Best Time to Visit Japan

Japan, a beautiful country, offers something special in every season. From cherry blossoms to colourful leaves, each time of year has its own charm. Choosing the best time to visit Japan depends on what the tourists want to see and do. 

In this blog, we are going to discuss the best month to go to Japan.  Kindly read this article till the end for clear understanding.

Best month to go to Japan

In Japan, each month offers unique experiences, festivals and seasonal highlights. Here’s a complete breakdown of the best month to go to Japan based on tourists preferences. 

Japan in December to February

During these months, Japan is a winter wonderland with snowy landscapes, and festive lights. The weather in the northern alpine regions experience snowfall, whereas the south remains dry. However, the temperature remains low all over with clear weather. 

• Major events and festivals:

1. Sapporo Snow Festival (February): It is one of Japan’s most famous winter events. It is held in three main areas. These are: Odori Park Site, Susukino Site and Tsudome Site. Snow slides, snow mazes and other winter activities make this festival perfect for tourists. 
2. Niseko, Hokkaido: It is a popular ski resort in Japan. It is known for its consistent powder snow and scenic views of Mount Yotei.  It has several interlinked resorts. You can engage in activities like snowmobiling, snowshoeing and hot springs. 
3. Odaiba: It is a popular man- made island in Tokyo Bay. It has unique indoor attractions i,e. TeamLab Borderless and Oedo Onsen Monogatari. Odaiba Seaside Park offers beautiful winter views of Tokyo Bay and the Rainbow Bridge. 
4. Lake Kawaguchi: It is one of the Fuji Five Lakes. It is a popular spot near Mount Fuji. It offers clearest and most stunning views of Mount Fuji due to cold and dry weather. It makes it an ideal spot for photography and sightseeing.

• Things to do:

1. Tourists can visit Hakone, Beppu, and Yufuin for outdoor baths and enjoy beautiful winter scenery. 
2. Try powder skiing, nightlife and great food in Niseko, Hokkaido.

Japan in March to May

This period covers spring, when the famous cherry blossoms are in full bloom. It is the best time to go to japan for cherry blossoms. In these months, the air gets cold in the mornings. The north of the country remains cool while the south sees warm weather. 

• Major events and festivals: 

1. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden in Tokyo: During these months, the garden is in full bloom. Here, the best highlights are Traditional Japanese Garden, Fresh Formal Garden and English Landscape Garden.   
2. Asakusa and Senso- ji Temple: Asakusa is one of the most traditional, rich areas with the iconic Senso- Ji temple. Tourists must especially visit this place on Hana Matsuri (Buddha’s Birthday).  The temple holds a colourful ceremony where tourists enjoy to the fullest. 
3. Kinkaku-ji: The temple and its surroundings offer a mix of mild weather, and beautiful seasonal scenery. The reflection of Kinkaku- ji and cherry blossoms is perfect for photography and time spent. 
4. Osaka castle: Late March to early April is the peak time for cherry blossoms around Osaka Castle. The castle grounds and Nishinomaru Garden are covered in beautiful pink and white blooms. It creates a stunning backdrop for photos.  

• Things to do:

1. Participate in the traditional practice of Hanami. In this, locals and tourists gather in parks to enjoy the beauty of cherry blossoms. 
2. Experience the traditional Japanese tea ceremony. 

Japan in June to August

These months are an interesting combination of rain and heat in Japan. However, this season brings rain (Tsuyu) in June, summers in July and potential typhoons in August. 

• Major events and festivals:

1. Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea: Visiting this popular spot requires some planning due to the summer weather and crowd levels. It is essential to stay hydrated and protected against the sun. Here, the main attractions include Summer Parades and Shows and Night Shows. 
2. Gion Matsuri: It is Japan’s most famous and longest- running festival. It is known for its grand processions, traditional costumes and vibrant atmosphere. It is a great festival for tourists who are looking to immerse themselves in Japanese culture. 
3. Tenjin Matsuri: It is one of the most colourful festivals in Japan. This festival showcases colourful land parades featuring traditional costumes, and portable shrines.  Here, the traditional Noh and Bunraku puppet theatre performances are also held. 
4. Sumida River Fireworks Festival: It takes place annually on the last Saturday of July. This festival attracts thousands of locals to enjoy impressive firework displays. Here, people come dressed in Yukata (summer kimono) which creates a festive atmosphere. 

• Things to do:

1. Tourists can visit Sendai and Hiratsuka to experience the largest Tanabata Festivals. 
2. Experience the famous Awa Odori.  It is a dance experience where tourists join the traditional folk dances.   

Japan in September to November

These months are the period of autumn. September is still hot as temperature stays around 30 degree Celsius. But towards the end, the mercury drops as low as 1 degree Celsius. This time period is ideal for experiencing Japan’s stunning fall foliage, and vibrant festivals. 

• Major events and festivals:

1. Takayama Autumn Festival: It is Japan’s most beautiful festival. It features decorated floats, or yatai, that are illuminated at night. It includes parades, traditional music, and karakuri performances. 
2. Tsukimi (Moon Viewing Festival): It is a Japanese autumn tradition celebrating the harvest moon. It is considered especially beautiful and beautiful during this season. Tourists often gather to watch the full moon, decorate with pampas grass and eat special food. 
3. Kochi Yosakoi Autumn Festival: It is a lively, colourful celebration of Japanese dance and culture. It takes place across multiple stages and streets. Some areas of the festival offer beginner dance classes. It allows visitors to join and experience Yosakoi dance. 
4. Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival: It is Tokyo’s most famous autumn event. It celebrates the changing of the ginkgo trees lining Meiji Jingu Gaien, the outer garden of Meiji Shrine. The main highlights of this festival are Ginkgo Avenue, food stalls and local vendors. 

• Things to do:

1. You can visit temples like Eikando, and Tofuku- ji. These are surrounded by vibrant red and yellow foliage. 
2. Visit Daisetsuzan National Park. It is one of the first places to see autumn colours in Japan. 

Best time to visit Japan from India 

The best time to visit Japan from India mainly depends on Indian holidays and seasonal attractions.

• Winter (December to February)

These are popular travel months due to school vacations and new-year holidays. 

• Spring (March to May)

Holidays like Holi and school spring break make this a convenient time for a week- long trip. 

• Summer (June to August)

Indian school summer vacations start in June or early July. It makes it easier for families to travel.

• Autumn (September to November):

With Indian festivals like Dussehra and Diwali, you can plan a trip during this season.

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