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Japan

Cherry blossoms, temples, and timing that matters more than you think.

Monthly overview

Each month classified by overall suitability for travel.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
BestAcceptableAvoid

Major disruptions

Local events and holidays that reshape your trip.

Golden Week

Severe

Apr 29 – May 5

Peak domestic travel. Most museums and smaller shops close. Flights 40%+ above seasonal average.

Obon

High

Aug 13 – Aug 16

Major ancestral observance. Shinkansen and domestic flights heavily booked.

Shōgatsu (New Year)

High

Dec 29 – Jan 3

Many businesses close for several days. Quiet but limited.

What locals know

  • Cherry blossom peak shifts by latitude — Tokyo late March, Hokkaido early May.
  • Autumn foliage runs early November (north) to early December (Kyoto).
  • Post-Golden Week (mid-May) is the best-value shoulder window.

Read more about Japan

Guides and tips from the Beevago blog.