March marks Japan’s transition from winter to spring, and this seasonal shift is particularly noticeable in Tokyo. While the northern regions remain cold, Tokyo begins to warm up, offering clearer air, longer daylight hours, and pleasant conditions for exploring the city on foot.
Tokyo is often the first stop for travellers arriving in the country. With its blend of traditional temples, modern neighbourhoods, shopping districts, and diverse dining options, it is an ideal starting point for both first-time visitors and those returning. March adds to this appeal, offering fewer crowds than in the spring peak and the first signs of cherry blossom appearing across the city.
By late March in Tokyo, the early-flowering sakura and the approach of full bloom bring a fresh sense of spring to the city. This guide focuses on the weather in Tokyo in March and how it affects your daily sightseeing pace, outdoor plans, and overall travel experience, helping you to make the most of your time in the city.
Table of Contents
Tokyo Weather in March 2026: Local Weather Overview
Best Time of Day to Explore Tokyo in March 2026
Things to Do in Tokyo in March 2026
What to Pack & Wear in Tokyo in March 2026?
FAQ about Tokyo Weather in March 2026
1. Tokyo Weather in March 2026: Local Weather Overview
As the city emerges from winter, Tokyo experiences a noticeable warming trend in March. March is a great time to explore Tokyo's urban areas and parks. The weather is often sunny, with occasional light rain and showers for about 8 to 10 days.
1) Average Temperature and Seasonal Feel
Average temperatures usually range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Mornings and evenings are cool, with dry and crisp air. Daytime temperatures are often mild, especially on sunny days.
Compared to northern Japan, where snow and freezing temperatures often persist, Tokyo generally feels much more like spring in March. However, visitors should be aware that the city is in a transitional phase between winter and spring, and that occasional cold snaps or even light snowfall can still occur in early March.
At the same time, however, it is cooler and less humid than southern regions such as Kyushu and Okinawa, which are already well into spring. This puts Tokyo in an ideal position for walking, outdoor sightseeing, and flexible daily schedules.
However, the weather can change quickly, with chilly mornings, warmer afternoons, and the occasional light shower. Rather than extremes, March in Tokyo is characterised by gradual change.
2) Sunrise, Sunset, and Daylight Hours
Throughout March, daylight gradually increases in Tokyo, making the days feel longer and less rushed.
Early March:
Late March:
Visitors can therefore expect nearly 12 hours of daylight, allowing for more flexibility in sightseeing, outdoor walks, and evening activities.
3) Is March a Good Time of Year for Outdoor Travel and Day Trips to Mt. Fuji?
Absolutely! March is an ideal time for sightseeing at Mt. Fuji, when the thick snow-capped summit makes the mountain appear larger and more dramatic than in summer. This striking scenery is one of the highlights of visiting in early spring, when the weather is good, it is ideal for outdoor travel.
Based on historical weather data for Mount Fuji in March, the month typically features around 13 to 15 clear days. Throughout the month, there is a 50% chance of seeing a clear, full view of Mount Fuji on sunny days. Particularly in early March, the dry conditions carried over from winter result in high air transparency, further increasing the likelihood of seeing the entire mountain. Visibility is highest in the morning (before 8:00 AM) compared to the afternoon.
Check out the tour packages below to learn about visiting Mt. Fuji and the surrounding area. You can also contact our travel specialist for assistance with planning, which can make a real difference.
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4) Practical Travel Tips for March in Tokyo 2026
Dress in layers: Tokyo weather in March is known for its temperature swings. While a light jumper or knit top is ideal during the day, a thicker coat or windproof jacket is often necessary in the mornings and evenings. This layered approach allows you to adjust comfortably throughout the day.
If you find yourself underprepared, there are plenty of well-known clothing retailers such as UNIQLO and GU in Tokyo, offering affordable basics from inner layers to outerwear. This makes it simple to pick up any essential items you may need.
Prepare for pollen season: March is the peak pollen season in Japan. Travelers with allergies should bring masks or consider purchasing allergy medications and sprays, which are widely available at Tokyo drugstores. *If your UME Travel trip to Japan includes a private car service with a guide, you can ask them about the types and details of medications available to buy.
Track cherry blossom timing: Cherry blossom dates vary each year. Downloading the "sakura Navi" app can help you monitor bloom progress in real time and adjust your plans accordingly, especially if you are visiting Tokyo in the second half of March.
2. Best Time of Day to Explore Tokyo in March 2026
The weather in Tokyo in March is often cool in the mornings and evenings, and mild in the afternoons, so it is important to plan your day accordingly. Knowing when the city is at its most comfortable helps you to balance outdoor sightseeing with indoor breaks. Below, we highlight the best ways to explore Tokyo throughout the day during a visit in March.
The early morning hours (6:00–9:00 a.m)
The early morning hours in March are ideal for experiencing Tokyo in peace. However, it is also a part of the cold time of day. Under typical March weather conditions in Tokyo, temperatures can feel noticeably chilly, especially before sunrise. If you plan to head out early, a warm outer layer, scarf, or windproof jacket is strongly recommended.
However, the cool, crisp air and minimal crowds make this the best time to visit temples and shrines, such as Sensoji and Meiji Shrine. The morning light is soft, the atmosphere is calm, and popular spots feel more local and unhurried.
March weather in Tokyo also makes mornings ideal for visiting markets, such as the outer market of Tsukiji, where you can start your day with a hot bowl of soup, grilled seafood, or freshly made sushi, which is both comforting and energizing in the early chill.
The late morning to early afternoon period (9:00 AM–2:00 PM)
These hours are the most comfortable time of day under typical March weather conditions in Tokyo. As temperatures rise, the city comes alive without becoming overwhelming. This is the best time for walking tours, museum visits, and exploring the neighbourhood. Light layers are usually sufficient, but it is still advisable to carry a jacket, particularly if you intend to move frequently between indoor and outdoor spaces.
The mid to late afternoon (2:00–5:30 pm)
This period is a great time to enjoy the outdoors, particularly on sunny days. During this period, Tokyo's weather in March is often mild and pleasant, making it ideal for visiting parks, going on riverside walks, and viewing the early cherry blossoms towards the end of the month. Although direct sunlight can feel warm, shaded areas and breezes may still be cool, so it is useful to have a light outer layer.
The early evening (5:30–7:00 pm)
The early evening marks the transition as temperatures begin to drop again. With the sun setting around 6:00 pm in late March, this is an ideal time to enjoy observation decks, skyline views, and seasonal scenery. It is essential to dress in layers, especially if you plan to stay outdoors to watch the sunset or enjoy the nighttime views.
After 7:00 PM
When the night falls, Tokyo city feels distinctly cooler, even on clear days. Under typical Tokyo weather in March, evenings are best enjoyed at a slower pace. This is when food alleys, casual izakayas, and indoor attractions feel most inviting. When available, night-time cherry blossom illuminations are especially atmospheric, but a warm jacket is strongly recommended for extended outdoor walks.
3. Things to Do in Tokyo in March 2026
1) Immerse in the Cherry Blossom Season in Tokyo
Thanks to mild temperatures and longer daylight hours, Tokyo's weather in March creates ideal conditions for viewing cherry blossoms. The cool air, clear spring light, and comfortable walking weather allow you to enjoy sightseeing outdoors at a relaxed pace, especially when the sakura begin to bloom from mid- to late March.
Related reading: Cherry blossom in Tokyo
Cherry Blossom Forecast in Tokyo for March 2026
Based on historical patterns and recent climate trends, and the latest forecast released on February 5, 2026, by the Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC), cherry blossoms in Tokyo are currently expected to begin opening around March 20, 2026, with full bloom forecast around March 28, 2026.
Under normal Tokyo weather in March, peak bloom generally occurs about seven to ten days after the initial opening. This places the peak viewing window from late March to early April.
For travelers visiting Tokyo in March 2026, the last third of the month offers the best chance of seeing cherry blossoms in the city, especially if plans are flexible and daily Tokyo weather conditions in March are monitored in real time.
Source: Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC), Sakura Forecast 2026 – Second Release
Tokyo's cityscape of iconic cherry blossom locations:
Ueno Park
Ueno Park is one of Tokyo's most famous cherry blossom spots. Lined with hundreds of sakura trees, it creates a lively spring atmosphere. As Tokyo weather in March gradually warms, the park fills with early blooms and seasonal energy, making it the perfect place to experience Tokyo's hanami culture alongside its museums and wide open spaces.
Shinjuku Gyoen
With its spacious grounds and beautiful landscaping, Shinjuku Gyoen is ideal for a more relaxed cherry blossom experience. With multiple varieties that bloom at slightly different times, it is especially well-suited to visits in March. The calm setting, combined with the comfortable weather in Tokyo in March, makes it perfect for slow walks and photography.
Chidorigafuchi
Located alongside the moat of the Imperial Palace, Chidorigafuchi is famous for its elegant cherry blossom tunnel. Pale pink petals arch over the water, rippling softly in their reflection below. As the afternoon turns into early evening, a gentle light washes over the trees, deepening their colors and creating a calm, almost cinematic atmosphere.
Seasonal boat rides allow visitors to drift beneath the cherry blossoms, providing one of the most iconic and memorable experiences made possible by Tokyo's mild weather in March.
Recommended route:
A well-planned one-day cherry blossom itinerary would typically start at Shinjuku Gyoen in the morning, when the park is quiet and the light is gentle.
Then head to Ueno Park around midday to experience the lively hanami atmosphere.
It would conclude at Chidorigafuchi in the late afternoon or early evening. This timing would coincide perfectly with the sunset and evening illuminations.
Instead of offering single-day tours, UME Travel designs multi-destination journeys across Japan. Cherry blossom viewing in Tokyo is just one of the highlights of a broader spring itinerary. These routes are planned around Tokyo's weather in March and often continue to Mount Fuji, Kyoto, Osaka, and other regions, creating a smooth and well-paced seasonal journey.
Each tailor-made itinerary includes private car travel with a professional guide for cherry blossom visits in Tokyo, allowing for flexible timing as weather and bloom conditions change. Accommodation, breakfast, attraction tickets, domestic transport, and Shinkansen tickets between cities are all arranged in advance, so you can enjoy Japan’s spring scenery without worrying about logistics.
Contact our travel specialists to design a fully customised Japan itinerary. Make Tokyo’s cherry blossoms one of the highlights of your well-planned multi-city journey.
2) Classic Tokyo Sightseeing in Comfortable Spring Weather
As winter comes to an end in March, Tokyo becomes an especially inviting destination for families and older travelers. The early spring temperatures under typical March weather conditions create an ideal setting for strolling through some of the city’s most popular neighborhoods, such as Asakusa’s historic streets, Harajuku’s vibrant shopping districts, and Ueno’s cultural area and parks. The crisp air and comfortable urban pace make these areas perfect for relaxed exploration, with plenty of opportunities to pause, rest, and take in the surroundings.
The mild weather in March also allows travelers to easily combine outdoor walks with visits to Tokyo’s top museums, art galleries, and indoor attractions, many of which are concentrated around Ueno and the central districts. Their warm, quiet interiors provide welcome breaks while offering rich cultural experiences.
3) Mt. Fuji Day Trips in March – What to Expect
A. Kawaguchiko (Lake Kawaguchi): Classic views of Mt. Fuji and lakeside scenery.
Lake Kawaguchi is one of the most popular spots for viewing Mt. Fuji up close. In March, its snow-capped peak stands out especially well against the calm lakeside scenery, providing excellent photo opportunities on clear days.
A typical day trip from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko follows a relaxed, scenic rhythm. Travelers usually arrive in the late morning when the light is best for viewing Mt. Fuji across the lake. The route often begins with a stroll through Oishi Park, followed by visits to panoramic viewpoints or a ride on the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway for elevated views. After enjoying lunch at a lakeside restaurant or café, travelers have the afternoon free for gentle walks along the shore, museum visits, or viewing seasonal flowers before returning to Tokyo in the early evening. This pace works well in March, as it balances outdoor scenery with indoor breaks.
B. Hakone: Scenic Transportation, Hot Springs, and Volcanic Landscapes
Hakone offers a more varied sightseeing experience, combining views of Mt. Fuji with volcanic landscapes and cultural attractions. On clear days in March, Mt. Fuji can often be seen from Lake Ashi, which adds to the area's appeal.
A Hakone day trip is usually organized as a scenic loop. The day usually begins with an arrival in Hakone by late morning, followed by a cruise on Lake Ashi to enjoy the open views and fresh spring air. Next, travelers continue to Owakudani, where volcanic steam and dramatic terrain provide a striking contrast to the snow-capped mountain in the distance. After lunch, the afternoon may include museums, traditional streets, or an onsen area for relaxation before returning to Tokyo. March's mild weather makes this multi-stop route enjoyable and relaxed.
4) Festivals and Seasonal Events in Tokyo (March 2026)
March also sees the arrival of seasonal traditions and local events in Tokyo. Early in the month, the Doll Festival (Hinamatsuri) showcases traditional culture through decorative displays and temporary exhibitions. As the month progresses, parks and riverbanks prepare for cherry blossom festivals, gradually appearing with food stalls and evening lights. These events reflect the city’s transition into spring, adding cultural depth to a visit in March.
How many days should you spend in Tokyo in March?
Most travellers find that three to five days is ideal. This allows enough time to enjoy the city's highlights, seasonal scenery, and a possible day trip, all while maintaining a relaxed pace. The favourable weather in Tokyo in March means that itineraries can remain flexible, making it easy to adjust plans around blossom timing or opportunities for clear weather.
Recommended Routes to Travel in Tokyo in March 2026
The cherry blossom that is set to bloom in Tokyo at the end of March is undoubtedly a spectacular sight that visitors won't want to miss. We highly recommend combining a personal city tour with this spectacular natural event!
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Plan Your Tokyo March Trip with UME Travel
March offers comfortable weather in Tokyo, but the timing of the cherry blossom and changing conditions can make planning tricky. UME Travel simplifies the experience by offering fully customisable private tours designed around the season and your travel preferences.
We can take care of every aspect of your March trip to Japan, including private transport with a personal guide, carefully selected hotels with breakfast, and flexible daily routes. If you want to enjoy the early cherry blossoms or plan a visit to see Mt. Fuji on a clear day, UME Travel will tailor your itinerary around these experiences.
Useful travel resources
Start planning your custom Tokyo journey today.
Contact UME Travel to design a personalised Japan trip that's perfectly matched to your needs in March.
4. What to Pack & Wear in Tokyo in March 2026?
This is the month when the city wakes up from its winter slumber, but the weather can be unpredictable. One minute you're basking in the soft spring sunshine; the next, a crisp breeze reminds you that winter isn't quite over yet.
The secret to staying cosy without compromising on style is smart layering. Here are the six must-pack items to help you stay comfortable in Tokyo's March weather:
A classic trench coat or wool coat: your outer layer is your best friend. A stylish trench coat is perfect for mild afternoons, while a wool coat provides extra insulation for colder days.
A lightweight down jacket or vest: think 'packable'. These are ideal for layering under your coat on cold mornings and can easily be tucked into your day bag when it gets warmer.
Thermal base layers (Heattech): A total game-changer! These thin, moisture-wicking tops will keep you warm without adding bulk under your clothes.
Versatile hoodies or sweatshirts: The ultimate "on-the-go" layer. Pair them with jeans for a casual, trendy look that perfectly suits Tokyo’s streetwear scene.
Comfy flat walking shoes: You'll be hitting some serious step counts! Make sure your shoes are broken in and ready for miles of urban exploration.
A scarf or shawl: This is your 'secret weapon' for sudden temperature drops and adds an instant pop of personality to any outfit.
Tips for Chasing Cherry Blossoms: How to Choose the Perfect Coat Color
If you're visiting in late March, you're probably hoping to experience the legendary cherry blossom season. Although the weather in Tokyo in March can be unpredictable, when the city is awash with soft, pale pink blossom, you'll want to capture the magical scenery in your photos!
To really stand out against the blossoms, go for a "light and airy" look. While New Yorkers love black, Tokyo in spring is all about creams, beiges, and soft pastels.
The gold standard for cherry blossom photos is a beige or sand-coloured trench coat, as it creates a dreamy, cohesive aesthetic with the flowers.
If you want to stand out, try soft mint green or dusty cornflower blue: these cool tones create a stunning contrast with the warm pink petals.
Pro tip: avoid heavy blacks or dark charcoals if you can – switching to a lighter palette will make your 'main character' moment under the cherry trees truly unforgettable!
5. FAQ about Tokyo Weather in March 2026
Q1: Since it’s chilly outside, should I wear my thickest thermal "extra-warm" Heattech?
A: Actually, we recommend sticking to "Regular" or "Light" thermals. Tokyo’s subways and department stores crank up the heat in March. If you wear heavy-duty thermals, you might find yourself overheating and sweating indoors. Thin layers that you can easily "peel off" are much more practical.
Q2 Is the "Pollen Season" (Hay Fever) really that bad in March?
A: Yes, it is the peak season for Cedar pollen (Sugi). Even if you don't usually have allergies, the high pollen count in Tokyo can cause itchy eyes or a runny nose.
Pro tip: Pack some antihistamines, and consider wearing a mask and glasses when outdoors—it’s a very common look in Tokyo this time of year!
Q3: What’s the one "secret" item I should pack for late March?
A: Hand warmers (Kairo)! While you can buy them at any 7-Eleven in Japan, having a few ready for your first night of "Yozakura" (night cherry blossom viewing) is a lifesaver. When the sun goes down, the temperature drops fast, and holding a warm Kairo in your coat pocket makes all the difference while you’re snapping photos.
Q4: Is Tokyo’s air dry or humid in March?
A: It is surprisingly dry. March falls at the tail end of Japan’s dry winter season. With the humidity often dropping, you may notice your skin or lips feeling chapped, especially with indoor heating.
Pro tip: In addition to your layers, pack a high-quality moisturizer and lip balm for extra protection. You’ll also find "humidity masks" in Japanese drugstores—they’re a local favorite for staying comfortable during the dry spring days.
Q5: Is Tokyo senior-friendly for elder travelers?
Yes, Tokyo is widely regarded as one of the most senior-friendly cities in Asia. Its public transportation systems, including trains and subways, are equipped with elevators, escalators, and priority seating. They also have clear signage. Sidewalks, stations, and major attractions are generally well-maintained and easy to navigate. Many museums, parks, and cultural sites also offer step-free access, making sightseeing more comfortable for older travelers.
Beyond the city’s infrastructure, UME Travel offers personalized travel planning focused on the needs of older travelers to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. We design itineraries with a relaxed pace based on your individual needs, arrange private car transport with a professional guide, select comfortable accommodations with breakfast included, and manage tickets and reservations in advance. Our thoughtful, door-to-door approach allows older travelers to explore Tokyo with confidence, comfort, and peace of mind.
What We'd Like to Say
With mild temperatures, longer daylight hours, and the first signs of cherry blossom, Tokyo weather in March offers an ideal balance between comfort and seasonal charm in 2026. The city is lively yet relaxed, making it easy to enjoy outdoor sightseeing, cultural experiences, and flexible day trips, without the extremes of winter or summer.
To get a broader view of seasonal conditions across the country, we recommend exploring our 'Japan Weather by Month' series, which explains how weather patterns vary by region throughout the year. /Read our articles on Japan Weather in 12 Months.
As the weather in March and the timing of the cherry blossom can vary from week to week, careful planning can make a real difference. Contact our travel specialists to design a personalised Tokyo itinerary for March, complete with private transport, expert guidance, and hassle-free travel.
Know more weather and travel information in other cities in Japan: Osaka Weather in March / Kyoto Weather in March