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Japan's four distinct seasons are deeply woven into its culture, cuisine, and daily life. From the delicate pink of cherry blossoms in spring to the fiery reds of autumn maple leaves, from summer's energetic festivals to winter's serene snow-covered temples - each season offers unique experiences. Here's your guide to Japan throughout the year.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
January - March
Early Winter
初冬
Snow festivals, hot springs, and ski resorts come alive. Experience Japan at its most serene.
Sapporo Snow Festival
FebruaryHokkaido
Massive snow and ice sculptures light up the city
Onsen Season
Jan-MarNationwide
Hot springs are most magical with snow falling around you
Skiing & Snowboarding
Jan-MarNagano, Hokkaido
World-class powder snow awaits
Plum Blossoms
Feb-MarKairakuen, Mito
First flowers of the year signal spring's approach
Tips for Early Winter
- Pack warm layers - temperatures can drop below 0°C
- Book hot spring ryokans well in advance
- Try winter foods: nabe (hot pot), oden, ramen
- Fewer tourists mean better prices and shorter lines
April
Cherry Blossom Season
桜シーズン
Japan's most famous season. Cherry blossoms paint the country in delicate pink.
Hanami Parties
Late Mar-AprParks nationwide
Picnic under cherry trees with food, drinks, and friends
Philosopher's Path
Early AprilKyoto
Walk along a canal lined with 500 cherry trees
Meguro River
Late MarchTokyo
800 trees create a tunnel of blossoms
Himeji Castle
Early AprilHyogo
Japan's most beautiful castle surrounded by 1,000 trees
Tips for Cherry Blossom Season
- Check sakura forecasts - timing varies by region
- Book accommodation months in advance
- Southern Japan blooms first (late March), north last (early May)
- Night illuminations (yozakura) are magical
May - August
Summer
夏
Festivals, fireworks, and beach life. Hot and humid, but full of energy and excitement.
Gion Matsuri
JulyKyoto
Japan's most famous festival with massive floats
Sumida River Fireworks
Late JulyTokyo
20,000 fireworks light up the Tokyo sky
Awa Odori
AugustTokushima
Largest dance festival with 1 million participants
Beach Season
Jun-AugOkinawa, Shonan
Crystal clear waters and white sand beaches
Tips for Summer
- Pack light, breathable clothing and a small towel
- Stay hydrated - vending machines are everywhere
- Avoid Golden Week (late April-early May) - extremely crowded
- Try summer foods: kakigori (shaved ice), cold soba, unagi (eel)
October
Autumn
秋
Brilliant fall colors transform temples and mountains. Perhaps Japan's most beautiful season.
Koyo (Fall Colors)
Oct-NovNationwide
Maples turn brilliant red, yellow, and orange
Nikko
OctoberTochigi
UNESCO shrines amid spectacular autumn scenery
Koyasan
NovemberWakayama
Ancient temple complex glows with autumn colors
Night Illuminations
NovemberKyoto temples
Special evening openings showcase lit-up gardens
Tips for Autumn
- Peak colors vary by location - check forecasts
- North and mountains color first, cities last
- Less crowded than cherry blossom season but still popular
- Try seasonal foods: matsutake mushrooms, sanma (fish), persimmons
November - December
Late Autumn & Early Winter
晩秋と初冬
Illuminations light up cities, and the festive season brings unique Japanese celebrations.
Winter Illuminations
Nov-DecTokyo, Osaka
Millions of lights transform gardens and streets
Shichi-Go-San
NovemberShrines nationwide
Children in traditional dress visit shrines
Christmas in Japan
DecemberCities
Unique Japanese take on Christmas (it's romantic!)
New Year Preparations
Late DecemberNationwide
Markets, decorations, and year-end traditions
Tips for Late Autumn & Early Winter
- Illuminations are free and stunning photo opportunities
- Christmas Eve dinner reservations needed weeks ahead
- New Year (Dec 31-Jan 3) - many businesses close
- Try winter treats: osechi (New Year food), mochi, hot amazake
When Should You Visit?
Best Overall
Spring (late March - May) and Autumn (October - November) offer the best weather and scenery. Cherry blossoms and fall colors are unforgettable.
Avoid If Possible
Golden Week (late April - early May), Obon (mid-August), and New Year are extremely crowded with inflated prices.
Budget Travelers
January-February (excluding Chinese New Year) and June (rainy season) offer lower prices and fewer tourists.
Unique Experiences
Summer for festivals and beaches, Winter for skiing and hot springs. Each season has its own magic.