Are you dreaming of cherry blossoms? How about sandy beaches, foliage, and snowy slopes? Each of Japan's four seasons offers something fascinating. That said, the hardest part of planning a trip to Japan is deciding when to go.
Japan has seen a significant increase in tourism since COVID-19, and our partners are encouraging travelers to book their Japanese adventures at least 10-12 months in advance. But when is the best time to visit and what can you do there based on the time of year?
fall in japan
In Japan in autumn, Kyoto, all of Hokkaido, and Mt. Hachimantai are filled with vivid colors.
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Take a dip in the local hot springs at Lake Akan, admire the autumn leaves floating on the water, or enjoy a wine tasting tour in the Koshu Valley with views of Mount Fuji. The summer heat has finally gone. Autumn is the perfect season to explore Osaka Castle and Kyoto's Golden Temple, or cycle across the country for a few days.
family trip
You can avoid the crowds in the fall as most kids are back in school. Join a family Tokyo street food tour where a knowledgeable guide will take you to one of the coolest neighborhoods to sample some of Japan's best cuisine. If your kids need some age-appropriate entertainment, check out the Osaka Aquarium, one of the only aquariums in the world with whale sharks. While you're there, you can easily stop by Kids Plaza Osaka (Children's Museum), the Old Japanese Farmhouse Open Air Museum, and even Universal Studios Japan.
winter in japan
Japan is quickly becoming a winter sports hotspot, offering visitors some of the best powder and a variety of bluebird days. If you're looking for a low-key adventure, you can visit the famous snow monkeys who love to soak in hot springs. Witness the wonders of drift ice in eastern Hokkaido. Take a wildlife and birding tour. Or experience the Sapporo Snow Festival.
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Heading to Tokyo in the winter, you can look forward to sake tasting, ramen slurping, and even traditional German Christmas markets. Not to be outdone, Sapporo hosts a snow festival. This is a must-see event for winter enthusiasts who want to see giant snow and ice sculptures or simply enjoy the area's hot springs, sento bathhouses and saunas.
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Families will love Japan's family-friendly ski resorts, including Furano, Tomamu, and Rusutsu resorts. The resort offers a variety of family activities as well as excellent powder throughout the season. If you want to see the famous Jigokudani Monkey Park, Shiga Kogen Ski Resort allows you to ski and see monkeys without changing hotels.
spring in japan
Spring is all about sakura (cherry blossom) blossoms, but did you know that there's more to see than these beautiful flowers when you visit?
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Mid-May is the best time to visit Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park to see the pink moss flowers that cover the Hokkaido region. Best of all, the North Island's cherry blossoms bloom well into late May, so even if you miss Tokyo or Kyoto, you have more time to see them. Plus, you can avoid the crowds during school holidays.
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Spring break means adventure, and that's easy to find in Japan. Whether you want to walk the Philosopher's Path in Kyoto to admire the cherry blossoms or join an anime & manga “otaku” tour in Tokyo's Akihabara (anime district), you can combine learning with outdoor time in spring. . If you have a young samurai, consider a tour to experience Kanazawa's samurai culture, which takes you back to the Edo period.
summer in japan
The summer months in Japan may be hot, but it's a great time to put hiking Mount Fuji on your bucket list. You can also visit the beautiful beaches scattered throughout Okinawa.
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In July, the spring rains pass and Okinawa comes alive! Watch fireworks and enjoy a meal on the beach while feeling the cool sea breeze. Those interested in learning more about Japan's natural wonders can explore deep into caves or enjoy guided kayak adventures through mangrove forests. Okinawa Prefecture is also perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts who enjoy appreciating life below the surface.
family trip
Just because schools are closed doesn't mean education has to stop. Families love the cultural experiences they can find in Japan, from experiencing sumo training to walking tours of Kyoto that highlight traditional arts and crafts developed during the Edo period (you can even learn how to make them yourself while you're there). If you're looking to spend time at the beach, talk to your family travel advisor about city and ocean tours that can take you to the sunny beaches of Okinawa and bustling cities in Japan.
Related links:
Find all accommodation and activities in Japan at Ciao Bambino
The Best One-Week Japan Travel Itinerary with Kids
When is the best time to visit Japan? all year round
Skiing in Japan: How to Plan a Great Ski Vacation with Your Family
72 hours in Tokyo with kids
9 Best Day Trips from Tokyo to Enjoy with Kids