I've heard that fall is also a lovely time of year for travel?? Would I really be better off waiting until spring? Thanks

Both times of the year that you mention are great for Japan travel. You can click on my screen name and read some of my trip reports done in the times you mention. Also do a search for other members trip reports to give you ideas

Aloha!

I went in spring, but think fall would be a great time to go. See

http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2014.html

I've been to Japan in both spring and fall and personally I prefer fall

I prefer fall as well. Cool and dry.

Fall is a great time! Cool, dry--really beautiful! In the arts world fall is known as "Aki no Geijutsu"--"Fall Arts". Nov. 3 is a nat'l holiday--Bunka no Hi (Culture Day)--the culmination of "Aki no Geijutsu." You'll find lots of special concerts, art exhibits, etc. of all kinds, if you're into that.

Fall is a great time go. Fall colors, Shichi-Go-San, Kyushu Bassho, Kagura at Takachiho-jinja, and good weather can be enjoyed in November.

I've been to Japan twice -- in November 2008 and November 2009. I'll echo everyone else: cool, dry (mostly -- I encountered a day or two of rain during the 2009 visit), and the autumn colors are magnificent -- especially the deep reds of the maples and rich yellows of the ginkgo trees. And the blue of the sky on a clear autumn day . . . wow. You aren't cheating yourself. In fact, you'll be treating yourself to images and experiences beyond expectations, most likely.

I'd like to visit during cherry blossom time one year, but those pretty flowers are fickle things indeed. Whereas the beautiful colors of fall hang on for much longer.