Top 10 Must-Do Activities in Japan for Every Season

Contributors

Josh Kessel

Marketing @ Butter

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Planning a trip to Japan? Whether it’s spring, summer, autumn, or winter, there’s always something special to do.

From cherry blossoms to hot springs, Japan offers unique experiences all year. Here are 10 must-do activities—split by season—to help you plan your adventure.

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Spring (March to May)

1. See the Cherry Blossoms (Sakura Season)

Cherry blossom season is a spring highlight. Imagine strolling under trees filled with pink petals.

A picturesque row of cherry blossom trees arch over a serene canal, with petals floating in the water, creating a dreamy, spring scene.

Top viewing spots: Ueno Park (Tokyo) and Maruyama Park (Kyoto)
Bring a picnic and relax under the blossoms.
Early morning visits offer quieter views.

2. Experience a Traditional Tea Ceremony

Spring’s calm weather makes it a great time for the serene art of tea ceremonies.

A person in a floral kimono prepares a traditional tea set, enjoying a calm tea ceremony outdoors with a scenic garden backdrop.

Popular in Kyoto’s historic temples.
Learn about tea preparation and Japanese traditions.
Some venues offer ceremonies in gardens surrounded by blooming flowers.

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Summer (June to August)

3. Explore Historic Villages

Escape the heat of the cities and visit Japan’s countryside.

Traditional Japanese houses with steep, thatched roofs are blanketed in snow, surrounded by mountains and serene winter scenery.

Head to Shirakawa-go and Gokayama for traditional thatched roof houses.
Surrounded by green mountains, it’s a peaceful retreat.
Guided tours are often available to explore village life.

4. Real-Life Mario Kart in Tokyo

A fun, unique way to experience Tokyo.

A go-kart racer prepares at the starting line, wearing a helmet and race suit, with the track stretching out ahead under a cloudy sky.

Race through city streets dressed as a Mario Kart character.
Drive past landmarks like Tokyo Tower and Shibuya Crossing.
A licensed driver’s permit is required.

5. Enjoy Summer Festivals and Fireworks

Japanese summers are filled with festivals and lively energy.

A crowd enjoys a vibrant festival at night, capturing colorful fireworks and celebrations under a lively and illuminated sky.

Big festivals include Gion Matsuri in Kyoto.
Street food, floats, and traditional performances are key highlights.
Summer fireworks displays, or hanabi, light up the night skies.

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Autumn (September to November)

6. Hike the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail

The cooler weather and beautiful leaves of autumn make it a great season for hiking.

A serene dirt path cuts through a dense, moss-covered forest, creating a peaceful and natural setting for hiking or nature walks.

The Kumano Kodo is an ancient pilgrimage trail through forests.
Autumn colours bring the scenery to life.
It’s a quieter, less touristy way to see rural Japan.

7. Visit Castles with Autumn Foliage

The vibrant autumn colours provide a stunning backdrop for Japan’s castles.

A white, multi-tiered Japanese castle stands tall against the sky, framed by green trees, symbolizing traditional Japanese architecture.

Popular castles to visit: Himeji Castle and Matsumoto Castle.
The autumn foliage creates picturesque views.
Be sure to visit early in the day to avoid crowds.

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Winter (December to February)

8. Relax in an Onsen (Hot Spring)

Japan’s hot springs are especially cosy during winter.

A person stands by a traditional red Torii gate overlooking a calm lake with forested mountains in the background on a peaceful day.

Famous onsen areas: Hakone and Beppu.
Outdoor baths offer beautiful winter views, often with snow.
Onsens can be found in ryokan (traditional inns), adding to the experience.

9. Ski in the Japanese Alps

Japan offers great ski resorts with powdery snow.

A skier in full gear carves through fresh powder on a sunny day, kicking up snow as they descend a steep, snowy mountain slope.

Top resorts: Hakuba and Niseko.
Beginner and advanced slopes are available.
Perfect for winter sports enthusiasts.

10. Watch Snow Monkeys in Jigokudani Monkey Park

A winter-exclusive experience.

A macaque sits calmly on the snow-covered ground near a tree in a forested area, blending into the winter landscape.

Visit Jigokudani Monkey Park to see wild monkeys bathing in hot springs.
The monkeys are completely used to people and are fun to watch.
Best visited during winter for snowy surroundings.

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Ready to plan your trip?

No matter what time of year you visit Japan, there’s always something exciting to do.

From cherry blossoms in spring to skiing in the Japanese Alps, you’ll never run out of activities. Get started and discover Japan in every season!