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The Best Season to Elope in Japan

Four seasons in Japan: cherry blossoms under a Torii gate, a stone lantern in early summer, vibrant red leaves, and snowy mountains.

A Seasonal Guide

At the time of writing, have just embarked on our busiest season here at Elope in Japan: autumn. It’s easily our favourite time of year. The heavy heat and humidity of summer have finally given way to cooler, more pleasant days, and the scenery is transforming from vibrant greens to soft yellows, rich oranges, and, by late November, deep reds. For photographers, it’s a dream season — filled with golden light, gentle air, and wonderful opportunities to create those beautifully soft, warm seasonal images couples love.


The Japanese are justifiably proud of their four seasons; a concept woven deeply into the nation’s culture, cuisine, and conversation. Yet, as I (Ross) often say, there are really six seasons: spring, rainy season, summer, typhoon season, autumn, and winter. And certain text will list seventy-two micro-seasons, each lasting just five days! However you count them, Japan offers something remarkable at every turn of the year: truly something for everyone.


Which season you choose for your elopement depends largely on personal preference — whether you’re drawn to the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms, the vibrant greens of early summer, or the fiery momiji leaves of autumn.


So, when couples ask us about the best time to elope in Japan, our honest answer is: each to their own! Every month has its own unique charm — and its own challenges. From the gentle pastels of spring to the quiet hush of winter shrines, Japan provides breathtaking backdrops all year round.


Below is a scannable breakdown of the seasons, month by month, highlighting not just the magic of each period, but also the practical pros and cons you’ll want to know before planning your elopement.


Spring: Cherry Blossoms and Fresh Beginnings


March–April

Few things are more iconically Japanese than cherry blossoms (sakura). Streets, gardens, and temple grounds burst into soft pink, creating memories couples cherish forever. The season symbolizes renewal and beauty, making it one of the most popular times to marry in Japan.

PROS

CONS

Romantic cherry blossom backdrops

Extremely busy - venues book years in advance

Mild weather, great for outdoor photos

Blossoms are short-lived and weather-dependent and increasingly difficult to predict.

Symbolism of renewal and new beginnings

Popular sites crowded with tourists and locals

A couple in wedding attire walks hand in hand under cherry blossoms in a garden. The bride smiles, and the groom wears a green suit.
Photo Date: 9th April - in the mountains near Kyoto.

Our Tip: If you are considering cherry blossom, prediciting the blooms is becoming increasingly difficult, so we recommend couples choose venues that will be beautiful regardless of the blooms. It is also a good idea to ask yourself how risk averse you are - how disappointed will you be if they are too early or too late.

May (Golden Week & Beyond)

The first week of May is Golden Week, a collection of national holidays when many people travel, making it one of the busiest times of year. While the weather is beautiful, venues and hotels are packed and prices jump. After Golden Week, however, it is glorious: warm, lush, and far less crowded. May is indeed one of the loveliest times to marry.

PROS

CONS

Warm and pleasant climate

🚫 Golden Week (early May) is crowded & costly

Lush greenery and early summer flowers

High demand for venues throughout the month

Longer daylight hours



Summer: Green Mountains and Coastal Breezes


June–July

Early summer in Japan begins with 梅雨 - tsuyu (rainy season). However, don’t let that deter you, as gentle rain brings fresh greenery and blooming hydrangeas, making gardens and temples come alive. By mid-July, humidity rises, and cities like Tokyo and Kyoto can feel quite warm.


A bride and groom kiss near a pond in a lush garden. She's in a white gown; he's in a light suit. Sunshine filters through green trees.
Photo Date: 5th June, Kyoto

Our Tip: If you are worried about the chance of rain, choose a venue with ample rain cover.

PROS

CONS

Vibrant greenery and soft, diffused light

Frequent rain showers (especially June)

🌧 Hydrangea season, beautiful in temple gardens

Rising heat and humidity in July

Lower tourist numbers compared to spring/autumn

Unpredictable weather can complicate photo plans


August (Not Available)

August is Japan’s hottest and most humid month, with temperatures, recently, topping 40°C (104°F) with 80% + humidity. Combined with peak tourist crowds and high accommodation costs, it is not an ideal month for weddings.


At Serendipity Flower & Wedding, we also take health and safety very seriously. Due to the extreme heat and potential negative implications for couples, guests, vendors and ourselves, we do not accept inquiries for August elopements.


September

September marks the slow shift from summer into autumn. The temperatures begin to cool — though early in the month it can still feel warm and humid, especially in southern and central Japan. While typhoons occasionally pass through, the second half of September often rewards couples with beautiful clear skies and quieter venues.

PROS

CONS

Gradually cooler and more comfortable weather

Occasional typhoons and heavy rain early in the month

Lush greenery with hints of autumn tones

Warm, lingering humidity in some regions

Fewer crowds after summer holidays


A couple stands on a veranda of a traditional wooden house, surrounded by lush greenery in a serene garden setting, exuding tranquility.
Photo Date: 2nd September, Tokyo

Our tip: If you’re considering September, aim for the latter half of the month: it’s a wonderful transitional period that can deliver both summer vibrancy and the first whispers of autumn.



Autumn: Momiji and Clear Skies


October

October signals the start of cooler air and comfortable days. The leaves are still predominantly green, but with a hint of change starting the subtle transition from summer’s greens to soft golds and oranges, which will truly take place from mid-November onwards.

PROS

CONS

Comfortable temperatures

Autumn colors not fully developed yet (except in early mountain regions)

Clear, stable weather


Lower crowds compared to peak autumn


A person in a floral kimono stands in a tranquil Japanese garden, surrounded by lush green trees and a wooden torii gate.
Photo-Date: 10th October, Tokyo

November

By mid-November, Japan’s maples and ginkgo trees blaze with color. Known as momiji, this season rivals cherry blossoms in beauty. Many couples consider November the best season to elope in Japan.

PROS

CONS

Stunning autumn foliage at temples and gardens

High demand — venues and photographers book out quickly

Costs slightly higher in peak weeks

Mild, pleasant weather


Exceptional photography conditions


A couple in traditional attire stands by a pond in a Japanese garden with vibrant red and orange leaves, evoking a serene autumn mood.
Photo Date: 29th November, Kyoto

December (early)

The first half of December can still offer late autumn leaves and quieter venues. By mid-December, though, shrines and temples begin New Year preparations and stop hosting weddings.

PROS

CONS

Chance to catch the tail end of autumn colors

Limited venue availability from mid-December onward

Smaller crowds after November rush

Temperatures starting to drop

Bride and groom kiss on a stone path, surrounded by vibrant autumn trees. A stone lantern enhances the romantic garden setting.
Photo Date: 4th December, in the Mountains near Kyoto

Winter: Snowy Shrines and Quiet Romance


January

Late December through early January is New Year, Japan’s most important holiday. It is as important to the Japanese as Christmas is in the west. Becasue of this, shrines will not host weddings, and during the New Year break - from around the 29th December to the 3rd of January - many secular venues are closed. From mid-January onward, winter weddings become possible again.

PROS

CONS

Serene, snow-dusted shrines in certain regions

🚫 Shrines closed over New Year period

Far fewer tourists and quieter venues

Cold temperatures, especially in northern regions

Snowy backdrops in Nagano, Hokkaido, or the Japanese Alps



February

Still cold, but tranquil. Powder snow makes northern Japan a magical setting.

PROS

CONS

Ski towns and mountains offer unique photo settings

Cold temperatures (especially outdoors)

Clear, crisp winter light

Possible travel disruptions in heavy snow regions

Intimate atmosphere, very few crowds


Two people in traditional attire kiss on a stone bridge in a serene garden, surrounded by trees and rocks, under soft sunlight.
Photo Date: 14th February 2023, Tokyo

So, Which Is the Best Season to Elope in Japan?


As stated in the opening section of this post, the answer depends on your priorities:


🌸 March–April: Iconic cherry blossoms, but crowded and competitive

🌿 May–June: Greenery and mild weather, but avoid Golden Week

🏞 July–August: Challenging in cities, better in mountains/coast (we don't work in August)

💨 September: Still hot and humid with chance of typhoons

🍁 October–November: Comfortable weather, brilliant autumn foliage

❄️ December–February: Quiet shrines and snowy romance, off-peak charm


If you’re looking for the perfect balance of beauty, comfort, and atmosphere, most couples find spring (late March through to the end of May) or autumn (October through to early December) the best time to elope in Japan. But for privacy seekers, winter has its own magic.


Final Thoughts

Whichever month you choose, your elopement will be enriched by the landscapes, traditions, and rhythms of the year. By weighing the pros and cons of each season, you can find the moment that best reflects who you are as a couple.


Ready to discover your best season? Contact us at Elope in Japan and we’ll help you craft your perfect elopement, whatever the month.

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