Japan is a captivating destination no matter the time of year, and promises a unique travel experience with each season.

Whether you’re seeking the delicate cherry blossoms of spring or the snow-covered landscapes of winter, we’ll uncover the best times to visit and what you can expect each season.

 

Summer

If you’re planning a trip to Japan and wondering when summer is, you’ll be surprised to learn that it’s the opposite of the seasons we experience in Australia. While we’re bundling up in June, Japan’s summer season is kicking off and running through until August. 

If you’re curious about how hot it gets in Japan, midsummer days can have highs of 30°C and are known as manatsubi. Exploring Japan during the summer offers a unique experience but be prepared for the humidity by packing lightweight clothing and an umbrella.

The rain and heat create the perfect conditions for rice planting so you’ll likely see vibrant, green fields across rural landscapes. You’ll also have the opportunity to climb the famous Mount Fuji with the Yoshida Trail opening in July. Don’t miss the sub-tropical Okinawa Islands, which can be visited on our 2 for 1 Japan Cherry Blossoms Cruise.

 

Autumn

If you find yourself asking when is autumn in Japan, You’ll be pleased to know that fall is a breathtaking time of year, usually from September to November. This is when you can immerse yourself in cooler temperatures with clear skies that offer the perfect backdrop to Japan’s stunning natural beauty. You’ll see parks, temple grounds and serene landscapes come alive as Japanese maples put on a show with striking shades of red (koyo), brown (katsuyo) and yellow (oyo).

This is an ideal time to explore the country’s outdoor beauty, whether you’re hiking in the mountains, enjoying cultural festivals or wandering through local food markets

 

Winter

If you’re wondering where the snow is in Japan or when it snows in Japan, look no further than its stunning winter destinations. Japan’s snowy season typically starts in December and lasts until February. Parts of the country get plenty of world-class snow, especially inland in the Nagano area and north in the Sapporo area of Hokkaido.

Whether you’re heading over as a family or taking a luxury escape, check out this guide for Which Japanese Ski Destination is Best for Your Next Holiday. 

If you’ve been intrigued about what to do in Japan in winter but aren’t big into skiing or snowboarding, we’ve got just the thing. One of the biggest attractions during the cold season is discovering the only place in the world where monkeys bathe in hot springs. Go wild for our Snow Monkeys of Japan package to visit the famous Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, home to Japanese macaques. All that’s left to do is pack your winter coat and thick socks!

 

Spring & Cherry Blossoms

Spring is usually from March to May with cherry blossoms (sakura) at their peak in Tokyo around the end of March. So, when is cherry blossom season in Japan and how long do cherry blossoms last in Japan? The actual flower blossom only lasts for a couple of weeks however the exact blooming dates vary from year to year due to the weather and temperatures. 

If you want to see pastel pink petals swirling and fluttering on the breeze from Nagoya Castle to Fuji Five Lakes, here’s Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Japan. 

You might also find that food is seasonally based at this time of year with lots of cherry blossom-related dishes. Look out for the famous sakura mochi which is a pink rice cake wrapped in salted leaves of the cherry tree. After other mouthwatering cuisine, why not check out this Foodies Guide to Japan?

Experience the blushed beauty of Japan from a luxury ship by booking our Immersive Asian Spring Cruise package aboard Azamara.

 

So, when is a good time to visit Japan? Well that depends on what you’re after! Embrace the weather, pack accordingly and you’ll find Japan to be an unforgettable experience at any time of the year. 

Whether it’s your first time visiting or a return holiday to a much-loved destination, TripADeal through Japan with our unbelievable Japan packages!