These Shoulder-season Months Are the Secret to Saving Money and Avoiding Crowds During Your Tokyo Trip

"Tokyo has always been a major tourist destination, particularly in late March through early April, when billowy cherry blossoms take center stage and temperate weather is the norm. During this time, you're sure to see a large influx of visitors eager to explore the city's budding parks, neon-lit alleyways, and quirky nightlife. With this rise in interest also comes higher hotel prices and crowds that require a bit of patience to navigate."

"Tokyo is renowned for its hotels that cater to both luxury and budget-minded travelers. During high season, however, these properties become increasingly harder to book, unless done well in advance. That's why shoulder season is ideal for more options, oftentimes with much lower prices at sought-after hotels, too. Take advantage by checking into the classic towering luxury retreat at Mandarin Oriental,"

"With fewer crowds during shoulder season, you'll have better access to some of the city's most coveted seats and sightseeing. Stroll Tsukiji market at your own pace, or take in panoramic views from the observation deck at Tokyo Skytree. In September and October, temperatures are generally still agreeable enough to explore Tokyo's incredible parks and shrines, including Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Meiji Jingu Shrine, and Ueno Park."

Shoulder seasons in Tokyo — late April through mid-June and mid-September through December — offer lower hotel prices, increased availability, and smaller crowds than peak cherry-blossom season. Travelers can secure rooms at popular luxury properties and boutique hotels with less advance planning, and often find discounted rates at sought-after addresses. Reduced crowds mean easier access to markets, observation decks, parks, and shrines, with pleasant temperatures in autumn for outdoor exploration. Popular sites such as Tsukiji Market, Tokyo Skytree, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Meiji Jingu Shrine, and Ueno Park are more enjoyable with fewer visitors.

Read at Travel + Leisure