Are you planning to travel to beautiful Japan? Then you are probably curious about the travel duration, the best time to go and how you can get the most out of your time in Japan. Much of this information is based on my own experiences and which I think is relevant for an unforgettable trip to this special country in Asia.
How long is the flight to Japan?
The flight time to Japan varies based on departure point and whether you opt for a direct or connecting flight. Typically, a direct flight from Europe to Japan lasts about 11 to 12 hours. When planning, comparing various flight options is advisable to find the most suitable route. I recommend utilizing Skyscanner for this purpose. Get creative by exploring different dates, months, and airports to snag the best flight deals.
Best travel period for Japan
Throughout the year, Japan offers diverse experiences tailored to your preferences. Spring unveils cherry blossoms, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage, especially in Kyoto and Nikko. Summer brings festivals and fireworks despite its hot and humid climate. Winter invites winter sports and hot springs.
Winters in Japan are generally short and mild, offering pleasant weather with ample sunshine and moderate temperatures. However, the island’s weather can swiftly shift from cold Hokkaido winds to prolonged rainy days. Winter sports enthusiasts will find Japan’s ski areas appealing, offering affordable options, abundant snow, and picturesque landscapes. Alternatively, those seeking warmer climates can explore the Okinawa Islands in southern Japan, where pleasant weather persists year-round, with opportunities for whale watching between December and April.
Although March in Japan can still be just as chilly as in the Netherlands, it quickly warms up in April. Spring is known for its enchanting cherry blossoms that bathe the cities in a pink glow. April is ideal for a city trip because the temperatures are not yet extremely high.
In June, the rainy season interrupts the beautiful weather for a month. The hot summer days are then tempered by rain, making the humidity almost unbearable. That’s why June is not ideal. July to September are also hot and humid, but without the daily rain. These months are perfect to travel to the north of Japan for some cooling.
The vast, warm autumn period is highly recommended. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy the Indian Summer for weeks and admire the beautiful autumn colors at the same time?
In short: there is a perfect time for every traveler to come to Japan. Decide for yourself what the best travel time is for you.
Time in Japan
Japan follows Japanese Standard Time (JST), which is 9 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+9). The country has no summer or winter time, so the time remains the same all year round. Take the time difference into account when planning your activities and communicating with those back home. I can tell you all about it!
Whether you are a lover of culture, nature or culinary delights, Japan has something for everyone. With good planning and knowledge of flight times and best travel periods, you are well on your way to an unforgettable trip to this fascinating country. Have fun exploring Japan!
Planning your Japan trip
To make the most of your time in Japan, it is essential to plan your trip in advance. This prevents disappointments and I speak from daily experience. With the crowds of locals and tourists alike, be prepared for long queues, fully booked trains and overcrowded hotels. Japanese people tend to like to wait, which can cost valuable time. So use platforms like Booking.com to book your hotels in advance and see if you can reserve a table at popular restaurants you’ve seen on social media. Avoiding waiting times is really worth it!
Curious about my personal adventures in Japan? Read more here.
