Guest Article from Wendy Wu
The team at Wendy Wu discuss Japan and how it is a great destination whatever the season…
Japan For All Seasons
Japan is a unique and intriguing destination, a place of rich, timeless culture and age-old tradition fused with a modernity that’s fast paced and vibrant. This enchanting archipelago has so much to explore that deciding when to visit can be a tough call. Luckily, Japan is a country for all seasons, so you can simply base your decision on the time of year that suits you and your interests best…
Japan in the Spring
From March to May, spring in Japan is a time of optimism and new beginnings. As the weather starts to warm up (although there is still plenty of snow in Hokkaido), the locals like to get outside to enjoy the beauty of nature reawakening. This is the most popular time to visit Japan due to the cherry blossoms (Sakura) – celebrating the hazy pink blooms adds a buzz to the atmosphere – but there are flowers blooming everywhere that are equally as beautiful to behold, such as wisteria and moss phlox, while temples and gardens have meticulously curated collections of blooms to admire. There are also plenty of seasonal treats to enjoy, like Sakura flavoured drinks and foods, which help to get you into the spring spirit.
Japan in the Summer
The summer months, June to August, bring with them fireworks, centuries-old festivals and revelry galore, all a joy to behold. Hot and humid with a rainy season, called ‘Tsuyu’, from June to mid-July, it is now that the crowds of the spring disperse. Wherever you happen to be travelling you’re likely to stumble across a fascinating regional festival or custom, while in August there are colourful parades for Obon, the festival to honour the dead, a time when many locals will travel home to their families to celebrate. July brings the clear skies that allow Mt Fuji to open to climbers and is the perfect time to tour traditional gardens and explore the countryside, both lush and at their very best after the rains.
Japan in the Autumn
Rivalling the spring for the greatest show of natural beauty, the autumn months – September to November – are when temperatures start to cool down but things stay warm and sunny right into November. This is a time to be outside, especially in late October when the leaves begin their gradual change into a spectacular sea of red, yellows and browns, particularly breathtaking (and handily reachable from Tokyo) in the Japanese Alps. Unlike the cherry blossom the autumn colours are slightly more predictable in terms of timings, and they last longer giving more people the opportunity to enjoy them. Also, as it’s harvest season you can expect menus full of fresh produce as well as tasty treats like chestnuts, pumpkin soup and sweet persimmons.
Japan in the Winter
For those who don’t mind enduring the cold for something truly magical, the winter would be a fantastic time to explore Japan. The days are usually sunny, the popular sights are quiet, and the countryside is given a dazzling winter makeover thanks to the annual snowfall. Tuck into seasonal comfort foods like hot pots, broths, and ramen before heading straight for a soak in a snow-surrounded onsen. But onsens are not just for humans. In the Japanese Alps, a troop of adorable, fluffy snow monkeys also enjoy a soak in their very own hot springs and witnessing them is an endearing experience. At Buddhist temples, the new year is traditionally rung in by a bell tolling 108 times, representing the cleansing of worldly passions.
Japan with Wendy Wu Tours
Wendy Wu Tours is the UK’s number one tour operator to Japan offering fully inclusive escorted group tours from 8 to 21 days.
Japan Uncovered
18 days Fully Inclusive Touring from £6,990pp*
Our most extensive Japan tour includes all the classic sights and key cultural activities which make this destination so unique. Featuring modern cities, historical sights and beautiful landscapes, Japan Uncovered ensures you get the most out of your trip to this fascinating land.
Ofdf-Beat Japan
13 days Fully Inclusive Touring from £6,190pp*
Prepare to immerse yourself in the wacky and wonderful in this fascinating land. Get off the beaten track on our most culturally immersive Japan holiday and trek at the foot of Fuji, meet the Snow Monkeys of Yudanaka, take a rickshaw ride through a bamboo forest.
Japan By Rail
21 days fully inclusive touring from £9,190pp*
An all-encompassing journey through Japan, travelling mainly by bullet train and taking in the highlights of all three main islands: Kyushu, Honshu and Hokkaido. Experience ancient traditions and modern Japan’s unique charm.
Redeem your CSPA members exclusive 5% discount
Call Wendy Wu Tours’ booking hotline on 0808 250 3086 and use code CSPA5 to claim your 5% members discount.
The discount is over and above any other offer from Wendy Wu Tours, so presents a real benefit.
Terms and conditions
The discount code must be used at the time of booking and cannot be added retrospectively. Membership will need to be ratified to ensure membership criteria is met. The discount is applicable to direct bookings only with Wendy Wu Tours. Wendy Wu Tours reserve the right to withdraw the discount at any time and without prior notice.
*Prices are correct as at 1/7/2024 and subject to change and availability
