Lecture Notes: Best and Worst Times to Visit Japan in 2024

Overview

• Japan's tourism is booming, with a significant increase in foreign travelers.
• The Japanese yen has depreciated, making Japan a more affordable destination for foreigners.
• Over-tourism is a concern, and certain periods are better for travel than others.

Periods to Avoid

1. Late March

• Start of Japan's fiscal year in April.
• School entrance ceremonies and company personnel changes lead to increased domestic travel.
• Result: Congestion in tourist spots, expensive transport, and accommodation.

2. End of April to First Week of May (Golden Week)

• Extended holiday period; many Japanese travel domestically.
• Crowded tourist spots and higher prices for hotels and transport.
• Shinkansen (bullet train) requires advance seat reservations during this period.

3. June to Early July (Rainy Season)

• Continuous rain makes travel less enjoyable.
• Japanese people habitually carry and use umbrellas.
• Some seasonal flowers like hydrangeas are in bloom.

4. August (Too Hot & Summer Vacation)

• Extremely hot and humid weather.
• Summer vacation leads to domestic travel and crowded tourist spots.
• Shinkansen requires advance reservations.

5. 4th Week of September (Silver Week)

• Multiple public holidays lead to extended vacations for Japanese people.
• Dates vary annually; check the calendar.
• Increased crowds and higher prices.

6. Late December to Early January (Year-end & New Year Holidays)

• Long vacation period for Japanese people.
• Crowds at shrines and shopping areas; higher prices for hotels and transport.
• Cold winter weather.

Best Times to Visit

7. Beginning of April

• After the initial rush of the new fiscal year, travel becomes more comfortable.
• Be mindful of the upcoming Golden Week.

8. 2nd Week of May to End of May (After Golden Week)

• Fewer travelers and pleasant weather.
• Ideal time to explore Japan before the rainy season begins.

9. October & November

• Post-Silver Week, fewer domestic travelers.
• Pleasant weather and beautiful autumn foliage.
• Popular spots like Kyoto may still be crowded.

Tips to Avoid Crowds

10. Choose Good Destinations

• Visit Hokkaido during the rainy season (no rainy season in Hokkaido).
• Visit Okinawa in late June to early July (Okinawa's rainy season ends earlier).

11. Change Your Visit Time

• Engage in early morning or evening activities at museums and historical sites.
• Use Google Maps to find early-opening tourist spots.
• Take advantage of evening special visits at temples and shrines.

12. Crowd Monitoring Service

• Utilize services forecasting demand and real-time congestion (e.g., Kyoto's 'CITY OFFICIAL TRAVEL GUIDE').
• Live streaming available to check current crowd levels.

13. Avoid Public Transportation

• Opt for cycling or renting a scooter to avoid crowded buses and trains.
• Environmentally friendly and provides exercise.

14. Exploring Hands-free

• Use luggage delivery services from the airport to your hotel.
• Utilize luggage storage services at train stations and tourist spots.

15. Explore Countryside

• Japanese government promoting regional tourism.
• Improved tourism infrastructure in rural areas.
• Direct flights from various international cities to regional destinations.
• Unique experiences in less-traveled destinations.

Conclusion

• Understanding the best and worst times to visit Japan can enhance your travel experience.
• Tips provided can help avoid crowds and enjoy a more comfortable trip.
• Consider exploring regional destinations for a unique experience.