Here is Your Guide to the BEST TIME TO GO TO JAPAN in 2023
Planning a visit to Japan and wondering what the weather is like and what clothes to take? You are in the right place and I am glad you landed here!
In this easy guide you will find a complete and detailed guide about the weather in Japan, what to expect when you visit, events, festivals and national holidays to plan ahead for or to avoid them. I have also included a clothing guide to make your packing easy. This is the ultimate guide to help you decide when is the best time to go to Japan.
When I lived in Japan, I pretty much experienced most of the seasons and I am here to share with you the best tips from my experience.
IN THIS GUIDE…
- About Visiting Japan;
- Best Time to Visit, What to Expect, + Clothing Guide: January/February; March/April; May/June; July/August; September/October; November/December;
- Japan’s National Holidays;
- Finally;
ABOUT VISITING JAPAN
From spring blossoms to autumn leaves and winter festivals, Japan is a country that can be visited at anytime of the year. Typically, late spring, March – May and late autumn, September to November is ideal as the temperature is mild and rainfall is low. December and January are the driest months with January and February being the coldest in Japan. However, to pick the best time to go to Japan will depend very much on what you want to see, do, and experience in this Land of the Rising Sun.
Most of the main tourists’ cities are located in Honshu Island. Tokyo is a top destination for travellers for its vibrancy, shopping, photography and night ime electric lights and colours. Kyoto and Hiroshima are just as popular for their deep rooted history, architecture and Japanese culture. Along with other important cities such as Osaka, Kobe and Himeji with each providing unique experiences also. Cities such as Fukuoka, Yokohama and Nagoya are also worth visiting.
If you are looking to get away from the crowds, Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island makes for a beautiful haven. Here, you can see forested mountains, dramatic cliffs and golden temples. The Tōhoku region is usually left off most travellers’ itineraries.
When planning a visit to go to Japan, note that although Japan has all four seasons, it also has a rainy season and a typhoon season. Japan’s weather changes dramatically from one month to another and from one region to another. Given that the Japanese archipelago stretches 3000 kilometres (1800 miles) from north to south, the changes from region to region can be quite drastic even within the same season.
Visiting Kyoto?
Here is a quick guide to some tips to consider:
KYOTO TRIP USEFUL CHECKLIST
- For an overview of my essential tips about visiting Japan, see my Japan Travel page;
- Need tips on when to visit Japan? See this essential guide about the Best Time to Visit Japan;
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com – You can usually reserve your room with no upfront payment. Pay at the hotel when you get there. Free cancellation too.
- Buy an E-SIM Mobile Data Plan to suit and activate it as soon as you need it. You could also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router which I personally found especially invaluable during my stay in Japan;
- Visiting more than one city? Save a ton of money with a Japan Rail Pass;
BEST TIME TO GO TO JAPAN + WHAT TO EXPECT + CLOTHING GUIDE
Here is my guide about the best time to go to Japan to help you plan a timeless vacation in this beautiful country.
January & February: Climate + What to Expect + Clothing Guide
CLIMATE
January: High 9.6℃ (49.2°F)/ Low 1.8℃ (35.1°F)
February: High 10.3℃ (50.3°F)/ Low 2.7℃ (36.9°F)
WHAT TO EXPECT IN JANUARY AND FEBRUARY:
January and February are the coldest months of the year in Japan and sees the ground covered with a blanket of snow. Northern regions of Japan such as Hokkaido sees a thick blanket of snow and welcomes winter sports enthusiasts. A perfect time to hit the ski slopes in northern Japan. These months are the perfect time to see the snow monkeys in Nagano as well.
During these winter months, cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima located in the middle part of Japan in Honshu Island, receive lighter snow. Days are short during winter but January has been recorded to be the sunniest in Tokyo due to little or no rain or snow.
February marks the second coldest month in Japan and people are often indoors or some may indulge in winter sports. February also kicks off the diving season in Japan with sea turtles, sharks, seahorses and manatees can be spotted easily during this season.
As for notable events and festivals, February sees the popular Sapporo Snow Festival.
CLOTHING GUIDE
Keep yourself warm. You will need a thick coat at the very least and a scarf, woolly or knit cap + mittens. Layering is recommended towards latter February
Why you should visit in January/February:
Winter months of January and February are one of the best time to go to Japan as it presents one of the best picturesque landscape. Mountains covered in snow. Still temples and castles covered in snow and drip in icicles. Lit-up snow-covered stone lanterns flicker in the dark to pave the path to the shrines. So peaceful, so serene.
If you are willing to brave the cold, then this is your perfect opportunity for a more personal experience of Japan as there will be less tourists, less crowd at all the touristy spots.
March & April: Climate + What to Expect + Clothing Guide
CLIMATE
March: High 16.4℃ (61.3°F)/ Low 7.9℃ (46.1°F)
April: High 19.2℃ (66.8°F)/ Low 10.8℃ (51.2°F)
WHAT TO EXPECT IN MARCH/APRIL
Early March is still relatively cold and the snowboarding season still continues in some places although it has passed the peak season.
Tokyo sees warmer weather all month and spring days start to appear. In Okinawa, the sea is warm but the waters can be chilly for a dive without a wet-suit.
Daytime temperatures in March are quite refreshing and there are warmer days as well.
April brings pleasant spring weather all across Japan. It is the peak of cherry blossom season in most regions of the country. In Okinawa, the beaches start to open.
CLOTHING GUIDE
Early March is still cold so you might want to have a warmer coat. Latter March and April might require a medium weight/spring jacket with a liner. Keep your feet warm as well during these months. April is comfortably warm, so you can wear light clothes, like t-shirts with jeans, long-sleeve shirts and pants, and thin cardigans.
Hanami
March is the best time to go to Japan for cherry blossoms. It is a popular time to visit Japan as the weather is mild. The onset of the cherry blossom season draws many visitors to the various locations. By mid-march, you can see the budding blooms on the trees, signalling the beginning of the Hanami season. Hanami is the tradition of viewing and appreciating the beauty of the sakuras. Hanami has long been adored by locals as well as people across the globe as it is regarded as a symbol of renewal, vitality, and beauty.
In late March to early April, you will be able to catch the cherry blossoms at their best. If you are planning a trip during Hanami, dedicate some time to planning your travels. The sakura are in full bloom for only 2 to 3 weeks in Spring, between 20th March and 14th April, so you don’t really see them in full-bloom for a full month. Cherries peak at different times and are very weather dependent but they generally peak on 1st April.
Milder climate in the southern region means first blooms are produced in places like Okinawa, and blooming progresses northward. Wind, rain, and temperature can cause the blossoms to appear either earlier or later than average and can lengthen or shorten the blooming season.
If you are planning a trip to witness the hanami, then you may want to consider the following:
- Where will you be going to for the Hanami: Kyoto is a popular destination for hanami and so is Osaka, Himeji and Tokyo;
- When will you be going – you need to visit as close to the time as possible. You also need to decide where you want to witness the hanami as cherries bloom at different times depending on the region;
- As well, consider your accommodation – where would you stay?
It’s worth noting that March and April are expensive months, so plan ahead and book your flights and accommodations well in advance of your travels.
April through to June are the most comfortable months
Months of May & June: Climate + What to Expect + Clothing Guide
CLIMATE
May: High 24.1℃ (75.2°F)/ Low 16℃ (60.9°F)
June: High 26.5℃ (79.4°F)/ Low 20℃ (68°F)
WHAT TO EXPECT IN MAY/JUNE
The weather in May is almost perfect with the right temperatures. Days are warm and sunny at almost every region. It is a popular time for tourists as well. If you can’t make it to Japan in March and April for the Hanami, then head over to Hokkaido in May to catch the white and pink hues of the cherry blossoms. However, the worst time to travel to Japan is during the Golden Week and you may want to avoid travelling during this time. During the Golden Week, prices soar and flights, hotels and activities get booked up quickly.
In Okinawa, rainy season begins in May.
Notable Festivals in May: Meiji Shrine Spring Festival (Tokyo) | May 2 – May 3
Golden Week typically falls during the last weekend in April and the first week of May. In 2023 , the Golden Week is from May 3 through to May 5.
Read this Guide to the Meiji Shrine, Tokyo before you go.
June sees the beginning of the typhoon season in Japan. Typically the first week of June is the rainiest, with rain continuing on till September. Rainy season is a period of grey, humid and wet weather. Every region in Japan plunges into a rainy season in June except Hokkaido.
Hokkaido has no rainy season. No rain means it is perfect for hosting events and festivals.
Sapporo holds the largest event called Yosakoi Soran Festival, a dance competition to take advantage of the good weather.
Tokyo sees a lot of rain and is one of the rainiest cities in Japan. Despite the rain, the city continues to be lively.
In June, head to Osaka around the 15th where on the nearby sacred mountain of Koyasan, hundreds of priests celebrate the birth of Kukai, the grand master of Japanese Buddhism.
CLOTHING GUIDE
In May, with pleasant and moderate temperatures, lightweight cardigan or sweater for early mornings and late evenings are ideal. Long skirts, dresses and short-sleeved shirts will be perfectly okay during the day. June sees the start of the rainy season in Japan. It rains quite heavily at times and unexpectedly. Humidity is high. Best to bring along a light raincoat and waterproof shoes.
Get the latest on Japan’s weather here – Japan Meteorological Agency
The Months of July & August: Climate + What to Expect + Clothing Guide
CLIMATE
July: High 31.4℃ (88.3°F)/ Low 24.2℃ (75.8°F)
August: High 33.2℃ (91.9°F)/ Low 26℃ (78.9°F)
WHAT TO EXPECT IN JULY & AUGUST
July is the start of summer in Japan. In most regions, the rainy season ends around mid July. This is also the start of school holidays. The beaches open and is the beginning of summer festivals throughout the country as well.
The weather turns very hot and humid.
Mount Fuji opens its doors to climbers on July 1st. If you are a climbing/hiking enthusiast and wish to climb Mount Fuji, then late July through to late August is the best time for you to do so. The weather conditions are ideal for climbing but this also means that the mountainside is congested.
The last weekend in July sees Japan’s largest music festival kick off – Fuji Rock Festival at Naeba Ski Resort in Yuzawa, Niigata, featuring both international and national artists.
August is Japan’s hottest month with varying highs of 90 in places like Okinawa and 72 in Hokkaido but less humid. Osaka and Kyoto can get much hotter. Nightlife is busy during these times with festivals, fireworks and events.
There is a three-day Buddhist custom called “Obon Festival” which falls in the middle of August. This is a much celebrated festival where the Japanese believe that the dead and the living are re-united on this day to celebrate, drink and be merry. The streets will be blocked off to the festival and dancing. The dancing, “Bon Odori” is a traditional dance performed throughout Japan. It is a fun time to visit Japan to experience this part of their culture.
The southern regions of Japan such as Okinawa, Kyushu and Shikoku are exposed to strong typhoons during August.
Honour a special and moving tradition on August 6
You may wish to go to Japan early August, in particular to Hiroshima.
On August 6, you could participate and honour the moving tradition of setting paper lanterns off adrift on the River Ota to commemorate the anniversary of the atomic bomb that fell on the city of Hiroshima on August 6. About 10.000 lanterns float past the A-Bomb Dome in the Motoyasu River every year on August 6th.
CLOTHING GUIDE
Light, breezy clothes are best for July. Short sleeves, skirts etc. As it is festival time, kimono and yukata are popular attires as well. Wear a summer hat to protect from the strong sunlight. Use sunscreen as well.
Plan ahead to secure best deals
Holidays and festivals in Japan also means that it is a favourite time for travellers. Flights and hotels are usually booked up months in advance. If you are planning a visit to Japan in August, make your bookings well in advance so you can secure the best deals on flights and hotels.
The Months of September & October: Climate + What to Expect + Clothing Guide
CLIMATE
September: High 28.8℃ (83.9°F)/ Low 21.8℃ (71.1°F)
October: High 23℃ (73.2°F)/ Low 17℃ (62.8°F)
WHAT TO EXPECT IN SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER
The weather cools down a touch in September but still with some fluctuating showers. There are occasions of long period of rain and typhoons. Tokyo experiences the rainiest month of the year.
Mount Fuji closes its hiking trails by the 2nd week of September. One of the largest professional Sumo tournaments takes place in Tokyo in September. September is also a time to avoid travels during Silver Week. End of September sees the first of the falling leaves, making way for the onset of the renowned Japanese autumn.
October is a perfect time to visit Japan! The weather is mild, drier and cooler. The start of autumnal colours are spectacular at this time – perfect atmosphere to enjoy the natural sights. Exploring the countryside is highly encouraged during this season.
Kyoto is a popular destination to see the momiji – red maple leaves. But there are beautiful colours throughout Japan especially in the parks and gardens.
October 9th /10th – Takayama Festival takes place. On 22nd Kyoto’s Jidai Festival takes place when 2,000 people in ornate costumes depart from Kyoto Imperial Palace towards Heian Jingu shrine. A colourful and vibrant event which you may want to see.
CLOTHING GUIDE
Early September is still warm and summer clothes are ideal along with kimono or yukata. It gets cooler from mid September onwards and thicker/warmer fabric would become necessary. While October is pleasant and you can wear a variety of clothing, always bring along a light sweater or a cardigan as temperatures may drop.
The Months of November & December + Climate + What to Expect + Clothing Guide
CLIMATE
November: High 17.4℃ (63.2°F)/ Low 9.8℃ (49.4°F)
December: High 12.1℃ (53.9°F)/ Low 4.9℃ (40.9°F)
WHAT TO EXPECT IN NOVEMBER/DECEMBER
The weather in November is generally dry, crisp, sunny and cool but this can change to become colder. Typhoon season ends. Full autumn takes hold. Japan’s gardens, parks, temples and natural landscapes look spectacular. As well, it is harvest time in Japan and there are a number of harvest festivals.
December sees the first sign of snowfall as winter begins. It is colder and snow begins to settle. It is the third coldest month in Japan. Ski slopes in central Japan and Hokkaido open for business in December.
While it is cold and snows almost everyday in Hokkaido, and you definitely need to wrap up, don’t let this deter you. Japan has one of the most picturesque landscape in winter, blankets of snow covered castle roofs and temples – a sight to behold!
However, do keep in mind that between 29th and the first week of January, Japan has lots of New Year’s activities and holidays. You may want to either join in the celebrations or avoid these dates.
If you are planning travels to Japan, try and avoid these dates because the public transport will be overcrowded, hotels will be on full occupancy, and at a higher rate. Temples and shrines may also be closed for winter, so best check on what you want to visit.
CLOTHING GUIDE
Bring along a sweater or a jacket in November. Be prepared for colder evenings. You may need a scarf as well. December calls for winter clothing of thick coats, sweaters and many layers. Woolly/knit hats and gloves are highly recommended also. Be prepared for occasional gusts of wind so it does not blow your hats off!
Here is a summary…
- The best and worst times to visit Japan;
- The most expensive and cheapest times to visit Japan;
- The best places to visit for first time travellers to Japan;
- The most beautiful spot in Japan.
The best times or months to visit Japan are in spring during March to May and in the autumn September to November. It’s both warm and dry during these seasons and Japan is at its best, both vibrant with silky cherry blossoms in the spring or fiery red in the autumn. However. just be prepared for the crowds during the cherry blossom weeks.
The worst times to visit Japan are around the New Year’s, from the last week in December to January 4. Also during Golden Week, from April 29 to May 5 and about a week in mid-August during the Obon Festival. The summer months, from June to mid-September brings hot and humid weather, with heavy rainfall across Japan in June and July (except for Hokkaido).
The most expensive time of year to travel to Japan is during the Sakura season, the last week of March to the first two weeks in April as well as during the Golden Week, April 29 to May 5.
The cheapest time to visit Japan varies, typically during the low seasons of July and August, and the winter months of December, January and February.
Best places to visit in Japan for first time travellers are Kyoto, Tokyo, Osaka and Hiroshima. If you have time, visit the beautiful islands of Hokkaido and Okinawa.
Japan has many beautiful spots but to pick one will be Mount Fuji. The view of Mount Fuji from Lake Kawaguchiko is surreal. Kyoto is the most beautiful city in Japan to visit. Kyoto is traditional, authentic, lots of things to see and do, affordable and nothing like a noisy city life.
USEFUL TRAVEL GUIDES FOR YOUR VISIT TO JAPAN
Take a look at the following informative travel guide which you may find useful to discover Japan.
Japan
Guide to Cherry Blossoms in Japan;
Kyoto
The Best 5 Cultural Attractions in Kyoto that You Must See;
The Best Two Flea Markets in Kyoto that You Must Experience;
Mount Hiei: Sacred Mountain in Kyoto;
An Easy Guide to Lake Biwa, Kyoto;
Murasaki Imo: The Rich Japanese Soft Serve Ice-cream;
Hiroshima
Guide to Two Days in Hiroshima and Miyajima;
Best of Miyajima Island in One Day;
Best Ways to get to Hiroshima;
Okonomiyaki: Hiroshima Soul Food;
JAPAN’S CALENDAR OF NATIONAL HOLIDAYS AND OBSERVANCES
Japanese Holiday Calendar 2023
- New Year’s Day – January 1
- Coming of Age Day – January 9
- Foundation Day – February 11
- Emperor’s birthday – February 23
- Vernal Equinox Day – March 21
- Showa Day – April 29
- Constitution Day – May 3
- Greenery Day – May 4
- Children’s Day – May 5
- Sea Day or Marine Day – July 17
- Mountain Day – August 11
- Respect for the Aged Day – September 18
- Autumnal Equinox Day – September 23
- Sports Day – October 9
- Culture Day – November 3
- Labor Thanksgiving Day – November 23
Timeless Travel Steps suggests: Take note of the national holidays and observances in Japan. Book your flights early, book your accommodation early and buy your Japan Rail Pass before leaving home.
finally…
Japan’s distinct culture and striking natural landscapes makes it a rewarding destination to visit at anytime of the year. Whilst it is recommended that you avoid travelling during the Golden and Silver Week, it is also one of the best times for festivals and events. It all depends what you want to experience and what you would like your visit to be. I sincerely hope the information on this page will support and guide your travel itinerary.
Have a great time discovering Japan 🙂
Georgina xx
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I am surprise that it was very hot in September but I am yet to experience fall in Japan. Will definitely bear in mind if I should visit in fall. Thank you so much for sharing your experiences.
Thank you so much for sharing your insights on Japan – I arrived in Japan in January and experienced part of winter in Japan. It was cold but coming from England, it was okay.
I am so happy to know that you found the article on best time to go to Japan to be great and I sincerely hope you will visit Japan one day soon when it is safe to do so.
That is an excellent tip – best to leave hiking to later. Thank you so much for sharing your experiences.
Japan has all the opportunities you wish for – would be great if you could stay in Japan for a year and experience them all 🙂
Absolutely Linda – there are indeed many great times to visit Japan and whenever you choose to visit, I am sure you will have a great time.
Amazing post, you nailed it. Japan is a place that no matter when you go, there is something amazing available to every season. I remember once I convinced my friends to visit me in Japan during winter. I thought they’d be miserable because I personally find it to be a little too cold. However, they lovvvved it! They now only want all our future Japan trips to be in winter. As for me, autumn is the best season, closely followed by end of March/ early April for hanami.
Japan is still on my bucket list, so it’s great that you share when is the best time to visit it. Great tips! For sure, I would love to see blooming cherry trees. It’s so magical.
I traveled to Japan in late July and also trekked Mount fuji. Completely agree with your advice for that period, the conditions were perfect. Just don’t do what I did and make the climb at the start of your trip… It was up to 40c degrees for the rest of my holiday and I could barely walk to shade my legs ached that bad!
I can’t decide when would be best to visit. I’d love to climb Mount Fuji but the things I love most about Japan that draw me would be the skiing conditions in winter or the flowers and gardens coming alive in spring
I visited twice during April and once in August. Cherry blossoms over a relentless heatwave any day of the week (never again…)
I visited Japan in September and it was a good time. No, I was not able to see the cherry blossoms nor the autumn leaves but it wasn’t as packed, prices were cheaper, everything was great. However, it was still very, very hot – albeit, I don’t know if it wasn’t exceptionally hot or if it’s always like this in September.
We were in Japan in the fall and loved the changing of the fall colours. But we have spring blossom time on our mind for a return trip. Although It would be great to see Hokkaido blanketed in snow. I am sure it would be fascinating to re-visit some iconic spots like Kinkakuji in snow. Other than typhoon season, it looks like there are many great times to visit Japan.
Thank you so much. I am glad you found my article on when is the best time to go to Japan informative and concise. I want to give as much information as I can to my readers so they can make an informed decision when planning their travels.
This is an informative and concise rundown. It’s great that you highlight weather inconveniences like the typhoon season too.
Thank you! I am so glad you found the post informative and useful. Sincerely hope you will visit Japan one day soon.
Only just had enough signal to comment. We missed out last year being in Japan this time of year Sonam going to keep this blog. The details and information are excellent and really appreciated.