When to Go to Japan

There're 4 clear seasons in Japan with spring and fall best to see. Sakura's spring blossom and red fall maples are Japan's favorite postcard scenes. It may be raining anytime of the year.

Local climate varies from continental (on Hokkaido) to subtropical (on Okinawa). The rainy period tsuyu lasts from early June till mid-July. Hot tropical winds off the Pacific blow through Honshu with air temperature reaching 26 Celsius and humidity 80%. The average summer temperature on Kyushu and Okinawa is higher but humidity here is much lower. Honshu (Tohoku) and Hokkaido seldom have late-July temperatures above +21 C. The latter is a most popular summer resort due to its magnificent wild nature.

Mid-October to mid-November is best to feel Japan's famous fall colors. Tropical typhoons come to the Pacific coast with winds and cloudbursts from early September to late October. These are Asian hurricanes often bringing destruction, floods and landslides.

It may be quite cool at night, especially in highlands. Winter on the Pacific coast is mild and sunny while Honshu's regions by the Sea of Japan are considered one of the snowiest in the world. Northern Japan may be very cold in winter. Huge ice-floes drift north past Hokkaido where the sea can be frozen for hundreds of kilometers. Extremals should like such a subarctic phenomenon. Ski resorts and hot springs on Hokkaido are among the country's best.

Clothes

Winters have almost no rain, but waterproof clothes are a necessity any time. Compact umbrellas and plastic raincoats are affordable all over Japan.

Mind heat and humidity in choosing summer clothes. You should wear T-shirts, light shirts or cotton blouses, but watch out for full air conditioning everywhere indoors.

It may be cold in the mountains even in summer. The Fuji peak has August temperatures sub zero, so take a warm jacket.

Shoes

You'll need strong but light shoes. Choose ones to be easily taken off entering shrines, ryokans, some restaurants or cottages. Wooden floors in old houses like shrines may be very cold in winter, so wear warm socks.