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Japan
Japan Travel Guide
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The best time to travel in Japan

It is better to go to Japan in mid-season. Then, the climate is mild and the landscapes colourful. Go between December and March for the skiing, and throughout the year to the Onsen, the famous hot springs.

At a glance

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The best season to visit Japan is the spring: the weather is glorious and the cherry trees are in blossom. You can also go in the autumn when the colours are just as beautiful. But is it always better to go mid-season to explore the country. In fact, winter can be very cold, whilst summer is often very hot with heavy rain.

A overview of Japanese festivals and celebrations

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Do not miss the various Japanese festivals, such as Gion Matsuri. During the big summer festival of Kyoto, many floats process through the streets and lively evening entertainment takes place. In Hanami, in March and April, there are the cherry blossom celebrations. You must also experience Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri in September and October as well as Hatsumode on New Year's Day, the first temple visit of the year.

A visit to Japanese beaches

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Many Japanese beaches are worth a visit in themselves. This is the case for the beaches of the Kerama islands, all as beautiful as each other. Also go to Sakibaru Kaigan, an absolutely stunning beach. Opt for spring and summer to enjoy the hot sunny weather. You can also go to the beach at Hoshizuna-no-hama and see the beautiful coral reef.

Skiing holidays

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Visit the wonderful Japanese ski resorts In particular, go to Niseko where the snow is absolutely fabulous. In Nozawa Onsen, you can ski and enjoy the onsen, the hot springs where you can relax after your efforts. The best skiers opt for the resort of Hakuba which has slopes for advanced skiers. Go between December and March to get the best weather conditions and ski on great snow.

A visit to the Japanese Onsen

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The hot water springs called « Onsen » are one of the must-see destinations in Japan. Whether you go to Kinosaki or Kayotei, you will not be disappointed by these enchanting places. In Hongu, you can relax in the Onsen after a long walk. There are many others, and the Japanese go there throughout the year. You can go throughout the year, and mid-season is preferable if you enjoy walking.

A walking holiday

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Japan is a favourite place for walkers. You can walk through the magnificent landscapes of the Japanese Alps or trek to Hokkaido, a favourite place for nature lovers. In Kumano Kodo, you can walk as far as the hot springs of Hongu. It is better to go mid-season to enjoy weather which is neither too hot nor too cold.
Tiphaine Leblanc
11 contributions
Updated 26 October 2018

Tour ideas

  • Off the beaten track
Whistle-stop Tokyo
Length 5 days Approx. $630
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Length 15 days Approx. $4,850
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Tokyo tours and Japan's Goto Islands
Length 10 days Approx. $1,800

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