This is part two of a four-part series about how to optimize your Japan trip regardless of the season. This blog post is focused on traveling to Japan in the spring.

I believe that successful travel is a blend of planning, preparation, and a positive attitude. It's all about embracing the silver linings and making the best of the circumstances at hand. While there may be peak and shoulder seasons for travel, we don't always have the luxury of choosing the exact timing of our trips and something has always got to give. That's why I enjoy discovering little ways to fully immerse myself in the experience, regardless of the time of year. Having lived in Japan through all four seasons, I can attest to each of their unique and captivating charms.

The profound impact of Japanese seasons on the country's culture is what truly sets them apart. Each season brings forth its own distinctive ambiance and an array of cherished traditions. Japanese people wholeheartedly embrace and celebrate the singular characteristics of each season, nurturing a profound appreciation for the ever-changing splendor of nature.

I’m excited to share some tips that I’ve picked up from over 10 years of travel on how to make my time in Japan truly memorable and take advantage of the season. Let’s make the most of your trip, starting with spring.

Pros of traveling to Japan in the spring:

Mild weather: Spring in Japan brings pleasant temperatures, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is generally mild and comfortable.

Festivals and events: Spring is a season of lively festivals and events in Japan. From traditional festivals like hanami (flower viewing) parties to events that take place during the Golden Week holidays, there are numerous cultural celebrations to immerse yourself in.

Everything is in bloom: Spring is synonymous with cherry blossom season in Japan. While witnessing this natural phenomenon is a remarkable and highly sought-after experience, so many other flowers are blooming everywhere you look!

Cons of traveling to Japan in the spring:

Crowds: Spring, particularly during cherry blossom season, is one of the busiest times for tourism in Japan. Popular sakura viewing spots can become crowded with locals and tourists alike, which may require patience and advance planning to secure ideal viewing spots.

Higher prices and limited availability: Due to the high demand during spring, prices for accommodations and flights may be higher compared to other seasons. Additionally, it can be challenging to find available accommodations and secure reservations at popular restaurants, attractions, and accommodations like ryokans.

How I make the most of a trip during the Spring:

Dress in layers and always bring my favorite cardigan and ultra-light down like this one.
Eat Japanese spring mountain vegetables, bamboo shoots, and sakura mochi. You’ll often be eating while walking around shopping streets and you won’t find many trash cans. Pack an extra tote like this one to hold your trash and leftover food for later!
Visit a tea farm to learn about the first tea harvest of the year, considered to produce the most premium Japanese green tea!

How Travel Consulting can help:

Gain a great understanding of cultural norms and social etiquette
Plan a trip that is tailored to your interests and goals
Inform you about experiences that are unique to the timing of your trip
Carefully vetted restaurants, hotels, and activities

You can read part one on traveling to Japan in the winter, part three on traveling to Japan in the summer, and part four on traveling to Japan in the fall.

Travel with us around the world on one of our multi-day small group food tours. Check out our itineraries to Italy, Japan, Peru, and more! Join us as we visit tea farms in Japan, sip on limoncello in Italy, and savor ceviche in Peru.

If you’re traveling abroad and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our travel consulting services and optional booking service.

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