Best Time to Visit Japan: Seasons, Weather and Travel Tips

The best time to visit Japan is the Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November), when the weather offers a mild and stunning scenery of cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. That aside, you can also visit in the other seasons depending on what you want to do and your adaptability to the weather. This blog outlines the best time to visit Japan, considering the season, alongside key weather insights and travel tips. 

Best Time to Visit Japan According to Seasons and Weather
 

Japan’s climate features four very varied seasons that each have something different to offer. The best time to travel depends on whether you prefer mild temperatures for sightseeing or specific activities like skiing or summer festivals.

Spring (March to May) - The Season of Cherry Blossom 

Spring is arguably Japan’s most famous season, known for the iconic sakura (cherry blossoms). The temperatures are mild and comfortable, making it ideal for exploring parks, shrines, and castles under a canopy of pink and white. 

Visiting Japan at this time to experience the cherry blossoms means keeping track of Sakura-zensen, the wave of blooming sakura that starts in southern Japan. Typically, the warmer southern islands see blooms in late March, and the wave reaches the colder Hokkaido Island by mid-May.

This also makes it peak tourist season, so be prepared for crowds. You’re likely to see the most footfall during March and April since that’s when the flowers are in full bloom over most of the country. Expect larger crowds and higher prices for flights and accommodation; planning and booking ahead would be advisable.

Also Read: Facts You Should Know About Travel Loan in India

Autumn (September to November) - Cool Weather and Vivid Colours

Autumn rivals spring in beauty as the country is painted in vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. This is the season for koyo (autumn foliage viewing) and the harvest season. The weather is crisp and cool with low humidity, making it an excellent time for hiking and visiting traditional gardens. If you’re lucky, you’ll see fewer crowds than in the spring, though recent years have been attracting tourists across all seasons.

Autumn leaves start to show their fiery brilliance from the north in late September and gradually move southward through the country over October, November and December. The higher the altitude, the colder it will be, but on the other hand, mountains see the autumnal beauty before the lower cities do. The weather is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and temple visits.

Summer (June to August) - Festivals, Heat, and Humidity

Summer in Japan means hot, humid weather and occasional downpours. Known as tsuyu, it usually lasts from June to late July. While the heat is tangible in significant parts of Japan, particularly in the south, it’s also the season for excellent firework displays, fun days by the coast, and lively local festivals like Gion Matsuri.

Temperatures typically range between 16 °C and 30°C, and sometimes 40°C, making it exceptionally comfortable and bearable for the average Indian traveller. That being said, Japan experienced its hottest summer on record in 2025, with temperatures touching 41.8°C in southern Japan. This makes it necessary to closely track weather predictions and head north if you don’t like the heat.

If you’re looking for milder summer weather, consider going to the northern island of Hokkaido. There, you can escape the heat and rain to enjoy pleasant temperatures while exploring its beautiful national parks.

Also Read: How to Use Travel Loan for Your Dream Destination

Winter (December to February) - Snow and Serenity

The winter months bring in an altogether different and magical experience. Northern Japan’s Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps in central Japan are covered with powdery snow. This makes it a paradise for skiing and snowboarding.

During this time, southern regions like Tokyo and Kyoto tend to get nippy but remain sunny and dry. Fewer tourists make it a tranquil time for soaking in a hot spring (onsen) and seeing temples lightly dusted with snow. The season will undoubtedly be the best for snow-lovers, looking forward to excursions in the cold.

Travel Tips for Your Japan Trip

When choosing to travel to Japan, some pre-planning of destinations and advance flight bookings helps you make the most of the country. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

Book Well in Advance: For travel during the popular spring or autumn seasons, it’s wise to book your flights and accommodation at least six months ahead to secure better rates and availability.
Check Visa Requirements: Indian nationals require an e-visa to enter Japan for tourism. Accordingly, begin the application well in advance of the travel date. The process usually takes 5-10 days, but applying in advance is advisable.

Navigate Public Holidays: Always consider local festivals like the “Golden Week” (late April to early May) and Obon (mid-August). These are major national holidays when transport and hotels become incredibly crowded and expensive. Likewise, going to Japan for New Year’s means large domestic crowds and several site closures.

Pack Smartly: Japan’s weather can be unpredictable, regardless of the season. So, packing layers is always a good idea. 

Understand Local Etiquette: Familiarise yourself with customary practices as a sign of respect for their culture. This can include bowing as a form of greeting, removing shoes before entering someone’s home, knowing how to use chopsticks and many more. 

Plan Financials Properly: Once you have an estimate of your total expenses, you can look at funding options for your trip. Consider a Personal Loan for travel, which offers benefits like repayment flexibility and EMIs. A survey reveals that 27% of borrowers took a loan to fund a vacation in early 2025, up from 21% two years ago, indicating a growing reliance on vacation funds.
Also Read: Smart Ways to Fund Your Travels in Your 20s

To Conclude

Whether you’re hoping to witness the magic of the cherry blossoms or the serene beauty of a winter snowscape, Japan has something to offer in every season. Understanding the climate and planning your journey and finances accordingly will help you fulfil all your dreams about a vacation in Japan. 
If you need financial support to bridge any gaps, a Personal Loan for travel from Poonawalla Fincorp can provide the funds you need to make your dream trip a reality.

FAQs

What is the cheapest month to go to Japan?
January to early March is probably the most affordable time to visit Japan. You’ll likely find lower prices on flights and accommodation, as it is considered the off-season for tourism.

Do Indian citizens need a visa to visit Japan?
Yes, Indian passport holders are required to obtain a visitor e-visa before travelling to Japan. The application process must be completed through the Embassy of Japan or one of its consulates in India, or online via the official site (e-visa facility).

Is it better to visit Japan in spring or autumn?
There’s no ‘better’ season; it depends on your preferences and travel style. Spring offers the vibrant pink of cherry blossoms, but it’s more crowded. Autumn offers stunning foliage with cooler temperatures and relatively fewer tourists. Make your final decision based on where you want to go, what you’d like to experience, and your tolerance for the weather.

Is Japan expensive for Indian tourists?
Yes, compared to other Asian countries, Japan can be considered expensive. However, it’s possible to travel on a moderate budget. The costs can be managed if you plan wisely, such as booking flights in advance, using public transport, and financing your trip with a travel loan.