Best Places to Visit in Japan Through The Seasons
With the yen dropping and 34 million visitors expected this year, Japan is the ultimate travel trend. From spring cherry blossoms to autumn’s vibrant colors and cozy winter scenes, Japan’s beauty shines year-round.
For those seeking the perfect blend of culture, style, and adventure, the experts at Japan Rail Pass have curated a guide to the top two must-visit spots for every season. Your next unforgettable experience in Japan awaits!
Summer locations to visit in Japan
1. Daisetsuzan National Park & Furano-Biei – Hokkaido
Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is a summer retreat with cooler temperatures, offering a refreshing escape. Known for its volcanoes, natural hot springs (onsen), and seafood, it provides a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. This season is ideal for exploring Daisetsuzan National Park with hiking and cycling amidst stunning landscapes.
Furano and Biei flower fields offer a vibrant display throughout the summer. In early summer, the lavender fields in Furano are particularly striking. Later in the season, fields of poppies, cosmos, and sunflowers create a colorful mosaic across the landscape of Biei.
Tanya Jones/shutterstock.com
2. Okinawa Prefecture
Journeying from Japan’s northernmost island to its southernmost region, Okinawa Prefecture, reveals a stunning shift to a tropical paradise with islands like Miyako-jima and Ishigaki, known for their beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.
This summer hotspot offers everything from snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs to relaxing on pristine white sands. On top of it, the 10,000 Eisa Dancers Parade in Naha is a highlight of Okinawa’s summer festivals, showcasing traditional dance and music. With its blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences, Okinawa promises an unforgettable summer getaway.
Autumn locations to visit in Japan
1. Lake Kawaguchiko, Yamanashi
Lake Kawaguchiko, one of the Fuji Five Lakes, is a top spot for autumn leaf viewing in Japan. The Momiji Corridor and Tunnel offer breathtaking views of Mount Fuji framed by vivid red maple leaves. Peak colors appear from mid-November to early December, making this the perfect time to visit.
The Lake Kawaguchi Autumn Leaf Festival, held during this period, adds to the charm with cultural events celebrating the season. For a unique perspective, take a boat ride on the lake to see Mount Fuji and the autumn foliage reflected on the water.
2. Naruko Gorge, Miyagi
Naruko Gorge in Miyagi Prefecture is also a must-see during autumn. With its 100-meter-deep gorge blanketed in vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows from mid-October to early November. The best views are from the observation deck at the Narukokyo Resthouse, where the iconic Ofukazawa Bridge stands out against the colorful landscape. A stroll along the Naruko Gorge Walking Trail offers an immersive experience, with stunning views of the foliage, rock formations, and the Daiya River below.
takepicsforfun/shutterstock.com
Winter locations to visit in Japan
1. Shirakawago, Gifu
Shirakawago in Gifu is a perfect winter destination, offering a glimpse into Japan’s past with its snow-covered gassho-zukuri farmhouses. These steep-roofed structures are designed to endure the heavy snowfall that blankets the village, turning it into a serene and picturesque scene.
The charm of Shirakawago is heightened during the special illumination events taking place at nightime. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the unique architecture and stunning winter landscapes, makes Shirakawago an ideal spot for those looking to experience a traditional and tranquil Japanese winter.
2. Jigokudani Monkey Park, Nagano
Humans aren’t the only ones seeking warmth in Japan’s winter—at Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano, Japanese macaques, or snow monkeys, take full advantage of the natural hot springs. Tucked away in the snow-covered mountains, this park offers a unique winter experience as you watch these wild monkeys lounge in the steamy onsen. Visiting between January and February is ideal for seeing them surrounded by snow, creating a striking contrast between the frosty landscape and the warm waters.
redswept/shutterstock.com
Spring locations to visit in Japan
1. Mount Yoshinoyama, Nara Prefecture
No spring trip to Japan is complete without experiencing the cherry blossoms, and Yoshinoyama in Nara Prefecture is one of the best places to do so. This mountain is renowned for its breathtaking cherry blossom display, featuring around 30,000 trees that bloom from late March to mid-April. The cherry trees, planted over 1,300 years ago, cover the mountain in a stunning array of pink and white blossoms.
Hike up the mountain or take the ropeway to the popular Hanayagura observation point for spectacular views. Yoshinoyama’s historical significance and its vibrant cherry blossoms make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Japan’s springtime beauty.
2. Mount Fuji Area, Fuji Shibazakura Festival
While Mount Fuji is a year-round attraction, spring elevates its beauty to a whole new level. The snow-capped peak stands majestic against a backdrop of blooming flowers and clear skies. One of the best spots to experience this is at the Fuji Shibazakura Festival in Yamanashi Prefecture. From mid-April to late May, vibrant fields of pink moss phlox, or shibazakura, carpet the landscape, creating a stunning contrast with the iconic mountain in the background. Whether you’re admiring cherry blossoms or soaking in the beauty of the shibazakura, spring around Mount Fuji offers picture-perfect scenery that captures the essence of Japan’s natural charm.
Read More:
- Resolve the five known macOS 12 issues with this guide
- 5 Ways Twitch Streamers Make Money
- Find an Ideal Online Casino with These Tips
- How to Level Up Your DIY Projects with this Laser Machine?
- How to Choose the Right Cable Company in Your Area
