spring
March - May
Spring in Japan is one of the most iconic times to visit, with cherry blossoms, fresh greenery, and mild temperatures bringing cities and countryside to life. It is a popular season, so the best hotels, ryokan, and trains book early, and planning your routing around bloom timing can make the trip feel effortless and perfectly paced.
summer
June - August
Summer brings vibrant festivals, fireworks, and long daylight hours, with incredible options from city nightlife to mountain escapes and island time in Okinawa. It is also the most humid time of year, and June is typically rainy, so smart planning matters: early starts, hotel pools and wellness breaks, and choosing regions like Hokkaido or the Japanese Alps can make the season feel comfortable and rewarding.
autumn
September - November
Autumn is one of the best seasons to visit Japan, with crisp air, clear days, and stunning fall foliage in cities, gardens, and mountain regions. It is ideal for Kyoto and Nikko, scenic rail routes, and ryokan stays, and planning around peak leaf color by region helps you catch the most dramatic landscapes without feeling rushed.
winter
December - February
Winter is perfect for powder skiing in Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps, relaxing in outdoor onsens with snow views, and enjoying cozy seasonal cuisine. Crowds are often lighter outside the holidays, and it is a great time to combine big city highlights with a ryokan stay for a trip that feels both energetic and restorative.
