The best time to visit Japan and where to avoid the crowds

It is no secret that Japan has become one of the world's most popular tourist destinations – among Aussies in particular.However, as more travellers begin to discover Japan, iconic spots like Kyoto's temples and Tokyo's shopping districts are becoming increasingly overcrowded and challenging to navigate.Just this month, Mount Fuji has started charging a visitor fee to help curb tourism numbers. So it's no surprise plenty of travellers are seeking alternatives to the crowded hotspots.READ MORE: Locations you can visit from your favourite TV shows or moviesBest time to travel to JapanIf it's nice weather and cherry blossoms you want, then the best time to travel to Japan is between March and May and between September and November as it's both warm and dry between these periods. However, visiting in at this time also means you'll be sharing the space with plenty of other travellers. If you're looking to avoid the crowds, plan your visit during the rainy season, which typically begins in June and lasts until mid-July.You'll also save some money if you decide to travel during the off-season, which would fall between mid-January and March.READ MORE: Top five mountains to visit in Japan, beyond the iconic Mount FujiWhere to go to avoid crowds in JapanWhether it's fighting through the crowds at Arashiyama Bamboo Forest or lining up for hours for the perfect shot of Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, Japan's increasing popularity has made it harder to find peaceful moments during your holiday. To slow down and embrace Japan's more relaxing side, travellers should consider veering off the beaten path.Only an hour from Tokyo, the Shizuoka Prefecture is the perfect place for your next slow vacation, taking in some of the best that Japan has to offer - without the tourists.Shizuoka City, Central RegionAs the capital of the Shizuoka Prefecture, Shizuoka City is ideal for experiencing Japan's history. Begin with a trip to the famous Nihondaira Yume Terrace, an architectural marvel offering panoramic views of Mt. Fuji, Shimizu Port, and the Southern Alps. Nearby lies Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, a national treasure enshrining Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. The shrine showcases exquisite craftsmanship and fascinating artefacts. Nature lovers will find solace in Miho no Matsubara, a tranquil pine forest framed by the ocean and Mt. Fuji. A great alternative to the busy Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, this peaceful location is the perfect spot for a quiet moment or picnic surrounded by nature. READ MORE: Regional NSW comes out on top of Aussies' favourite places to take a holidayFujinomiya, Fuji RegionThe small city of Fujinomiya lies in the shadow of Mount Fuji, offering a great alternative to the busier Fuji Five Lakes region. Several walking and cycling tours will guide you throughout the historic city and even tours that take you to Fujinomiya's hiking trail to the summit of Mount Fuji. The Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre educates visitors about the iconic mountain's history through interactive exhibits. For the perfect shot of Mount Fuji, head to the observation deck on the top floor for spectacular, uninterrupted shots without the crowds. To explore Mount Fuji's history further, visit the sacred Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine, an ancient site protecting locals from volcanic eruptions for thousands of years and an important spiritual site in the Fuji region.Shimoda, Izu RegionShimoda, nestled at the tip of the scenic Izu Peninsula, beckons travellers with its natural wonders. Take a stroll on the historical Perry Road or ascend Mount Nesugata via the Shimoda Ropeway for panoramic vistas over the port and the distant Izu islands, with early blooming cherry blossom trees in the parklands below. The port town is just 30 minutes from the stunning Seven Waterfalls in Kawazu. The one-hour downhill hike through the peaceful Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park allows you to visit all seven waterfalls, starting at Kamadaru and ending at the largest, Odaru.