I AM BACK!!!! 😤 Sorry I was busy playing Baldur's Gate 3 and getting sick :) ADDITIONAL TIP! There are many types of cherry blossoms that bloom at different times in Spring!! Four main ones, in order of blooming, are: kawazu, shidare, somei yoshino, and yae ✍ Please look these up if you are concerned you will miss the blossoms in spring!! ALSO, it is truly amazing I totally forgot to mention Obon even though I literally filmed this during Obon like omg HOW!!!!!!
Thanks for mentioning the different kinds of sakura blooming, I always thought they bloomed only at one time, all at once haha! Also, I just found you this week (new subscriber! 🙌) and I LOVE all your videos (found your apartment ones first, then started watching all your vlogs - out of order though lol - video 2 years ago, then from this year, then from a year ago, etc). I really appreciate all the effort you put into getting footage and editing it together, it really feels like I'm walking down the street with you (or I guess more accurately digitally ghosting the streets 👻)! I'm also from Florida (twinsies haha), but I probably will never go to Japan myself 🥲 so again LOVE that I can vicariously experience Japan through your content 🥰 Thanks again for all your hard work!
Allison, great video! Subscribed!! Hope you are well! Is Vernal Equinox day, March 20, a problem day? Is everything closed that day, such as Lawson’s, 7-11, or Familymart?
I would also note that the second half of March is also really expensive. This is when school finishes for the year and the work year ends. A lot of children are out of school which means a lot of people are going on holiday, as well. If you are going to come in winter, the end of January to the end of February will be your cheapest time of winter.
We just came back from Japan. Spent the 1st 3 weeks of August there. Yes it was hot and humid, but there are always shops etc with aircon😊. We had the best time despite the heat.
My friends and I actually went to Kawazu this year and saw the Sakura in full bloom in the second half of February! It's one of my favouritre memories from my year in Japan because it was relatively empty, not too crowded, the river lined with sakura trees, the nice festival food, the vibes... it was amazing. February in general is a pretty good time to be in Japan. Yeah, there's no Autumn colours and, except for the Kawazu, no cherry trees but there are fewer tourists.
@@AllisoninTokyo Definitely try to go if you can! The "proper" pink variants of the sakura tree are so much more beautiful than the somei yoshino in my opinion. There are plenty of places in Tokyo that have Kawazu or some of the other pink trees (some late blooming ones too!) There's a river in Koto-ku near Kiba station for example or Komatsugawa promenade near Higashi-ojima station. It's pretty far outside the center of Tokyo but if you live in Japan, I think you won't run into many tourists in that spot aside Japanese ones/locals.
I visited Japan in May this year, avoided Golden Week, and I was very happy with my decision, because for the whole trip the weather was lovely, not cold, but not too hot either (between 18C and 30C I think), and mostly sunny (spent 2 weeks in Tokyo area and it rained only for like 3 or 4 days) :)
Hi, did you visit japan 1-2 weeks after the golden week or before? How was the hotel rates, traffics, crowds etc? I’m planning to visit Japan around April-May next year as well. Any tips would be much appreciated!
@@DireBox9990 I think it was after the Golden Week, and it was our first time in Japan so we cannot really compare rates and traffic to anything. For hotels you can find cheap ones so it all depend on your budget and how big of a room you need. We paid around 800 pounds for Henn na Hotel for 13 nights. It was in Asakusa, great location, but the room was smaller than what you usually get in Europe I think.
@carloscruz-sz4qo did you have a good time? I am looking at similar dates for next year. Was it quite quiet with tourists and was it still beautiful without cherry blossom?
Planning a trip to Japan for three weeks in November of 2024. I spent three years in Kyushu and the Chugoku region of western Honshu over 40 years ago and am so excited to finally be going back! Way, way, way overdue! Will spend a few days in Tokyo and then the majority of the remaining time in Kansai down to Shimonoseki. Can’t wait!
I recently got back from a 3 week trip to Japan over the end of July and early August. My partner is a teacher so if we want to go for any decent length of time (and Japan is a long way from the UK!) we have to go during the summer holidays. It was very hot and humid everywhere (although Koyasan and Hakone were bearable being in the hills) but well worth it and I wouldn't have shortened it for anything. Also I think being summer meant some of the tourist places were slightly less crowded than they can be in spring and Autumn/fall. We knew it was going to be hot so we made sure to plan 1. Hotels with air con - as long as I can sleep I can usually cope with most things 2. Not trying to speed-tourist and do everything. We planned a slow-paced itinerary without too much travel and without trying to do too much in one day 3. Drink lots of a water - more than you expect (Japan really need to up its water-bottle filling game - seem everyone just buys bottled drinks but the tap water is drinkable and that's much better for the environment!) 4. Nip into shops whenever needed for some much needed air-con It was a great trip!
I traveled across Japan last May, from Nagasaki to Tokyo. Aside from the heavy rains during my stay in Nagasaki and Yokohama, as well as occasional showers in Osaka and Tokyo, the weather was fine. I'll be visiting Hokkaido in February for the annual winter festival. It'll be my first time in a long time to experience extreme cold temperatures.
Autumn is a wonderful time of the year , when the weather is not so cold, everything is so colorful. Best of all, food is prepared according to this season. Sanma fish is delcious in Fall season.
I love visiting Japan in Feb.. the winter is beautiful skies are blue and the cold is very tolerable!! I hate hot and humid so not travel in the summer for me!!
My first trip to Japan was in early January and was AMAZING!! Fewer tourists, weather perfect, just simply amazing. Honestly, the “closed” days the first days in January are not so common any more, I was the first week in Kyoto and (except for January 1) all was open, including temples and cute local cafes.
Then I'll choose November - Mid Dec. I think it's the best. people are still working, the weather is chill, can see fall leaves + christmas decoration.
We were in Japan earlier this year and, yes, we hit Golden Week. But it wasn’t terrible. Trains were a little busier than usual, but that was about it. We saw the places we wanted to see and the crowds, while definitely larger, were not overwhelming. It also helped that we booked our flights and hotels before Japan officially reopened, so we got great fares on ANA Premium Economy and great rates, using points, at IHG hotels. Using the points meant we could cancel with no fees, and the fare with ANA had no change fees either. But all went well. We did, unfortunately, miss out on Cherry Blossoms, but that was the only negative.
I visited Tokyo during both from the start to the end of Golden Week. Honestly, it isn't as bad as many videos make it out to be. I booked my flights and hotels about 7-8 months in advance and the prices were not inflated yet. Malls and restaurants were similar to a weekend crowd in Tokyo and will have lines, but if you dont want to wait, you can always visit the other hundreds of restaurants in the area. Also, if you love to shop, malls and shops have many discounts on offer as a 'golden week sale'. We avoided the theme parks as they are always busy regardless what month or day you go.
It is a relief you post this here. I am going next year to Tokyo during golden week, and there many videos advicing not do so. I was very depressed. I book the tickets without knowing about this holidays before. Your message really gave me some hope.
@@Yuuugooo I'm glad my comment could help! Make sure to book hotels at least 6 months in advance to avoid price hikes closer to golden week. Also, if you happen to be there post golden week, Tokyo is very quite
Hi! I just found your comment. I made the same “mistake” booked my flight during Golden Week. I am extremely stressed out. Can you share your experience or your itinerary during your Golden Week? Much appreciated!
Sure can! On the first day, the train stations and bullet trains are extremely busy as locals are going back to the countryside to visit family. So to avoid these crowds, make sure you are already checked in and settled in your particular city prior to day 1 of Golden Week. If you are in Tokyo, majority of malls and restaurants are open, except maybe a handful of small family run restaurants. Don't worry about not having places to visit and food to eat! If you have visited Tokyo during the weekend before, the Golden Week feels very similar in terms of lining up for popular restaurants or busy malls. Happy to answer any questions you have as well. @@Travelwithsuw
Thank you for your detail information. It's really right. I (a Japanese)don't like summer too. And I'd like to add to information. Between after golden week to the middle of June, new green leaves are very beautiful. Especially, at Kyoto. This period is other best season for sightseeing though rainy sometimes.
I’m from panhandle Florida and my family are coming to Japan end of May till first week of June. Do you recommend bring sweater still? I’m so excited! Thank you for this video!
The New Years period is much better than it was 40 years ago, when EVERYTHING would close for a week. These days, major stores reopen so at least you can buy some groceries. Forty years ago, my son was born on 12/31. Home alone because wife was in the hospital. Couldn't celebrate. Couldn't buy any food. It was torture. My opinion is that the best time to be in Tokyo is during Golden Week. Nice weather, and a huge number of Tokyoites have left the city, so nothing is crowded. So as a tourist, if you know what you want to do in advance, this is a good time, but if you just want to wander around perhaps not a good time because some small businesses may be closed.
I'm visiting Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto for the first time at the end of June to early July 2024. Due to the children's school schedule, the summer is the only time we can go. No way around it. (Sigh, I've always had to pay a higher price for peak season and summer travel.) I've heard about the rain and hopefully being from Seattle will prepare me. We don't do well in the heat and humidity so we booked as soon as school lets out.
Very helpful video. My family and I plan to take a cruise late May until June 7th all around Japan with a stop in Busan Korea. How’s the weather during that time. Is it raining most days ? Thanks
My mom and I are going to be in Tokyo in late December this year. My work is bringing me there, so I’m flying her in to hang out for a week after the project is done. I hope it turns out well! I’m trying to craft a nice itinerary!!
I've been on Japan for Golden Week twice and it wasn't that terrible, yes there are more people in a lot of places, but still you can do everything without a problem. The only place that was more crowded was Odaiba in the weekend, still you could do everything without issues. Also took the Shinkansen from Osaka to Tokyo during Golden week without issues, just reserve the seats a couple days before.
@@slagcity I went with some friends and it was their first time, so we went to Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Nagoya. You can do things normally, the recommendation i would give you is if you are traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto/Osaka or the other way around in the middle of Golden Week and you have big suitcases, reserve seats with a day or 2 in anticipation if you want to seat all together. We moved back to Tokyo around those dates and we had to go separate(2 and 2) in the Shinkansen. And i guess you should avoid theme parks like Disney or Universal on those dates, they are normally packed and even more on Golden Week.
Planning my family's first trip for next year. I learned allot from your video and the comments. I think I'll book to arrive the week after golden week.
thank you for all the info! this video was super helpful for me! i'll be visiting from a couple weeks before christmas all the way to a little after valentine's day. it's safe to say i'm looking forward to it😅
it was so helpfull, I was thinking to go from 20 to 28 of September,, and now I'm thinking to go from September 27 to avoid the public holidays. Thank so much for your advice. I love it because you checked every month with a lot of details. Thanks again
Hi Allison, glad that you’re feeling better again. Very interesting video which I think would help a lot for anyone visiting Japan, like you said planning is key and is very much true for all travel. The Autumn time would be my preference for a visit and is hands down my favourite season anyway, the colour change has always been a highlight for me. Thank you for sharing this with everyone and looking forward to seeing more as the year continues. Best wishes
I’ve visited Japan a few times, usually in late October/ early November. In my experience it’s a great time to go (just maybe avoid places like Shibuya on Halloween if you hate crowds). I also went specifically to experience New Years and while that was fun, it really was a pain in the butt. It was my 3rd trip so I had already seen a lot already, but even just finding places to eat or shop or get a coffee was a real hassle on the 1st and 2nd of January. As she said in the video, maybe worth experiencing once, but not on your first trip.
@@miraamon2753 In my experience (3 times visiting during that time of year), it can be a little cold in the morning and evening, but is pretty nice the rest of the day. It can, however, be rainy (October is the end of Typhoon season). Keep and eye on the weather forecasts beforehand, but generally you'll only need lightweight jackets. If you don't have anything lightweight and/or waterproof already, you can always buy something at Uniqlo when you arrive. I got a great lightweight rain jacket on my first trip that I could easily roll up and put in my backpack when it got warmer/dryer. You can also bring a lightweight jacket without a hood and them buy a cheap umbrella when you're there if the forecast shows rain. Other than that, don't overthink it too much. Just bring comfortable walking shoes because you'll probably be walking a lot! Hope that helps and have a fun trip!
Yay, we are booking our first family vacation with our 4 kids and we are flying out of Aus on the 25th of November and staying in Tokyo for 2 weeks. I’m so excited now listening to this.
Great information! I'm Japanese and would like to add that we have no fireworks or popular celebration for the new year countdown. Only raditional temple or shrine pray for the new year. There maybe something small somewhere, but nothing big. I always feels sorry for the tourists waiting for something happening in Shibuya. . . 😢 Oh, big clubs have countdown though with huge monitor and possibly confetti... I actually recommend to see the new year's sunrise aroud the Mt. Fuji area rather than countdown. （We usually have clear weather on January 1st）
I'm going Feb 8-23, my work gave me the extra few days outside the 2 weeks because I showed them the difference in air fare was like over 1,000 (my RT ticket is 1200)
I went to Japan from late January to early April 2023. Since my travel locations were fixed I had to move based on those locations, my luck with Sakura was very very bad. It either had not actually bloomed yet or already almost ended. Not that I cared that much because my main purpose was to visit as many ski resorts as I could (I managed to visit 30 resorts plus countless castles, shires, and temples during this time.)
Thanks so much your channel has helped me so much on my trip me and my friends are going during October.... I am a massive halloween person.... and we are gonna intentionally be in shinjuku on halloween.... cannot wait to see how other countries do it!
There's a ginko tree in a neighbor's yard here near St Louis MO. Beautiful alongside the maples we have. Came to this video to find out when the fall colors will be good in Japan. I've never traveled except domestically for work so I need to figure out a passport and all that other fancy traveler stuff. Fortunately I have a pile of frequent flyer miles to pay for business class airfare both ways if I can get lucky in booking - going to live like a big shot for once in my life! Maybe if Japan is as good as they say I'll end up coming back some spring? Exciting to think about.
I’m wanting to visit Japan with my husband and son. He’s 8 now. I’m thinking we may wait a year. Thanks to your very informative video I’m thinking we may shoot for november. It sounds just about perfect! ❤
Going 27th October... It's a perfect time for me since it's in between the birthdays of my family members. I can attend both of birthdays and explore Japan in the fall... I already went in spring, it was awesome. Listened to warnings from TH-cam, so I avoided critical times that could ruin my vacation... Yes, SUN, I'm talking to you and your summer torture in Japan... It's widely known among my friends that the sun is my nemesis xD
Now that I'm sitting in my nice cool American house, it's hard to imagine or remember the heat I endured a couple weeks ago. I had a fabulous time in Japan, but I remember one day in Kyoto going into a shop and my clothing was just sticking to me, like someone had dumped a bucket of water over my head. THAT'S how sweaty I was. Somehow I just lived with it, I just accepted the fact that I was going to be dripping with sweat as soon as I went outside.
Oh we have a Ginkgo tree in our backyard, interesting to see someone getting excited about them :D This video was very informational, I had already decided on coming next April, leaving Japan again just before golden week, so I can catch both Cherry Blossoms and the EXPO 2025. And you said the wheather is nice in spring too, so you've mostly reinforced my choice!
Golden week! That was the week I visited Japan in 2017, which also coincides with Chinese Labor Day week (before Covid and Chinese tourists flooded international destinations)……Kyoto was packed! I stayed by Kyoto Station and was totally clueless how crowded it’d get until I got there…every bullet train I was on was packed! All the shrines in Kyoto, packed! Osaka, packed!
Thanks so much for saving us from making a huge mistake!! lol we want to go SO bad, we want to take a family trip to Japan with the kids so we are trying to plan on a school vacation week I live on the East coast of the US I would’ve been so frickin pissed if we went on Christmas vacation week, did all that flying and spent all the money getting there for everything to be closed so thank you again 😁
I echo your sentiments about summer. We are from tropical Queensland, Australia and we thought we were going to melt in August. We also found spring/cherry blossoms in March/April very cold. Planning next trip for late October 😊.
Dont come winter its cold dont come spring its bust dont come summer its hot, this is really nonsense, you can visit japan ant time, its beatifull all times
@@dendomando6055 I used to live in Osaka, maybe just a few degrees latitude south of Tokyo. The winter temperature just barely hovered above zero at the coldest time, which is probably early to mid-January, like usually 1 to 5 degrees celsius. I think in the seven years I lived in that region of Japan I saw snow flurries only a couple times. it rarely dipped below freezing. I think early December should probably be in the 5-10 degree celsius range.
Summer is Tokyo has been almost unbearably hot and humid this summer! Lucky me for moving here right at the start of the warm season 😂 Apparently it didn’t used to be this hot in previous years?
I have some advice for all foreigners. “When you enter the town, obey the town.” Please make an effort to thoroughly understand the Japanese language, Japanese laws, Japanese customs, and Japanese manners. Please come to Japan with the promise that you will not bring the ideas of your home country into Japan.
I wish I knew about Golden Week before I booked my flight to Tokyo. Now I know why there was a price dip from US...maybe? I will be in Japan between 4/24-30.
I was just talking with a few of my friends about going to Japan next year around the 1st week of May so happy I watched this video I was thinking maybe the third or forth week of May
U.S.A. summer- July and August that’s the only month we can go on vacation- my family is very disappointed that you are not recommending to visit Tokyo however we are still going I’m sure we are going to have fun.
I would suggest that I would visit Japan probably when the cherry blossoms are blooming… That varies between year and year usually March to April. I would drink cold saki until I fell flat on my face and probably get wasted with a bunch of Japanese that I can’t understand a word they’re saying, but it’s just fun.
Thanks for explaining! We enjoy visiting Japan in winter, summer, and fall (we avoid the major holidays). Our next trip will be my first time to visit during cherry blossom season 🌸. I'm very excited!
I have gone twice - once in mid to late January and once in mid November to early December. Both were really nice times, but the November-December trip definitely had the best weather and events available. One of the hotels in Kyoto had a board in the lobby where they would update the color changing leaves forecast for each day and a list of places to best view them, it was very cool! With our January trip, some places seemed to have "winter hours" so there were fewer options during our time there (not super impactful but does add some limitations). The benefit of January was that there weren't as many other tourists and it seemed less crowded in many areas. I am from Wisconsin (north/midwest USA) so the winter was much more mild than we're used to, but others coming from warmer regions may not like the cold/possibility of snow as much. As my son gets older we're going to have to figure out school schedules and not pulling him out of class for too much, so this is very helpful for what to avoid! Thank you for the video :)
Hi, @elkeyes! I'm planning to go to Japan especially the southern area which you mention above. Kyoto, Osaka, Kanazawa and Tokyo around late November to early December. How cold will the weather be at daytime and nighttime? Is layering clothes and coat enough to cover the cold? Will the temperature reach 5 Celsius? Thanks!
@@natashar5615 I don't think the weather went below 5 C during our trip, other than when we went up in the mountains at Hakone. I was comfortable with a shirt and sweatshirt (sometimes even taking the sweatshirt off if we were inside and moving around a lot). I think getting one of those packable down jackets that can collapse into a small ball would be a good bet in case there are any colder nights, and they are light and don't take up a lot of space in a backpack. I hope you have a great trip!
Hi Allison! Hope you're enjoying BG3 and I really hope you're doing the whole "Owlbear from the top rope" meme dmg. Yes, this is a thing and I love it. I and my travel buddy will be visiting Japan in early to mid October, starting from Osaka -> Nara -> Kyoto -> Tokyo and squeezing in a day trip to Kamakura. It's a shame we'll probably miss the full beauty of the fall leaves, but there's always a next time. Thank you for the comprehensive visiting guide; which being absolute honest, would have been a god-send a few months ago when we were in the early planning stages. It was only after a lot of study that we arrived at the conclusion that October is among the best times of year to visit Japan; not too hot or cold, crowds thin out a bit and a healthy sprinkle of lesser known festivals here and there. Cheers!
I'm actually headed there next week to Tokyo, i'm so excited! Also i'm a fellow Floridian and still in Florida, exploring Japan vids...this came up, gotta catch up with your vids and sub ^_^
There are ginko trees in the USA, dunno about other places, but as a kid i lived in Jersey, and we had them. I know, cuz I had to do a report about them in middle school. 🤓
I'm gonna be in Japan from 30 December to 18 January. Good thing i got tickets for many Japanese pro wrestling events during 31dec to 4Jan. To keep me busy while many places are closed. :)
I really liked being in Japan in the first week of April 2023 because the blooms were just starting to fall off the trees everywhere it was like it was snowing. Very, very, very crowded everywhere though! :)
I AM BACK!!!! 😤 Sorry I was busy playing Baldur's Gate 3 and getting sick :)
ADDITIONAL TIP! There are many types of cherry blossoms that bloom at different times in Spring!! Four main ones, in order of blooming, are: kawazu, shidare, somei yoshino, and yae ✍ Please look these up if you are concerned you will miss the blossoms in spring!!
ALSO, it is truly amazing I totally forgot to mention Obon even though I literally filmed this during Obon like omg HOW!!!!!!
Thanks for mentioning the different kinds of sakura blooming, I always thought they bloomed only at one time, all at once haha! Also, I just found you this week (new subscriber! 🙌) and I LOVE all your videos (found your apartment ones first, then started watching all your vlogs - out of order though lol - video 2 years ago, then from this year, then from a year ago, etc). I really appreciate all the effort you put into getting footage and editing it together, it really feels like I'm walking down the street with you (or I guess more accurately digitally ghosting the streets 👻)! I'm also from Florida (twinsies haha), but I probably will never go to Japan myself 🥲 so again LOVE that I can vicariously experience Japan through your content 🥰 Thanks again for all your hard work!
Now you have StarField to look forward too in September
Baldur’s Gate 3 is sooo good, glad you’re enjoying it
Allison, great video! Subscribed!! Hope you are well! Is Vernal Equinox day, March 20, a problem day? Is everything closed that day, such as Lawson’s, 7-11, or Familymart?
Is march a good time to go to tokyo just wondering
I would also note that the second half of March is also really expensive. This is when school finishes for the year and the work year ends. A lot of children are out of school which means a lot of people are going on holiday, as well. If you are going to come in winter, the end of January to the end of February will be your cheapest time of winter.
We just came back from Japan. Spent the 1st 3 weeks of August there. Yes it was hot and humid, but there are always shops etc with aircon😊. We had the best time despite the heat.
My brother and I are travelling to Japan on November and we seriously cannot wait.
Has been on my list for years!!!❤
I visited Japan last year in early-mid November and went to Kawaguchiko to see Mt Fuji. Best experience ever! Love the autumn season in Japan!
Any recommendation of spots to visit in Kawaguchiko during fall in mid november?
How was the weather
@@rileyhines1740 cold…don’t come during that time if you cant take cold weather
@@ShafiraAnindita-qd9jtthe lake and that’s it. Take pics of mt. Fuji and then go to another city
My friends and I actually went to Kawazu this year and saw the Sakura in full bloom in the second half of February! It's one of my favouritre memories from my year in Japan because it was relatively empty, not too crowded, the river lined with sakura trees, the nice festival food, the vibes... it was amazing. February in general is a pretty good time to be in Japan. Yeah, there's no Autumn colours and, except for the Kawazu, no cherry trees but there are fewer tourists.
Ooo that sounds amazing, I’ve always wanted to go! I also like February, being an off time means that tourists sites are a bit less crowded:)
@@AllisoninTokyo Definitely try to go if you can! The "proper" pink variants of the sakura tree are so much more beautiful than the somei yoshino in my opinion. There are plenty of places in Tokyo that have Kawazu or some of the other pink trees (some late blooming ones too!)
There's a river in Koto-ku near Kiba station for example or Komatsugawa promenade near Higashi-ojima station. It's pretty far outside the center of Tokyo but if you live in Japan, I think you won't run into many tourists in that spot aside Japanese ones/locals.
@@VanillaCoke1956 #ask so we could get kawazu sakura in some places, or just 1 place with kawazu sakura?
Thank you..
this is super helpful!!! thank you! February it is.
only Kawazu there's blooms? I am going to Japan Feb 8-23
I never thought of coming to Japan around Halloween (my favorite holiday), but now I'm intrigued and will look into it more. Thanks!
Wish you could have time stamped this with the different months that would have been awesome ❤
I visited Japan in May this year, avoided Golden Week, and I was very happy with my decision, because for the whole trip the weather was lovely, not cold, but not too hot either (between 18C and 30C I think), and mostly sunny (spent 2 weeks in Tokyo area and it rained only for like 3 or 4 days) :)
Hi, did you visit japan 1-2 weeks after the golden week or before? How was the hotel rates, traffics, crowds etc? I’m planning to visit Japan around April-May next year as well. Any tips would be much appreciated!
@@DireBox9990 I think it was after the Golden Week, and it was our first time in Japan so we cannot really compare rates and traffic to anything. For hotels you can find cheap ones so it all depend on your budget and how big of a room you need. We paid around 800 pounds for Henn na Hotel for 13 nights. It was in Asakusa, great location, but the room was smaller than what you usually get in Europe I think.
This is great we are going from May 9th to 21st so similar to yours.. I did it on popurpuse to avoid golden week
@carloscruz-sz4qo did you have a good time? I am looking at similar dates for next year. Was it quite quiet with tourists and was it still beautiful without cherry blossom?
Planning a trip to Japan for three weeks in November of 2024. I spent three years in Kyushu and the Chugoku region of western Honshu over 40 years ago and am so excited to finally be going back! Way, way, way overdue! Will spend a few days in Tokyo and then the majority of the remaining time in Kansai down to Shimonoseki. Can’t wait!
i just booked a trip for 3 weeks in november as well haha. still need to plan out what to do.
I recently got back from a 3 week trip to Japan over the end of July and early August. My partner is a teacher so if we want to go for any decent length of time (and Japan is a long way from the UK!) we have to go during the summer holidays.
It was very hot and humid everywhere (although Koyasan and Hakone were bearable being in the hills) but well worth it and I wouldn't have shortened it for anything. Also I think being summer meant some of the tourist places were slightly less crowded than they can be in spring and Autumn/fall.
We knew it was going to be hot so we made sure to plan
1. Hotels with air con - as long as I can sleep I can usually cope with most things
2. Not trying to speed-tourist and do everything. We planned a slow-paced itinerary without too much travel and without trying to do too much in one day
3. Drink lots of a water - more than you expect (Japan really need to up its water-bottle filling game - seem everyone just buys bottled drinks but the tap water is drinkable and that's much better for the environment!)
4. Nip into shops whenever needed for some much needed air-con
It was a great trip!
We're going this year on July too. Fortunately, we're Spanish (from the south east) so heat and humidity means any given Sunday to us😂
You said nip
I traveled across Japan last May, from Nagasaki to Tokyo. Aside from the heavy rains during my stay in Nagasaki and Yokohama, as well as occasional showers in Osaka and Tokyo, the weather was fine.
I'll be visiting Hokkaido in February for the annual winter festival. It'll be my first time in a long time to experience extreme cold temperatures.
Autumn is a wonderful time of the year , when the weather is not so cold, everything is so colorful. Best of all, food is prepared according to this season. Sanma fish is delcious in Fall season.
I love visiting Japan in Feb.. the winter is beautiful skies are blue and the cold is very tolerable!! I hate hot and humid so not travel in the summer for me!!
where are u from
My first trip to Japan was in early January and was AMAZING!! Fewer tourists, weather perfect, just simply amazing. Honestly, the “closed” days the first days in January are not so common any more, I was the first week in Kyoto and (except for January 1) all was open, including temples and cute local cafes.
we’re planning trip in January too! how cold was it where you were? we’re curious on what to wear for clothes and shoes!
Thank you for that info!
@@Bluey1252how did the weather go??
Gonna be in Japan the first two weeks of December! Super excited 🎉
Then I'll choose November - Mid Dec. I think it's the best. people are still working, the weather is chill, can see fall leaves + christmas decoration.
We were in Japan earlier this year and, yes, we hit Golden Week. But it wasn’t terrible. Trains were a little busier than usual, but that was about it. We saw the places we wanted to see and the crowds, while definitely larger, were not overwhelming. It also helped that we booked our flights and hotels before Japan officially reopened, so we got great fares on ANA Premium Economy and great rates, using points, at IHG hotels. Using the points meant we could cancel with no fees, and the fare with ANA had no change fees either. But all went well. We did, unfortunately, miss out on Cherry Blossoms, but that was the only negative.
I visited Tokyo during both from the start to the end of Golden Week. Honestly, it isn't as bad as many videos make it out to be. I booked my flights and hotels about 7-8 months in advance and the prices were not inflated yet. Malls and restaurants were similar to a weekend crowd in Tokyo and will have lines, but if you dont want to wait, you can always visit the other hundreds of restaurants in the area. Also, if you love to shop, malls and shops have many discounts on offer as a 'golden week sale'. We avoided the theme parks as they are always busy regardless what month or day you go.
Same here! I really didn’t think it was bad at all. In fact we are returning again next year during Golden Week.
It is a relief you post this here. I am going next year to Tokyo during golden week, and there many videos advicing not do so. I was very depressed. I book the tickets without knowing about this holidays before. Your message really gave me some hope.
@@Yuuugooo I'm glad my comment could help! Make sure to book hotels at least 6 months in advance to avoid price hikes closer to golden week. Also, if you happen to be there post golden week, Tokyo is very quite
Hi! I just found your comment.
I made the same “mistake” booked my flight during Golden Week.
I am extremely stressed out.
Can you share your experience or your itinerary during your Golden Week?
Much appreciated!
Sure can! On the first day, the train stations and bullet trains are extremely busy as locals are going back to the countryside to visit family. So to avoid these crowds, make sure you are already checked in and settled in your particular city prior to day 1 of Golden Week. If you are in Tokyo, majority of malls and restaurants are open, except maybe a handful of small family run restaurants. Don't worry about not having places to visit and food to eat! If you have visited Tokyo during the weekend before, the Golden Week feels very similar in terms of lining up for popular restaurants or busy malls. Happy to answer any questions you have as well. @@Travelwithsuw
Thank you for your detail information. It's really right. I (a Japanese)don't like summer too. And I'd like to add to information. Between after golden week to the middle of June, new green leaves are very beautiful. Especially, at Kyoto. This period is other best season for sightseeing though rainy sometimes.
I'll be there next March 23rd through April 5th. Really hoping I get to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom!
I’m from panhandle Florida and my family are coming to Japan end of May till first week of June. Do you recommend bring sweater still? I’m so excited! Thank you for this video!
The New Years period is much better than it was 40 years ago, when EVERYTHING would close for a week. These days, major stores reopen so at least you can buy some groceries. Forty years ago, my son was born on 12/31. Home alone because wife was in the hospital. Couldn't celebrate. Couldn't buy any food. It was torture.
My opinion is that the best time to be in Tokyo is during Golden Week. Nice weather, and a huge number of Tokyoites have left the city, so nothing is crowded. So as a tourist, if you know what you want to do in advance, this is a good time, but if you just want to wander around perhaps not a good time because some small businesses may be closed.
I'm visiting Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto for the first time at the end of June to early July 2024. Due to the children's school schedule, the summer is the only time we can go. No way around it. (Sigh, I've always had to pay a higher price for peak season and summer travel.) I've heard about the rain and hopefully being from Seattle will prepare me. We don't do well in the heat and humidity so we booked as soon as school lets out.
Allison, you had great explanations for each month--more comprehensive than I've seen on other channels. Well done!
This is a super helpful video, I'll make sure to keep it bookmarked for when I plan my Japan trip.
Family and I are planning on coming and spending Halloween in Toyko this year, this video was helpful in that I picked the "correct" time to visit.
Very helpful video. My family and I plan to take a cruise late May until June 7th all around Japan with a stop in Busan Korea. How’s the weather during that time. Is it raining most days ? Thanks
Visiting this year. End November to start of December. By the sound of things, this is the best choice! :D
For sure planning on February. I am fine with the cold.
Ooo, off to watch lucky bag videos now 🤩
My mom and I are going to be in Tokyo in late December this year. My work is bringing me there, so I’m flying her in to hang out for a week after the project is done.
I hope it turns out well! I’m trying to craft a nice itinerary!!
I've been on Japan for Golden Week twice and it wasn't that terrible, yes there are more people in a lot of places, but still you can do everything without a problem.
The only place that was more crowded was Odaiba in the weekend, still you could do everything without issues.
Also took the Shinkansen from Osaka to Tokyo during Golden week without issues, just reserve the seats a couple days before.
Which cities do you recommend to visit, because we are visiting also during golden week
@@slagcity I went with some friends and it was their first time, so we went to Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Nagoya. You can do things normally, the recommendation i would give you is if you are traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto/Osaka or the other way around in the middle of Golden Week and you have big suitcases, reserve seats with a day or 2 in anticipation if you want to seat all together. We moved back to Tokyo around those dates and we had to go separate(2 and 2) in the Shinkansen.
And i guess you should avoid theme parks like Disney or Universal on those dates, they are normally packed and even more on Golden Week.
Thanks for this Allison, i'm coming on a solo trip end of March 2025 coming from UK so weather will be perfect!! John
My husband and I are going to Tokyo for two weeks starting October 22 this year, and I'm so excited!
my husband and I are going to spend 2 weeks in Japan too! We leave a few days after you (Oct 28)
How was your trip in October during the typhoon season? I'm split between going late May/early June or October
Planning my family's first trip for next year. I learned allot from your video and the comments. I think I'll book to arrive the week after golden week.
We have been to the golden week. And all i can say, its really cool! Lots of people. And i love it! 😂❤
thank you for all the info! this video was super helpful for me! i'll be visiting from a couple weeks before christmas all the way to a little after valentine's day. it's safe to say i'm looking forward to it😅
Thanks for the headsup - just changed my itinerary around to avoid Golden Week!
it was so helpfull, I was thinking to go from 20 to 28 of September,, and now I'm thinking to go from September 27 to avoid the public holidays. Thank so much for your advice. I love it because you checked every month with a lot of details. Thanks again
Hi Allison, glad that you’re feeling better again. Very interesting video which I think would help a lot for anyone visiting Japan, like you said planning is key and is very much true for all travel. The Autumn time would be my preference for a visit and is hands down my favourite season anyway, the colour change has always been a highlight for me. Thank you for sharing this with everyone and looking forward to seeing more as the year continues. Best wishes
Autumn is so beautiful 🌟
We’re going in mid-October this year, can’t wait!
Hey, How did it go? I'm planning for this year and split between going in May vs October
Lovely video and I agree with November for visiting. Do you know when schools break up for end of year and when school holidays are? 😊
I’ve visited Japan a few times, usually in late October/ early November. In my experience it’s a great time to go (just maybe avoid places like Shibuya on Halloween if you hate crowds). I also went specifically to experience New Years and while that was fun, it really was a pain in the butt. It was my 3rd trip so I had already seen a lot already, but even just finding places to eat or shop or get a coffee was a real hassle on the 1st and 2nd of January. As she said in the video, maybe worth experiencing once, but not on your first trip.
Im going late October and i have no idea what outfits i will be bringing. Is it cold already?
@@miraamon2753 In my experience (3 times visiting during that time of year), it can be a little cold in the morning and evening, but is pretty nice the rest of the day. It can, however, be rainy (October is the end of Typhoon season). Keep and eye on the weather forecasts beforehand, but generally you'll only need lightweight jackets. If you don't have anything lightweight and/or waterproof already, you can always buy something at Uniqlo when you arrive. I got a great lightweight rain jacket on my first trip that I could easily roll up and put in my backpack when it got warmer/dryer. You can also bring a lightweight jacket without a hood and them buy a cheap umbrella when you're there if the forecast shows rain. Other than that, don't overthink it too much. Just bring comfortable walking shoes because you'll probably be walking a lot! Hope that helps and have a fun trip!
@@miraamon2753 Hey, How did it go? I'm planning for this year and split between going in May vs October
Yay, we are booking our first family vacation with our 4 kids and we are flying out of Aus on the 25th of November and staying in Tokyo for 2 weeks. I’m so excited now listening to this.
Headed to Japan next month, can’t wait!
How was it!
I am planning to visit Japan 2024 and your videos is soooo informative! Awesome! Love it!
My son lives in Japan and you aren’t wrong about summer heat. It is BRUTAL. Plan another time to visit!
Great information! I'm Japanese and would like to add that we have no fireworks or popular celebration for the new year countdown. Only raditional temple or shrine pray for the new year. There maybe something small somewhere, but nothing big. I always feels sorry for the tourists waiting for something happening in Shibuya. . . 😢
Oh, big clubs have countdown though with huge monitor and possibly confetti...
I actually recommend to see the new year's sunrise aroud the Mt. Fuji area rather than countdown. （We usually have clear weather on January 1st）
Thank you for this! Planning a 2024 fall trip and was planning for november 🙏🏻
I was deciding on what month to go, and now I know… NOVEMBER it is!!!! Great video
I'm honestly going to risk late April - early May. I want to see the wisteria tunnel.
I'm going Feb 8-23, my work gave me the extra few days outside the 2 weeks because I showed them the difference in air fare was like over 1,000 (my RT ticket is 1200)
Yo, i will be there from 16. feb. to 05. march too😂 i just hope it will not be top cold
I went to Japan from late January to early April 2023. Since my travel locations were fixed I had to move based on those locations, my luck with Sakura was very very bad. It either had not actually bloomed yet or already almost ended. Not that I cared that much because my main purpose was to visit as many ski resorts as I could (I managed to visit 30 resorts plus countless castles, shires, and temples during this time.)
I was literally thinking about when I would plan a trip for 2024. November it is! Thank you for a great video!
Thanks so much your channel has helped me so much on my trip me and my friends are going during October.... I am a massive halloween person.... and we are gonna intentionally be in shinjuku on halloween.... cannot wait to see how other countries do it!
Hey, How did it go? I'm planning for this year and split between going in May vs October
There's a ginko tree in a neighbor's yard here near St Louis MO. Beautiful alongside the maples we have. Came to this video to find out when the fall colors will be good in Japan. I've never traveled except domestically for work so I need to figure out a passport and all that other fancy traveler stuff. Fortunately I have a pile of frequent flyer miles to pay for business class airfare both ways if I can get lucky in booking - going to live like a big shot for once in my life! Maybe if Japan is as good as they say I'll end up coming back some spring? Exciting to think about.
I’m wanting to visit Japan with my husband and son. He’s 8 now. I’m thinking we may wait a year. Thanks to your very informative video I’m thinking we may shoot for november. It sounds just about perfect! ❤
Summer in Japan is no joke.
I was there in mid-September of this year and it was still 35 degrees with 90% humidity.
Going to be in Japan from January 8 to the 19, seems like it should be a good time period to avoid heavy crowding.
Going 27th October... It's a perfect time for me since it's in between the birthdays of my family members. I can attend both of birthdays and explore Japan in the fall... I already went in spring, it was awesome. Listened to warnings from TH-cam, so I avoided critical times that could ruin my vacation... Yes, SUN, I'm talking to you and your summer torture in Japan... It's widely known among my friends that the sun is my nemesis xD
Now that I'm sitting in my nice cool American house, it's hard to imagine or remember the heat I endured a couple weeks ago. I had a fabulous time in Japan, but I remember one day in Kyoto going into a shop and my clothing was just sticking to me, like someone had dumped a bucket of water over my head. THAT'S how sweaty I was. Somehow I just lived with it, I just accepted the fact that I was going to be dripping with sweat as soon as I went outside.
Was just in Kyoto for Obon. I agree with the heat and humidity!
I wanted to visit and be there to celebrate my sons 1st birthday on April 30th, so much for that plan 😅
Oh we have a Ginkgo tree in our backyard, interesting to see someone getting excited about them :D
This video was very informational, I had already decided on coming next April, leaving Japan again just before golden week, so I can catch both Cherry Blossoms and the EXPO 2025. And you said the wheather is nice in spring too, so you've mostly reinforced my choice!
Golden week! That was the week I visited Japan in 2017, which also coincides with Chinese Labor Day week (before Covid and Chinese tourists flooded international destinations)……Kyoto was packed! I stayed by Kyoto Station and was totally clueless how crowded it’d get until I got there…every bullet train I was on was packed! All the shrines in Kyoto, packed! Osaka, packed!
Thanks so much for saving us from making a huge mistake!! lol we want to go SO bad, we want to take a family trip to Japan with the kids so we are trying to plan on a school vacation week I live on the East coast of the US I would’ve been so frickin pissed if we went on Christmas vacation week, did all that flying and spent all the money getting there for everything to be closed so thank you again 😁
I echo your sentiments about summer. We are from tropical Queensland, Australia and we thought we were going to melt in August. We also found spring/cherry blossoms in March/April very cold. Planning next trip for late October 😊.
Late October-early November is great
I’m going in two weeks haha I’m so excited ☺️
I am going on Dec 29-Jan 8. I just want a laid back, low-key New Years and good food!
I knew I liked you!! You’re from Florida!! 😅 what part? We’re in central FL, winter garden. Thank you for this great content! You’re great!
Dont come winter its cold dont come spring its bust dont come summer its hot, this is really nonsense, you can visit japan ant time, its beatifull all times
True
But it’s true….the summers in Japan can be brutally hot. I was there one summer and not going back during the summer again. Lol 😂
How is the weather in early December is it cold to much im planning to come in first of December
@@dendomando6055 I used to live in Osaka, maybe just a few degrees latitude south of Tokyo. The winter temperature just barely hovered above zero at the coldest time, which is probably early to mid-January, like usually 1 to 5 degrees celsius. I think in the seven years I lived in that region of Japan I saw snow flurries only a couple times. it rarely dipped below freezing. I think early December should probably be in the 5-10 degree celsius range.
@@janusu Hi ☺️ Do you know it it usually rains on the last week of Feb/early March?
Well I'm coming tomorrow so let's goooo 😂 Let's see if this was a mistake
Was it?
@@elSean weatherwise it was 😂 japanese summers are no joke, it's unbelievably humid
I got only 2 choice, either April or October. I guess i'll have to go with october.
Summer is Tokyo has been almost unbearably hot and humid this summer! Lucky me for moving here right at the start of the warm season 😂 Apparently it didn’t used to be this hot in previous years?
Excellent job with this Review. That Summer Heat in Hiroshima will make you question life. It’s torture 😂 😮💨
Great video!! Thank youuu 🥺 what would be the best time to visit okinawa and being able to swim? 🥺❤️
I have some advice for all foreigners.
“When you enter the town, obey the town.”
Please make an effort to thoroughly understand the Japanese language, Japanese laws, Japanese customs, and Japanese manners.
Please come to Japan with the promise that you will not bring the ideas of your home country into Japan.
I wish I knew about Golden Week before I booked my flight to Tokyo. Now I know why there was a price dip from US...maybe? I will be in Japan between 4/24-30.
7:29 lol this is so true because I planned poorly and went during July… let’s just say it slightly traumatized me 🥲
Side note, I plan on visiting this year in November so good to hear that month is nice weather wise :)
I’m going to Japan for a third October in a row. I’m also going next April…don’t think I’d ever go during summertime.
I was just talking with a few of my friends about going to Japan next year around the 1st week of May so happy I watched this video I was thinking maybe the third or forth week of May
Nice...I'm coming for new year's celebrations...
i already book on early may.. and after being know that was a golden week... ohhh may.. what should i do!!
U.S.A. summer- July and August that’s the only month we can go on vacation- my family is very disappointed that you are not recommending to visit Tokyo however we are still going I’m sure we are going to have fun.
I would suggest that I would visit Japan probably when the cherry blossoms are blooming… That varies between year and year usually March to April. I would drink cold saki until I fell flat on my face and probably get wasted with a bunch of Japanese that I can’t understand a word they’re saying, but it’s just fun.
great little video, will def consider these dates for future planning!
Thinking about March. Good or bad?
Thanks for explaining! We enjoy visiting Japan in winter, summer, and fall (we avoid the major holidays). Our next trip will be my first time to visit during cherry blossom season 🌸. I'm very excited!
I have gone twice - once in mid to late January and once in mid November to early December. Both were really nice times, but the November-December trip definitely had the best weather and events available. One of the hotels in Kyoto had a board in the lobby where they would update the color changing leaves forecast for each day and a list of places to best view them, it was very cool! With our January trip, some places seemed to have "winter hours" so there were fewer options during our time there (not super impactful but does add some limitations). The benefit of January was that there weren't as many other tourists and it seemed less crowded in many areas. I am from Wisconsin (north/midwest USA) so the winter was much more mild than we're used to, but others coming from warmer regions may not like the cold/possibility of snow as much.
As my son gets older we're going to have to figure out school schedules and not pulling him out of class for too much, so this is very helpful for what to avoid! Thank you for the video :)
Hi, @elkeyes!
I'm planning to go to Japan especially the southern area which you mention above. Kyoto, Osaka, Kanazawa and Tokyo around late November to early December.
How cold will the weather be at daytime and nighttime? Is layering clothes and coat enough to cover the cold? Will the temperature reach 5 Celsius?
Thanks!
@@natashar5615 I don't think the weather went below 5 C during our trip, other than when we went up in the mountains at Hakone. I was comfortable with a shirt and sweatshirt (sometimes even taking the sweatshirt off if we were inside and moving around a lot). I think getting one of those packable down jackets that can collapse into a small ball would be a good bet in case there are any colder nights, and they are light and don't take up a lot of space in a backpack. I hope you have a great trip!
Hi Allison! Hope you're enjoying BG3 and I really hope you're doing the whole "Owlbear from the top rope" meme dmg. Yes, this is a thing and I love it.
I and my travel buddy will be visiting Japan in early to mid October, starting from Osaka -> Nara -> Kyoto -> Tokyo and squeezing in a day trip to Kamakura. It's a shame we'll probably miss the full beauty of the fall leaves, but there's always a next time.
Thank you for the comprehensive visiting guide; which being absolute honest, would have been a god-send a few months ago when we were in the early planning stages. It was only after a lot of study that we arrived at the conclusion that October is among the best times of year to visit Japan; not too hot or cold, crowds thin out a bit and a healthy sprinkle of lesser known festivals here and there.
Cheers!
Hey, How did it go? I'm planning for this year and split between going in May vs October
My city, here in California, has a fair number of the Gingko trees. We also have a lot of cherry blossom trees, but I know those aren’t uncommon.
We have the Gingko trees in N. California. They grow well.
Such a great video. Its si=o useful kmowing the holidays. Especially golden week.
I'm actually headed there next week to Tokyo, i'm so excited! Also i'm a fellow Floridian and still in Florida, exploring Japan vids...this came up, gotta catch up with your vids and sub ^_^
There are ginko trees in the USA, dunno about other places, but as a kid i lived in Jersey, and we had them. I know, cuz I had to do a report about them in middle school. 🤓
I'm gonna be in Japan from 30 December to 18 January. Good thing i got tickets for many Japanese pro wrestling events during 31dec to 4Jan. To keep me busy while many places are closed. :)
Great info 👍. Not sure if you like summer or not though 😆
hmmmmm 🧐
I really liked being in Japan in the first week of April 2023 because the blooms were just starting to fall off the trees everywhere it was like it was snowing. Very, very, very crowded everywhere though! :)
September/October is typhoon season. Tourists and travellers must be ready to improvise or adapt.
Can you make a video on prefectures or cities in Japan that are good and affordable to live in
Thank you! I'm hoping to visit next spring and this was really helpful for thinking about dates :)