Summers in Japan are hot and humid, so they’re not for everyone, but Zuleta says the countless matsuri, or festivals, and can be a lively time of year to be in Japan. “It’s also a wonderful time for hiking in the Japanese Alps, visiting cooler highland areas, or exploring coastal destinations,” says Colayera. “Cities can be hot and humid, so plan outdoor activities for the morning, and build in time to rest.”
When is the cheapest time to go to Japan?
The cheapest time to visit Japan is in January and February. Bear in mind that this principle only applies outside the New Year holiday period and major ski destinations like Hokkaido. If you really want to get good bang for your buck, consider going to Japan in the summer.
Alternately, Colayera says that summer is not a bad time to visit Japan: “It’s the best-value time of year, even if June and July can be hot and humid—for some, that type of weather is fine and aligns nicely with school holidays for families.” That is also considered the rainy season, but in reality, you only really get little bursts of rain, rather than torrential downpour, she says: “Besides, everything in Japan is very well air-conditioned.”
When planning your trip, be mindful of the Japanese holiday schedule, marked by many public observances like the Emperor’s Birthday and Coming of Age Day. Prices tend to rise around Golden Week (from April 29 to May 5), cherry blossom season, autumn foliage, and Obon celebrations in August.
When is peak travel season in Japan?
Springtime in Japan is undoubtedly the peak travel season because of cherry blossom season, say Wiggins and Tadehara. “Overcrowding of famous sites in Kyoto and Tokyo has resulted in tourists having to wait in excessively long lines. As a result, they plan spring trips years ahead of time to secure their spot.”
