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April: peak blossom and busy streets

April often brings peak cherry blossom to Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, and the streets are crowded. Learn how to plan around the crowds and still enjoy the flowers.

Updated Oct 10, 2026 · Seasons · TokyoRead the post
Seasons5 min readArashiyama in autumn: how to beat the crowdsArashiyama is busy in autumn, from October to December. Here is how to plan an early visit, pick a quieter path and check the leaf forecast before you go.Seasons5 min readAugust in Japan: heat, Obon and full trainsAugust is hot and busy. Learn how to plan around the heat, the Obon travel rush and full trains, and what to check before you leave.Seasons6 min readAutumn leaves: the timing, city by cityAutumn leaves change colour at different times in each place. Learn how to read the leaf forecast for Kyoto, Nikko and Tokyo and plan a trip with some room to spare.Practical5 min readBringing medicine into Japan: what to check firstSome medicines are restricted in Japan. Learn the steps to check your medicine, carry it safely and keep the papers you need for customs.Practical5 min readCash, cards or both: what to carry in JapanMany shops in Japan still prefer cash, and some take only cash. Learn when to carry yen, when a card works, and how to find a restaurant that takes cards.Practical5 min readEarthquake safety for visitorsJapan has earthquakes often. Learn how to get alerts, what to do during shaking, and how to plan a meeting point with your family before you go.Practical5 min readeSIM or pocket Wi-Fi: which suits your groupChoose between an eSIM and a pocket Wi-Fi for your group. Compare phone needs, shared data, charging and returns before you pay for any plan.Seasons5 min readGolden Week: plan around the holiday runGolden Week is a run of national holidays in late April and early May. Learn how it affects trains, hotels and opening hours, and how to plan around it.Seasons6 min readHokkaido in winter: snow, ski and coldHokkaido is snowy and cold from January to March. Learn how to plan snow days in Sapporo and Otaru, what to pack and what to check before you travel.Practical5 min readSuica or ICOCA: which IC card to get on arrivalAn IC card lets you tap onto trains, subways and buses. Learn how Suica and ICOCA differ, where to buy one, and how to avoid gate problems.Practical5 min readA break-even test for the JR PassMost first-time visitors need a clear test before they buy a Japan Rail Pass. Use this method to compare the pass with single tickets for your own route.Seasons5 min readJuly heat and fireworks: a hot-season planJuly is hot and humid in most of Japan, with festivals and fireworks at night. Learn how to plan the heat, the evening events and the crowded trains.