Best months to visit Japan from Singapore: What to do for each month of the year
Japan is a fascinating destination no matter which month you visit.
Japan may be best known for its cherry blossom season in spring, but those aren’t the only few months to take a trip to the land of the rising sun. Other seasons may bring about equally fun experiences, making Japan a fascinating destination no matter which month you visit.
If you’re planning to explore Japan and can't decide when to go, we’ve listed below what you can expect each month. While you’re at it, don’t forget to catch the different flowers you can view during different seasons.
January in Japan
Although the Japanese used to follow the lunisolar calendar like the Chinese, they switched to the Gregorian calendar after the Meiji Restoration to facilitate business and trade with the Westerners. This means that they celebrate New Year’s Day on the first day of the year, otherwise known as Shogatsu. You can join in the annual traditional New Year festivities, temple visits, and special ceremonies.
As Japan’s winter lasts from December to February, those who want to avoid the crowd during the end of the year but still want some decent “Japow” can visit the ski resorts in Hokkaido in January. Even if you’re not into winter sports, many cities also feature mesmerising winter illuminations—stunning light displays during the winter season that are perfect for the gram.
Nabana no Sato & Gozaishodake Ropeway Day Tour from Osaka
Fujiyama Snow Resort Yeti Day Trip from Tokyo
February in Japan
The Sapporo Snow Festival in Hokkaido takes place in early February for a week, drawing large crowds with its intricate snow and ice sculptures. These sculptures are found in three locations across the city: the Odori Site, Susukino Site and Tsudome Site.
February is also the time for viewing plum blossoms. As a spring flower, their blooms signal the end of winter and the approach of spring. However, they are commonly confused with cherry blossoms, which have a more delicate appearance. One easy way to distinguish the two is that cherry blossoms have a small split at the end of each petal.
March in Japan
Hinamatsuri, also known as Doll Festival or Girls’ Day, is a Shinto holiday celebrated on 3 March every year. Families display ornamental dolls representing the imperial court in a ritual believed to bring good fortune to young girls. The festival honours the well-being and happiness of daughters, promoting their growth and success. If you love such traditions, you can even purchase the dolls and display them at home.
The cherry blossom season lasts from late March to early April—the best time for hanami (flower viewing). The warmer temperatures this year have spurred the growth of cherry blossoms though, making them bloom as early as 18 March this year. If you’re hoping to see some sakura in full bloom, stay up to date with the official forecast.
NAKED FLOWERS -Sakura- World Heritage Nijo Castle Admission
Mt. Fuji Cherry Blossom & Ropeway One Day Trip from Tokyo with Lunch
April in Japan
Early April is when most cherry blossom festivals are held. You can participate in various events and festivals celebrating the lovely pink sakura, but be prepared for the hanami crowd.
From 29 April to 5 May, it is Japan’s Golden Week; a series of national holidays, often leading to crowded attractions. Although footfall will be high at most places, this is also the period to secure discounts and deals as shops present their best offers to entice domestic travellers.
Okinawa Ryukyu Kaiensai Fireworks Festival Ticket
Sagano Romantic Train For Spring in Arashiyama Bus Tour
May in Japan
Kanda Matsuri is a Shinto festival in Tokyo renowned for its grandeur and centuries-old traditions. Celebrated biennially in mid-May in odd-numbered years—alternating with Sanno Matsuri in mid-June in even-numbered years—the festival showcases ornate mikoshi (portable shrines) parades, lively processions, and various ceremonies.
Sanja Matsuri, one of the largest Shinto festivals in Tokyo, is also celebrated annually in May (third weekend) at Asakusa Shrine. Known for its lively atmosphere and vibrant processions, the festival honours the three founders of the Senso-ji Temple. You can immerse yourself in traditional music and dance, and bask in a spirited celebration deeply rooted in local tradition and history.
June in Japan
As the weather turns hotter with summer approaching, the landscapes of Japan take on a revitalising green hue. More flowers also start to emit their vibrant colours, including iris, lavender and hydrangea. You can enjoy the blooming hydrangeas in various gardens during the Hydrangea Festivals. One of the most popular Hydrangea Festivals is the Bunkyo Hydrangea Festival in Tokyo, also known as Ajisai Matsuri, held in mid-June.
July in Japan
Gion Matsuri, held in Kyoto throughout July, is one of Japan’s oldest and most famous festivals. Originating in 869, it began as a ritual to appease the deities during a plague. Today, it features spectacular processions, traditional performances, and the iconic Yamaboko floats adorned with intricate tapestries.
July is also the month for Tanabata (Star Festival), a Japanese festival originating from the Chinese Qixi Festival. Although the Chinese Qixi Festival falls on the seventh day of the seventh lunisolar month, Tanabata is usually celebrated on 7 July. You can write wishes on colourful paper and hang them on bamboo.
For the fans of summer festivals and fireworks festivals, you can enjoy numerous majestic fireworks displays across the country in July as well, not to mention all the delectable snacks and heat-dissipating drinks you can savour at these festivals.
August in Japan
Obon Festival, a significant Buddhist event in Japan, is a time to honour deceased ancestors’ spirits. Celebrated between July and August, it involves traditional rituals like Bon Odori dances, visits to ancestral graves, and the lighting of lanterns to guide spirits back. The largest dance festival in Japan, part of the Obon Festival, is the Awa Odori held in Tokushima Prefecture in Shikoku from 12 to 15 August.
September in Japan
Autumnal Equinox Day, known as Shubun no Hi in Japan, marks the arrival of fall when day and night are nearly equal in length. Usually celebrated on 22 or 23 September, you can engage in outdoor activities, appreciating the changing season and autumn harvest and reflecting on nature’s balance.
In Japan, there is also a saying, “Autumn that brings a good appetite.” As many crops ripen in autumn, you can savour various autumnal foods and ingredients like chestnuts, persimmons, sweet potato, pacific saury, pumpkins and more.
October in Japan
Autumn in Japan falls between mid-September and early December, depending on which part of Japan you visit. October, thus, is the best month to enjoy the fall foliage regardless of the city. With mild temperatures, you can enjoy a leisurely walk amidst the vibrant autumn colours in parks and mountains.
Kyoto Arashiyama & Sagano Train & Sanzenin Temple Day Tour丨Osaka/Kyoto Departure
November in Japan
The Momiji Festival is a celebration of autumn foliage, particularly the vibrant red and orange hues of maple leaves. Held in various regions across Japan in November, the festival showcases the breathtaking beauty of changing leaves. You can enjoy scenic landscapes, cultural performances, and seasonal delicacies amidst the stunning backdrop of autumn colours, making it a cherished cultural experience.
December in Japan
Apart from the winter illuminations, December in Japan is also the time for Christmas Markets. These festive markets are donned with holiday decorations that get you in the mood of gifting and sharing. If you’re in Japan during Christmas, don’t forget to get some fried chicken from KFC to celebrate like a local!
If you’re a fan of theme parks, Universal Studios Japan, Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea also have their own seasonal experiences in December. You’ll have to check out their official sites for the programme lineup nearer to the date.
Universal Studios Japan Ticket
Tokyo Disney Resort Park Ticket
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