When tourists ask where to travel in Asia, Japan is almost always suggested. Japan’s rich culture is a vibrant collaboration of modernity and antiquity, attracting tourists all around the world. Tourists say that the best time to visit Japan is during the Cherry Blossom season, when these beautiful trees are in full bloom. During springtime, the urban cities of Japan are softened by pretty pink flowers, while the countryside becomes more like a painting from days past.
Now that you’ve decided to visit Japan, you should plot your calendar and mark the days when you should go. While you may already have a timeframe in mind, let’s see what other activities are possible during the rest of the seasons.
Spring (March-May)
Aside from being the cherry blossoms, there are also many flower related events happening during these months, such as the Ume Matsuri or Plum Blossom Festival. White or pink ume blossoms can be seen in local city gardens, parks, shrines and temples.
But nothing compares to the appeal of the cherry blossom season. During this time of the year, the Japanese hold a traditional custom called hanami, which generally means viewing of the cherry blossoms. Like plum blossoms, cherry blossom festivals take place all over the country, usually between the months of March to May. In terms of weather, this is probably the best time to visit Japan because the temperature is neither too hot nor too cold.
Summer (June-August)
From June to August, the weather in Japan can be hot and humid. Summer is a lively season in the country with a string of events lined up until the end of the period. One of them is the Tanabata festival, which means evening of the seventh. This is a Japanese star festival celebrated in the summer which children can enjoy.
If you’re wondering where to travel in Japan during this hot and humid season, you can climb up to Mount Fuji to escape the heat. If you’d rather stay in the city, you can also visit local parks such as Rinshi No Mori Park in Tokyo, where the trees and shade can keep you cool amidst the heat.
Fall (September-November)
The beauty of autumn can be seen across Japan, even in its major cities. Instead of all the pink flowers during the cherry blossom season, you will see leaves beautifully turn red, orange and yellow. The warm colors during fall gives you a feeling of comfort despite the coming of winter. There are also many autumn festivals held everywhere in the country – their traditional way of giving thanks for the harvest.
If you love the cool breeze and warm earth tones that autumn bring, then this is the best time to visit Japan for you.
Winter (December - February)
Christmas is not a national holiday in Japan, but it is celebrated – the Japanese way. They celebrate Christmas by simply eating a ‘Christmas Cake’ which can be purchased at stores everywhere. New Year, however, is a major event in Japan. if you’re wondering where to travel in Japan during this season, its best to stay at major cities such as Tokyo, which are known to twinkle with more lights during the holidays.
