Leisure in Japan

As Japan is blessed with four distinct seasons, there is no shortage of seasonal activities to enjoy year-round.

SPRING (MARCH – MAY)
Cherry blossoms in Japan bloom as early as mid-January in Okinawa and as late as the first week of May in Hokkaido.

Late March to the first week of April is considered the best time to view cherry blossoms in major cities, including Tokyo and Kyoto. Cherry blossom viewing parties, known as hanami, are a popular way to admire the transient beauty of Japan’s iconic blooms.

SUMMER (JUNE – AUGUST)
Summer in Japan is lush and green and can be quite humid in most parts of the country, except for Hokkaido and in mountainous regions. Summer is the best time to see amazing fireworks displays and traditional summer festivals. June heralds the rainy season, and while it doesn’t rain constantly, it can be quite overcast for three weeks to a month.

AUTUMN (SEPTEMBER – NOVEMBER)
The cool, crisp weather is the perfect season for outdoor activities, and the brilliant red and yellow autumn foliage – known as koyo – draws many visitors, both domestic and from overseas. Late October to late November is the peak time to view koyo as the leaves change from the north, painting the landscape as they make their way southward.

WINTER (DECEMBER – FEBRUARY)
Welcome to Ja-POW! Many ski and snowboard enthusiasts make an annual pilgrimage to enjoy Japan’s powder snow and steaming onsen (hot springs). The country has hosted two Winter Olympics, and a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, nightlife and world-class facilities – plus friendly Japanese hospitality and a unique culture – make Japan a ski destination like no other.