Japan’s diverse landscapes and unique climate make it an incredible destination for motorbike touring year-round. However, stretching over 3,000 kilometres from north to south, Japan’s conditions vary dramatically between regions, so the “best” season often depends on where you plan to ride. Here’s a breakdown of what each season offers for riders:
Spring (March – May)
Spring is one of the most popular times for motorbike touring in Japan, thanks to mild weather and the stunning cherry blossom season (typically late March/early April). Central and southern Japan—regions like Honshu and Kyushu—see comfortable riding temperatures (10–20°C) during this time. This is perfect for exploring winding mountain roads or coastal highways. Spring also tends to bring clear skies, making it ideal for scenic rides around Mount Fuji or along the Seto Inland Sea. However, note that northern areas like Hokkaido remain cold and snowy well into April, so riding there is best saved for later in the year. Also, roads like the Venus Line up in the mountains in Nagano remain closed until early May, and the Subaru Line up to the 5th Station on Mount Fuji also can be temporarily closed early in Spring due to snow.
Summer (June – August)
Summer is a mixed bag. The rainy season (June–early July) can bring heavy showers and slippery roads to much of Japan, but once it passes summer delivers warm, dry riding—especially in the mountains and in Hokkaido. Northern Japan thrives in summer, with lush green scenery, cool alpine air, and long daylight hours. Otherwise, central and southern Japan can be very hot and humid, making urban or lowland rides much less comfortable. If you plan to tour in July or August outside Hokkaido, we recommend you aim for higher-altitude routes in the Japanese Alps.
Autumn (September – November)
For many riders, autumn/fall is definitely the best season overall. The summer heat fades, typhoon season (roughly September) ends quickly, and the temperatures become perfect for touring. The changing leaves leave mountains ablaze in vivid reds, oranges, and yellows—particularly stunning in areas like Nikko, the Kiso Valley, and Kyushu’s Aso region. Providing generally stable weather and crisp air, autumn/fall offers fantastic riding conditions from Hokkaido down to Kyushu.
Winter (December – February)
While winter may seem off-limits, it can be okay for touring in southern regions. Kyushu and Okinawa enjoy generally mild(er) temperatures, making coastal rides and hot spring stops especially appealing. There will still be snow up on the mountain passes but it’s generally not enough to completely close roads. Most of central and northern Japan experiences snow and ice during winter, closing many mountain roads. Winter riding is best for experienced riders comfortable in cold conditions or those sticking to generally snow-free southern areas.
In short: Japan is rideable year-round if you pick the right region. Shogun Motorbike Adventures tours in Spring and autumn as they are the ideal nationwide seasons. However, summer belongs to Hokkaido and the mountains, and winter suits the south if you’re prepared.
