The Best Time to Visit Japan: A Seasonal Guide to Festivals, Food, and Travel

Red maple leaves drift to the ground, the air turns crisp, and streets are alive with the scents of seasonal foods—but when is the best time to visit Japan?

It’s a question I hear often from friends and family dreaming of their trips. Simple as it sounds, the answer is surprisingly complex. Every traveler values something different, and in Japan, there’s a saying that captures this perfectly: 「十人十色」 (jyu-nin to iro)—“ten people, ten colors.” Simply put, ten people have ten unique perspectives, ten different tastes.

My own opinion has evolved over time. I used to think I loved summer, likely because of the long vacations I grew up enjoying in the U.S. But experiencing a true Japanese autumn changed everything. Fall has its own quiet magic—the leaves, the harvest flavors, the cozy traditions—a season of beginnings and endings all at once.

So, when is the best season to visit Japan? There’s no single answer. Each season brings unforgettable experiences, and in this guide, I’ll walk you through them all.

The Four Seasons (Not the hotel)

I grew up in the high desert, where nature cycled between scorching summers, freezing winters, and that strange March limbo when the weather couldn’t decide what it wanted to be. The four seasons were something I’d only seen in movies and on TV.

Japan—especially the central regions—reveals them in full. Summer is hot, humid, and alive with the chorus of cicadas, a reminder that nature has its own voice. Autumn cools the air, leaves turn brilliant shades, and the world quiets down, as if announcing closing time. Winter brings its chill; in some areas, a soft white blanket covers everything, while in others, frost paints the mornings. Nature rests, waiting for spring.

And when spring arrives, warmth returns with gentle rains and blossoms bursting across the country—as if the land itself is saying to the world, いらっしゃいませ—welcome.

Spring in Japan

Officially, spring in Japan begins on February 2 each year, with Setsubun marking the symbolic start of the season on the 3rd. This lively tradition is all about driving away bad luck and welcoming good fortune. Families and communities take part in mamemaki (“bean throwing”), where participants chant “鬼は外、福は内” (oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi—“Demons out! Good fortune in!”) while tossing roasted soybeans at a person dressed as an oni (demon). In homes, parents sometimes play the role of the oni to entertain—and mildly terrify—their children.

February also brings a less charming seasonal event: cedar pollen season. From February through March, cedar trees release massive amounts of pollen into the air, making life miserable for allergy sufferers. If you’re visiting during this time, prepare accordingly—antihistamines, masks, goggles, and eye drops will be your best friends.

When Do the Cherry Blossoms Bloom?

Japanese meteorologists use an interesting method called 累積気温 (ruiseki kion, “cumulative temperature”) to predict cherry blossom season. Starting around February 1, they track daily high temperatures and add them together—when the total reaches 600 °C, the blossoms usually start to open. Another variation of the rule uses the average daily temperature until it totals 400 °C.

Because Japan stretches from subtropical Okinawa to snowy Hokkaido, cherry blossom season moves northward like a wave—starting in the south and peaking weeks later in the north. While this method gives forecasters a good starting point, local weather can cause shifts. For example, in 2024, Kyoto’s peak bloom (満開, mankai) arrived almost a full week late due to a cold snap in March.

Things to Do in Spring

• Hanami (Flower Viewing)—The classic way to enjoy the sakura season: picnicking under the blooms with friends or family. Many parks plant cherry trees in scenic rows, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
  
  
  

• Haru Matsuri (Spring Festivals)—Early April is festival season, with food stalls selling everything from grilled yakitori to sweet festival snacks.

• Golden Week (Apr 29 – May 5) — One of Japan’s busiest travel periods, combining four national holidays. Expect large crowds at popular spots, and book travel well in advance if visiting during this time.

When picnicking or visiting a festival, be sure to follow local rules for trash disposal. Public bins can be rare, so it’s common practice to take your trash home or back to your hotel for disposal.

We have an entire post about what you can do if your options are limited here.

Following the Cherry Blossom Wave

If your heart is set on seeing cherry blossoms, don’t stress about hitting that exact first week of April. Just as the Beacons of Gondor lit up one by one to call Rohan to Gondor’s aid, Japan’s cherry blossoms ignite the country in waves of pink—from Okinawa in January to Hokkaido in May. (Sorry, my nerd is showing.)

Here’s the general timeline:

• Okinawa: Mid–late January to mid-February

• Kyushu and Shikoku: Mid–late March

• Kyoto and Kansai Region: Late March – early April

• Tohoku Region: Mid–late April

• Hokkaido: Early May

If you’re dreaming of a specific moment—like Kinkaku-ji Temple with petals drifting around it—you’ll need to watch the calendar closely. Sakura waits for no one… and the clock is always ticking.

Seasonal Foods and Drinks

Spring in Japan isn’t just a treat for the eyes—it’s a feast for the taste buds. Every year, companies refresh their packaging with soft pinks and release limited-edition flavors inspired by the season.

• Sakuramochi: A pink rice cake filled with sweet red bean paste and wrapped in an edible cherry blossom leaf. If you live in Japan, don’t be surprised if neighbors share some as a seasonal gift.

• Seasonal Drinks & Desserts: Sakura lattes, sakura pies, and other pink-hued creations appear in cafes and convenience stores across the country.

• Ichigo Daifuku: A fresh strawberry wrapped in soft mochi. Some versions add a layer of chocolate for extra indulgence.

• Takenoko (Bamboo Shoots): Harvested in early spring and used in soups, stir-fries, and bamboo shoot rice. Delicious… but for many, a once-a-season treat.

Summer in Japan

If you grew up in a dry climate like I did, summer usually meant finding shade and staying out of direct sunlight. In Japan, though, summer is a whole different beast. Here, the heat isn’t just above you—it wraps around you.

The Weather

Japan stretches from snowy Hokkaido in the north to subtropical Okinawa in the south, so summer feels a little different depending on where you are. But one thing unites the whole country: humidity.

If you’ve never experienced it before, imagine stepping into a steam room at the gym. Now crank it up to 95°F (35°C), add a thick, sticky heaviness to the air, and make it last all day. That’s Japanese summer in a nutshell. The real danger isn’t just discomfort, but heatstroke, which is a common risk. Locals adapt by slowing down, staying hydrated, and ducking indoors into air-conditioned cafes, malls, or train stations.

The Rainy Season

Before the full force of summer arrives, Japan enters a period called 梅雨 (tsuyu)—the rainy season. Lasting about 2–3 weeks from early June to mid-July (timing varies by region), tsuyu isn’t a nonstop downpour but a mix of light mist, passing showers, and the occasional heavy rainfall. Some days can feel tropical and hot, while others turn surprisingly cool.

Once the rainy season lifts, the real summer begins: intense heat paired with dramatic afternoon thunderstorms. Southern Japan in particular can feel almost tropical, with sudden downpours followed by brilliant sunshine, while northern regions like Hokkaido stay milder and less muggy.

Tips for Surviving Summer

• Carry a hand towel: You’ll find them everywhere in Japan (often in cute designs), and they’re essential for wiping sweat throughout the day.

• Cooling goods: Convenience stores and drugstores sell cooling sprays, wipes, and even little menthol-infused body sheets to help you freshen up.

• Skip the hair gel: Humidity wins every time. Go for a hat instead, and maybe even bring a small folding umbrella for both sun and rain.

• Stay hydrated: Japanese vending machines stock Pocari Sweat and Aquarius, electrolyte drinks designed for rehydration. Locals swear by them in the summer.

• Air conditioning etiquette: Trains, shops, and restaurants are blessedly cool inside, so don’t feel bad about taking breaks indoors—it’s what everyone does. On trains, though, the AC can sometimes feel too intense. If that happens, just move to another car—often one will be set to a lower setting to accommodate passengers who prefer a milder breeze.

Summer Festivals

Summer in Japan is the festival season. The heat and humidity don’t stop the celebrations—if anything, they make them feel even more alive. From the smallest villages to the biggest cities, festivals (matsuri) happen almost nonstop, especially in August, when schools across the country are on summer vacation.

A few years ago, I did what I jokingly called a Summer Festival Tour and managed to attend five different events in August alone. At each one, I watched two hours of fireworks. Yes, you read that right — not the 15-minute backyard shows many Americans are used to, but full, dazzling displays of color and sound that stretched across the night sky.

At these festivals you’ll find the essentials: crowds of people dressed in colorful yukata, food stalls lining the streets, the smell of grilled food in the air, and a cheerful, relaxed atmosphere where everyday rules seem to loosen a little.

Omikoshi and Tradition

Japanese summer festivals aren’t just about fun—they’re rooted in centuries of tradition. One highlight is the omikoshi (portable shrine). These are ornately decorated, heavy wooden shrines that locals carry through the streets on their shoulders, often chanting rhythmically as they go. The act symbolizes carrying the deity of the local shrine out into the community to bless it.

Some festivals also feature gigantic floats or carriages that look as if they could be pulled by Shire horses — but instead, teams of people drag them through the streets with sheer determination. The sound of flutes, taiko drums, and chants fills the air, creating a rhythm that drives the procession forward.

If you can’t make it to the festival itself, many towns have festival museums where the floats and shrines are displayed year-round—a great way to admire their craftsmanship up close.

Festival Food

No festival is complete without food, and Japanese summer street food is a culture of its own. The vendors, often families who have run their stalls for generations, are incredibly warm and welcoming — a chance to experience omotenashi (Japanese hospitality) in its most casual form.

While each region has its specialties—like wild boar skewers in Chichibu or unique local sweets—every festival has its “greatest hits.” Some classics you’re likely to encounter:

• Baby Castella: bite-sized sponge cakes shaped like beloved characters.

• Yakisoba: stir-fried noodles with cabbage, pork, and sauce.

• Takoyaki: doughy balls with grilled octopus inside, topped with sauce and bonito flakes.

• Yakitori: grilled chicken skewers, smoky and salty.

• Karaage: Japanese-style fried chicken, crispy and juicy.

• Kebab: Turkish-style doner kebabs, sometimes spicy, always delicious.

• Chocolate Bananas: bananas dipped in chocolate, often with sprinkles.

• Curly Fries: a whole potato spiral-cut, deep-fried, and seasoned.

• Jagabata: steamed potato with butter and mayo, sometimes topped with kimchi or other sauces.

• Kakigōri: finely shaved ice topped with flavored syrup, the ultimate summer refreshment.

And it’s not just food—you’ll also find carnival-style games, from goldfish scooping with paper nets to target shooting with pellet guns.

Fireworks

No matter how good the food is, everything stops when the fireworks begin. Around 7:00 pm, the crowd settles down, people claim spots on the grass or along riverbanks, and the show begins right above your head.

Unlike quick Western-style shows, Japanese fireworks festivals are long, artistic performances—choreographed bursts of light set to music, with some fireworks reaching a kilometer across the sky. Many are sponsored by local businesses and factories as both a form of advertising and a way of giving back to the community.

Obon Season

While many summer festivals in Japan are about fireworks, food stalls, and community fun, お盆 (obon) is something deeper. It’s one of Japan’s most important traditions—a time when families welcome back the spirits of their ancestors.

Obon usually takes place in mid-August (dates vary slightly depending on region), and it’s marked by a mix of solemn rituals and joyful gatherings. Families often return to their hometowns, clean and decorate graves, and gather to pay respects.

Each household in Japan has its own family tomb, which sometimes holds multiple generations. The tomb typically features a larger stone engraved with the family name, alongside smaller tablets listing the names of the individuals buried there. Visiting family members bring a bucket of water, a small plate of uncooked rice, and some salt, and place flowers at designated spots. Each person takes a scoop of water and pours it over the tomb and surrounding stone statues, while incense is burned at the base of the largest stone. The family then claps and bows in prayer.

While obon is a time for solemn reflection, it’s also a season of lively community gatherings. One of the most iconic parts of Obon is 盆踊り(bon odori), the traditional dance performed at festivals. Communities set up a central stage or tower, and people dance in circles around it to the sound of taiko drums and folk songs. The dance isn’t about performance—anyone can join in, and that’s part of the beauty.

Another moving tradition is 灯籠流し (tōrō nagashi), where paper lanterns are floated down rivers or set out to sea to guide spirits back to the other world. The sight of hundreds of glowing lanterns drifting across the water is unforgettable.

For travelers, Obon is both a cultural experience and a logistical challenge. Trains and highways are packed, as it’s one of the busiest travel periods of the year in Japan. If you’re planning a summer trip, keep in mind that accommodation and transportation can book out months in advance.

Mt. Fuji Climbing Season

Summer is the only time of year people can climb Mt. Fuji. The climbing season runs from July 1 to September 10 on the Yoshida Trail, while the other trails open on July 10 and also close on September 10.

Before you go, make sure to study the mountain thoroughly. Cover the basics like wearing appropriate clothing and shoes, and bring a heavy jacket — it gets really cold at night, even in the summer. Follow the advice on the official Mt. Fuji website here.

Last Note on Summer

Not the bugs please.

Be ready for the bugs. There will be all kinds of insects, particularly mosquitoes that look forward to their own summer feast. You can pick up repellent and anti-itch spray or cream at any drugstore. Be prepared for the cicadas’ screams and all the other sounds of summer in Japan.

The Fall/Autumn

I’m just going to break protocol and say it outright: Fall is the best season to visit Japan. Yes, my subjectivity is showing, but hear me out.

The easiest way to describe fall? By contrasting it with what I hate about spring and summer. Spring? Allergies. After the cold of winter, trying to enjoy cherry blossoms with a clogged nose is a cruel joke. Summer? Don’t get me started—hot, humid, and a constant threat of heatstroke.

Fall, on the other hand, is the sweet spot. The weather is mild and dry, the bugs finally pack up and leave, and there’s this amazing natural scent in the air—think pumpkin spice and gingerbread. Out of all the seasons in Japan, fall is simply the most pleasant.

It’s also worth noting that fall overlaps with the typhoon season in Japan, particularly from September to October. While most storms stay brief and localized, heavy rains and strong winds are possible, especially in southern and coastal regions. Travelers should keep an eye on the forecast and plan accordingly—a little preparation goes a long way.

Climate and Koyo

紅葉 (koyo), which literally means “red leaf,” describes the stunning transformation of leaves from green to the brilliant colors of fall. Unlike spring, where trees bud sporadically, fall transforms every tree at once. Mountainsides glow in reds, oranges, and golds, like someone upholstered them in a vintage ’90s couch. Stunning.

Of course, not all of Japan experiences the season the same way. In the north, Hokkaido’s autumn arrives early, with crisp mornings and fiery forests by late September. Meanwhile, in the south, in places like Kyushu, the leaves linger into late November, giving the season a gentler, drawn-out glow. Traveling from north to south, koyo spreads like a colorful wave, mountainsides igniting one by one—much like the cherry blossoms in spring, but moving southbound to undo the work of spring and the progress of summer.

If you are planning to experience koyo, you’re in luck: the season lasts longer than spring. The changing of the leaves can last from 2 to 4 weeks, thanks to factors like weather, temperature, and the natural pace of the trees themselves.

Places to Go and Things to Do in Fall

Given the scenic beauty of fall, the best activities are outdoors. Like spring, people often enjoy viewing the changing leaves. One small note about koyo: it happens everywhere, so unlike spring, you don’t have to go to a specific location to see it. Just look around you. That said, there are still very stunning places for a peak fall experience. Here are a handful:

Nikko, Tochigi: Not just for the leaves, Nikko is a famous vacation spot for tourists of all kinds thanks to its natural hot springs. Imagine the cool breeze of fall in an outdoor hot tub surrounded by brilliant reds and yellows. Aside from the rotten egg smell, it’s nearly a required stop on a Japan itinerary.

Sendai City, Miyagi: Always on my bucket list, Sendai’s mountainous terrain makes the foliage look like ocean waves of fall. There are parks, temples, a gorge, and the famous Akiu Otaki Falls to enjoy.

Mt. Fuji, surrounding prefectures:  The largest active volcano in Japan is sacred for a reason, partly because of how vividly it transforms between the seasons. Between clouds that cover the mountain one minute and reveal it the next, you can enjoy the nearby lake, Fuji-Q amusement park in Yamanashi, and a number of famous photo spots. But for the love of all that you hold holy, do not block the roads or obstruct traffic for a photo. It’s a constant nuisance, and blatant disregard for local rules fuels negative opinions about tourism.

Nagatoro, Saitama: Not the anime character! Nagatoro is an underrated gem. It is a small mountain town with the Arakawa river that cuts right through it. There are a lot of nature based things like a natural history museum, and a famous rock formation called the "window of the world." However, here are the two recommended activities specific for enjoying the foliage in fall:

• ライン下り (Line Kudari): A boat ride on a small stretch of the Arakawa River, perfect for taking in the fall foliage.

• Hodo-San Ropeway: After getting off the train, walk up the street toward the large Taro-gate, then follow the path to the ropeway station. From the top platform, you get a full view of Nagatoro, which is absolutely stunning. Further up, there’s a small zoo, and at the peak of the mountain, a temple accessible by a lot of stairs. This area is among my personal favorites. The surrounding mountains make the climb all the more worth it.

Festivals and Seasonal Events in Fall

Fall in Japan isn’t just about stunning foliage—it’s also packed with cultural festivals and events that showcase local traditions, community spirit, and, in some cases, imported fun.

Konosu Fireworks Festival (October 11)

The Konosu Fireworks Festival, held annually in October, lights up the night sky with over 20,000 fireworks. Each year brings something special—from drone shows to Guinness World Record fireworks. It’s one of the larger fireworks displays in Japan and highly recommended.

Tip: You can reserve either seats or a spot on the grounds. Bring food, drinks, and a tarp or cushions to create your own little “living room” on the festival grounds. While seats can be pricey, going with a group makes it worth it. Expect food stalls, plenty of viewing spots, and a magical night. [Link in Japanese; can be translated]

Ootori Matsuri (Autumn Festival)

Also in Konosu City, the Ootori Matsuri takes place in mid-October. This traditional autumn festival features cultural performances, food stalls, and community activities — a perfect snapshot of local customs. [Festival info link]

Halloween — The Shibuya Way (October 31)

When I first came to Japan, I had no idea how seriously the country takes Western holidays—and Halloween is a prime example. While kids might enjoy costumes or small private parties, there’s no trick-or-treating.

But in Shibuya? Halloween is an entirely different beast.

Shibuya is home to the famous crossing, Hachiko statue, unique shops, and a youthful college crowd. Combine that with a reason to party, and you get a Halloween night that outshines anything in the West. People dress in elaborate cosplay, hit the streets regardless of weather, dance, drink, and just revel in the outdoor jubilee of loud music and festive chaos.

Originally, it was just kids having fun. But as the crowds grew, so did trouble — people flipping cars and testing limits. Police tried everything: restricting alcohol sales, discouraging gatherings, even attempting to shut the event down. Yet it persisted.

By the time COVID-19 hit, Shibuya had a legitimate excuse to pause Halloween festivities. Today, the event is in a kind of limbo because the town officials attempting to cancel, and running campaigns against any festivities in Shibuya. If it still exists, it might be held elsewhere in a much tamer form. But, hey—was it better in its wild heyday? Absolutely. Do I sound a little bitter that its no longer a thing? 

Maybe. 

Keep Out of Shibuya on Halloween, now.

Seasonal Delights

On to one of the best reasons to visit Japan in the fall—and no, I’m not just talking about the scenery. Imagine this: a mont blanc made with sweet chestnuts (kuri, in Japanese), creamy fresh whipped cream, sitting atop a spongy cake, topped with a crispy sweet potato chip, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. Now add a steamy cup of bitter coffee to round it all out. Okay, close your eyes and imagine it. Did you get it? That cartoon steam finger is beckoning you all the way from Japan. Come on, irashai.

Fall foods in Japan are next-level. Sure, pumpkin spice lattes exist here, but come for the chestnuts, the sweet potatoes, and the matsutake mushrooms. And that pumpkin you keep picturing? Forget pumpkin pie—in Japan, it’s transformed into soups, stews, and tempura, giving this humble fruit a whole new personality. Here’s a closer look at some of the season’s standout delights:

• Kuri (Chestnuts): Beyond mont blanc, roasted chestnuts and kuri-gohan (chestnut rice) are autumn staples. They give that naturally sweet, nutty flavor to both desserts and savory dishes.

• Satsumaimo (Sweet Potatoes): From candied yams to tempura or baked snacks, Japanese sweet potatoes are creamy, naturally sweet, and perfect for cozy fall eating.

• Matsutake Mushrooms: Earthy, aromatic, and pricey, these mushrooms are often grilled, added to rice dishes, or served in clear soups to savor their delicate flavor.

• Kabocha (Japanese Pumpkin): Not your pumpkin pie friend — think simmered kabocha in soy and sugar, tempura slices, or pureed into savory soups.

• Sanma (Pacific Saury): A quintessential fall fish, usually grilled with a squeeze of citrus. Its rich, oily flavor screams autumn on Japanese plates.

• Persimmons (Kaki): Sweet, bright orange fruit that can be eaten fresh, dried (hoshigaki), or used in desserts.

• Shiso or Seasonal Chestnut Sweets: Confections like kuri manju (chestnut-filled buns) or kuri yokan (sweet chestnut jelly) make great treats for wandering the autumn streets.

Winter in Japan

I’ve never quite understood people who say winter is their favorite season. Growing up in the high desert, winter was mostly a bitter, meaningless cold—I’d only ever seen snow twice in 25 years. I hated the winter… but I loved the snow. Go figure.

My first real taste of winter came in Virginia: shoveling driveways, braving frozen nights, and experiencing the magic of a “Snow Day,” which suddenly made that old Nickelodeon movie with Chevy Chase hit differently.

Japan enters the chat.

Here, winter depends on where you are. Up north, the cold bites and the snow piles high, transforming towns into fairy tales. Central Japan offers a Virginia-style chill, while the south only whispers of winter. Wherever you are, Japan has its own flavor of the season—and it’s ready to surprise you.

Winter Weather (More Than Sweater Weather)

“When does it get cold in Japan?” is a fair question—because the answer keeps changing.

Not long ago, Kanto could feel chilly by mid-to-late October. I remember one Halloween where I cursed myself for not wearing a jacket. But last year, Saitama stayed surprisingly mild through November, with daytime highs often above 70°F (20°C). The Asahi Shimbun even called it the "hottest fall on record."

The real jacket weather didn’t arrive until nearly mid-November—a late start that surprised locals. These days, if you’re visiting Japan in late fall or winter, pack layers: some light, some heavy. Winters are warming slightly, yes, but don’t be fooled—it still gets cold. You’ll want that heavy coat.

Seasonal Aesthetics and Activities

Japan in winter can feel like stepping into a snow globe. There’s nothing like walking through a snow-covered Shirakawa-go village or seeing Kyoto’s temples dusted white. But rather than just saying “snow makes everything pretty,” here are some of the best winter experiences:

• Sapporo Snow Festival (February, Hokkaido): What started in the 1950s with schoolkids building six ice sculptures is now an international event with massive works of art, from detailed characters to full-scale buildings carved in snow and ice.

• Chichibu Night Festival (December 2–3, Saitama): One of Japan’s major festivals, where the city shuts down for floats, parades, and fireworks against the winter sky.

• Illuminations: Inspired by Western Christmas lights, winter illuminations light up cities across Japan. Some of the most famous are Tokyo Midtown (with an ice rink), Roppongi Hills, Kobe Luminarie, and Nabana no Sato.

• Skiing, Snowboarding, and Onsen: Japan is a paradise for winter sports lovers. Resorts in Nagano, Niigata, and Hokkaido are world-famous, but even Tochigi's Nikko has great slopes. Many resorts also feature outdoor hot springs—so you can soak in steaming water while snow falls on your head. It’s surreal, and worth every shiver walking outside before you dip in.

Winter Foods to Try in Japan

It’s cold, it’s dark—and food becomes the ultimate comfort. Here’s what keeps people warm in Japanese winters:

• Nabe (Hot Pot, 火鍋): A hearty stew of seasonal vegetables, tofu, mushrooms, seafood, and thinly sliced meat simmered in broth (often dashi, made from kelp and bonito flakes). The flavor? Umami. That savory “can’t stop eating” taste you find in mushrooms, tomatoes, or parmesan.

• Sukiyaki: A cousin of hot pot, but here thin slices of beef shine. Simmered with tofu, leeks, mushrooms, and greens, then dipped in raw egg before eating. (Raw eggs are safe in Japan, so don’t worry.)

• Oden: Often called Japanese soul food. Ingredients like daikon radish, fish cakes, konjac, and boiled eggs are simmered in dashi until tender. You’ll spot oden bubbling away near the registers of convenience stores during winter.

• Shabu-Shabu: Named after the sound of swishing food in boiling broth. Thinly sliced meat, vegetables, noodles, and mochi are cooked tableside by dipping and shaking them in the hot pot. It’s interactive, communal, and perfect on a cold night.

• Amazake (甘酒): Literally “sweet sake,” but usually alcohol-free. Made from fermented rice, it’s creamy, mildly tangy, and naturally sweet. Traditionally served at shrines during New Year’s (hatsumōde), it warms hands and hearts after prayers. Today you’ll also find it bottled in supermarkets or even vending machines, often marketed as a healthy winter drink.

Winter Holidays in Japan

For visitors, “Christmas in Japan” might sound familiar—but it’s not what you think. It’s more about lights, fried chicken, and a romantic date night than family gatherings. The family holidays come right after. You can explore our article on Christmas in greater detail here.

• Ōmisoka (New Year’s Eve, Dec 31): Families return home, clean the house, and prepare for the new year. A key tradition is eating toshikoshi soba (year-crossing noodles), their length symbolizing long life. Unlike the West, people don’t usually count down to midnight—though TV specials like Kōhaku Uta Gassen (the Red-and-White Song Battle) make the evening feel like a nationwide party.

• Shōgatsu (New Year’s, Jan 1–3):  The biggest holiday of the year. Instead of a midnight countdown, many rise before dawn to watch the hatsuhinode (first sunrise) of the year. Families also visit shrines for hatsumōde (first prayers), often joining huge crowds. Food stalls line temple grounds, and many people wear traditional clothing. If you plan to visit, expect traffic and long lines—public transit is your friend. 
  
  
  

• Seijin no Hi (Coming of Age Day, 2nd Monday of January):  Celebrates those who turned 20 in the past year. Although Japan lowered the age of adulthood to 18 for legal purposes (voting, signing contracts), drinking, smoking, and gambling remain restricted until 20. Municipalities host ceremonies, often like mini-reunions, where young adults dress in traditional attire or sharp suits before celebrating with friends.

Conclusion

Winter in Japan closes with Setsubun in early February, when roasted soybeans are thrown to drive out bad spirits and welcome spring. The air stays cold, but hints of the coming season appear.

Japan is a country where nature and tradition are deeply intertwined—every season has its rhythm, its beauty, and its celebrations. Whether it’s snow, food, or festivals, winter here offers countless reasons to fall in love with the season (even if you never thought you would).

So when’s the best time to visit Japan? Honestly—it depends on what you want to experience. My personal favorite is autumn. Choose a festival, a food, or a moment you want to see—then go. You won’t regret it… unless you came in summer and forgot a hand towel.