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How to Enjoy
Japan’s Unique
Seasonality

Experience All Four Seasons in Japan

Japan is well-admired for its four distinct seasons. From the cherry blossoms of spring and the lush greenery of summer, to the vibrant autumn foliage and the snowy winter landscapes, you can truly experience the beauty of nature all year round.
Japan also offers an endless variety of experiences that vary with the seasons, including festivals and gourmet delights. In different regions, you will enjoy different seasonal offerings, even within the same month – making Japan an ideal destination throughout the year. Begin your memorable journey to Japan when you embark with ANA today.

Map of Japan. Hokkaido is an island located in the northern part of Japan.

Hokkaido is located at the northernmost tip of the Japanese archipelago.
It's the last place in Japan to welcome spring, allowing you to enjoy cherry blossoms even in May. It is also the only region without the rainy season, making its summers refreshing and pleasant. Being the first to experience winter, Hokkaido provides an extended season for snowy landscapes and winter activities. These unique characteristics make Hokkaido one of Japan’s most popular destinations.

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  • Cherry blossoms
  • Stargazing
  • Lavender viewing
  • Hydrangeas
  • Autumn foliage
  • Snow
  • Snowy Mt. Fuji landscape
  • Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route's ‘Snow Walls’
  • Penguin walks at Asahiyama Zoo
  • Sea turtles laying eggs
  • Whale-watcing
  • Swimming at the beach
  • Fireworks
  • Sapporo Odori Beer Garden
  • Trekking / Hiking
  • Surfing
  • Diving / Snorkeling
  • Camping
  • Rafting
  • Golfing
  • Skiing / Summer skiing
  • Hot springs
  • Illuminations
  • Apples
  • Strawberries
  • White shrimp
  • Yubari Melons
  • Cherries
  • Peaches
  • Pineapples
  • Mangoes
  • Sake
  • Shine Muscat grapes
  • Soba noodles
  • Hot pot dishes
  • Tuna
  • Crab dishes
  • Festivals
About Hokkaido. Spring is from March to May. In March, you can experience skiing, the Ice Fall Festival, and penguin walks at Asahiyama Zoo. The average March temperature in Sapporo ranges from -1°C to 6°C (31°F to 42°F). Recommended clothing includes a down jacket, gloves, and a scarf. In April, you can enjoy skiing and cherry blossoms. The average April temperature in Sapporo ranges from 5°C to 14°C (41°F to 58°F). Recommended clothing is similarly a down jacket, gloves, and a scarf. In May, skiing and cherry blossoms are still a highlight, with an average temperature in Sapporo ranging from 10°C to 21°C (51°F to 69°F). A light jacket is suitable. Summer takes place from June to August. In June, you can go trekking, play golf, and taste Yubari melons. The average June temperature in Sapporo ranges from 14°C to 21°C (57°F to 70°F). A jacket is recommended. July offers lavender viewing, Yubari melons, and the Sapporo Odori Beer Garden, with an average temperature in Sapporo ranging from 20°C to 27°C (68°F to 81°F). Light long-sleeved clothing is advisable. In August, you can continue to enjoy trekking, Yubari melons, and visit the Sapporo Odori Beer Garden. The average August temperature in Sapporo ranges from 20°C to 27°C (67°F to 80°F). Light long-sleeved clothing is suitable. Autumn spans from September to November. In September, you can go trekking and admire autumn foliage, with an average temperature in Sapporo ranging from 16°C to 24°C (60°F to 75°F). A jacket is recommended. October offers trekking and autumn foliage viewing, with an average temperature in Sapporo ranging from 8°C to 17°C (47°F to 63°F). A jacket is suitable. In November, skiing and autumn foliage are highlights, with an average temperature in Sapporo ranging from 4°C to 11°C (38°F to 51°F). Recommended clothing includes a down jacket, gloves, and a scarf. Winter lasts from December to January. In December, you can experience skiing, the Sapporo White Illumination, and penguin walks at Asahiyama Zoo. The average December temperature in Sapporo ranges from -4°C to 1°C (25°F to 34°F). A down jacket, gloves, and a scarf are advised. In January, skiing, the Sapporo White Illumination, and the Ice Fall Festival are the main attractions, with an average temperature in Sapporo ranging from -6°C to -1°C (21°F to 31°F). Recommended clothing includes a down jacket, gloves, and a scarf. February offers skiing, crab dishes, and the Sapporo Snow Festival, with an average temperature in Sapporo ranging from -6°C to 1°C (21°F to 34°F). A down jacket, gloves, and a scarf are suitable. Crowd levels vary throughout the year, with early May, late July to early September, and the New Year period being the busiest times, while mid-November to mid-December and mid-January are less crowded.
  • The average temperatures are based on the Japan Meteorological Agency's data for Sapporo City in 2022.
  • Festival schedules, average temperatures, and peak times may vary from year to year. For more details, please check respective websites and other sources.
Map of Japan. Tohoku and Hokuriku are situated in the northern region of Honshu.

Besides Hokkaido, Tohoku and Hokuriku regions are also known as ‘snow countries.
The ‘snow walls’ here that reach heights of up to 8 meters are truly spectacular. In the summer, these areas host famous festivals that draw people from all over, creating a lively atmosphere. They are also known for their bountiful source of agricultural produce, offering delicious cuisine throughout every season.

Icon details

  • Cherry blossoms
  • Stargazing
  • Lavender viewing
  • Hydrangeas
  • Autumn foliage
  • Snow
  • Snowy Mt. Fuji landscape
  • Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route's ‘Snow Walls’
  • Penguin walks at Asahiyama Zoo
  • Sea turtles laying eggs
  • Whale-watcing
  • Swimming at the beach
  • Fireworks
  • Sapporo Odori Beer Garden
  • Trekking / Hiking
  • Surfing
  • Diving / Snorkeling
  • Camping
  • Rafting
  • Golfing
  • Skiing / Summer skiing
  • Hot springs
  • Illuminations
  • Apples
  • Strawberries
  • White shrimp
  • Yubari Melons
  • Cherries
  • Peaches
  • Pineapples
  • Mangoes
  • Sake
  • Shine Muscat grapes
  • Soba noodles
  • Hot pot dishes
  • Tuna
  • Crab dishes
  • Festivals
About the Tohoku and Hokuriku area. Spring lasts from March to May. In March, you can enjoy skiing and apples. The average March temperature in Kanazawa ranges from 5°C to 14°C (41°F to 57°F). Recommended clothing includes a down jacket, gloves, and a scarf. In April, you can experience cherry blossoms and the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route's ‘Snow Walls’. The average April temperature in Kanazawa ranges from 9°C to 19°C (49°F to 66°F). A jacket is recommended. In May, you can enjoy cherry blossoms, summer skiing, and white shrimp. The average May temperature in Kanazawa ranges from 14°C to 23°C (57°F to 74°F). A light jacket is suitable. Summer lasts from June to August. In June, you can try summer skiing, taste cherries, and savor Japanese sake. The average June temperature in Kanazawa ranges from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). Light long-sleeved clothing is advised. In July, you can go trekking, enjoy swimming at the beach, and indulge in peaches. The average July temperature in Kanazawa ranges from 24°C to 32°C (78°F to 89°F). Short sleeves and shorts are recommended. In August, you can go trekking, experience the Nebuta Festival, and enjoy the Sendai Tanabata Festival. The average August Temperature in Kanazawa ranges from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F). Short sleeves and shorts are suitable. Autumn lasts from September to November. In September, you can go trekking and enjoy peaches. The average September temperature in Kanazawa ranges from 21°C to 29°C (70°F to 83°F). Light long-sleeved clothing is advisable. In October, you can experience autumn foliage, apples, and soba noodles. The average October temperature in Kanazawa ranges from 13°C to 22°C (56°F to 71°F). A jacket is recommended. In November, you can enjoy autumn foliage, hot pot dishes, and soba noodles. The average November temperature in Kanazawa ranges from 10°C to 18°C (49°F to 65°F). A jacket is suitable. Winter spans from December to January. In December, you can experience snow, hot springs, and the Zao Juhyo Festival. The average December temperature in Kanazawa ranges from 3°C to 9°C (38°F to 49°F). Recommended clothing includes a down jacket, gloves, and a scarf. In January, you can go skiing, enjoy crab dishes, and experience the Zao Juhyo Festival. The average January temperature in Kanazawa ranges from 1°C to 7°C (33°F to 44°F). Recommended clothing includes a down jacket, gloves, and a scarf. In February, you can go skiing, enjoy crab dishes, and attend the Yokote Kamakura Snow Festival. The average February temperature in Kanazawa ranges from 1°C to 7°C (33°F to 44°F). Recommended clothing includes a down jacket, gloves, and a scarf. Crowd levels vary throughout the year, with early May, August, and the New Year period being the busiest times, while mid-January to February is less crowded.
  • The average temperatures are based on the Japan Meteorological Agency's data for Kanazawa City in 2022.
  • Festival schedules, average temperatures, and peak times may vary from year to year. For more details, please check respective websites and other sources.
Map of Japan. Tokyo, Kyoto, and Fukuoka are cities located in the central to southwestern part of the Japanese archipelago.

The vibrant capital, Tokyo, the culturally-rich Kyoto, and the gourmet paradise, Fukuoka, are cities that are constantly bustling with tourists and business activities.
In summer, you can expect an even livelier atmosphere with a host of dazzling fireworks festivals. In winter, enjoy the rare occurrence of snow and sparkling cityscapes illuminated with vibrant lights, without having to worry about the weather.

Icon details

  • Cherry blossoms
  • Stargazing
  • Lavender viewing
  • Hydrangeas
  • Autumn foliage
  • Snow
  • Snowy Mt. Fuji landscape
  • Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route's ‘Snow Walls’
  • Penguin walks at Asahiyama Zoo
  • Sea turtles laying eggs
  • Whale-watcing
  • Swimming at the beach
  • Fireworks
  • Sapporo Odori Beer Garden
  • Trekking / Hiking
  • Surfing
  • Diving / Snorkeling
  • Camping
  • Rafting
  • Golfing
  • Skiing / Summer skiing
  • Hot springs
  • Illuminations
  • Apples
  • Strawberries
  • White shrimp
  • Yubari Melons
  • Cherries
  • Peaches
  • Pineapples
  • Mangoes
  • Sake
  • Shine Muscat grapes
  • Soba noodles
  • Hot pot dishes
  • Tuna
  • Crab dishes
  • Festivals
About Tokyo, Kyoto, and Fukuoka Area. Spring is from March to May. In March, you can enjoy cherry blossoms and strawberries. The average March temperature in Tokyo ranges from 6°C to 17°C (43°F to 62°F). Recommended clothing includes a down jacket, gloves, and a scarf. In April, you can experience cherry blossoms and strawberries. The average April temperature in Tokyo ranges from 11°C to 20°C (52°F to 68°F). A jacket is recommended. In May, you can go hiking and attend Fukuoka's ""Hakata Dontaku"" festival. The average May temperature in Tokyo ranges from 15°C to 24°C (59°F to 74°F). A jacket is suitable. Summer takes place from June to August. In June, you can enjoy hydrangeas and surfing. The average June temperature in Tokyo ranges from 20°C to 28°C (67°F to 82°F). Light long-sleeved clothing is advised. In July, you can enjoy swimming at the beach, the Sumida River Fireworks Festival in Tokyo, and the Gion Festival in Kyoto. The average July temperature in Tokyo ranges from 24°C to 32°C (76°F to 90°F). Short sleeves and shorts are recommended. In August, you can enjoy swimming at the beach and peaches. The average August temperature in Tokyo ranges from 24°C to 32°C (76°F to 90°F). Short sleeves and shorts are suitable. Autumn lasts from September to November. In September, you can go rafting and taste Shine Muscat grapes. The average September temperature in Tokyo ranges from 21°C to 29°C (67°F to 84°F). Light long-sleeved clothing is advisable. In October, you can experience autumn foliage and camping. The average October temperature in Tokyo ranges from 14°C to 22°C (57°F to 71°F). A jacket is recommended. In November, you can enjoy autumn foliage, the Snowy Mt. Fuji landscape, and tuna. The average November temperature in Tokyo ranges from 11°C to 19°C (51°F to 66°F). A jacket is suitable. Winter spans from December to January. In December, you can enjoy hot springs and illuminations. The average December temperature in Tokyo ranges from 4°C to 12°C (39°F to 54°F). Recommended clothing includes a down jacket, gloves, and a scarf. In January, you can enjoy hot springs, the Snowy Mt. Fuji landscape, and strawberries. The average January temperature in Tokyo ranges from 1°C to 9°C (34°F to 49°F). Recommended clothing includes a down jacket, gloves, and a scarf. In February, you can enjoy hot springs and strawberries. The average February temperature in Tokyo ranges from 1°C to 11°C (34°F to 51°F). Recommended clothing includes a down jacket, gloves, and a scarf. Crowd levels vary throughout the year, with mid-March to early May, August, and the New Year period being the busiest times, while mid-January to February is less crowded.
  • The average temperatures are based on the Japan Meteorological Agency's data for Tokyo in 2022.
  • Festival schedules, average temperatures, and peak times may vary from year to year. For more details, please check respective websites and other sources.
Map of Japan. Okinawa is an island located in the southern part of Japan.

Situated at the southernmost point, Okinawa is the only part of Japan with a subtropical climate.
Being the very first to welcome spring, Okinawa’s unique cherry blossoms bloom proudly in January. While March to November’s comfortable weather lets you enjoy a variety of water sports. Be mesmerized by its beautiful emerald-green sea, extensive coral reefs and smooth, white sandy beaches.

Icon details

  • Cherry blossoms
  • Stargazing
  • Lavender viewing
  • Hydrangeas
  • Autumn foliage
  • Snow
  • Snowy Mt. Fuji landscape
  • Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route's ‘Snow Walls’
  • Penguin walks at Asahiyama Zoo
  • Sea turtles laying eggs
  • Whale-watcing
  • Swimming at the beach
  • Fireworks
  • Sapporo Odori Beer Garden
  • Trekking / Hiking
  • Surfing
  • Diving / Snorkeling
  • Camping
  • Rafting
  • Golfing
  • Skiing / Summer skiing
  • Hot springs
  • Illuminations
  • Apples
  • Strawberries
  • White shrimp
  • Yubari Melons
  • Cherries
  • Peaches
  • Pineapples
  • Mangoes
  • Sake
  • Shine Muscat grapes
  • Soba noodles
  • Hot pot dishes
  • Tuna
  • Crab dishes
  • Festivals
About Okinawa. Spring lasts from March to May. In March, you can experience whale-watching and stargazing. The average March temperature in Naha City ranges from 18°C to 23°C (64°F to 74°F). Light long-sleeved clothing is recommended. In April, you can enjoy whale-watching, swimming at the beach, and stargazing. The average April temperature in Naha City ranges from 21°C to 26°C (69°F to 78°F). Light long-sleeved clothing is advisable. In May, you can witness sea turtles laying eggs and enjoy stargazing. The average May temperature in Naha City ranges from 22°C to 26°C (71°F to 78°F). Light long-sleeved clothing is suitable. Summer lasts from June to August. In June, you can experience diving, witness sea turtles laying eggs, and pineapples. The average June temperature in Naha City ranges from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 85°F). Short sleeves and shorts are recommended. In July, you can go swimming, enjoy pineapples and mangoes. The average July temperature in Naha City ranges from 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F). Short sleeves and shorts are advised. In August, you can go diving, witness sea turtles laying eggs, and enjoy mangoes. The average August temperature in Naha City ranges from 28°C to 33°C (82°F to 91°F). Short sleeves and shorts are suitable. Autumn is from September to November. In September, you can enjoy swimming at the beach, eating mangoes, and experiencing the Eisa Festival. The average September temperature in Naha City ranges from 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 87°F). Short sleeves and shorts are recommended. In October, you can enjoy swimming at the beach, surfing, and attending the Naha Tug-of-War Festival. The average October temperature in Naha City ranges from 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 83°F). Short sleeves and shorts are suitable. In November, you can go snorkeling and attend the Shuri Castle Festival. The average November temperature in Naha City ranges from 22°C to 26°C (71°F to 79°F). Light long-sleeved clothing is advisable. Winter is from December to January. In December, you can go golfing and stargazing. The average December temperature in Naha City ranges from 17°C to 21°C (62°F to 69°F). A jacket is recommended. In January, you can experience cherry blossoms, stargazing, and whale-watching. The average January temperature in Naha City ranges from 15°C to 20°C (60°F to 68°F). A jacket is suitable. In February, you can enjoy cherry blossoms, stargazing, and whale-watching. The average February temperature in Naha City ranges from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). A jacket is advisable. Crowd levels vary throughout the year, with peaks in mid-March and late July to August, while December to February is the quietest period.
  • The average temperatures are based on the Japan Meteorological Agency's data for Naha City in 2022.
  • Festival schedules, average temperatures, and peak times may vary from year to year. For more details, please check respective websites and other sources.
Flight Reservation

Spring

Arakurayama Sengen Park
  • Yamanashi
  • Kanto

Springtime
Brings
Blossoms

Hitachi Seaside Park
  • Ibaraki
  • Kanto

Spring is generally from March to May in Japan. “Sakura” or cherry blossoms are a symbol of spring in Japan. Many people gather under sakura trees for “ohanami,” which means cherry blossom viewing, all over Japan. Japan geographically stretches from north to south, and sakura starts blossoming in the south in late March then moves its way up to the north. Hokkaido, located in the north of Japan welcomes full blossoms in May. Spring is a mild season suitable for various leisurely activities.

Wisteria, moss phlox and many other types of flowers other than sakura also bloom in the spring. These flowers become a tourist attraction but they are also is there as a guided path.

  • Hirosaki Park
    • Aomori
    • Tohoku
  • Kawachi Wisteria Garden
    • Fukuoka
    • Kyushu
  • Himeji Castle
    • Hyogo
    • Kansai

Summer

Zamami Island
  • Okinawa

Summertime
Brings
the Heat

Tsunoshima Bridge
  • Yamaguchi
  • Chugoku

Summer is usually from June to August. Japan is surrounded by the sea, so you can enjoy swimming in various places. You can swim in the sea near Tokyo, but remote the islands of Okinawa are also recommended to enjoy a relaxing time.

Once the rainy season called “tsuyu”, which lasts from June to late July is over, the temperature rapidly increases. This is the season for summer festivals and firework displays happening everywhere in Japan. You can enjoy watching festivals or take part in dancing at other festivals as well.

  • Omagari Fireworks
    • Akita
    • Tohoku
  • Awa Odori Festival
    • Tokushima
    • Shikoku
  • Aomori Nebuta Festival
    • Aomori
    • Tohoku

Autumn

Karasawa
  • Nagano
  • Chubu

Autumn is a
Sight Unlike
Any Other

Rurikoin Temple
  • Kyoto
  • Kansai

September to November is usually the fall season. The heat of summer eases, and the most comfortable and nicest weather comes in this season. The peak for leaves changing colors is from October to late November. Mountains in Hokkaido start to turn color, and colors of leaves gradually change from the north down to the south of Japan. Visit tourist attractions anywhere in Japan that are famous for leaves changing colors and delight in the beauty.

Fall is also best for outdoor sports and leisurely activities. Seasonal foods, rich in nutrition and flavor, in other words, "the fall that makes you hungry", are also something worth tasting.

  • Blue Pond (Aoi Ike)
    • Hokkaido
  • Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue
    • Tokyo
    • Kanto
  • Kiyomizu Temple
    • Kyoto
    • Kansai

Winter

Otaru Canal
  • Hokkaido

Experience
a Winter
Wonderland

Yokote Kamakura
  • Akita
  • Tohoku

Winter is from December to February. It is the coldest season of the year, which is perfect for enjoying hot springs. Dipping in a hot spring while relishing in the beautiful winter scenery is exceptionally remarkable. Illumination events are held all over Japan toward the year-end.

Drift ice and snowy landscape representing dazzling winter are not to be missed. Skiing and dog sledding are also an amusing leisurely activity of winter.

  • Shirakawa-go
    • Gifu
    • Chubu
  • Beppu Onsen
    • Oita
    • Kyushu
  • Niseko Ski Resorts
    • Hokkaido

Choose
Your Next
Destination

Sendai Sendai Tokyo Tokyo Nagoya Nagoya Kyoto Kyoto Osaka Osaka Fukuoka Fukuoka Hiroshima Hiroshima Gifu Gifu Akita Akita Tokushima Tokushima Sapporo Sapporo Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa

Seasonal
Recommendations