Spring and autumn are the most popular seasons for motorcycle touring in Japan. In spring, riders enjoy cherry blossoms and fresh greenery, while in autumn, colorful foliage and crisp air make for perfect rides. With comfortable temperatures nationwide (15–25°C), these seasons are truly the best time to tour Japan.
This guide introduces the features of spring and autumn, recommended routes, regional highlights, and practical tips.
Quick seasonal guides:
Spring Touring (March–May)
Features
- The “sakura front” moves northward, making cherry blossom touring possible across Japan
- Fresh green mountain roads offer refreshing rides
- Nationwide riding is comfortable, suitable even for beginners
Recommended Routes
- Yoshino & Kumano Kodo (from Osaka / about 580 km / 3 days, 2 nights)
Explore the World Heritage Kumano Kodo and Yoshino, one of Japan’s most famous cherry blossom sites. - Nikko Toshogu Shrine & Lake Chuzenji (from Tokyo / about 400 km / 2 days, 1 night)
Enjoy a mix of culture and nature with the World Heritage Nikko Toshogu, Lake Chuzenji, and the winding Irohazaka road. - Shirakawa-go & Tateyama Alpine Road (from Nagoya / about 600 km / 3 days, 2 nights)
Visit the World Heritage gassho-style village and ride through the breathtaking Alpine mountain road.
Points to Note
- Pollen season (March–April): a mask is essential for allergy sufferers
- Golden Week holidays (late April–early May) bring heavy crowds at tourist sites, roads, and hotels
Autumn Touring (September–November)
Features
- Famous autumn foliage spots throughout Japan, especially along mountain routes
- Clear, crisp air allows for excellent long-distance views of mountains and coastlines
- Mornings and evenings can be chilly, so gear up accordingly
Recommended Routes
- Izu Peninsula: Mt. Fuji Views & Hot Springs (Tokyo Loop / about 450 km / 2 days, 1 night)
A classic route combining coastal rides with Mt. Fuji views and relaxing hot springs. - Fuji Five Lakes & Venus Line (from Tokyo / about 540 km / 2 days, 1 night)
Ride around Mt. Fuji’s lakes and enjoy the spectacular winding Venus Line in the Japanese Alps. - Shikoku Grand Scenic Touring (Osaka Loop / about 1,200 km / 5 days, 4 nights)
A long-distance tour through diverse landscapes including Shikoku Karst and the Shimanto River.
Points to Note
- September is typhoon season, so be flexible with your schedule
- Days get shorter (sunset before 5:00 pm in November), so plan to finish riding early
Regional Highlights (Spring & Autumn)
- Hokkaido: Best in May and September–October, with cherry blossoms and autumn foliage in its short peak season
- Tohoku: Cherry blossom avenues and autumn colors in areas like Bandai and Zao
- Kanto: Chichibu and Nikko in spring, Mt. Fuji and Okutama in autumn
- Chubu: Fresh alpine greenery in spring, Venus Line and Shirakawa-go in autumn
- Kansai: Yoshino’s cherry blossoms in spring, Hieizan and Kyoto’s foliage in autumn
- Chugoku & Shikoku: Seto Inland Sea in spring, Mt. Ishizuchi and Mt. Tsurugi Skyline in autumn
- Kyushu: Coastal rides in Miyazaki during spring, Aso’s grasslands and autumn foliage in fall
Gear & Packing Tips
- Spring: Windproof jacket, pollen mask if needed
- Autumn: Thermal inner layers, switch on headlights earlier in the evening
For a detailed list: Motorcycle Touring Packing Checklist
Summary
Spring and autumn are the best seasons for motorcycle touring in Japan. With cherry blossoms, fresh greenery, and autumn foliage, riders can enjoy the vibrant colors of the seasons while riding comfortably across the country.
However, as these are also peak travel seasons, advance accommodation booking and awareness of traffic congestion are essential for a smooth trip.