Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit Japan
Month-by-month weather, crowds, prices, and the shoulder-season sweet spots for Japan.
The short answer
For most travellers, the shoulder seasons (April–May and September–October) offer the best balance of weather, prices, and crowds in Japan.
When to go
Best
- · April–May
- · September–October
Shoulder
- · Late March
- · Early November
Avoid
- · Peak summer (school holidays)
- · Major national holidays unless that's the goal
Month by month
| Month | Weather | Crowds | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | Varies | Varies | Check local festivals and weather averages before booking. |
| Apr | Varies | Varies | Check local festivals and weather averages before booking. |
| Jun | Varies | Varies | Check local festivals and weather averages before booking. |
| Aug | Varies | Varies | Check local festivals and weather averages before booking. |
| Sep | Varies | Varies | Check local festivals and weather averages before booking. |
| Nov | Varies | Varies | Check local festivals and weather averages before booking. |
FAQs
When are flights cheapest?
Typically 4–8 weeks out of peak season, with Tuesday/Wednesday departures.
