When to See Cherry Blossoms & Autumn Leaves in Japan

Two seasons draw visitors from around the world: cherry blossom (*sakura*) in spring and autumn leaves (*koyo*) in late autumn. Timing your trip well is the key.

Cherry blossoms (spring)

• In Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, blossoms typically appear from late March to early April.
• The season moves with the climate: it comes earlier in the warm south (Kyushu) and later in the north (Tohoku and Hokkaido, often late April into early May).
• Full bloom (*mankai*) usually lasts only about a week, and the exact dates shift every year with the weather.

Because timing varies annually, follow the cherry blossom forecasts published each year before you lock in dates.

Autumn leaves (koyo)

• In the lowland areas of Kyoto and Tokyo, peak colour is often from mid-November to early December.
• It arrives earlier in the mountains and the north, so higher elevations and Tohoku/Hokkaido turn first.
• As with sakura, the exact peak depends on the year's weather — check seasonal foliage forecasts.

Plan around the crowds

Both seasons are beautiful but busy. Popular spots and trains fill up, and accommodation is booked out early.

• Reserve hotels and long-distance trains well in advance.
• Visit famous gardens and temples early in the morning to beat the crowds.
• Have a flexible backup plan in case the peak shifts by a few days.

Get the timing roughly right, book ahead, and you will witness two of the most breathtaking sights Japan has to offer.