Japan Tours

The best time to go to Japan is from March to May to enjoy the beauty of spring, or in fall, from September to November, when the weather is comfortable, and you can appreciate the stunning fall foliage.

In spring, cherry blossoms blanket the landscape in pink and white blossoms. Typically, the weather is warm and pleasant, though chillier towards the beginning of March. The fall season brings a burst of reds, oranges, and gold as the leaves turn, and the weather is mild and comfortable for exploring outdoors and sightseeing.

From June to August, summer lovers arrive in Japan for festivals, while in the winter, from December to February, travelers hope to see the snow or ski Japan’s slopes.

While summers are hot and winters cold, especially in the northern regions, Japan offers something for everyone year-round. Learn more in our guide on the best time to visit Japan.

Experience the stunning beauty of Japan's cherry blossoms between mid-March and early April.

Japan comes alive with a display of colors as cherry blossoms paint the landscape in hues of pink and white. Witness firsthand how these blossoms infuse the serene ambiance as you explore the temples, shrines, and gardens.

With our guide on the best time to visit Japan for cherry blossoms, you can discover the right times for trips during different stages of the season, whether as the flowers blossom or when they reach full bloom.

From modern metropolises to historic port towns, culinary hotspots to world heritage sites, each of the best places to visit in Japan offers its own unique experiences. Here are some of our recommendations for your vacation to Japan:

• Tokyo: Traditional and modern elements coexist in Japan’s vibrant capital city. From iconic landmarks like Meiji Shrine to the famous Shibuya Crossing, the finest Japanese restaurants, and neon-lit neighborhoods like Shinjuku, Tokyo’s highlights will dazzle you.
• Kyoto: The cultural heart of Japan is home to temples, shrines, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Experience the tranquility of Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, and the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
• Osaka: With an energetic atmosphere and a delectable street food scene, Osaka welcomes travelers of all ages. You can visit the historic Osaka Castle, stroll through the vibrant Dotonbori district, and explore the trendy neighborhoods.
• Hiroshima: Pay a visit to Hiroshima and learn about its poignant history. Explore the Peace Memorial Park, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, and the iconic Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, known for its floating torii gate.

There is much to do on a trip to Japan, whether you wish to learn about the country’s rich history and culture, try the iconic local dishes, or explore the bustling cities. Here are some of our top things to do in Japan:

• Admire the stunning sakuras on a Japan cherry blossom tour or photograph the foliage in fall
• Partake in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony and other notable cultural traditions
• Discover Japan’s traditional culture as you explore historic neighborhoods and visit famous temples
• Relish the sensational flavors of authentic Japanese cuisine when sampling traditional sushi, savoring a bowl of ramen, or enjoying takoyaki
• Race across the Japanese countryside on the Shinkansen, a bullet train, for a speedy yet cinematic trip from one destination to another
• Take in the breathtaking scenery, whether the views of Mount Fuji or the carefully manicured Japanese gardens
• Learn about Japan’s dramatic history on tours of significant landmarks and museums
• Learn about the customs and traditions of Japanese geishas on a tour of Gion, Kyoto’s geisha district
• Watch a sumo performance and learn about the origins of the sport

Japan is a surprisingly popular winter destination and offers a myriad of experiences. Here are some of the most notable things to do when you travel to Japan in winter:

• Explore Hokkaido, one of Japan’s most romantic places, known for its stunning snow-covered landscapes and world-class skiing opportunities.
• Journey to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go to witness its architectural wonders blanketed in snow.
• Head to the Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano to witness Japanese macaques enjoying a relaxing dip in natural hot springs surrounded by snow-covered surroundings.
• Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of winter festivals, from the Sapporo Snow Festival in Hokkaido, with its awe-inspiring ice sculptures, to the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival, featuring beautifully illuminated snow lanterns.
• Relax in a traditional Japanese onsen, or hot spring, while enjoying breathtaking snowy landscapes.
• Warm up with a bowl of steaming hot ramen or try seasonal delights such as Oden (a hot pot dish), yuzu-flavored sweets, or Japanese winter crab dishes.

Exploring the diverse regional specialties and embracing the artistry of Japanese food is an essential part of food tours in Japan or any trip for that matter. Several iconic dishes have gained immense popularity both within Japan and worldwide, and these are some of the most renowned and beloved delicacies:

• Sushi
• Ramen
• Tempura prawns
• Takoyaki, octopus-filled battered balls
• Yakitori, marinated grilled chicken skewers
• Tonkatsu, deep-fried pork cutlets
• Seafood shabu shabu, Japanese seafood hot pot
• Kaiseki, traditional high-end multi-course Japanese dinner
• Wagyu beef, extremely high-quality Japanese beef

With its vibrant cityscapes, serene temples, and breathtaking natural landscapes, Japan has something for everyone. Whether immersing yourself in the culture, enjoying the local cuisine, or photographing the cherry blossoms, there’s a variety of reasons to plan a trip to Japan.

You can explore ancient castles, witness captivating geisha performances, or partake in traditional Zen meditation sessions. You can indulge in world-class sushi, savor melt-in-your-mouth wagyu beef, or delight in the wide variety of street food. You can also explore the picturesque Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, soak in the therapeutic hot springs of Hakone, or take a scenic hike through the stunning Japanese Alps.

Embarking on a journey to Japan means immersing yourself in a rich culture, savoring exquisite cuisine, and discovering breathtaking natural landscapes. Experience the unique blend of tradition and innovation that sets Japan apart and create memories that will last a lifetime.

The Japanese yen (¥).

Explore more information in our frequently asked questions about planning a trip to Japan and inspiration in our Japan travel guide.