By Miranda Weindling
If Japan is on your travel bucket list, then it’s time to move it to the top. With the return of global travel and a host of fresh experiences across the country, there’s never been a better time to explore Japan.
The Japanese National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) continues to spotlight immersive regional travel, offering visitors the chance to experience everything from Samurai adventures and scenic trails to thermal springs and seasonal festivals—all beyond the usual city highlights.
Whether you’re dreaming of cherry blossoms in Kyoto, powder runs in Hokkaido, or diving in Okinawa, Japan’s diverse landscape and deep cultural heritage guarantee a journey you’ll never forget.
A Seasonal Guide To Japan
Japan is a destination like no other. As an archipelago made up of five main islands and over 6,000 smaller ones, the country offers everything from high-tech metropolises and ancient shrines to tropical beaches and snowy mountains. Its rich cultural legacy includes Buddhist pilgrimages, traditional arts, and globally beloved phenomena like Anime and Pokémon.
Every season has something magical to offer, and the Japanese know how to celebrate the shifting beauty of nature—whether it’s petals or falling leaves. Here’s a guide to help you explore Japan through the seasons.
Winter
If you’d rather do winter sports than watch them, head to Japan between December and February. Renowned for its fluffy powder snow, Japan’s ski resorts offer a unique experience with perks like night skiing and relaxing soaks in steaming onsen baths afterwards.
Most of the action happens in Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island. Resorts like Niseko, Kiroro, and Tomamu cater to a range of skill levels and are often quieter and more affordable than their European or North American counterparts.
Honshu, the largest island, also boasts excellent ski spots. Consider Tohoku, a region that’s still under the radar for many tourists. Its combination of lakes, forests, coastal trails, and lesser-known resorts makes it a true hidden gem. If you visit Akita in February, you’ll catch the magical Kamihinokinai Paper Balloon Festival, a spectacular blend of snow and glowing lanterns.
Don’t skip the onsens, Japan’s geothermal hot springs. A long soak is the perfect way to unwind after a day in the snow, and onsen etiquette is a cultural experience in itself.
Spring
From late March to early May, Japan turns into a wonderland of blossoms. Hanami, or flower viewing, is a national pastime, with cherry blossoms (sakura) and plum blossoms (ume) celebrated in festivals across the country. The Kansai region—home to Kyoto, Osaka, and the friendly deer of Nara, offers some of the most iconic springtime scenes.
For a less crowded experience, explore Kyushu, where you’ll find dramatic landscapes, historic towns, and equally breathtaking blossoms.
Spring is also a time for cultural deep-dives. In Shiraoi, Hokkaido, the National Ainu Museum and Park (Upopoy)offers a moving and interactive look at the culture of the Ainu, Japan’s Indigenous people. Opened just a few years ago, it’s a must-visit for those interested in Japan’s lesser-known histories.
Summer
Summer in Japan is festival season. From June to August, cities and towns come alive with matsuri, traditional festivals filled with fireworks, dancing, parades, and food stalls. Just be prepared for hot, humid weather and occasional typhoons in late summer.
If you’re in Tokyo, escape the heat (and the crowds) by visiting teamLab Planets in Toyosu, where you’ll walk through digital dreamscapes that blur the line between art and reality. Nearby, the capital’s diverse shopping districts—from high-end Ginza to eclectic Harajuku– offer something for every kind of shopper.
Prefer beaches to buildings? Hop on a flight to Okinawa and its surrounding islands for coral reefs, scuba diving, and white sand beaches. Meanwhile, in Furano, Hokkaido, summer means fragrant lavender fields, best viewed from late June through July.
Autumn
Autumn in Japan rivals spring for its natural beauty. From late October to early December, the leaves turn brilliant shades of crimson and gold. Popular viewing spots include Kyoto’s temples, Nikko’s mountains, and the five lakes around Mount Fuji. The Fuji Kawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival is typically held in November, where you can admire the autumn foliage with Mount Fuji in the backdrop—a truly unforgettable sight.
For a floral finale, head to Awaji Island in Hyogo Prefecture. Known as the “Island of Flowers,” Awaji hosts seasonal flower festivals and is famed for its gardens and gourmet cuisine. It’s a relaxing and picturesque detour if you’re venturing west of Osaka.
No matter the season, Japan offers something extraordinary. Whether you’re planning a quick city break or a months-long journey across islands, mountains, and coastlines, now is the perfect time to explore Japan in all its diversity. From ancient traditions to futuristic innovation, the Land of the Rising Sun promises a travel experience that’s as enriching as it is unforgettable.