By ashley nash baltazar
Japan is a land of ancient temples, bustling cities and natural beauty causing tourists to book trips in droves.
Before the pandemic, Japan saw 30 million visitors every year, peaking in 2024. The yen has been down for almost three months against the US dollar. As travel to the Asian destination increases, here are tips for the budget-conscious tourist.
According to data from Expedia, spring and summer are the most expensive times to travel to Japan. The cherry blossom viewing season peaks in April, but takes from March through May.
Witnessing the beauty of the cherry blossoms is a must-do, but comes at a premium. This translates to higher prices on flights and accommodation during this time. If saving money is your goal, this is a time to avoid or book well in advance.
Summer in Japan coincides with school holidays and popular festivals like Tanabata and Obon in July and August. Demand peaks and airfares soar.
Securing affordable tickets or accommodations can be challenging during this time as well. As with many travel destinations, the cheapest time to fly to Japan is during its shoulder season.
Shoulder season in Japan runs again from September to November. You’ll enjoy perfectly pleasant weather with fewer crowds and relaxed room rates.
This period strikes a balance between enjoyable travel experiences and lower airfare costs, making it a cost-effective choice.
While some shy away from the cold, winter offers the chance to attend Japan’s snowy seasonal festivals. Airfares and accommodations are often more affordable during this quieter travel period.
Keep in mind, however, that travel can pick up during the New Year holidays (Dec. 29 to Jan. 3). Otherwise, winter and the earliest parts of spring are great for inexpensive airfare.
Be flexible with your travel dates and use flight comparison websites. Japan Airlines (JAL) and All Nippon Airways (ANA) are known to have lower fares. You can also sign up for email alerts from airlines and travel websites.