You’ve booked your flight to Japan, and now the packing question hits.
Heavy coat or light jacket?
Umbrella or sunscreen?
Here’s the challenge: Japan’s weather shifts dramatically depending on when and where you visit.
Cherry blossoms might blanket Tokyo while Hokkaido mountains still wear snow caps, and Okinawa could already feel like summer.
I’m walking you through every month and breaking down conditions across northern, central, and southern Japan so you can plan the perfect trip.
Japan Weather Quick Reference Guide
| Month | North (Hokkaido) | Central (Tokyo/Kyoto) | South (Kyushu/Okinawa) | Key Events |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | Cold, heavy snow (20-30°F) | Chilly, dry (35-50°F) | Mild (40-70°F) | Ski season peaks |
| Feb | Coldest, peak snow (20-30°F) | Cold, sunny (35-50°F) | Cool (42-72°F) | Sapporo Snow Festival |
| Mar | Snow continues (25-40°F) | Spring arrives (45-60°F) | Warm (50-75°F) | Early blossoms south |
| Apr | Snow melts (40-55°F) | Cherry blossoms (50-65°F) | Pleasant (55-80°F) | Peak hanami season |
| May | Blooms arrive (45-65°F) | Ideal weather (60-75°F) | Rainy season starts (65-85°F) | Golden Week crowds |
| Jun | Comfortable (55-70°F) | Rainy, humid (65-80°F) | Heavy rain (70-88°F) | Tsuyu across most regions |
| Jul | Best weather (65-75°F) | Hot, sticky (75-90°F) | Sweltering (75-92°F) | Summer festivals begin |
| Aug | Summer peak (65-78°F) | Hottest month (80-95°F) | Typhoon season (77-92°F) | Obon holiday |
| Sep | Autumn begins (60-72°F) | Still warm (70-85°F) | Typhoon risk peaks (75-90°F) | Festival season |
| Oct | Fall colors peak (45-60°F) | Perfect conditions (60-72°F) | Pleasant (60-83°F) | Best time central Japan |
| Nov | Winter approaches (35-48°F) | Autumn foliage (50-65°F) | Comfortable (50-78°F) | Koyo season |
| Dec | Winter starts (20-35°F) | Cold, dry (40-55°F) | Mild winter (42-70°F) | Illuminations everywhere |
January
Northern Japan
Hokkaido and northern Tohoku get pummeled with heavy snowfall.
Daily highs hover around 20°F to 30°F.
Sapporo transforms into a winter wonderland, with the famous Snow Festival preparations ramping up.
Ski resorts operate at peak conditions.
Your winter gear needs to handle serious cold.
Central Japan
Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka experience crisp but manageable conditions.
Expect 35°F to 50°F with mostly clear skies.
Snow rarely sticks in these cities.
The dry air bites more than you’d expect from the numbers alone.
Locals crowd into heated cafes and ramen shops.
Tokyo’s observation decks offer spectacular visibility on these cloudless days.
Southern Japan
Kyushu stays relatively mild at 40°F to 55°F.
Okinawa feels downright pleasant between 60°F and 70°F.
A light jacket handles Fukuoka, while Okinawa might only need evening layers.
Rainfall stays minimal.
Read more: Japan in January
February
Northern Japan
The snow keeps coming.
Hokkaido receives some of its heaviest accumulation this month, with Sapporo’s Snow Festival drawing massive international crowds in early February.
Ski conditions remain excellent through the month. Bundle up properly or you’ll regret it.
Central Japan
Conditions mirror January with 35°F to 50°F and bright sunshine dominating.
Late February brings the first plum blossoms, hinting at spring’s approach.
Indoor heating makes buildings toasty, so layers help you adjust.
Southern Japan
Things warm slightly in Fukuoka (42°F to 57°F) while Okinawa reaches 60°F to 72°F.
This makes Okinawa one of Japan’s most comfortable winter destinations.
You can explore outdoors without heavy clothing.
Read more: Japan in February
March
Northern Japan
Spring creeps north slowly.
Snow continues falling across Hokkaido, though daytime temperatures push above freezing more often.
Readings land between 25°F and 40°F. Ski season winds down by month’s end.
Your heaviest winter gear can probably stay home.
Central Japan
The transition everyone waits for arrives.
Climbing to 45°F to 60°F, the weather swings unpredictably between chilly mornings and pleasant afternoons.
Late March brings early cherry blossom blooms around Tokyo.
Carry layers you can shed or add throughout the day.
Southern Japan
Spring firmly establishes itself with Fukuoka hitting 50°F to 70°F and Okinawa reaching 65°F to 75°F.
Cherry blossoms appear earlier here than farther north.
Light jackets and long sleeves work perfectly, though rain increases slightly.
Read more: Japan in March
April
Northern Japan
Winter finally releases its grip.
Sapporo climbs to 40°F to 55°F as snow melts rapidly.
Cherry blossoms begin blooming around late April.
Days stretch noticeably longer.
A jacket suffices, but heavy winter coats can stay packed.
Central Japan
This ranks among the best times to visit.
Cherry blossoms reach full glory in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka during early to mid April.
Conditions hover between 50°F and 65°F with mostly dry weather.
Hanami parties fill parks beneath flowering trees.
Hotel prices jump 30 to 40 percent during peak bloom week, so book ahead.
Southern Japan
Kyushu warms to 55°F to 72°F while Okinawa heats up between 70°F and 80°F, nearly summer already.
Rain picks up in Okinawa as the region shifts toward rainy season.
Pack an umbrella for southern destinations.
Read more: Japan in April
May
Northern Japan
Beautiful weather blankets Hokkaido.
Cherry blossoms peak with readings of 45°F to 65°F.
The landscape explodes in green and you’ll face fewer crowds than central Japan’s earlier bloom season.
Evenings still feel cool, so bring a light jacket.
Central Japan
Conditions stay pleasant at 60°F to 75°F with mostly dry, sunny days.
This marks another excellent window before June’s rainy season arrives.
Gardens look spectacular.
Light clothing works during the day with an extra layer for evenings.
Golden Week (late April to early May) brings huge crowds and higher accommodation costs.
Southern Japan
Rainy season hits Okinawa and southern Kyushu.
Fukuoka sees 65°F to 80°F while Okinawa reaches 75°F to 85°F.
Humidity spikes noticeably.
Frequent showers and overcast skies become the norm.
Rain gear becomes essential, and backup indoor plans make sense.
Read more: Japan in May
June
Northern Japan
While the rest of Japan drowns in rain, Hokkaido enjoys mild, pleasant weather.
Highs reach 55°F to 70°F with only occasional showers.
This makes the north an attractive escape during tsuyu.
Light, breathable clothing handles the conditions well.
Central Japan
The rainy season (tsuyu) settles in with 65°F to 80°F and high humidity.
Frequent showers and overcast skies dominate.
The combination of warmth and moisture creates muggy conditions.
Locals carry folding umbrellas everywhere.
Bring waterproof shoes and quick drying clothes.
Southern Japan
Deep in rainy season, Fukuoka experiences 70°F to 82°F and Okinawa hits 78°F to 88°F.
Heavy rainfall occurs regularly, sometimes in dramatic downpours.
Humidity makes it feel hotter than actual readings.
Indoor attractions like museums and covered shopping arcades become popular refuges.
Read more: Japan in June
July
Northern Japan
Hokkaido delivers some of the year’s finest weather.
Comfortable 65°F to 75°F readings with low humidity compared to the rest of Japan attract visitors escaping southern heat.
The region stays lush and green.
Light summer clothes work perfectly.
Central Japan
Rainy season ends mid month, then summer heat slams in.
Soaring to 75°F to 90°F with intense humidity, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka become hot and sticky.
Air conditioning provides necessary relief indoors.
Wear the lightest, most breathable fabrics you own.
Hydration matters when exploring outdoors.
Southern Japan
Southern regions bake under summer heat.
Fukuoka hits 75°F to 90°F and Okinawa reaches 80°F to 92°F.
Humidity amplifies the discomfort.
Beaches become popular destinations.
Typhoon season begins, though major storms remain relatively rare in July.
Check weather forecasts regularly if visiting coastal areas.
Read more: Japan in July
August
Northern Japan
Warm, comfortable weather prevails at 65°F to 78°F.
Summer festival season peaks with events like the Furano Lavender Festival.
Ideal conditions for hiking and outdoor activities make northern Japan appealing during peak summer.
The lack of oppressive humidity stands out compared to elsewhere.
Central Japan
The hottest, most humid month arrives.
Readings regularly hit 80°F to 95°F with extreme humidity.
Heat warnings become common.
Many locals escape to mountains or beaches.
If you visit cities now, plan activities for early morning or evening.
Midday requires air conditioned refuges.
Southern Japan
The sweltering continues with Fukuoka at 77°F to 92°F and Okinawa at 80°F to 92°F.
Typhoons become more frequent and can disrupt travel plans.
Ocean water reaches perfect swimming temperature.
Despite the heat, beaches and water activities attract crowds.
Monitor typhoon forecasts closely and consider travel insurance.
Read more: Japan in August
September
Northern Japan
Autumn’s arrival brings 60°F to 72°F.
Conditions stay pleasant for outdoor activities.
Early autumn colors appear in mountainous areas toward month’s end.
Mornings and evenings turn crisp, so light layers help.
Central Japan
Cooling slightly to 70°F to 85°F, humidity decreases compared to August’s torture.
Typhoons can affect the region with heavy rain and wind.
Day to day variation increases.
Pack both summer clothes and a light rain jacket.
Southern Japan
Still warm at 75°F to 88°F in Fukuoka and 78°F to 90°F in Okinawa, typhoon risk peaks this month.
These storms can cancel flights and disrupt plans significantly.
Heat and humidity persist, though slightly less intense than August.
Beach season continues in Okinawa.
Read more: Japan in September
October
Northern Japan
Autumn takes full hold with 45°F to 60°F.
Fall foliage reaches peak beauty, painting mountainsides in brilliant reds and golds.
Mostly dry, clear weather dominates.
Layers and a jacket handle the cooler mornings and evenings.
This ranks among the most beautiful times to visit the north.
Central Japan
Fantastic conditions arrive with 60°F to 72°F and low humidity.
Clear skies dominate most days.
Fall colors begin appearing, especially in mountainous areas like Nikko and temple gardens in Kyoto.
This combines with comfortable weather to create ideal touring conditions.
Light layers provide versatility.
Southern Japan
Kyushu and Okinawa cool pleasantly.
Fukuoka sees 60°F to 72°F while Okinawa stays warmer at 75°F to 83°F. Typhoon risk drops significantly.
Humidity falls to comfortable levels.
Light clothing during the day with an added layer for Kyushu evenings works well.
Read more: Japan in October
November
Northern Japan
Winter approaches with 35°F to 48°F.
Snow begins appearing, especially in mountains.
The first ski resorts open toward month’s end.
Fall foliage remains visible at lower elevations early in November.
Warm clothing and winter preparation become necessary.
Central Japan
Beautiful autumn weather settles in between 50°F and 65°F.
Fall colors peak in Kyoto, Tokyo, and surrounding areas, drawing crowds to famous temples and gardens.
Mostly dry, clear conditions prevail.
This ranks as one of the best months to visit.
Pack layers including a warm jacket.
Southern Japan
Mild, pleasant weather dominates with Fukuoka at 50°F to 65°F.
Okinawa maintains warmth at 70°F to 78°F. Rain stays minimal.
Light clothing suits Okinawa while Kyushu needs a jacket for evenings.
Read more: Japan in November
December
Northern Japan
Winter arrives in full force at 20°F to 35°F with regular snowfall.
Ski resorts operate at full capacity.
Cities light up with spectacular winter illuminations creating magical atmospheres.
Serious winter gear becomes essential: insulated coats, gloves, and warm boots.
Central Japan
Chilly weather settles in between 40°F and 55°F.
Dry, cold air dominates.
Snow rarely falls in cities but mountains receive regular accumulation.
Winter illuminations appear throughout Tokyo, Osaka, and other major cities.
Pack warm layers and a good coat.
Southern Japan
Mild winter conditions prevail with Fukuoka at 42°F to 55°F and Okinawa staying comfortable at 60°F to 70°F.
Light rain occurs occasionally.
Okinawa becomes an attractive winter destination for avoiding cold weather.
A jacket works for Fukuoka while Okinawa might only need a sweater.
Read more: Japan in December
Planning Your Perfect Trip
Best Time for Cherry Blossoms
Visit central Japan in late March through early April.
Hokkaido blooms late April to early May.
Southern regions bloom earliest in mid to late March.
Best for Skiing and Snow Sports
Head to Hokkaido between December and February for world class powder.
Nagano and Niigata in central Japan also offer excellent snow despite their “central” designation.
Best for Avoiding Crowds and Great Weather
Consider Hokkaido in July and August when the rest of Japan swelters.
October and November in central Japan deliver perfect conditions with stunning fall foliage.
Okinawa in winter offers warm escapes.
Best Overall Months to Visit Japan
April and October offer the most reliable combination of pleasant weather, natural beauty, and comfortable conditions across most regions.
Late May and early November provide similar benefits with fewer crowds and lower hotel prices.
Japan’s dramatic weather variations from north to south mean you can experience tropical beaches and heavy snowfall in the same country during the same week.
Match your timing to your interests, pack accordingly, and you’ll have an amazing trip.
