Best & Worst Time to Visit Japan 2026/2027 (First-Timer Guide)

When it comes to the best time to visit Japan, the common answer is March and May for the cherry blossoms and pleasant temperatures. But Japan is a year-round popular destination with four distinct seasons. Each season offers a variety of charming scenery and culture-rich events to enjoy.

The joys, however, may be affected by other factors like crowds and lines, seasonal costs, the weather, local activities, and so on. Considering these factors and different travel needs, we'll recommend the best times to visit Japan for you to help you make the most out of the trip.

Scroll down to learn the details.

Japan Monthly Weather: Pick A Month for More Details

Best Time to Visit Japan for Pleasant Weather

Most people vote that the best times to visit Japan are spring and autumn. During these seasons, the weather is clear and pleasant, and the scenery is at its best—cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn leaves in fall.

Additionally, most traditional events are held in the two seasons, providing a great opportunity to experience local traditions.

Spring: Best Time to Visit Japan for Warm Days and Cherry Blossoms

• Best time to visit: Late March - April

Spring is one of the most pleasant seasons in Japan, with high temperatures around 20°C (70°F) and lows around 5°C (40°F).

From late February, early-blooming cherry blossoms appear in coastal areas such as Atami, about two hours from Tokyo. It's a quiet preview of spring. But the air is still chilly, with temperatures in Tokyo around 5–10°C (40–50°F).

Spring truly arrives in March. From late March, cherry blossoms reach full bloom in much of the country, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Early April is usually the peak. Parks, riversides, and temple grounds turn soft pink and white. 

The weather is changeable. On sunny days, temperatures can rise above 10°C (50°F), but on rainy days, they may drop close to 0°C (32°F). So bring layers. 

Spring is also festival season. Join cherry blossom events like the Takayama Festival or the Sanja Matsuri. Watch ornate floats, traditional performances, and lively street celebrations beneath blooming trees.

Autumn: Best Time to Visit Japan for Sunny Days and Autumn Colors

• Best time to visit: Late October to November

Autumn in Japan runs from October to November. The weather turns cool and comfortable. In early autumn, temperatures are around 20–25°C (68–77°F). By November, daytime highs drop to about 14–18°C (57–64°F).

This is perfect weather for going outdoors. Walk through gardens and forests under clear blue skies. Mornings feel crisp. Leaves in red, yellow, and orange cover trails, lakesides, and temple grounds.

Autumn is also festival season. Enjoy evening maple leaf illuminations, the Jidai Matsuri in Kyoto, and art festivals in Tokyo. Expect colorful parades, open-air performances, and a mix of theater, dance, and music from artists around the world.

Compared to spring, autumn is less crowded. You move at a slower pace, take better photos, and enjoy each stop without rushing. It's one of the most relaxing times to explore Japan.

Read a complete guide for traveling in Japan in autumn

Best Time to Visit Japan By Activities

Japan has a rich tradition and numerous attractions, bringing many activities. Each activity reflects the region's history, lifestyle, and good wishes.

Therefore, planning the best time to visit Japan around seasonal events is also a good choice. This is an excellent window to learn more about Japanese culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Japan for Cherry Blossoms

March to May is the best season to visit Japan for cherry blossoms. This is when the country looks its most beautiful. In most regions, cherry blossoms reach full bloom from late March to early April (around March 24 to April 2), making spring and Easter holidays an ideal time to travel.

If you want to avoid peak crowds and high prices, consider traveling a little earlier or later.

• Early spring (late March): Visit the Izu Peninsula to see early-blooming cherry blossoms before the main season begins. Crowds are lighter, and the atmosphere is calmer.
• Around April 10: Head to the Fuji Five Lakes, Takayama, or Kanazawa. Cherry blossoms are still beautiful here, and the scenery feels more relaxed than in major cities.

 Check our 11-day early spring tour to see cherry blossoms before the big crowds arrive. 

If you prefer late-blooming cherry blossoms with fewer tourists, travel from late April to early May to Hokkaido.  In Sapporo, cherry blossoms usually bloom from mid to late April (around April 15–20). This is also a great chance to experience Japan's indigenous Ainu culture.

Click to know further: Plan a Japan Cherry Blossom Trip 2026, Dates and Avoid Crowds

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.

Best Time to Visit Japan for Festivals

Japan's festivals are closely tied to history, local traditions, and the seasons. If you enjoy lively events and cultural scenes, plan your trip around festival dates. Kyoto is the best place to enjoy these celebrations due to its old atmosphere. 

Visit in Spring for the Cherry blossom festivals.

At Hirano Shrine in Kyoto, join a traditional cherry blossom festival. Watch classic performances, browse small market stalls, and enjoy night illuminations under glowing sakura.

Another famous festival is the Ueno Sakura Festival in Tokyo, where you will see local enjoy picnic under the flowering trees. 

Summer is a season with colorful parades and firework festival. The Gion Matsuri in July is one of Japan's most lively celebrations. Watch decorated floats, traditional costumes, and energetic street parades. It's also a time to pray for good luck.

Summer fireworks festivals are another highlight—check the 2026 Japan fireworks schedule if this interests you.

Autumn is colorful and ceremonial. Don't miss Kyoto's Jidai Matsuri. See people dressed in historical costumes parade through old streets. It feels like stepping back in time. 

The Sapporo Snow Festival in early February features massive snow sculptures, concerts, winter sports, and local Hokkaido food stalls. Cold weather, but a lively atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit Japan for Tokyo Disneyland

The best time to visit Japan Disneyland attractions depends on a lot of factors. For comfort, spring and autumn are recommended. The weather is pleasant during these seasons, and aside from rides under maintenance, everything is operational. Especially in autumn, Halloween and Christmas decorations and themed events will be added.

If you prefer a less crowded time, January to early March is a good choice. However, it will be cold, and some outdoor attractions and rides might be closed. As for June to August, it is the least recommended time to visit. Not only is it peak season, but it also coincides with Japanese holidays, making it even more crowded.

Best Times to Visit Japan for Less Crowds and Lower Prices

Winter: The Least Crowded Time to Visit Japan

Winter (December to February) is the most budget-friendly time to visit Japan, except around Christmas and New Year. The weather is cold and dry, with daytime temperatures around 10°C (50°F), so dress warmly.

This is the season to travel slowly. Ski in Hokkaido without long lift lines. Wander through the Sapporo Snow Festival without being pushed by crowds. Or soak in an outdoor onsen in Hakone, steam rising as snow falls around you.

Hotels and traditional ryokan are easier to book and often more affordable. Popular spots feel calmer. You can enjoy Japan without rushing—and without paying peak-season prices.

Avoid Peak Travel Season and Japanese Holidays

However, if you don't have time in the winter or around it, the best time to visit Japan is to avoid the peak season, such as March and April. While these two seasons have pleasant weather, they attract tourists from around the world for cherry blossom viewing.

Also, avoid four major Japanese holidays: Golden Week in May, Obon in mid-August, Silver Week in mid-September, and the New Year holiday from late December to January 3rd. During these four periods, the Japanese may use these dates to go on vacation. Tourist attractions will be extremely crowded, the costs for food and accommodation are greatly higher, and traffic is often congested.

Worst Time to Visit Japan

If you dislike hot, sticky weather, June to August can feel like the hardest time to travel in Japan.

Summer is hot and humid. Daytime temperatures often reach 31°C (88°F), and the heat can feel closer to 41°C (106°F). Even short walks—between attractions or out of your hotel—can feel exhausting. June also brings the rainy season.

That said, bad weather doesn't mean a bad trip. Summer travel just needs smarter planning. Go out early in the morning. Save museums, food tours, shopping, and hands-on experiences for the afternoon. Mix outdoor sights with indoor breaks, and the trip feels much easier.

September also needs extra attention. It's peak typhoon season, and storms may affect trains or flights.

The risk is real but not constant. We traveled in Japan for  14 days in late December 2024; we had only two light rainy days. The key is flexibility. Always have backup plans in case the weather changes. We will do that for you if you travel with us. 

If summer is your only time to visit, it's still worth coming. Japan's festivals, traditions, and food scenes are at their most lively. Check the weather forecast, allow extra travel time, and bring cooling items to stay comfortable.

Also, try to avoid attending the mentioned festival activities around Obon in mid-August if you have a limited budget. It is a nine-day holiday in Japan that will cause unnecessary expenses and congestion.

Weather in Japan by Month: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka

Of the must-visit cities in Japan, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are always the most famous ones for first-timers.

They all have distinct seasons, with a rainy season from June to July and possibly affected by Pacific typhoons from August to October.

Apart from these seasonal commonalities, there are differences in their climates and best visiting times due to their different locations within Japan.

Tokyo: Due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, Tokyo's climate is mild. Therefore, the best time to visit Tokyo, Japan may cover four seasons. As for attractions, Tokyo Tower, Skytree, Akihabara, Sensoji Temple, and Ueno Park are all excellent options, each offering a unique seasonal experience.

Kyoto: Located inland, Kyoto experiences hot and humid summers and cold and snowy winters. Thus, the two seasons are not the best times to visit Kyoto, Japan. However, if you visit in the spring or autumn, Kinkakuji Temple and Kiyomizu-dera Temple will immerse you in Japanese culture. Places like Kinkakuji, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and Gion will show you what serene and unhurried life looks like.

Osaka: Osaka's summers are hot with temperatures above 30°C (86°F), but winters are relatively mild, typically around 0°C (32°F) with little snowfall. So other than Spring and Autumn, the best time to visit Osaka, Japan might include winter, which is also a great time to enjoy oden (Japanese hotpot).

Plan Your Japan Trip

To wrap up, in addition to the seasonal climate, festival events, crowd size, and budget can also be priorities to be your best time to visit Japan. Alternatively, you can even describe your interests and requirements to us for a tailor-made travel plan without any worries.

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• Best Time to Visit Japan in Autumn: Late October - November
  • Fujisan Kaizen Climbing Ceremony is a major summer event held in June in Shizuoka City, Japan.
  • Kyoto Gion Matsuri, featuring shrines and float parades, is celebrated in July.
  • Hakata Gion Yamakasa, a float competition host in July in Kyushu.
  • Akita Kanto Matsuri, held in August, features hundreds of giant lantern displays.
  • Nagasaki Kunchi Festival with dragon dances and taiko performances, held in October in Nagasaki.

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