Japan is an archipelago of islands nearly 2,000 miles long, with the Pacific Ocean to its east and the Sea of Japan to its west. Thanks to its lengthy latitude, 'The Land of the Rising Sun' boasts a diverse climate across its 3,000-plus islands and islets. So, when is the best time to visit Japan? Experiencing four main seasons – winter, spring, summer and autumn – Japan offers something different at every time of year. The cold north entices skiers in winter and outdoor enthusiasts in summer, while the central and southern regions are best explored during spring and autumn. Every season has its charms and drawbacks, so read on for our detailed breakdown to help you decide…
Seasons in Japan
Winter is more severe in the north and lasts from November to April. The wind from eastern Siberia brings a cold, humid climate that is particularly biting in mountainous areas. The northwestern part of Japan often experiences snowfall. The winters become shorter and the summers longer the further you travel south. Spring begins in Japan in early April in the southernmost regions, but the sakura (cherry blossom) season typically begins in May in northern regions such as Hokkaido. The same applies to autumn, which runs from September to October (or even the end of November in some regions). What about summer in Japan? Summer falls between June and September throughout the archipelago, with peak temperatures in August. The first part of the summer is rainy, as is September. July and August comprise the hot season.
Tokyo
Tokyo is located at the same latitude as Athens but has a subtropical climate. In Tokyo, unlike in the country's north, winters are mild, and summers are hot and wet. The months of June and July are sometimes marked by storms and cyclones. Maximum average temperatures are highest in July and August. September is slightly milder, with a maximum average temperature of 27°C, but there is higher rainfall and generally ten to fifteen days of rain during the month.
Kyoto
Kyoto, located in a basin surrounded by mountains, enjoys a microclimate with very hot summers and cold winters. The weather is mild in spring, between March and May, and rainfall is rare. This is when the Cherry Blossom Festival occurs, and hotel availability is at a premium. Then, between June and July, the rainy season begins. As with the rest of inland East Asia, the rainfall becomes heavy. After this rainy period, in July and August, summer begins in Kyoto. Because of its location, Kyoto has very little wind, so the heat can become stifling. Storms may break during this period. Japan's spectacular autumn colours are best from September to November and gently fade into winter, which runs from December to February. Kyoto is regularly affected by snow during the winter months.
Shikoku
Shikoku is one of Japan's four main islands. Shikoku, located between the Seto Inland Sea and the Pacific Ocean, has a humid, subtropical climate. There is no snowfall in Shikoku during the winter, as the island has a relatively mild climate, while the summer is hot and humid. As in other parts of East Asia, the period between June and September is the typhoon season, with very heavy rainfall. The periods with the mildest temperatures in Shikoku are between March and May, as well as in October, after the rainy season.
Tohoku is the northeastern region of Honshu, Japan's main island. The area's climate is quite harsh, with heavy snow and sea mists. With its massive mountain ranges, the western part of the Tohoku region experiences very cold winters and a very short, stiflingly hot summer season. In the east, the Pacific Ocean exerts its influence, and there is a huge amount of rainfall. In the Tohoku region, travellers looking for a drier, more continental climate should go further inland.
