji Temple This temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, founded in 593. The architecture is a blend of traditional Japanese and East Asian styles, featuring impressive pagodas, gates, and shrines set amid serene gardens. Stroll through the tranquil grounds, admire the beautiful architecture, and learn about the temple’s historical and cultural significance at the museum. The temple is 300 JPY to enter, the garden is 300 JPY, and the museum is 500 JPY.  

Japan is one of my favorite countries. While it’s relatively small, it offers an amazing array of things to see and do (as well as some of the best food in the world). With seven days, you can easily see a good number of the main highlights and get a taste for the incredible history and culture. It will be a busy week, but this itinerary ensures you’ll still have some time to slow down, relax, and take in the local pace of life.

Just make sure you get a Japan Rail Pass before you go. While it’s not as cheap as it used to be, it will likely save you time and money!

Book Your Trip to Japan: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . They are my two favorite search engines, because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is being left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the most comprehensive inventory so they are best for booking a hostel. If you want to stay in a hotel or guesthouse in Japan, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel — and I think they will help you too!

Be sure to check out the Japan Rail Pass if you’ll be traveling around the country. It comes in 7-, 14-, and 21-day passes and can save you a ton of money!

Looking for More Travel Tips for Japan? Check out my in-depth Japan travel guide for more ways to save money, information on costs, tips on what to see and do, suggested itineraries and reading and packing lists, and much, much more!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Trip within a Trip: Osaka and Kyoto, Japan

May 1, 2024 • 9 min read

Make your next trip to Japan even better by adding on four days in exciting Osaka (pictured) and Kyoto © EarnestTse / Shutterstock

Senior Director of Content Laura Motta recently spent 10 days in Japan . To make the most of her time in the country, she included a four-day mini-excursion to Osaka and Kyoto – a trip within a trip, if you will, which anyone can replicate.

Everyone goes to Tokyo , and I would never tell you to skip it. But another critical part of any Japan itinerary is that magical Shinkansen (bullet train) ride south to Osaka , and the astounding sites that await beyond. A mind-boggling pair of cities – Osaka and Kyoto – are crammed with more shrines and temples, steel-and-glass skyscraper malls, scenic vistas and world-class restaurants than you can experience in a month, never mind in just a few days. This was my third trip to Japan and my second time visiting Osaka and Kyoto.

Before I get to my recommendations, here are a few practical tips:

• When to arrive: Arriving in Osaka around midday lets you drop your bags at the hotel, rest and then hit Dōtonbori in the evening, when its famous neon lights are ablaze. 
• Getting there from the airport: The spotless, inexpensive airport limousine bus from Kansai Airport makes eight stops in Osaka, which include all of its main train stations.
• Getting around: Japan is world-famous for the ease and comprehensiveness of its public transit for a reason. You can – and certainly should – do this route without a car. High-speed (more expensive/faster) and local (less expensive/slower) trains cover every inch of this region and will shuttle you quickly between Kyoto and Osaka. Both cities have easy-to-use subway systems.
• What to pack: Certainly, your walking shoes and room in your stomach for a lot of ramen. Keep in mind that Japan has four distinct seasons and temperatures vary significantly between them. Check the weather ahead of time – and pack accordingly.
• How to structure your days: It’s tempting to cram your schedule when there are so many things to see. Yet realistically, you won’t be able to do more than two major sites – maybe three, if you’re really going for it – in a single day. This is especially true in Kyoto, where the best sites are far apart and can require up to an hour of travel to reach.
• Take it easy:  Don’t forget to eat, hydrate, rest and wander. And tell yourself you’ll be back.

Day 1: Osaka

Snack time .

You’ve been traveling all morning. It’s time to eat. (Unless, of course, you stuffed yourself en route on the amazing bento boxes you can get at Tokyo Station.) Keep it simple like I did and grab onigiri (rice balls) or a  sando  at 7-Eleven. There’s one on every corner, you’ll only spend a few dollars, and buying local snacks – especially in Japan – is among travel’s greatest joys. 

See the neon

If you’re in Osaka, go see the Glico man. It's a rule. Or maybe it's just mine. This famous animated sign of a runner, arms raised, about to cross the finish line in some hypothetical marathon in the sky, remains delightful despite the tourist crush on the streets below. This ad for the Glico candy company (candy bars give you energy – get it?) has become an informal mascot of Dotonbori , Osaka’s dining and nightlife district. After dark, it’s fun to wander here through the area’s many arcades, claw-machine and pachinko parlors, and shops. If you start here on a weeknight, it’s delightfully quiet.

Insider tip: Arrive before sunset and duck into a tiny side street to Hōzen-ji , a small temple known for its moss-covered statues. I was there when they were lighting the lanterns for the evening – a dreamy experience indeed.

Have a cheap and cheerful dinner

Dontonbori is teeming with restaurants. You can’t miss the distinctive signage advertising takoyaki (grilled octopus balls), gyoza and crab. My favorite takoyaki stand, Takoyaki Yoriabunzemon, is humble compared to its bombastic neighbors; there is no 5ft marquee. Inside, you’ll sit on a well-worn barstool while the single cook pours takoyaki batter into the famous round molds and serves it to you still piping hot, and slathered in mayo, barbecue sauce and bonito flakes. A warning: if you value the skin on the roof of your mouth, do not eat too fast here.

Day 2: Kyoto

Bullet train .

The Shinkansen train between Osaka and Kyoto is cheap and lightning fast. This trip is included in many Japanese rail passes , but if you’re paying for a standalone ticket, you’ll pay 1420 yen (about US$10). The trip takes 15 minutes, so slower local trains hardly seem worth the mildly cheaper price. Arrive midday and head to your hotel to check in and drop your luggage. Before you depart, don’t forget to look around Kyoto Station for the eki  ink stamp, which you can imprint into a notebook as a souvenir. Every train station in Japan has a uniquely designed stamp, even if you sometimes have to ask the attendant at smaller stations where to find it.

Stay in style

If there’s one place to splurge on a fabulous hotel in Japan, it’s in Kyoto. Whether you’re strolling under vibrant fall leaves or spring cherry blossoms, or wandering the narrow alleys and stepped streets of the Gion district , Kyoto is romantic, its temples and shrines otherworldly. My choice was Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto , a new luxury property that blends smart contemporary design with traditional Japanese accents. Beside its excellent restaurant – more on that below – the highlight is the hotel's updated approach to the traditional onsen . This vast, moodily lit indoor space offers heated pools and loungers amid beautiful rock formations and water features. And unlike many onsen experiences, this one is a bathing-suits-required, mixed-gender space where everyone can hang out. There is also no surcharge for entry.

Visit the temples

My boyfriend cheekily refers to Fushimi Inari Taisha , Kyoto’s famous shrine with its rows and rows of vermillion gates ascending a dramatic hillside, as “the Instagram shrine.” It’s hard to say that he’s wrong: the site is a favorite among foreign travelers for good reason. The gates are simply gorgeous and – yes – photogenic. Just don’t expect to find yourself there alone. 

Insider tip: Afterward, stop at the charming Vermillion Cafe for a sweet snack and coffee. Sit on the back porch, which overlooks a lovely stretch of forest, for especially serene vibes (spectacular in autumn).

If you still have energy left in the afternoon, head to Nishi Hongan-ji , a mammoth Buddhist temple complex that’s home to some of the largest wooden structures in Japan. After you marvel at the huge lanterns and expansive halls, stop by the brightly painted Chinese Gate, which dates back to the late 1500s. This temple is also within walking distance of Kyoto Station, and can be a good place to start or end your trip.

Day 3: Kyoto

Go for the gold.

Kinkaku-Ji , sometimes called the Golden Pavilion, is among Kyoto’s (and Japan’s) most famous and photographed landmarks. This UNESCO World Heritage site , where a brilliant gold temple appears to float along the shores of a serene lake, is well worth braving the crowds for, especially in sunny weather when the reflection of the lake glints off of the temple’s exterior walls. Go early, packing your patience – and you’ll understand instantly why so many people flock here. 

School Bus Coffee Stop is a charming spot for an easy, affordable breakfast or lunch in cozy, industrial-farmhouse-style surroundings. Comforting selections like bagel sandwiches and avocado toast are accompanied by the shop’s excellent, house-roasted coffee.

Modern love

For an aesthetic palate cleanser after a quick lunch, stop by the Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art , which houses rotating exhibits, often of contemporary and modern art, in a fantastic brick structure that dates to the 1930s.

Taste sensation

And you’d be remiss if you stayed at the Mitsui without eating at its elegantly flamboyant Italian restaurant, Forni . Yes, there are pizzas and pastas on its à la carte menu. But I’d highly recommend the tasting dinner, where impeccably composed dishes like sea bream citrus tartare and grilled wagyu arrive on geometric plates and stands. It’s a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach.

Day 4: Osaka

Smart hotel.

After going luxe in Kyoto on meals and lodging, I came back to Osaka looking to save money without sacrificing too much comfort. I wasn’t ready to sleep in a sarcophagus-sized pod or get every meal at 7-Eleven. (Well, not every meal – just a few.) After getting off the train from Kyoto at the massive Shin-Osaka Station, I took the easy-to-use metro to one of the best places I’ve stayed in Japan, the chicly designed, austere-but-comfortable  Hotel Noum , just across the river from Temmabashi Station. The location made transportation connections easy and kept me sheltered from the stark urban rush of Umeda, Osaka’s high-rise business district. Rooms are small, comfortable and spotless; mine had a river view. The hotel also has an airy coffee shop in its lobby that attracts as many locals as travelers. I popped in here for a breakfast pastry and a latte and was ready to start the day.

Window(less) shopping

Even if you don’t stay in Umeda, visiting the neighborhood is a must. Spend a day wandering its cavernous, endless indoor shopping malls and underground food courts. You may never see daylight, but you will find everything from Hermès bags to the best 300-yen (US$2) gyoza you’ve ever tasted. I like to check in on the enormous red whale, which hangs suspended from the atrium of the Hep Five department store, which also happens to have a ferris wheel on its roof.

Enjoy a messy lunch

Train stations are where you’ll find some of the best food in Japan – and Osaka’s sprawling Umeda Station is no exception. My favorite train-station ramen is at Menya Takei, located behind the entry gates for the Hankyu Railway. Menya Takei specializes in tsukemen , in which the ramen noodles and broth are served separately. Dip the noodles into the broth to eat – yes, you’ll undoubtedly get it all over your clothes, but that’s part of the fun. Lots of laundry to do when you return home is a sure sign of a great trip. 

Insider tip : Ask the gate agent to let you through. They’ll make you pay for a rail ticket on the way in, and then may refund you on the way out.

From Osaka, hop back onboard the Shinkansen for more exploring in Japan, or do what I did and catch a quick, affordable domestic flight to Tokyo’s Haneda airport to connect to your flight home.

Keep planning your trip to Japan:

The 24 best things to do in Japan Find out if you need a visa to enter the country Take to the open road on these top drives How to discover Japan on a budget

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15 Essential Travel Hacks When Visiting Japan

A sk anybody what's on their travel bucket list, and their response is sure to include "Japan." Thanks to a combination of rich heritage, lush landscapes, and labyrinth cities packed with skyscrapers, temples, and tourist traps alike, the country has soared in popularity, with American Express claiming that the number of bookings has increased by 1,300% since 2019 (via Bloomberg ).

Part of what makes Japan so alluring is that its culture and customs are so distinct and unique to those of other countries. That's also what makes it an overwhelming travel destination, especially for first-time visitors. If you start your journey in a major city like Tokyo, Yokohama, or Osaka, you're instantly immersed in a world of neon lights, bustling crowds, loud noises, a million different smells, and sensory overload.

With so much to see, do, and eat, a trip to Japan really isn't the kind of vacation you can make up as you go along. The last thing you need is to run into an easily avoided stumbling block like a lack of internet or 30 minutes spent figuring out the route to your next destination — which is why you'll want to arrive armed with as much knowledge as possible.

Read more: 28 Bucket List Destinations That Everyone Needs To Experience At Least Once

Get Quick Meals At 7-Eleven

It's tough to walk for longer than 20 seconds without stumbling upon a convenience store in Japan. Also known as conbini, these stores are usually open 24 hours a day and are packed full of affordable tasty treats that will keep you going without the time (and money) it takes to eat at an actual restaurant.

For as cheap as 200 yen ($1.34), you can enjoy the likes of onigiri rice balls, chicken karaage, sandos, oden, and bento boxes. We also recommend picking up taiyaki for a quick sugar boost. Shaped like fish and made of pancake or waffle batter, they're usually filled with red bean paste, custard, and chocolate and make for an endlessly addictive snack.

The most common store is 7-Eleven, which has over 20,000 locations throughout Japan and is miles above its U.S. counterpart in the culinary department. There are also over 15,000 FamilyMarts scattered across the country, but they typically don't offer as much variety.

Get Pocket Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi is surprisingly scarce in Japan, which can put you in some tough spots if you get lost mid-metro commute. Fortunately, pocket Wi-Fi exists -- and it is a lifesaver. For as cheap as $5 a day, you can rent a portable device that will allow you to access the internet on the go, even on the train. The majority will allow you to connect multiple devices at the same time and come in a variety of different speeds and GB, with some even offering unlimited data throughout your stay.  

If you rent in advance through a website like Ninja WiFi or Japan Wireless , you can pick up the device (also known by the much cuter name of a Wi-Fi Egg) at a designated counter once you've got through customs at airports including Haneda and Narita in Tokyo, Chubu Centrair, Kansai International, Fukuoka, and more. Once you're done, you can just pop it into the returns box at the airport on the way back. Easy.

Buy A JR Pass

Sadly, the JR (Japan Rail) Pass isn't as cheap as it once was. It surged in price by 70% in July 2023 as the yen continued to decline in value against other currencies around the world. However, if your itinerary includes extensive train travel, it's still worth the purchase.

The Japan Rail Pass will allow you to ride the rail to your heart's desire -- including the country's infamous, lightning-speed Shinkansen bullet trains (for a supplementary fee) and the Narita Express. It's more expensive to purchase once in Japan, so we recommend buying yours in advance on the JRailPass website where it costs $340.65 for seven days, $544.45 for 14 days, and $680.35 for 21 days.

If your visit is limited to just one or two cities, such as Tokyo and Osaka or Tokyo and Kyoto, then it probably isn't necessary. For example, a trip between Tokyo and Osaka typically costs $120 each way, which is considerably cheaper than forking out a few hundred dollars for a JR Pass.

Download Train Schedules And Maps

Japan has incredible public transportation. It also happens to be extremely overwhelming if it's your first (or second, or third) time in the country. Tokyo's metro can be especially confusing, with nine different train lines and 180 different stations to navigate. Its roads are even more complex with the majority not even having names, baffling even the city's own taxi drivers.

With that in mind, future-proofing for any situation where you may end up lost in an unknown place is always a good idea. Download or screenshot train schedules ahead of time through the JRailPass website, which offers both interactive and PDF versions of Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto's transportation systems. You can also download an offline version of the local area on Google Maps. This will also help if you face the aforementioned pesky issue of scarce public Wi-Fi, or if your portable Wi-Fi runs out of juice midday.

Use Citymapper

If you're visiting Tokyo, Citymapper is a must. Just like it does for multiple other cities across the globe, the award-winning app analyzes public transportation, congestion, and distance to figure out all the different ways you can reach your destination, and precisely how many minutes each option will take.

Whether it's walking, cycling, taxis, metro, or a combination of everything, all you need to do is select your chosen route and follow Citymapper's step-by-step instructions. When we say step-by-step, we mean it. The app's so smart that it will even tell you which exits and entrances to use at each station to make your journey as stress-free as possible. If you miss your stop or don't quite make your train, the app will also take that into account to restrategize your trip ASAP. You'll need to be online to request a new route, but if you check your journey ahead of time, you can save it to your homepage for offline use.

Visit Between January And March

There is no one "best" time to visit Japan, but there is a most convenient time. January to March tends to attract less crowds and will also usually bring the cheapest flights of the year. While it'll almost certainly be cold, you'll skip typhoon season and be in with a chance of seeing Japan in the snow.

If you do choose to visit at this time, just be sure to check the dates of the Lunar New Year (AKA Chinese New Year). This tends to be a public holiday across the region and will see cities across Japan packed with tourists. As it's such a popular time to travel, this will also be the exception to the "January to March is cheaper" rule with hotels and airlines driving up their prices over the holiday. The same is true of the end of March, which marks the beginning of cherry blossom season.

Make Advanced Reservations

There's a lot to enjoy in Japan. The problem is that everybody else wants to enjoy these things, too. Tourist attractions often book up months in advance, and a lot of them don't sell tickets at the gate, which doesn't leave much space for spontaneity for the average tourist visiting Japan .

If you plan on visiting the likes of the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo - The Making of Harry Potter, Tokyo Disney Resort, Ghibli Park, Shibuya Sky observation deck, Teamlab Planets, or the Studio Ghibli Museum, it's best to sort your tickets sooner rather than later. The Ghibli Museum is especially challenging, with tickets for the next month going on sale at 10 a.m. on the 10th of the month prior.

The same is true of the hotels at Tokyo Disney Resort . With one of the most impressive Disney hotel lineups in the world (including the MiraCosta, a hotel that is actually inside Tokyo DisneySea), rooms are in extremely high demand. These go on sale from 11 a.m. four months before the dates you hope to stay and are bookable through the Tokyo Disney Resort Online Reservations & Tickets website.

Download The Japan Connected-Free Wi-Fi App

If you don't want the responsibility of carrying around and charging pocket Wi-Fi, download the Japan Connected -free Wi-Fi app. Whether you need to double-check directions or just have a quick midday TikTok break, this handy tool will search over 170,000 internet hotspots to find the closest location to you. The majority of these will likely be at a 7-Eleven, where you'll almost always be able to go online.

As if that feature isn't useful enough, the app eliminates the need to fill in the registration forms that typically serve as a barrier before you can access public Wi-Fi. Fill out your name and email once and the app will complete each form on your behalf. While you used to need to be online to find the Internet (which kind of defeats the app's entire purpose), you can now download the offline map to ensure you can always find a connection. Just remember to be careful with what data you enter or share while using any public Wi-Fi network .

Japan has been a "cash is king" country for years, meaning paying with notes and coins is the default over ApplePay and credit cards. This attitude has slipped in recent years, but cash still has a strong grip on the country's residents with only 36% of people preferring cashless payments.

While you should be able to use your card in most major outlets and tourist locations -- such as department stores, malls, theme parks, supermarkets, and even taxis -- a lot of restaurants, cafes, and bars still prefer to be paid in cash. This number will be much higher outside of major cities, and many local restaurants, markets, or temples won't have the facilities to accept card payments even if they want to. Exchanging at least a chunk of your spending money into Japanese yen ahead of time will save you in sticky situations (plus it helps you control your spending, which is always a bonus).

Choose Taxis Over Ubers

Although Uber exists in Japan, it's not as widespread or commonplace as in countries like the United States, Canada, or the United Kingdom. Journeys tend to be more expensive than those taken with local cabs, making the latter the service of choice for locals and tourists alike.

The upside to Uber is, of course, the fact that it's so familiar for many tourists. It's easy to order your taxi and pay via card, and the entire process is in English. However, your cheapest option is to hail taxis on the street, as you won't need to pay a base fare for the pick-up service. It'll say on the front of a car in Japanese if it's occupied. It's also color-coded so tourists can understand. Red means it's taken. Green means it's available. If you do want to pre-book, most locals prefer to use the Go app for journeys anywhere within Japan's 47 prefectures. This works similarly to Uber, except it allows you to pay with both cash and card and will give you a flat rate for journeys to and from the airport.

Purchase A Suica Card

The question isn't so much what a Suica card can do ; what can't it do? This prepaid, contactless card can be repeatedly loaded up with more cash to pay for public transport, including the metro, trains, buses, and taxis. Beyond transportation, Suica is also accepted in many shops, restaurants, cafes, and even vending machines. Just look out for the Suica symbol to know if they do -- and if you can't spot it, it's at least worth asking.

You can purchase your card before arriving in Japan and return it at the end of your trip to recover your 500 yen ($12) deposit. Due to a manufacturing shortage, the sale of new Suica cards is temporarily on hold as of June 2023, but if you're on a temporary visa, you can still purchase a Welcome Suica card. This doesn't require a deposit, doesn't need to be returned, and is valid for 28 days. These can only be purchased inside Japan at locations such as Narita and Haneda airports and will come with a reference paper which you'll need to keep on your person at all times.

Utilize Storage Lockers

For security reasons, storage lockers are a rarity at train stations around the world. Japan is an exception. You'd be hard-pressed to find a major station without coin lockers (which, despite the name, can actually be used with a Suica card, too), and in Tokyo, most stations come equipped with storage facilities.

Baggage storage is one of those things you don't realize you'll need until you desperately need it. These lockers are useful if you only have a few hours before heading to your hotel or next destination and want to stow away your belongings so you can freely explore. They also happen to be extremely cheap, typically costing between $1 and $5. There's usually no problem finding a vacant locker, but if you are struggling, you can download the  SPACER app , which will allow you to find and reserve a locker at major stations such as Shinjuku, Osaka, and Shibuya in advance. This is currently only available in Japanese, but there are plans for an English version in the near future.

Avoid National Holidays

Lunar New Year isn't the only holiday worth skipping if you want to avoid the crowds. National holidays bring in huge crowds anywhere, but especially Japan, where workers get little annual leave and want to take advantage of the break. If you do decide to brave big attractions like Shibuya Crossing, Senso-ji Temple, or Tokyo Skytree, you'll likely find yourself shoulder-to-shoulder with fellow tourists.

For a quieter vacation, April 29 to May 6 -- or, Golden Week -- is one of Japan's busiest holiday periods. This tends to be the most hectic season for the likes of Tokyo Disney Resort and Universal Studios Japan, where you can expect to wait in long lines for everything, from the park entrance to the restrooms. While Christmas isn't a national holiday in Japan, it is for many other countries, meaning the festive season can also bring an influx of tourists to both of these locations. Late September (Silver Week), New Year, and the Obon Week in August are typically also very busy.

Claim Your Tax Refund

From clothes to gadgets, Japan is one of the most unique places for retail therapy in the world. If you're a tourist, you can also shop with the peace of mind that you'll get at least some of your money back. Any non-resident visiting Japan for less than six months can enjoy tax-free shopping, meaning you can reclaim 10% of the value of your purchase.

There are a few catches. First, you'll need to check that the store is in fact a "tax-free shop" by checking for a logo stating as such at the entrance. They're extremely common and can be found in the likes of Namba City, Echika Ikebukuro, and Seibu Shibuya. You'll also need to have spent more than 5,000 yen ($33) in the same store on the same day. Some stores will let you pay tax-free from the offset if you present your passport, while others will require you to present your receipt at a tax exemption counter on the same day to get your money back.

Download A Good Translation App

If you know Japanese, you're good to go. For those of us who aren't bilingual, Japan can be tough to navigate at times. While most signs in major cities will have translations, less than 30% of people living in Japan speak English, which means it's inevitable you'll hit the language barrier at some point during your stay.

A good translation app is a must, especially one that's able to translate pictures. Google Translate is always a go-to, but one of the best choices is iTranslate Translator . Not only can it tackle text, but you can also use it to scan and translate menus, signs, labels ... you name it. Best of all, it can work offline if you download the Japanese pack ahead of time. It's free to download but will cost you $5.99 a month to unlock its full potential. Considering how useful it is, it's better to spend $5.99 than find yourself stranded in a restaurant blind-ordering a dish because you can't read the menu.

Read the original article on Explore .

Steve Kornacki's guide to the Kentucky Derby: Biggest storylines, best bets

The horses are entered, the post positions are drawn, and the morning line is set. The final countdown to Saturday’s 150th Kentucky Derby is truly underway, which means it’s crunch time for those — present company very much included — hoping to dazzle our friends (and maybe fatten our wallets) by picking the winner. 

Sifting through this massive field of 20 horses, all of them still-developing 3-year-olds and many of them with just a few starts under their belts, presents an enticing challenge whether you’re a veteran horseplayer or a casual fan.

There are countless ways to handicap the Derby. What follows are a few data points, trends and angles that may (hopefully) help shape your thinking and sharpen your opinions about this year’s Run for the Roses.

Two important notes: There are several references here to the Derby qualifying system implemented in 2013. It’s an important reference point, because it altered the basic structure of the race.

Before 2013, Derby slots were allotted based simply on money won in any kind of stakes races; that allowed horses who weren’t natural Derby fits (short-distance sprinters, for instance) to make it in and distort the dynamics of the race.

Since 2013, Derby qualification has been based on points awarded to the top finishers in a series of specifically designated races. The system has produced fields much heavier on horses who have demonstrated success under Derby-like conditions.

Also, the term “crossed the wire first” appears here many times in reference to recent trends. That’s due to the 2019 and 2021 Derbies, in which the horses who crossed the finishing wire first — Maximum Security in 2019 and Medina Spirit in 2021 — were ultimately disqualified, with the second-place finishers designated as the official winners. But for our purposes here, it’s more useful to use the horses who initially finished first in those Derbies.

Favorites for a reason

In a field as big as the Derby — 20 horses, easily the most that will run in a major race in the U.S. this year — it’s natural to expect chaos and to look for a long shot that’ll blow up your bank account for only a small investment. And, certainly, we’ve witnessed some massive Derby upsets; who among us doesn’t wish they’d plopped down a few bucks on Rich Strike at 80-1 two years ago?

But as thrilling as the Rich Strikes are, they’re also rare. In horse racing, favorites win around 35% of all races run across the country in a given year. And since the Derby switched to its current qualifying system in 2013, their hit rate in this race is even higher:

That’s six of 11 Derbies (54.5%) since 2013 in which the betting favorite has won. And even when the favorite has fallen short, it has still tended to run well, never crossing the wire worse than fifth. If you had simply placed the minimum bet of $2 to win on every favorite since 2013, you would now have a profit of $19.40, nearly double your total investment.

That having been said, this year’s favorite, Fierceness , enters the Derby with a peculiar track record. He has won three previous races in absolutely dominating fashion, by a combined total of 31 lengths. But his two other races have been total clunkers: a 20 ¼-length seventh-place finish in last fall’s Champagne Stakes and a baffling third-place finish (as the 1-5 favorite against suspect competition) in February’s Holy Bull Stakes. Many see Fierceness as the ultimate boom or bust horse — one who either wins with ease or loses in a rout.

Pace: Will there be another meltdown?

This may be the single most significant variable in the race. The general rule is that the faster the pace is early, the more unsustainable it becomes for the horses on or near the lead. They essentially use up too much fuel too soon and have little in reserve for the stretch run. That allows the closers — horses that sit far off the fast early pace and conserve energy — to blow by the tiring leaders in the final stages of the race.

What makes this year’s Derby so fascinating is that, when it comes to pace, the two favorites embody polar-opposite running styles. 

Sierra Leone is a deep closer; he prefers to sit far off and slowly rev up for one big charge. He stands to benefit if he has a hot pace to run into Saturday. Fierceness, by contrast, has shown a desire to run at or near the front; a pace that heats up too much could doom him if he gets drawn into it. More modest early fractions, by contrast, should put him in a stronger position when the race turns for home.

The recent history of the Derby (since 2013, when the current qualifying system was put in place) demonstrates how crucial pace can be:

Note that the 2013 and 2022 Derbies featured the fastest opening half-miles — and that each was won by a horse who was far, far back at that point. And that the only other recent deep closer to finish first, Mage last year, also did so amid brisk early fractions. Meanwhile, the slower early paces all helped horses on or near the lead stay there. Overall, despite the past two years, early speed has held up fairly well in recent Derbies.

On Saturday, Fierceness’ first task will be to break cleanly and establish his preferred forward position. That alone is no given, because he’s breaking from the 17th post and will need to work his way toward the inside quickly.

But if he does do that, the pace question becomes pivotal. A number of horses will also be scrambling for early position; Track Phantom , T O Password , Dornoch and Just a Touch are among those who could contest the pace. Will they set blazing fractions and — if they do — will it draw Fierceness into an early, draining duel? Or will Fierceness have it his way, getting a modest pace to sit off of before he revs his engine and leaves the field in the dust? The example of Justify above is also worth recalling; he endured a lightning-fast early pace in 2018 and still managed to hold up and win anyway.

Meanwhile, Sierra Leone figures to have company toward the back of the pack, too. Catching Freedom and Honor Marie are two other well-regarded closers who, like Sierra Leone, should be doing their best running late. For all of them, the pace up front can’t get hot enough. 

Speed ratings: A threshold number?

Comparing all 20 horses in the field with one another is a daunting task. After all, they’re each only 3 years old and mostly haven’t raced that much, and they’ve taken various routes to the Derby — running in different qualifying races at different tracks with varying configurations and under varying conditions.

Speed ratings are an attempt to flatten all of that out into one easy-to-compare number. Many unique formulas, each with its own proprietary logic, have sprouted up. The best-known is probably the Beyer Speed Figure system, which takes its name from creator Andrew Beyer. Those numbers can be found in the Daily Racing Form, which you’ll probably encounter on any trip to the track. The basic idea: The higher the number, the faster the horse.

When it comes to this year’s Derby, the Beyer ratings offer a potential angle for sizing up the field. Looking at every unrestricted stakes race at least a mile in length that each horse has run, here is the highest Beyer figure each has put up coming into the Derby:

Based on the Beyer Ratings, Fierceness, with a high of 110, towers over the rest of this year’s field — that’s a nine-point advantage over his nearest foes.

Moreover, the 101 high for Japan’s Forever Young is only an unofficial estimate provided by a Beyer figure-maker from a race in the Middle East. And the 101 for Mystik Dan came on a muddy track at Oaklawn Park in February; outside of that race, his best number is only 89, suggesting Mystik Dan may need a wet surface to excel (in other words: If it rains Saturday, he’ll suddenly become a popular pick).

Horses entering the Derby with the highest Beyer ratings don’t always win, but since 2000 six of them have: Justify (2018), California Chrome (2014), Street Sense (2007), Big Brown (2008), War Emblem (2002) and Fusaichi Pegasus (2000). And a seventh, Maximum Security (2019), crossed the wire first but was ultimately disqualified for interference. All told, a dozen horses who’ve crossed the wire first since 2000 came in with one of the three highest Beyers.

Also of note: Since 2000, all but two horses that crossed the wire first in the Derby had previously posted at least a 94 Beyer rating in a stakes race a mile or longer. The two exceptions are two of the most mystifying long-shot winners of all time: Mine That Bird (2009), who came in with a best Beyer of just 81, and Rich Strike (2022), who’d previously maxed out at 84. Neither of them ever won another race after their memorable Derby upsets. As you can see above, exactly half of this year’s field has previously run a 94 Beyer or better.

Fierceness’ 110 Beyer, along with the nine-point gap to the next best, explains why he’s the favorite in this race. But lest anyone think that makes him invincible, consider that the only other Derby horse this century to enter with such a marked Beyer advantage — Bellamy Road, 12 points better than anyone else in 2005 — ended up finishing sixth. 

‘Final fractions’

Credit for this angle goes to Jennie Rees, a decorated horse racing journalist who handles publicity for Kentucky Downs. Because the 1 ¼-mile Derby is typically the longest any of these horses have ever run, her idea is that any previous ability they’ve shown to finish powerfully provides an important clue about their fitness and endurance.

To measure that, Rees proposed looking at how each horse finished its final pre-Derby prep race, crediting those that either ran the last quarter-mile in 13 seconds or less or the last three-eighths of a mile in 38 seconds or less. Those benchmarks haven’t been perfect, but the vast majority of recent Derby winners have checked at least one of the boxes.

Which members of this year’s field qualify for consideration under the “final fractions” theory? For that, we owe deep gratitude to J. Keeler Johnson, a Bloodhorse contributor who performed some tediously heroic math to devise numbers for each horse . Because exact official times aren’t available from every Derby prep race, there’s subjectivity involved here, and not every number cruncher will come up with the same times. 

But Johnson offers a meticulous and compelling methodology, and he found that eight horses in this year’s field fail to meet either criteria: Catalytic, Dornoch, Epic Ride, Grand Mo the First, Just a Touch, Stronghold, Sierra Leone, T O Password and West Saratoga.

Most of them are long shots — with the glaring exceptions of Sierra Leone and Just a Touch, who finished first and second respectively in the Blue Grass Stakes a month ago. Given his overpowering stretch run in that race, it’s particularly surprising to find Sierra Leone’s name on the list. And some contend that the Keeneland surface he was running on that day was biased toward front-running horses — making his ability to come from behind and win quite impressive, no matter the fractional times.

Every other horse in the Derby field checks both “final fractions” boxes, except for long shot Society Man, who misses on one and only barely makes the cut on the other (a 12.95-second final quarter-mile in the Wood Memorial). 

The Japan factor

Back in 1989, an American horse named Sunday Silence attained glory by winning the Derby and the Preakness, the first two jewels of the Triple Crown. And yet, when he was retired from racing, Sunday Silence found himself unwanted as a stallion — until a Japanese breeder swooped in and took him to his home country. There, to an astonishing degree , Sunday Silence flourished as a sire, essentially serving as the foundation for modern Japanese racing. 

After decades of steady progress, Japanese-bred horses — most of them direct descendants of Sunday Silence — are exploding onto the international stage, having taken down two prestigious Breeders’ Cup races and the world’s two richest races ( the $20 million Saudi Cup and the $12 million Dubai World Cup ) in just the last few years. It feels like a Derby breakthrough is only a matter of time.

This year, two Japanese-bred horses, Forever Young and T O Password , are in the field. Both descend from Sunday Silence, as did the four previous Japanese-bred horses to make the Run for the Roses:

Those results aren’t much to look at, though the sample size is limited and Derma Sotogake finished sixth last year only after he encountered issues at the starting gate and traffic during the race. In other words, his performance was stronger than it looks on paper.

There are some unique unknowns with this year’s Japanese entrants. They both had to endure long overseas trips just to get to Kentucky and will be running on North American soil for the first time. How will they adjust?

And both will have to defy some other history, too. In Forever Young’s case, that has to do with the UAE Derby in Dubai, the race that he won to qualify for Louisville. Horses going to the Kentucky Derby from that race are a combined 0-19, never finishing better than fifth. Meanwhile, T O Password, who has raced only in Japan, has made just two starts in his entire career. No modern horse has ever won the Derby with such little experience, and almost none have even tried. To find a horse that pulled that off, you’d have to go all the way back to Leonatus in 1883 .

The stratospheric trajectory of Japanese racing makes both of this year’s entrants at least worth keeping an eye on. But only Forever Young is considered a main contender. He has won all five races he has run, faced international competition in Dubai and turned in flashy performances that certainly look Derby-worthy. Now, 35 years later, it’s possible the name Sunday Silence will resound once more.

My pick for the Kentucky Derby 

Cards on the table first: I’ve picked a grand total of one Derby winner in the last 10 years — and that winner was later disqualified (although I did get to keep the money). That itself may actually be a productive angle for you to consider, one that my friends and family members have used successfully before: If I’m picking it, stay away from it. 

When it comes to this race, though, I’m not going with the favorite. For one thing, I just hate taking favorites, especially in a race like the Derby, with so many horses running and so much potential chaos. Fierceness is clearly the most talented, but to me he has been too inconsistent, and too much can go wrong breaking from such an outside post.

And Sierra Leone, the other potential favorite, will face a unique challenge with his come-from-the-clouds running style. With 19 other horses on the track, he’ll have to maneuver his way through and around traffic like he has never confronted before. As with Fierceness, I won’t be at all surprised if he wins, but too much could go wrong for him in this race for me to take him at short odds.

What I love is trying to find a long shot, and I’ve got my eye on one in particular. He has a running style that has fared well in the past, not contesting the pace but not sitting so far off it that he gets buried in traffic. His most recent race, the Arkansas Derby, was his best yet, and there’s reason to think he could improve further. He also checks both “final fractions” boxes, and his top Beyer speed figure is 95 — on the right side of the line, where just about every Derby winner this century has been.

And, hey, I’m sentimental, too. His trainer is 88 years old, he has won four Derbies before, and he still heads to the barn in the wee hours of every morning in search of more. I’ll admit my heart is probably talking my head into this one, but the odds will be big and the Derby only comes around once a year, so why not? I’m going with D. Wayne Lukas and Just Steel .

Steve Kornacki, author of "The Red and the Blue: 1990s and the Birth of Political Tribalism," is a national political correspondent for NBC News and MSNBC.

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The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time.

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