When is the best time to hike the Nakasendo Trail?
Japan's Nakasendo Trail can be walked year-round, but many prefer to time their hike for the Spring and Autumn for its mild weather and for a chance to see the Sakura (cherry blossom) or vibrant Autumn foliage. If you want to travel during this time, it is wise to book well in advance to secure the best dates and room options along the trail. The best time to hike the Nakasendo Way really depends though on your preferred walking conditions and your broader plans for your time in Japan. Here is a detailed explanation of the weather on the Nakasendo in each month of the year, and some things to consider when deciding when to hike the Nakasendo.
Weather on the Nakasendo Trail in late March, April and May (Spring)
Many consider the best months to walk the Nakasendo to be late March-early June and late September-November. In April you will have the chance to see the cherry blossoms. In May the weather is a bit warmer and the Kiso Valley forest bright green. You can also walk in March; however, it can be a bit cooler, so the second half of the month is preferred by those who like the warmer climes.
Weather on the Nakasendo Trail in September, October and November (Autumn)
Autumn is another great time to hike the Nakasendo, with October and November offering peak conditions with low rainfall at this time of year. For those keen to see the vibrant red foliage of Autumn, time your visit for late October or early November. September is a shoulder month as it has a slightly higher chance of rain, with occasional typhoons passing some regions of Japan during early September.
Weather on the Nakasendo Trail in June, July and August (Summer)
In some parts of Japan, the Summer months of July and August can be very humid and quite warm. This is the wet season in Japan so there is more chance of rain. The Nakasendo Trail through the Kiso Valley does not get as much rainfall as other parts of Japan, so it is still possible to have an enjoyable Nakasendo walk in Summer. This may depend on your preference for cool or warm weather when you hike. One benefit of doing the Nakasendo in Summer is less crowds and it allows you to tick off Japan's Alps in the same trip.
Weather on the Nakasendo Trail in Dec, January and February (Winter)
It is possible to hike the Nakasendo in the Winter months from December to early March, but light snowfall can make conditions slippery at times. Crampons or at least good non-slip hiking boots may be needed in Jan and February in particular, when snow is most likely. If you plan to walk in Winter, good gear is essential. One benefit of a private Nakasendo walk is the ability to modify some days of your walk to suit the conditions and your preferences, making a winter Nakasendo hike a viable option. You'll love returning to a warm Onsen and glass of wine if you're hiking at this time of year.
Some considerations for when to hike the Nakasendo
- Nakasendo and the Alps - If you are planning to visit other parts of Japan pre or post your Nakasendo Walk, this can be important consideration in determining the best time to do your Nakasendo hike. If you want to hike in Japan's Northern Alps, the season is from late April to early November, and some hikes are only possible from June to September due to snow on the ground outside this time. Mount Fuji also experiences the best hiking and visibility during this period. Given this, we often recommend June or September as the optimal time to hike the Nakasendo in conjunction with a visit to Kamikochi and Mount Hotaka and/or Mount Fuji.
- Nakasendo and Kumano Kodo - If you plan to combine your Nakasendo hike with a walk on the Kumano Kodo trails of the Kii Pensinula, we recommend mid-March to late November, but would aim to avoid July and August if given the choice as the Kii Peninsula is impacted by the Summer wet more than the Kiso Valley.
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