In March, the seasons change quickly across Japan: powdery snow still covers the northern slopes, while delicate cherry blossoms begin to colour the parks and temple grounds further south. March in Japan is full of contrasts — you could ski in Hokkaido in the morning, enjoy hanami in Tokyo in the evening, or escape to Okinawa for some warm island sunshine.
With temperatures ranging from crisp chills in the north to mild breezes in the south, travellers can experience both the beauty of late winter and the promise of early spring, making March one of the most popular months to visit Japan.
Table of Contents
Quickview of March Weather in Japan 2026
What Should be Packed for March Travel in Japan?
Japan in March 2026 - Seasonal Highlights & Travel Inspirations
Admire Cherry Blossoms in the Best Places 2026
Sumo Wrestling
Spring Onsen
Best Places to Visit in Japan in March
Seasonal Eats & Drink: Spring Sets in March
Crowds and Cost of Travelling to Japan in March
FAQs about Visiting Japan in March
1. Quickview of March Weather in Japan 2026
Spring is waking up across Japan in March! Although cherry blossom season is still a few weeks away in most areas, this is when Japan begins its magical transition from winter to spring. You might be wondering: Does it snow in Japan in March? Yes, it still snows in Japan's northern and mountainous regions in March, although lowland areas such as Tokyo and Kyoto experience little to no snow. The weather varies considerably depending on where you go. Here's what to expect:
Weather in Northern Japan (Sapporo & Tohoku): Winter isn't quite done yet!
In March, northern Japan still feels like winter, with average temperatures ranging from 28°F to 43°F (- 2 °C to 6°C). Expect snowy landscapes in Hokkaido and at higher elevations, which makes it the perfect time for skiing and snowboarding.
There is often high precipitation, which usually falls as snow or sleet, especially in early March. Roads and pavements may be icy, so it is essential to wear appropriate footwear.
Although the cherry blossom season in northern Japan does not begin until mid-to-late April, visitors can enjoy snow festivals, steaming hot springs, and stunning views of snow-capped mountains against a bright, clear sky.
Weather in Central Japan (Tokyo & Kyoto): Spring is on the way!
March marks an early transition to spring in Tokyo and Kyoto, with average temperatures ranging from 5 °C to 13°C (41°F to 55°F). The first half of the month is usually cold, but by the second half, the midday sun is generally pleasant. However, temperatures in the early morning and evening remain cool, so wearing several layers of clothing is advisable.
Rainfall is moderate, and showers are usually light and brief, so a small umbrella is useful. Snow is rare, although the outskirts of Kyoto may see a flurry or two in early March.
Weather in Southern Japan (Okinawa): Early blossoms and warm breezes!
In March, temperatures in southern Japan gradually rise, with the highest temperatures usually exceeding 10°C, becoming increasingly mild and resembling springtime conditions. Average temperatures range from 10 °C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F). Days are generally warm and pleasant, while nights are slightly cooler.
Rainfall is light to moderate, with the occasional brief shower. Snowfall is infrequent here in March, even in the mountains.
Seasonal highlights include early cherry blossoms, which can bloom in late February to early March in Okinawa and southern Kyushu. Parks and gardens are already vibrant with camellias and rapeseed flowers, making this region a paradise for early birds in the springtime.
What Should be Packed for March Travel in Japan?
Traveling across Japan in March? The secret is "layers, layers, layers! ”
Mornings might give you a wintery chill, while afternoons feel like spring has truly arrived - so pack that perfect combo:
A cozy but lightweight jacket you can easily take on/off
Comfortable layers (think cardigans or thermal shirts)
Always tuck a compact umbrella in your day bag - those spring showers love to make surprise appearances! (Especially if you're visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, or further south)
Pro tip: A packable waterproof jacket is worth its weight in luggage space when those quick rain showers pop up!"
2. Japan in March 2026 - Seasonal Highlights & Travel Inspirations
a. Admire Cherry Blossoms in the Best Places 2026
Yes! The season of cherry blossom in Japan, featuring the most iconic travel experience in the country, will bloom again in late March of 2026.
Cherry-blossom season (hanami) is one of the most beloved annual events in Japan — a nationwide celebration of the brief but breathtaking display of pale pink flowers. Friends, families, and colleagues spread tarpaulins under the trees for picnics, sharing bento boxes and seasonal desserts, and sipping sake or tea. They then linger into the evening for 'yozakura' (lit-up night viewing). Parks hum with live music, pop-up food stalls, and a relaxed, celebratory atmosphere that is part picnic and part street party.
Tokyo - Chidorigafuchi, Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen & Meguro River
Ueno Park is a classic hanami hive (more than 800–1,000 trees along its main approach), where crowds picnic beneath long rows of Somei-Yoshino, and festival stalls add a carnival feel. If you want something quieter, Shinjuku Gyoen offers expansive, carefully tended lawns and dozens of sakura varieties for a longer blooming window. For picture-perfect strolls and romantic nighttime views, the Nakameguro/Meguro River lines a 3–4 km stretch with roughly 800 trees and soft pink lantern illuminations after dark.
Read more about the Tokyo cherry blossom
Kyoto - Philosopher's Path & Maruyama Park
Kyoto pairs its centuries-old temples and shrines with some of the country's most atmospheric sakura scenes. The Philosopher's Path (about 1.5–2 km) runs beside a canal lined with hundreds of cherry trees — walking it while petals drift into the water feels quietly magical.
Near Yasaka Shrine, Maruyama Park is famous for its considerable weeping (shidare) cherry that is spectacularly illuminated at night, making the park a central, easy base for exploring nearby historic districts.
Read more about the Kyoto cherry blossom
Hiroshima / Miyajima - Itsukushima Shrine
Miyajima's floating torii and temple architecture become dramatically framed by sakura in late March and early April — a truly photogenic setting where blossoms, shrine gates, and sea reflections combine to create unforgettable shots. Miyajima's many varieties of cherry create picturesque viewpoints across the island.
Contact us to know more about seeing cherry blossoms in Hiroshima
Osaka - Osaka Castle Park
Osaka Castle Park features thousands of cherry trees (the park and its gardens host several thousand trees across the grounds), creating a striking contrast between the pink canopies and the white stone of the castle keep. This draws huge crowds and presents excellent photo opportunities.
The Nishinomaru Garden area is often illuminated after dark during peak bloom.
Read more about the Osaka cherry blossom.
When will the cherry blossom be in bloom in Japan in March 2026?
Warm South (Okinawa, Kyushu, Shikoku)
Blossoms can appear as early as late January or March. According to last year's JMC forecast, in Kyushu and Shikoku, the popular Somei Yoshino typically starts opening in the previous week of March and reaches full bloom just before the end of the month.
Central Honshu (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka)
The primary wave generally arrives from late March into early April. Trees start opening in the last few days of March, and peak bloom is often seen in the transition from March into the first days of April.
North & Hokkaido (Tohoku, Hokkaido)
Much later than the rest of Japan, blossoms here usually appear from mid to late April. In Tohoku, buds begin to open in the second half of April, with peak bloom occurring toward the end of the month. Hokkaido lags further behind, where cherry blossoms may not reach full bloom until late April or even early May.
How long is the 'Best Window'?
The period from first bloom (kaika) to full bloom (mankai) usually spans seven to ten days, with full bloom itself lasting only a few days before the petals begin to fall. As the timing shifts each year due to weather, it is best to plan a flexible window of 7–10 days, visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and check our Sakura Forecast 2026 for the latest predictions and city-by-city bloom maps.
b. Witness Sumo Wrestling - Japan's Ancient Sport of Power and Ritual
Where is the best place to watch Sumo wrestling? Every March, Osaka hosts the Grand Sumo Tournament at the Edion Arena, where sumo, Japan's centuries-old national sport, takes centre stage. In the middle of March, the city buzzes with excitement as the top-ranked wrestlers, or rikishi, face off in intense bouts lasting just a few seconds, blending raw strength, refined technique, and time-honoured rituals. This event is not just a sporting spectacle; it is also a living window into Japanese tradition, complete with ceremonial stomps, salt purification, and dramatic stare-downs.
The arena atmosphere is thrilling: the crowd roars and cushions fly in celebration after major upsets, with each match building anticipation for the next. As one of only six major sumo tournaments held nationwide each year, it's a rare opportunity for visitors to experience the sport at its highest level.
Tickets for the tournament, especially for the final days, often sell out weeks in advance, so it is essential to secure ticket bookings in advance if you want to experience this powerful blend of athleticism and cultural heritage up close.
Get in touch now to book tickets for the sumo match and customise your private itinerary.
c. Onsen in March - Relaxation with a Seasonal Twist
When it comes to hot springs, or onsens, Japan's cooler weather in March makes it the perfect time to relax in these naturally heated baths. Wherever you are in Japan, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy a steamy onsen while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Some of the best-known onsen towns include Hakone, located just outside Tokyo, and Beppu, a city famous for its wide variety of hot springs. Another excellent option is Noboribetsu in Hokkaido, renowned for its mineral-rich waters, which are said to have healing properties.
Soaking in an onsen is not just about relaxation; it is a cultural experience that allows you to immerse yourself in a centuries-old Japanese tradition.
Related Readings: The Ultimate Guide to Japanese Onsen
A quick note: be aware that there are specific customs to observe when visiting an onsen, such as washing thoroughly before entering the bath and not taking towels or clothing into the water. Following these customs makes for a more enjoyable and respectful visit.
Don't waste time deciding between hot spring hotels and traditional inns. Contact us today to find the perfect hot spring accommodations for your itinerary and preferences.
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3. Best Places to Visit in Japan in March
March is one of the most diverse months for travelling in Japan, with each region offering its seasonal charm. Read on for three standout destinations that showcase the best of Japan in March.
Mt. Fuji: Picking fresh strawberries with family and kids
March is the peak strawberry season around Mount Fuji, especially in Yamanashi and Shizuoka, where local farms open their greenhouses for visitors to enjoy strawberry-picking experiences. Visitors can wander rows of vibrant plants, pluck the ripest berries straight from the vine, and taste them on the spot — the sweetness of freshly picked Japanese strawberries is unforgettable.
This family-friendly activity is perfect for a spring trip, especially if you're traveling with kids. It combines the beauty of Mount Fuji's snowy backdrop with the fun of hands-on farm experiences. Unlike cherries or peaches that ripen in summer, strawberries are the star of March, making it the ideal fruit to enjoy during your visit.
Want to make family memories in Japan? Check out our Tokyo and Kansai Classic Tour with Kids for Families and book now to enjoy strawberry picking on a farm at the foot of Mount Fuji! Additionally, we offer a range of family tours that can be tailored to suit your needs. :)
7 Days Tokyo - Mt.Fuji - Osaka - Kyoto - Nara Tour
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Okinawa: Great warm days to enjoy the holiday vibes
While some parts of Japan are still in winter mode, the southern islands of Okinawa are basking in warmth. Okinawa is the perfect place for an early spring beach getaway in March. With temperatures ranging from 15 to 20°C (59 to 68°F), it is the ideal place to enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkelling, and diving.
Okinawa is renowned for its crystal-clear blue waters and vibrant coral reefs, making it a snorkelling and diving paradise. You can explore stunning underwater landscapes teeming with colourful fish or relax on the beach.
It's not just about the sea, though - Okinawa is also rich in culture, with its unique cuisine, music, and history, influenced by its past as the Ryukyu Kingdom.
If you're heading there in March, it's a good idea to pack a light wetsuit or rash guard, as the water may still be a little cool for swimming without protection. However, the peaceful beaches and beautiful sea life more than make up for it.
Kyoto in March: Plum Blossoms to Early Sakura
In March, Kyoto blends the anticipation of cherry blossom season with the beauty of the early-blooming plum trees.
Plum Blossom Season: Late February to mid-March.
The best places to view them are Kitano Tenmangu Shrine and the Kyoto Botanical Gardens, where the pink and white blooms signal the arrival of spring.
Early-blooming sakura: Mid to late March.
Varieties such as the Kawazu cherry tree start to bloom, signalling the approaching cherry season.
Main Cherry Blossom (Somei Yoshino): Late March to early April.
By the end of March, the cherry blossom along the Philosopher's Path and the Kamo River begins to bloom, marking the start of Kyoto's most highly anticipated floral display.
Travel Atmosphere:
Mild afternoons and crisp mornings are perfect for exploring temples and strolling along the river.
Iconic sites such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine are pleasantly uncrowded before the early April rush.
Related Readings: Kyoto Cherry Blossom | First Time in Kyoto
Suggested Kyoto Travel Tour Packages:
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Nagano: Snow Adventures & Soothing Onsen
To make the most of Japan's lingering winter, head to Nagano, home to world-class ski resorts such as Hakuba and Nozawa Onsen, where the snow remains fresh and powdery even in March. After a fun day on the slopes, there's nothing better than soaking in an outdoor onsen while gazing at the surrounding mountains.
No trip here would be complete without a visit to Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you can watch wild snow monkeys relaxing in their own hot springs. It's one of those unique experiences that you'll never forget.
For an even deeper sense of peace and connection with nature, stay at the charming Jigokudani Onsen Korokan ryokan, which has been welcoming guests for over 150 years — even before the Monkey Park existed. From the ryokan's open-air baths, you might even spot a few curious monkeys wandering by, making your stay a truly unforgettable experience and allowing you to enjoy the quiet magic of Nagano.
We've planned several itineraries to watch the snow monkey for you. Click to know more details:
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Travel tip: March in Japan has something for every traveller, whether you're chasing blossoms, beaches, or snowy peaks. Check the regional weather forecast and seasonal events calendar to make the most of your trip.
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4. Seasonal Eats & Drink: Spring Sets in March
You might be wondering: Are there any fresh foods or drinks to try in Japan in March? Absolutely! March marks the transition from hearty winter fare to the delicate flavours of spring. Restaurants, markets, and cafés across the country introduce seasonal menus, offering a delicious way to experience the change of seasons, including limited-edition food sets.
Sakura-themed Treats
As cherry blossom season approaches, bakeries, tea shops, and convenience stores unveil a range of sakura-flavoured delicacies. These limited-time treats, such as sakura mochi wrapped in salted cherry leaves, sakura lattes, and pink-hued pastries, are as photogenic as they are flavourful.
Spring Seafood
March is the best time to enjoy fresh sawara (Spanish mackerel), which is often grilled or served as sashimi in Kyoto and Osaka. In coastal towns, you can also find asari clams, which are perfect for soups and steamed dishes. The mild, sweet flavours of these seafood options pair beautifully with seasonal vegetables.
Mountain Vegetables (Sansai)
Early spring brings the harvest of sansai, or wild mountain vegetables, such as fuki (butterbur) and warabi (bracken fern). They are often lightly fried in tempura or simmered in dashi, creating an earthy, slightly bitter flavour that encapsulates the charm of the Japanese countryside.
Seasonal Sake and Tea
March is also a great time to try shincha, the first green tea harvest of the year in regions with an early yield, which offers a fresh, grassy aroma. Breweries release seasonal sake with a slightly sweeter, lighter flavour to complement spring dishes — ideal for raising a toast under blossoming plum or cherry trees.
Travel tip: Seasonal menus change quickly, so don't hesitate to order specials marked '春限定' (spring limited). These are often only available for a few weeks.
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5. Crowds and Cost of Travelling to Japan in March
More people visit in the second half of March than in the first. As the cherry blossoms begin to bloom, popular destinations such as Tokyo and Kyoto experience a surge in visitors.
Flights and hotels often become more expensive during the peak bloom weeks, particularly towards the end of the month. Japan's cherry blossom season is one of the busiest times for travel, so it's best to book at least six months in advance to secure your accommodation, particularly in popular areas.
Contact us today to start planning your stress-free trip to Japan in March.
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6. FAQs about Visiting Japan in March
1) When do the cherry blossoms bloom in Tokyo?
Cherry blossoms (sakura) typically start blooming in Tokyo in the last week of March, reaching full bloom around the first week of April. However, these dates can vary depending on the weather that year, so it's best to check the latest forecast before your trip.
2) Can I ski in Japan in March?
Yes! Many ski resorts in Hokkaido, Nagano, and Niigata have excellent snow conditions in March. While lower-altitude slopes may start to melt, higher resorts offer great skiing and snowboarding well into late March.
3) Is Okinawa warm enough to swim in March?
Okinawa enjoys mild temperatures of around 18–21°C (64–70°F) at this time of year. While the locals may find it a little cool for swimming, visitors from colder climates often enjoy the water, particularly in sheltered bays.
4) What should I pack for March in Japan?
Pack layers to adapt to changing temperatures, such as a light to medium coat for cooler mornings and evenings, jumpers or cardigans, and comfortable shoes. An umbrella or light rain jacket is also helpful for the occasional spring shower.
5) Are attractions open in March?
Most attractions in Japan are open year-round, but some seasonal sites, such as alpine roads or certain gardens, may not open until later in spring. Onsen towns, historic temples, and major museums are all open in March.
6) Can I see both snow and cherry blossom in March?
Yes — in some regions, especially Tohoku and areas at higher elevations, you can still see snow while cherry blossoms begin to bloom in milder areas such as Tokyo and Hiroshima.
7) Are there any seasonal foods to try in March?
March is the perfect time to sample sakura-themed desserts, early spring vegetables (sansai), fresh seafood such as sawara (Spanish mackerel), and seasonal sake. These limited-edition delicacies will make your trip even more memorable.
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What We'd Like to Say
From snowy mountains to blossoming gardens, Japan in March offers a rare blend of winter charm and spring beauty. With UME Travel, you can look forward to private guides, round-the-clock consultant support, transparent pricing, and trips tailored for families and seniors.
Request a complimentary custom itinerary today and begin planning your ideal trip to Japan in March.
Read on for more information about the weather in Japan throughout the year, as well as the best places to visit.