Japan Weather in March 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers

March sees the start of spring (March to May) in most of Japan and is an ideal time to visit. In central Japan, such as Tokyo and Kyoto, the average daily temperature rises above 50°F (10°C) and rain increases to moderate levels on 1 in 3 days.

With warmer weather in late March, you could fully enjoy Japan's celebrated cherry blossoms, which are in full bloom in late March in central Japan, including Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

The further south you go, such as Okinawa, the warmer and wetter it gets. In Northern Japan, specially Hokkaido, March is still in the snow season, and spring doesn't arrive until April.

Weather of Japan's Major Cities in March

Tokyo and Central Japan: Cherry Blossom Season Arrives

Central Japan in March is mild and its daily temperatures are about 58°F (10°C) higher than that in northern Japan. Precipitation increases from light to moderate and you could expect 50% cloudy days.

Japan in March features atmospheric festivals and cherry blossoms.After mid-March, the major cities, like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima, reach their busiest time — for cherry blossom tourism.

If you prefer to discover Japan at a quieter time, visit it in early March.

Walk-ins are not to be found in March! Thus, contact us at least 3 months before you go to avoid price hikes. Check our best-value cherry blossom tours below or we're ready to tailor-make your own private one!

10-Day Japan Cherry Blossom Private TourTokyo - Kawaguchiko - Kyoto - Nara - Osaka

Okinawa and Southern Japan: Warmer with Earlier Cherry Blossom

With a sub-tropical climate, southern Japan is the warmest place in March, especially the islands of Okinawa, where daily temperatures peak around 66°F (22°C) and the rainfall is around 6 in (150 mm).

Cherry blossom arrives earlier in southern Japan. The southernmost islands, including Okinawa, even see blossom in February, while blooming cherry flowers from mid-March in other places, like Fukuoka.

Although sea temperatures increase to around 66°F (19°C) around Okinawa, water activities are suitable for the brave only.

12-Day Tokyo, Okinawa, Osaka, Kyoto and Nara Tour

Hokkaido and Northern Japan: Still Cold Enough for Winter Sports

Northern Japan stays cold (around freezing) in March. You would encounter rain showers or snow occasionally on around 2 in 3 days.

During the cold days of late winter, hot springs offer a warm escape in March. The winter sports season is still very much alive in Japan's more northern reaches (particularly Hokkaido). Compared with earlier in winter (December to February), you could enjoy Hokkaido's winter activities with warmer weather and fewer crowds.

Is March Expensive in Japan?

In early March, a private tour in Japan costs around USD500 per day per person for a group of 2 people. This includes a private guide, private car, full-day itinerary, tickets for attractions, and a local 4-star hotel. As the group size increases, the cost per person decreases.

However, during the cherry blossom season in late March, expect the highest costs, largest crowds, and limited availability of accommodations. The price for a similar tour service during this time is approximately USD650 per day per person.

To take advantage of the best deals in March, it is recommended to book your Japan trip at least 3 months in advance, ideally 6 months ahead. This will ensure you secure the most favorable prices and availability for your desired activities and accommodations. Check some popular Japan tours for inspiration.

12-Day Classic Japan Tour Tokyo - Takayama - Shirakawa - Kanazawa - Kyoto - Osaka

2-Week Japan Itinerary in Cherry BlossomsTokyo - Mt. Fuji - Yokohama - Kyoto - Nara - Osaka - Hiroshima

5 of the Best Places to Visit in Japan in March

Considering Japan's generally cold/cool March weather, southern Japan offers warm escapes. But, for a taste of quintessential Japan, head to Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara and Hiroshima. They have the famous spots for cherry blossom parties.

March in Tokyo is cool, with temperatures peaking at around 58°F (14°C). With moderate rain on only 6 days, you may not see the occasional rain. To appreciate the cherry blossoms, you could wander around Ueno Park or take a boat ride on Tokyo's moats alongside Chidorigafuchi Park. Anime enthusiasts shouldn't miss AnimeJapan in late March, one of the biggest anime events in the country.

Kyoto has some mild temperatures in March with an average high temperature of 57°F (14°C). Besides the fully-blooming cherry blossoms, you'll also have chances to celebrate Japan's atmospheric Girls' Day (March 3rd) and the Higashiyama Hanatouro bamboo lantern festival (March 4–13). Strolling together on streets adorned with festive Japanese decorations could also be a romantic experience for you and your partner.

With similar weather to Kyoto, Osaka is one of the best places for flower viewing in March. You could admire plum flowers in early March and cherry blossom in late March.

Owing to the excellent conditions, you could really enjoy feeding free-roaming deer and celebrating a traditional Omizutori (water-drawing) festival (March 1–14) at Todai-ji Temple in Nara.

In Hiroshima in March, you can expect a cool breeze and mild temperatures. Hiroshima's parks come alive when the cherry blossom abounds around mid-March. The magical 'floating torii gate' is even more attractive with a cherry-bloom backdrop.

9-Day Japan Highlights Tour Tokyo - Hakone - Kyoto - Osaka

11-Day Traditional Japan Tour Osaka - Hiroshima - Kyoto - Tokyo

What Should I Wear in March?

Japan can still be cold in March, so light winter clothing is perfect for most of Japan.

For cold days, especially in early March, you could pack a coat, down jacket, warm inner layers, sweaters, and thick leg wear. Lightweight trousers, lighter shirts, and light sweatshirts would be more comfortable on sunny days.

Don't forget to bring cold weather accessories such as a hat, gloves, and scarf if you are visiting northern Japan, especially Hokkaido.

Check more details about the best times to visit Japan: for the most comfortable weather, for the lowest crowds & costs...

7-Day Japan Essence Tour Tokyo - Kyoto - Osaka

8-Day Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Hiroshima and Osaka Tour

Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Japan

Learn about the weather in Japan for 12 months and find out the best places to visit each month.