written by
Olga Sitnitsa
updated 09.01.2026
The weather in Japan in March brings the first signs of spring. Plum and cherry blossoms start blooming in the south, and temperatures slowly rise across the country. It’s still chilly in the mornings, especially in the north, but conditions are comfortable for walking around temple yards, visiting Mount Fuji, or exploring smaller towns. Hina Matsuri is celebrated in early March, and seasonal foods like fresh greens and early strawberries start showing up. It’s a good time to move between cities and quieter countryside spots before peak blossom season hits.
Japan in March at a glance
The weather in Japan in March begins to get milder in some regions as winter gives way to spring. The month of March is an enchanting prelude to springtime, thanks to its crisp fresh air, natural beauty, and festive spirit.
- Northern regions like Hokkaido remain cold in March, between 30°F and 43°F (-1°C and 6°C), while in Tokyo averages go from 43°F to 55°F (6°C to 13°C). Southern Japan sees the warmest days, between 50°F and 61°F (10°C and 16°C).
- Japan’s early sakura blooms in Kyushu and Shikoku light up parks and yards in March. Traditional festivals like Hina Matsuri (Doll’s Festival) are another March highlight. Cities like Tokyo and Osaka grow in cultural vibrancy as tourist numbers increase.
- In general, accommodations still hold their off-peak costs throughout March, but you may come across inflated rates in places that draw increased visitor numbers to the sakura blooms.
Mount Fuji in Japan © Aeypix/Shutterstock
What is the weather like in Japan in March?
The weather in Japan in March marks the shift from winter to spring. You’ll start seeing plum and cherry blossoms in the south, while northern regions like Hokkaido still hold onto ski season. Rain falls across about 10 to 12 days this month, usually in light showers, and doesn’t tend to disrupt travel.
It’s shoulder season, so you’ll avoid the biggest crowds that show up in April but still catch seasonal events like Hina Matsuri and early hanami. Cities like Kyoto and Tokyo feel fresh and full of change, and countryside walks start to come alive with early blooms. For more advice, see our Japan travel tips.
Tips from Bruce
Japan
Travel Expert
Rural travel in Japan often takes longer than the map suggests. Even short distances in regions like Hakone, Nara’s countryside, or Hokkaido can involve slow local lines or multiple transfers. A well-planned route—or arranging private transport—can make a huge difference, especially for senior travelers.
Ready to see Japan? Have our local Japan travel experts create the perfect customized itinerary.
Nara, Japan @ Shutterstock
Average daily temperatures in March
March is the start of spring in Japan, though the shift is gradual and varies across the country. In Tokyo, expect daytime highs around 54°F (12°C) and nighttime lows near 41°F (5°C). Hokkaido stays colder with highs closer to 37°F (3°C), while southern Kyushu warms up to about 59°F (15°C).
Compared to winter, days are longer and more comfortable for being outdoors. Rain is occasional but rarely heavy. A light jacket is usually enough during the day, though evenings still call for something warmer. Sea temperatures hover around 57°F (14°C), which is cold for swimming. Late March is when cherry blossoms start blooming in the south, adding a seasonal highlight to the mild weather.
| Location | Daytime temperatures | Nighttime temperatures |
|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | 54°F (12°C) | 41°F (5°C) |
| Hokkaido | 37°F (3°C) | Below 32°F (0°C) |
| Southern Kyushu | 59°F (15°C) | Around 45°F (7°C) |
| Overall range | 37 to 59°F (3 to 15°C) | 32 to 45°F (0 to 7°C) |
If you're looking for inspiration for your next trip, see our Japan itineraries.
The Vine Bridges in Shikoku, Japan © Ming Yeung/Shutterstock
Is March a good time to visit Japan?
March is one of the best months to visit Japan for spring landscapes and seasonal traditions. The weather starts to shift from winter to spring, with comfortable days in places like Tokyo and Kyoto, though it's still cold up north. Plum blossoms bloom early in the month, followed by the first wave of cherry blossoms in the south.
That floral wave slowly spreads north through the country, and things get busier toward the end of March as full-blown sakura season kicks off. If you want quieter temple visits or yard walks, aim for the first half of the month. Local festivals like Hina Matsuri also add cultural depth to a spring trip.
- Comfortable sightseeing weather in most regions
- Early plum and cherry blossoms begin blooming
- Great for temples, yards, and parks
- Cultural events like Hina Matsuri
- Crowds increase later in the month
If you're ready to see this beautiful country in March, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Japan.
What about the crowds and cost in March?
March is a quieter time to visit Japan, as it’s less crowded than when the cherry blossom season is at its height in April, offering a more peaceful vacation in destinations like Nara and Kamakura. Skiers are still welcomed at the northern ski resorts, but there are fewer visitors, and the vibe is more relaxed.
Accommodations in regions famous for their early blossoms tend to charge more in March. However, off-peak rates are still adhered to by many establishments. If you're traveling on a budget and want to avoid the throngs of spring while still enjoying the season’s splendor, Japan in March is a fantastic time to visit. If you're planning a family trip, see our guide to Japan with kids.
Where to go in Japan in March
March is when Japan starts to wake up from winter. Plum blossoms bloom early, cherry trees follow soon after, and the weather feels just right for walking around outside. It's a great time to make your way to the best places to visit in Japan.
Kyoto
Kyoto in March feels calm but full of anticipation. Plum blossoms open in temple yards, and early cherry trees start blooming by the end of the month. It’s a good time to visit before the April crowds arrive. You can walk the Philosopher’s Path without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds, and temples like Kinkaku-ji and Fushimi Inari feel more peaceful. Gion gets festive with seasonal displays, and the weather makes it easy to spend full days on your feet. See our guide to how many days do you need in Kyoto.
Tokyo
Early blooming cherry trees start popping up in parks like Ueno and Shinjuku Gyoen. It’s a great time to explore Tokyo’s neighborhoods—one moment you’re in the quiet of a shrine, the next you’re in the middle of Shibuya Crossing. Department stores go all in on sakura-themed displays, and special spring events start rolling out. Crowds are thinner than in April, but the city still feels lively. If you visit in March, you get the fun of spring without the overwhelm. See our guide to how many days do you need in Tokyo.
Yoshino
Yoshino is known for its thousands of cherry trees, but March is still early. What you’ll get is the buildup. You can see the buds forming, the early bloomers coming out, and locals getting ready for hanami season. Trails lead through hillside temples and shrines, and even if it’s not peak bloom yet, the atmosphere is special. Late March visitors often get a glimpse of the season’s first wave, with fewer people on the paths.
Things to do in Japan in March
As winter melts into spring, Japan in March puts on a show for visitors with its plum and much-anticipated cherry blossoms. This creates exciting opportunities to explore the country’s natural beauty and participate in an abundance of outdoor activities. Here are some of the best things to do in Japan in March to get the most out of your trip.
Enjoy plum blossoms
While cherry blossoms steal the show in spring, plum blossoms often bloom earlier in Japan, painting parks and yards with delicate pink and white hues. Visit Kairakuen in Mito, one of Japan’s three great yards, for a stroll through its expansive plum grove. The fragrant flowers and peaceful surroundings provide a more tranquil alternative to the busier cherry blossom season.
Explore Nara
Japan in March is an ideal time to visit the historic city of Nara. The weather is mild enough for walking among Nara Park’s famous free-roaming deer and exploring Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha. Early spring flowers begin to bloom, adding color to the scenic grounds. The city’s quieter atmosphere compared to peak seasons allows for a more relaxed experience of its cultural treasures.
Cycle the Shimanami Kaido
March’s comfortable temperatures make it perfect for outdoor activities like cycling. The Shimanami Kaido, a 43.5-mile cycling route connecting Honshu and Shikoku via scenic bridges and some of the best islands in Japan, offers breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea. Along the way, riders can stop at small coastal towns, sample local seafood, and enjoy panoramic views of Japan’s inland waters.
Plan your trip with our Japan itineraries
Our Japan itineraries give you a clear structure without locking you into a rigid plan. They’re designed to help you move around efficiently while leaving space to explore at your own pace.
- 7 days in Japan itinerary: A week is ideal for a first taste of Japan. Focus on Tokyo and Kyoto, using fast trains to move between the two. You’ll get a good feel for modern city life, historic temples, and everyday Japanese culture without trying to do too much.
- 10 days in Japan itinerary: Ten days adds breathing room. Along with Tokyo and Kyoto, you can include a day trip to Hakone, Nara, or Nikko. This version suits travelers who want variety without changing hotels every night.
- 14 days in Japan itinerary: Two weeks allows for a deeper look. Add Osaka, Hiroshima, or the Japanese Alps, and spend more time in each place. It’s a good option if you want to balance major cities with quieter regional stops.
