Country Guides to Japan

Four Seasons of Japan

Truly a land of contrasts, Japan's seasons are no different. Discover some of the highlights on offer throughout the year from the delights of the cherry blossom in spring to snow festivals in the winter.

Ask any Japanese person to tell you a few facts about their country and they will invariably mention the dramatic contrasts of their seasons.

There really is something very special about the changing of their four seasons, especially when you consider a wet British summer merging almost unnoticed into a grey and dreary autumn.

Japan is positively resplendent throughout the year, proudly showing off the distinct changes in each passing season like a peacock fanning its feathers. Although each season has its draws, it is spring and the ephemeral cherry blossom that brings visitors, both domestic and international, flooding to Japan every year.

The four seasons »

Discover the difference between Japan's seasons.

Cherry blossom history »

Learn about the history of the cherry blossom.

Interactive map »

Discover more of Japan's seasonal highlights.