WHEN SHOULD I VISIT JAPAN?

Japan is the perfect year-round season, but when will you visit? Our staff share their favourite season to see Japan

WORDS BY EMMA CALLEY

FUYU (WINTER)

From December to February, fuyu turns much of Japan white. As the temperature drops, so do visitor numbers but for those prepared to brave the cold, winter really is a fantastic time to explore the country. Places like the Kenroku-en Gardens of Kanazawa are at their most breathtaking when covered in snow. Daylight hours are shorter, so it pays to rug up and get started early. If you’re not a morning person, don’t fret – some of the country’s most beautiful winter landscapes are best viewed once the sun has gone down. The UNESCO World Heritage listed village of Shirakawa-go (below) is illuminated every winter evening and seeing hundreds of traditional gasshostyle houses blanketed in snow is truly magical.

WHY VISIT NOW?

“Travelling during a less popular tourist season was a great experience. I journeyed in early December and was fortunate to catch glimpses of the remaining autumn foliage. The weather was nice – calm, sunny and little rain – creating a perfect environment for sightseeing. The tourist attractions were pleasantly uncrowded too, and the weather provided an ideal opportunity to visit onsens and hot springs. I recommend packing clothing that allows for easy layering. Despite it being winter you may still feel a bit warm while walking around. I also suggest discovering a cosy local bar and trying out some Japanese whiskeys, especially delightful on a winter evening!”

– Brianna Drummond, IV Product Quality Manager