What can you do in Japan? For the must-do things in Japan in 2025/2026, such as visiting temples and parks, exploring local markets, watching a sumo wrestling match, or attending a Kabuki Performance, you can experience them all year round. However, there are some unique things to do in Japan in each month. Check out the top things to see and do in Japan from January to December in 2025/2026 and browse ahead for our best private guided trips to Japan below. Don't forget to tell us your budget and what you want to do, then we will make it fit to a tee.
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Things to Do in Japan in January 2026
What to do in Japan in January 2026? Visiting Japan in January offers a unique experience, especially with the celebration of New Year and various winter activities. Here are the best things to do in Japan in January.
Attend the Sapporo Snow Festival (スноーフェстиバル): This is one of Japan's most famous winter festivals, featuring large ice and snow sculptures throughout the city of Sapporo on Hokkaido. As one of the things to do in Sapporo Japan in winter, the festival takes place from early to mid-January each year.
Witness the Yukitopia Niseko Village Winter Light Fantasia: Located in the town of Kutchan, this event features illuminated sculpture displays made entirely out of snow and ice. It runs for about a month starting at the end of December or beginning of January, making it one of the things to do in Japan in December and January.
Experience Traditional Japanese New Year Customs: In Japan, the first sunrise of the new year is called "Hatsuhinode," which people traditionally watch as it symbolizes good luck. Other traditions include eating mochi rice cakes, visiting temples, and sending New Year cards. Many shrines and temples also offer special prayers during this time.
Go Skiing or Snowboarding in Nagano Prefecture: One of the most wonderful Japan things to do in January must be to go skiing if you love winter outdoor activities. Nagano hosted the Winter Olympics back in 1998, and since then, it has become known for its world-class ski resorts such as Shiga Kogen, Hakuba, and Nozawa Onsen. These places are especially beautiful when covered in fresh powder in Japan.
Visit Tokyo Dome City Ice Skating Rink: If you're not up for traveling too far outside of Tokyo, there are still things to do in Tokyo Japan in January. From late November through February, the rooftop of Odaiba's Decks shopping complex transforms into an outdoor skating rink with fantastic views of Rainbow Bridge and the Tokyo skyline.
Shopping & Sales Season: Lastly, if you love to shop, you'll find some of the best bargains of the year during the Winter sales season (known locally as "Fukubukuro"). Stores will sell items at heavily discounted prices, usually around New Year's Day until mid-January. Popular retailers like Bic Camera, Don Quijote, and Parco all participate in this annual sale. How can you miss this amazing thing to do in Japan January 2026?
Things to Do in Japan February 2026
What are the best things to do in Japan in February? From winter festivals to natural sightseeing, there is still a lot of waiting for your exploration in Japan during February in 2026:
Participate in Setsubun Festivals: On February 2nd (or sometimes earlier or later depending on the lunar calendar), many parts of Japan celebrate Setsubun, the traditional beginning of spring. It involves throwing roasted soybeans (known as "fukumame") and shouting "Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!" ("Demons out! Fortune in!") to chase away evil spirits and welcome good luck. You may find such events in Japan that take place at shrines, temples, and other public spaces.
Enjoy Otaru Snow Light Path Festival: Visit Otaru, near Sapporo, to experience this romantic winter festival which will be held in late February/early March, featuring beautifully lit snow sculptures and lantern displays along the canal and throughout the town.
View Plum Blossom Viewing: When most trees are still bare, pink and white plum blossoms bloom, heralding the arrival of spring in Japan. Places like Kitano Tenmangu Shrine in Kyoto and Koishikawa Korakuen Garden in Tokyo are popular for their plum blossoms in February. Enjoy plum blossom viewing (ume matsuri) at gardens and shrines across Japan.
Experience Valentine's Day: Experience Valentine's Day in Japan, where the tradition involves women giving chocolates to men. Explore the unique chocolate shops and cafes offering special Valentine's Day treats.
Admire Early Cherry Blossoms: According to the cherry blossom season Japan forecast map, in warmer regions like Okinawa and southern parts of Kyushu, early cherry blossoms (Sakura) may start blooming towards the end of January, with the best viewing time at early February, offering a preview of the upcoming Sakura season. Don't miss viewing the Okinawa Sakura, as it is one of the things to see and do in Okinawa Japan.
Things to Do in Japan in March 2025/2026
Visiting Japan in March offers a wonderful transition from winter to early spring, with cherry blossoms starting to bloom in some regions. Here are some fantastic Japan things to do in March.
Attend the Hanami (Cherry Blossom) Festival: Admiring the cherry blossom is one of the top things to do in Japan in March. The cherry blossoms begin blooming in late March, making it an ideal time to visit Japan and witness these beautiful flowers in full bloom in Kansai's Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, etc. You can enjoy picnics under the trees or attend one of the many festivals held during the Sakura season. To avoid the crowds, the Kawazu cherry blossom festival from late February to early March is also a great choice for you to enjoy the Hanami in Japan.
Hina Matsuri (Doll Festival): Participate in the Hina Matsuri celebrations on March 3rd, where families display ornamental dolls (hina dolls) to pray for the happiness and health of girls in Japan.
Attend Osaka March Grand Sumo Tournament: Attend the Spring Grand Sumo Tournament (Haru Basho) held in Osaka, where sumo wrestlers compete in matches spanning two weeks from March 9 - March 23, 2025 (March 8 - March 22, 2026). It's a unique opportunity to witness Japan's traditional sport up close and also one of the best things to do in Osaka Japan in March.
Join Tokyo Marathon: Tokyo is one of the best places to visit in Japan. On March 2, 2025, you can participate in or cheer on runners at the Tokyo Marathon, one of the largest annual marathons in Asia and one of the top things to do in Tokyo Japan in March 2025. The marathon route passes through Tokyo's iconic landmarks, offering a unique perspective of the city.
Experience Spring Equinox at Fushimi Inari Shrine: On March 20th every year, thousands gather at Fushimi Inari Shrine to watch the sunrise on the first day of spring. It's considered as a spiritual event where people pray for good fortune and new beginnings.
Things to Do in Japan April 2025/2026
Is April a good time to visit Japan in 2025 or 2026? Yes! Here is a list of Japan things to do in April.
Attend Cherry Blossom Festivals: There are so many places to enjoy Sakura in Japan. Early April is also the best time to enjoy the stunning cherry blossoms in cities like Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, etc. In addition to viewing the Sakura, don't forget to join local Hanami festivals and events celebrating cherry blossoms, taste limited Sakura food, and watch traditional performances, and illuminations of Sakura at night. As one of the best things to do in Japan in April 2025/2026, I'm sure you will enjoy your Sakura tour in Japan in April!
Takayama Festival: Experience the Takayama Spring Festival (Sanno Matsuri) held in mid-April, featuring ornate floats (yatai) paraded through the historic streets of Takayama.
Kanamara Matsuri (Festival of the Steel Phallus): Attend this unique fertility festival held in Kawasaki on the first Sunday of April, featuring phallus-shaped decorations, parades, and festivities.
Go Hiking in the Japanese Alps: April marks the beginning of the climbing season in the Japanese Alps, providing ample opportunities for adventure seekers to conquer peaks like Mt. Tate and Mt. Yarigatake. It is also one of the top things to do in Japan in April if you are looking for a hiking tour in a less-crowded season.
See the First Blooms of Azaleas: These delicate pink and white beauties typically open up in mid-April in places like Hirosaki Park, Chureito Pagoda, and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
Things to Do in Japan in May 2025/2026
How to plan a trip to Japan in May in 2025/2026? Take a look at what you hope to do among Japan things to do in May before preparing for your Japan tour.
Appreciate the Late Sakura: Late March to early April features the peak cherry blossom season in Japan in most areas, which means tense accommodations and crowded people here and there. If you hope to enjoy the stunning cherry blossom quietly, you can consider the Hokkaido Sakura season, which will last till early May. And Sapporo cherry blossom is a highlight that you cannot miss during your Japan tour to Hokkaido in May.
Attend the Sanja Matsuri Festival: As one of Tokyo's three biggest festivals takes place annually over three days in mid-May, it is one of the top things to do in Tokyo Japan in May. It involves processions carrying shrine floats and is accompanied by street vendors selling festival treats.
Experience the Kanda Matsuri: Kanda Matsuri is a renowned Shinto festival held in Tokyo, Japan, typically every two years in mid-May. The festival features lively processions of mikoshi (portable shrines), adorned with colorful decorations and accompanied by traditional music and dance. As one of the things to do in Tokyo in May, you will see that participants dress in historical costumes, and parade through the streets of central Tokyo to create a festive atmosphere.
See the Famous Blue Hydrangeas: Between June and July, hydrangea fields begin to bloom in different colors, but in May, blue hydrangeas reign supreme in towns like Miyauchi in Gunma Prefecture.
Enjoy Aoi Matsuri: Witness the Aoi Matsuri (Hollyhock Festival) in Kyoto on May 15th. This ancient festival features a procession of people dressed in Heian-era costumes, parading from the Kyoto Imperial Palace to Shimogamo Shrine. It is a fun thing to do in Kyoto in May.
Visit Hokkaido Flower Fields: Explore the colorful flower fields of Hokkaido, particularly in Furano and Biei. Lavender and other flowers start blooming in late May, creating picturesque landscapes. For natural lovers, it is one of the things to do in May Japan.
Take Part in the Shibazakura Festival: Visit the Shibazakura Festival in Hokkaido or Fuji Shibazakura Festival near Mount Fuji to see fields of pink moss phlox (shibazakura) in bloom. I surely rate it as No.1 among the top things to do in Japan in May as you will feel shocked when seeing stunning carpets of flowers against scenic backdrops.
Things to Do in Japan in June 2025/2026
June in Japan marks the beginning of summer, offering a variety of cultural festivals and outdoor activities. Here are some wonderful things to do in Japan June:
Enjoy Sanno Matsuri in Tokyo: What are some things to do in Tokyo Japan in June? Attend the Sanno Matsuri, one of Tokyo's major festivals held at the Hie Shrine in central Tokyo in mid-June. The festival includes colorful processions, traditional music, and performances.
View Hydrangea (Ajisai Matsuri): Visit gardens and temples known for hydrangea (ajisai) displays. Popular spots include Meigetsu-in Temple in Kamakura, Mimuroto-ji Temple in Kyoto, and Hakusan Shrine in Tokyo.
Explore Hokkaido Lavender Fields: Visit Furano and Biei in Hokkaido to see lavender fields in full bloom from late June to early July. It is one of the best things to do in Japan in June for photographers as the vibrant purple fields against the backdrop of mountains are a great delight and visual feast.
Things to Do in Japan in July 2025/2026
Japan in July may feature high temperatures and not-so-pleasing weather. However, there are still some best things to do in Japan July. Take a look at what you cannot miss during July in Japan 2025/2026 in the following.
Gion Matsuri in Kyoto: Attend the Gion Matsuri, one of Japan's most famous festivals, held throughout July in Kyoto. The highlight is the grand procession of massive floats (yamaboko) on July 17th.
Tenjin Matsuri in Osaka: Experience Osaka's biggest summer festival, the Tenjin Matsuri, held on July 24th and 25th. Enjoy boat processions on the Okawa River, fireworks, and lively street parades. It is one of the best things to do in Osaka Japan in July.
Fuji Rock Festival: Attend the Fuji Rock Festival, one of Japan's largest outdoor music festivals held in Naeba Ski Resort in Niigata Prefecture in the end of July. It features international and Japanese artists across multiple stages.
Sumida River Fireworks Festival: For the list of best things to do in Tokyo Japan in July, don't forget to witness Tokyo's spectacular Sumida River Fireworks Festival, one of Japan's largest fireworks displays held in late July. Enjoy colorful fireworks lighting up the Tokyo sky.
Mount Fuji Climbing: Embarking on a climbing adventure to Mount Fuji, Japan's iconic volcano is one of the best things to do in Japan early July. The official climbing season begins in early July; let's enjoy the stunning sunrise views from the summit!
Beach Activities in Okinawa: Visit Taketomi Island, which is located off the coast of Okinawa, and this picturesque destination features pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters teeming with tropical marine life, coral reefs, ancient ruins, and traditional Ryukyuan culture dating back centuries. You can rent bicycles, motorbikes, or golf carts to navigate the island. Beach activities like snorkeling, diving, and relaxing on white sandy beaches are the best things to do in Okinawa Japan in July.
Things to Do in Japan in August 2025/2026
What to do in Japan in August 2025/2026? August is a vibrant time in Japan, despite the heat and humidity. Here we try our best to list the top things to do in Japan August.
Experience Obon Festivals: Obon is a traditional Buddhist event where people honor their ancestors' spirits. Festivals include Bon dances, floating lanterns on rivers (like in Kyoto's Arashiyama), and visiting family graves, don't miss them from Aug 13 to Fri, Aug 15, 2025 (Thu, Aug 13, 2026 – Sat, Aug 15, 2026).
Watch Fireworks Festivals: There are many fireworks festivals held throughout Japan in August, especially around the ocean where they can light up the sky even more spectacularly. Famous festivals include the Lake Biwa Fireworks Festival in Shiga, and Ashiya Fireworks Festival in Hyogo Prefecture. Viewing these beautiful fireworks is one of the things to do in August in Japan.
Try Summer Food Specialties: Enjoy fresh seafood dishes like grilled eel (unagi), oysters (kaki), and watermelons (suzukiyu) which are all in season during August in Japan. Also, try shaved ice desserts called kakigori and mochi filled with sweet red bean paste known as daifuku mitzuame. It is one of the top things to do in Japan in August for foodie tours Japan 2025/2026.
Attend the Awa Odori Dance Festival: This traditional dance festival takes place every year from August 12-15 in Tokushima, Shikoku Island. The streets come alive with colorful yukatas (light summer kimonos) and people dancing through the night.
Experience Akita Kanto Festival: Held annually from August 3rd to 7th, Akita Kantō Matsuri in Akita City, Japan features the impressive Kantō procession, where performers balance bamboo poles adorned with lanterns, symbolizing harvest and prosperity. The festival also includes traditional music, dance, and vibrant street celebrations, showcasing Akita's cultural richness.
Enjoy the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri: The festival is held from August 2nd to 7th every year, with night parades from 2nd to 6th, and a daytime parade, nighttime fireworks display, and sea parade on the 7th. During the festival, Nebuta, the main character of the Matsuri, appears with more than 20 large doll-shaped lanterns based on Kabuki, mythology, and samurai warriors of the Sengoku period, and is accompanied by hundreds of dancers who march and dance to the accompaniment of drums and flutes, showing you the lively atmosphere of Japan in August.
Climb Mount Fuji: Just as mentioned above, the climbing season for Mount Fuji is from early July to early September. August offers clear skies, making it a popular time to ascend Japan's iconic mountain.
Attend Music and Dance Festivals: From classical music concerts to rock and pop shows, Japan hosts various musical events during August. Check out Tokyo International Forum's Classical Concert Series to enjoy music festivals or dance performances happening in Tokyo, which is one of the fun things to do in Tokyo Japan in August.
Tanabata Festivals: Celebrate the Tanabata Festival (Star Festival) on lunar July 7th (29th August 2025, 19th August 2026) in various cities like Sendai, Hiratsuka, and Asagaya (Tokyo). Decorated bamboo branches with colorful paper ornaments are a highlight.
Things to Do in Japan in September 2025/2026
Japan in September means the beginning of the autumn season. Even though there are not so many things to experience as other peak months, there are still some activities worthy of your try. Check out the best things to do in September in Japan.
Admire the Earliest Autumn Foliage: The Japan autumn leaves forecast shows that fall foliage season begins in early September and lasts through December. While peak foliage is typically in November, you can still catch early autumn colors in Hokkaido, which is also one of the top things to do in Japan in September 2025/2026.
Enjoy the Sapporo Autumn Fest: Visit the Sapporo Autumn Fest (Sapporo Shitsuiji Koen) in Hokkaido in late September, which features food stalls selling local delicacies, live music performances, and activities for children.
Experience the Tokyo Game Show: For the best things to do in Tokyo Japan in September, you can visit the Tokyo Game Show (TGS), one of the largest video game exhibitions globally, taking place annually in late September at Makuhari Messe convention center in Chiba prefecture.
Things to Do in Japan in October 2025/2026
Curious about Japan things to do in October? Yeah, let's see the to-do list for your trips to Japan 2025 or 2026 in October.
Enjoy the Autumn Colors in Japan: This one is ranked No.1 among the best things to do in Japan in October 2025/2026. There are many places to see autumn foliage in Japan. Head to popular spots such as Nikko National Park in Nikko, Lake Kawaguchiko near Mount Fuji, or the mountainous regions of Nagano Prefecture to catch the vibrant red, yellow, and orange fall foliage.
Visit Jidai Matsuri (Festival of Ages): Listed as one of the things to do in Kyoto Japan in October, this festival is held annually on October 22 in Kyoto and celebrates the city's rich history with parades featuring costumed performers and representing different eras of Japanese culture.
Celebrate Halloween: While not traditionally associated with Japan, Halloween has gained significant popularity over the years due to its association with American pop culture. On 31st October, you can expect to see people dressed up in creative costumes and elaborate decorations adorning shops, cafes, and buildings all over major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Sapporo.
Things to Do in Japan in November 2025/2026
November in Japan is a beautiful time when the autumn foliage reaches its peak in many regions, and the weather begins to cool down. See our best things to do in Japan in November here.
Appreciate Autumn Foliage: For the top things to do in Japan in November, we strongly recommend you experience the stunning autumn colors in places like Arashiyama in Kyoto, Mount Takao near Tokyo, Gōra Park in Hakone, and Osaka Castle Park in Osaka. Take a hike through the colorful scenery, enjoy a leisurely boat ride on a scenic lake, or simply stroll around a nearby garden.
Visit Historic Temples and Shrines: Explore iconic temples and shrines amidst autumn foliage. Kyoto's temples, such as Tofukuji and Eikando, are particularly beautiful in November.
Attend Gardens and Light-Up Events: One of the things to do at night in Japan in November is to enjoy the autumn illumination. Visit gardens and parks during evening light-up events in Japan 2025/2026, where autumn foliage is illuminated beautifully. Places like Rikugien Garden in Tokyo offer stunning night views.
Experience Soothing Hot Springs: With winter approaching, it's a good time to take a dip in the natural hot springs, which offer warm relaxation amidst beautiful autumnal decorations. Many onsen resorts and Onsen towns such as Beppu Onsen, Arima Onsen, and Hakone Onsen are worth your visit. Some also serve delicious hot meals and offer various treatments using locally sourced natural ingredients such as wasabi, ginger, and yuzu citrus fruit.
Explore Castles and Historical Sites: Visit historic castles such as Himeji Castle, Matsumoto Castle, or Osaka Castle. November's mild weather is ideal for exploring these cultural landmarks.
Stroll around the Ginkgo Avenue: See the golden hues of ginkgo trees (icho) lining streets and parks in cities like Tokyo's Meiji Jingu Gaien, Hokkaido University, Mido-suji in Osaka, etc. highly recommend experiencing the Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival in Mid-November, which is one of the top things to do in Tokyo Japan in November 2025/2026.
Take a Cycling Tour: Explore cities and countryside areas by bike, enjoying the crisp autumn air and vibrant scenery. Kyoto and Nara are ideal for cycling due to their flat terrain and bike-friendly paths.
Things to Do in Japan in December 2025/2026
December in Japan is characterized by the cold and chilly weather, making it the best month to experience Onsen and Skiing in Japan. Find out the best things to do in Japan in December 2025/2026 with us.
Head to Jigokudani Monkey Park: December is the best time to head to Jigokudani Monkey Park to capture amazing photos of the snow-covered landscape with the monkeys enjoying their hot spring baths, which is really indeed one of the best things to do in Japan December to leave you a magical experience in Japan.
View the Late Foliage in Kyushu: We have mentioned that the autumn foliage season in Japan lasts till December, and you can still enjoy the late fall foliage in Fukuoka, Oita, Kumamoto, and other cities in Kyushu. Embark on the fall foliage tour in Japan in December to capture the stunning natural scenery in the final month of the year.
Dip into the Onsen (Hot Springs): Winter is the best time to experience the hot springs in Japan. Relax in the best onsen in winter Japan, such as Nyuto Onsen, Shibu Onsen, Nozawa Onsen, Noboribetsu Onsen, Zao Onsen, etc. The snowy landscapes and hot springs create a magical winter experience.
Skiing and Snowboarding: Head to popular ski resorts in Hokkaido (Niseko, Furano), Nagano (Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen), or Niigata (Myoko Kogen) for excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Spend a day on the slopes enjoying the powdery snow and scenic mountain views.
Try Street Food at Winter Markets: From roasted chestnuts and grilled fish skewers to hot sake and steaming bowls of miso soup, these markets cater to both locals and tourists craving comfort foods and warm beverages. Visiting the Nakameguro Market in Tokyo and the Nishiki Market in Kyoto for street food delights is one of the best things to do in Japan during December 2025/2026.
Enjoy Ice Skating in Outdoor Rinks: During winter, many parks and squares in urban centers transform their green spaces into ice skating rinks. Skaters of all ages glide gracefully under twinkling lights while enjoying hot drinks and snacks sold nearby. Tokyo Midtown, Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, and Osaka's Nakanoshima Park are popular spots to enjoy such activity in Japan in December.
Admire Illuminations: Winter brings forth an array of dazzling light shows in department stores, gardens, and commercial districts. Brilliant colors and intricate designs enchant spectators and create unforgettable memories. Some notable destinations include Roppongi Hills in Tokyo, Dotonbori in Osaka, and Namba in Nagoya. And the Sapporo White Illumination, one of the things to do in Sapporo Japan in December, is fantastic enough to make you feel shocked.
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