March sees the start of spring (March to May) in most Japan, where the average daily temperature gets above 10°C (50°F) and rain increases to moderate levels on 1 in 3 days. The further south you go, the warmer and wetter it gets.
However, in Northern Japan (Hokkaido), spring doesn't arrive until April and, contrastingly, precipitation decreases through March.
With warmer weather in late March, you could fully enjoy Japan's celebrated cherry blossom, which is in full bloom in late March in central Japan like Tokyo and Kyoto.
Find out about average temperatures, rainfall, and tips on where to go and what to wear in Japan in March below...
Japan Weather in March: Averages

- Temperature range: 5–13°C (41–56°F)
- Rainfall: 109 mm (4 inches)
- Rainy days: 10
- Sunny days: 20
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Alisa Liu is a star to work makes Asia Highlights even better
Alisa Liu was my contact person for Asia Highlights. She was remarkably punctual, she was thoughtful, and she handle an emergency on my end, with grace and patience. She recommended great hotels in Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka Japan that put us in the center of the action. The guides she choose were personable, punctual a knowledgeable about their cities. More
Brent Zadorozny,
Oct 2023
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Excellent service
Started using Asia Highlights to plan my trip to Japan. Sharon was very helpful, giving me all the information I would need for the tour. I would definitely use Asia Highlights again, when planning another trip to Asia. More
Rachel Nelson,
Oct 2023
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Japan tour
Our airport pick-up went very smoothly. Our guide, Vivian, on the second day was very nice, very accommodating, took into account our preferences. In Osaka, our trip to the castle was a very long walk with lots of steps to climb and quite honestly wasn’t very interesting. But Dotonburi is a must-see and we enjoyed that very much.Our trip to Hiroshima was very memorable. I highly recommend it. Our guide, Etsuko, was very knowledgeable and kind. The trip to Miyajima island, on the other hand, wasn’t too memorable. Our next city, Kyoto, is a truly wonderful place to visit. All the temples we went to were very interesting and very distinctive from each other (Kinkakuji temple, Nijo castle, Sanjusangendo temple,Kiyumizo temple, Fushimi Inari shrine, Kasuga Taisha shrine, Tojaidi temple). The sake tour was a downer and wouldn’t recommend it.Our guide, Ritsuko, was a darling. She was very knowledgeable too and kind and warm and easy to talk to. Our last tour in Tokyo was a rainy day and Sue, our guide, was able to change our tour to the next day. She was so efficient and so accommodating and so kind and very knowledgeable too. More
Mrs Cristina Hidalgo Loris,
Oct 2023
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Very good tour of Japan
Very good tour around Japan for 10 days, including Tokyo, Hakone and Kyoto. Excellent guides and experiences. Albee, the tour organiser, was always available to sort out changes to itinerary or extra requests. More
Guy Slimmon,
Oct 2023
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Everything is good
All of the hotels were wonderful and our guides were super friendly, knowledgeable and flexible. We had a 10 day trip that included multiple cities and lots of different sights, we squeezed in as much as we could, including a 2 day hiking trip to Mt. Fuji (our guide Sun Nan was awesome!). Our guide in Tokyo, Jennifer, was lovely and our guide for 2 days in Kyoto, Dennis, was also super great. We did a food tour in Osaka with Vivian which was nice Sallie Fujimoto-Swun More
Ideale Tran,
Oct 2023
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Thank you for the wonderful experience…
Thank you for the wonderful experience we all truely enjoyed. From the beginning (making first contact with Sharon from Asia Highlights) to the end (Saying good bye to our amazing guide Lilly) the experience was top notch. Great communication while preparing the trip and excellent local knowledge of our tour guide. I can highly recommend Asia Highlights and would not hesitate to use them again for our next trip. More
Dany Gruosso,
Oct 2023
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Vacations in Japan
The guides Jessie and Vivian were very kind and professionals and the drivers as well. In a future vacation we will get in touch with Asia Highlights without a doubt. More
Hilda Andrade,
Oct 2023
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Experience with Asia Highlights
This was my first time working with a travel agent to plan an international trip and because of the seamless experience I had, I have decided to always work with an agent when booking international trips. Asia Highlights did an amazing job in ensuring we found a trip that worked well for our budget and provided us with special experiences in Japan that exceeded our expectations. From travel logistics in Japan to lodging and activities, we felt taken care of. If I had known that travel agents were this helpful, I would have worked with them in my prior travels. I definitely plan to book my next trip to Asia with this agent. More
Adie Ballantyne,
Oct 2023
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Jason and Cathy from Asia Highlights…
Jason and Kathy from Asia Highlights did a great job for us. They were very responsive and professional. Hotel choices and attractions made for a wonderful first time trip to Japan. More
Norman and Mary Van Zante,
Sep 2023
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This was one of the best experiences in…
This was one of the best experiences in Travel that I have ever had... and I have traveled extensively. The reliability of the the driver and guide, the kindness each displayed (different people in different cities same result) and the flexibility to work with my family's requests was outstanding. I now wish for this experience where ever I may travel next! More
Donna Huck,
Sep 2023
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Prompt response!
First and foremost, this review is based strictly on prompt response from Asia Highlights.I was browsing Asia Highlights website on the night of September 17th 2023 and really impressed of the positive reviews. So I decided to send an e-mail for an estimate of a private tour guide in Tokyo Japan for 6 days/7 nights including hotel accommodation for my 90-year-old father and I. I provided as much information as I can what areas of interest we would like to visit. I was really expecting a 72-hour delay response from Asia Highlights given time difference in California and Japan. The following day, I received an e-mail from Kate Long. Impressive! Kate provided a very detailed suggested itinerary with great consideration for my 90-year-old father. I truly appreciated her thoughtfulness! I will definitely reach out to Asia Highlights on our next trip! Thank you Kate! More
F K,
Sep 2023
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Perfectly planned and organized
Albee at Asia Highlights created a diverse, fun-filled itinerary for our trip. She listened carefully to our interests and made sure that we made the best use of our time in Japan. Our local guides, drivers and vehicles were excellent. Albee was always available to answer all my questions with a lightening fast response time. A very memorable experience and I would definitely book with Asia Highlights again. More
Carol Ann Paget Brown,
Sep 2023
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Sharon provided great service while…
Sharon provided great service while planning and booking our Japan trip! Unfortunately, we had to cancel due to family medical reasons. Sharon was very understanding of this and helped process the cancellation and refund in a very timely manner. When we are ready to book our trip again, I will certainly be reaching out to Sharon and Asia Highlights! More
Ali Tahir,
Sep 2023
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I just wanted to tell you how pleased…
I just wanted to tell you how pleased we were planning and coordinating our recent Japan trip with Alisa Liu. Alisa was responsive, answered questions in a timely manner despite our 15 hour time difference, and coordinated a trip for a 6 person multi-generational tour to everyone's satisfaction. (ages7-70!)We were particularly thankful for her help as 2 typhoons bore down on Japan during our stay. She helped us rearrange train and hotel reservations, and was able to get us a refund from a hotel that would not typically offer that. I have referred other friends to her with confidence. More
Berdine Bender,
Sep 2023
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Leah Stine
Not only Albee was great! Each of our guides and drivers were also a joy. Daniel was our first knowledgeable guide who spoke excellent English and was so much fun throughout the day. Jeremy was our guide for the next few days and he also was fun, flexible, and had so many interesting tidbits to share with us throughout the day. Kiko was our guide on the next leg of our journey. She had such a joyful sense of adventure and curiosity that was such a hoot. Vivian was also professional and very aware to what our needs were in the moment. Tian was incredibly flexible and when our plans literally changed when he picked us up, he showed great flexibility and took us to some really fun places at the last minute that were some of our best experiences. And finally Charlie was our last guide and he was so thoughtful and consistently anticipated our needs. By the time we realized we might need something, he would already have it taken care of. All of our guides were so thoughtful and conscious of either making sure we got time to ourselves or of being available right when we needed them. They were each fun and had their own personal flavor that they brought to the experience. We are so grateful for the consideration and flexibility that Asia Highlights showed us consistently and would highly recommend them for anyone interested in visiting Asia. Thank you so much! It was an amazing trip! More
Leah Stine,
Aug 2023
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Alisa is awesome!
We have been looking to go to Japan for a long time. The food, the culture, and the rich history have always intrigued us. We tried many times to set up pieces of the trip on our own, but couldn’t put together a sensible vacation. Then we found Asia Highlights and Alisa! She helped us tailor a remarkable adventure to Japan! She answered our many questions and shifted our itinerary to maximize our time in each city. I highly recommend Alisa to help you put together the trip of a lifetime. We are looking forward to our journey! More
Mark Linn,
Aug 2023
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Sharon has been very helpful since the…
Sharon has been very helpful since the beginning coordinating our itinerary in order to accommodate everything we want to see, it been great working with her More
May,
Jul 2023
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When I first book I was scared of what…
When I first book I was scared of what to expect, but oh my God! What an amazing experience this has been, from Sharon to all the guides Shawn and Mr. Ho, such amazing people! Their work is excellent More
Saul Velez,
Jul 2023
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Albee was very helpful and responsive…
Albee was very helpful and responsive in helping me make plans for their 10 day Japanese tour. More
Bhavini Patel,
Jul 2023
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Alisa was a perfect tour consultant
Alisa responded to my numerous questions with efficiency and accuracy. She was constantly suggesting options to make the trip more enjoyable More
Matha Goram,
Jul 2023
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Weather of Japan's Major Cities in March
Japan City | Ave. Min. Temp. | Ave. Max. Temp. | Average Rainfall/Snowfall |
---|---|---|---|
Tokyo | 5°C (41°F) | 14°C (58°F) | 116 mm (5 in) |
Kyoto | 4°C (40°F) | 14°C (57°F) | 106 mm (4 in) |
Osaka | 6°C (43°F) | 14°C (58°F) | 103 mm (4 in) |
Hakone | 3°C (37°F) | 14°C (57°F) | 124 mm (5 in) |
Nara | 3°C (37°F) | 14°C (57°F) | 105 mm (4 in) |
Hiroshima | 5°C (41°F) | 15°C (58°F) | 118 mm (5 in) |
Okinawa | 17°C (62°F) | 22°C (71°F) | 143 mm (6 in) |
Sapporo | -2°C (28°F) | 5°C (40°F) | 78 mm (3 in) rain/snow |
Tokyo and Central Japan: Cherry Blossom Season Arrives

Central Japan in March is mild and its daily temperatures are about 10°C (58°F) 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. If you prefer to discover Japan at a quieter time, visit it in early March.
After mid-March, the major cities, like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima, reach their busiest time — for cherry blossom tourism.
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!
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 22°C (66°F) and the rainfall is around 150 mm (6 in).
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 19°C (66°F) around Okinawa, water activities are suitable for the brave only.
Get to know more ideas about planning your private Japan tours>>>
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.
When is the Cherry Blossom Season in Japan?

March welcomes the cherry blossom season in most areas of Japan. Generally speaking, it starts in late March and lasts until early May, mainly in April. Every late January, Japan's official website of weather/tourism predicts the flowering time of cherry blossoms.
You can expect to see cherry blossoms in late March in popular cities, such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Nagoya. Southern cities, like Hiroshima and Fukuoka, see the blossoms a few days earlier.
To celebrate the cherry blossom season, locals dress in kimonos, having picnics under the charming cherry trees, and appreciating the tastefully-lit cherry blossom views at night. Read more information about planning a cherry blossom trip to Japan>>>
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, especially you first-timers. They have the famous spots for cherry blossom parties.
To discover the above five cities' essentials, you'd need at least 12-14 days.

1. Kyoto: Cherry Blossoms and Cultural Experiences for Big Celebrations
In March, Kyoto has some mild temperatures with an average high temperature of 14°C (57°F). The average precipitation is 106 mm (4 in), falling on 12 days.
If you're seeking cultural experiences, Kyoto is the best place for you. History buffs are always enchanted by its centuries-old buildings and well-preserved traditions. The fully-blooming cherry blossoms would surely enhance your Kyoto experience.
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.
For a romantic milestone trip, what could be more special than staying in a ryokan with exquisite kaiseki (traditional multi-course cuisine) and private hot springs? In cherry blossom season, you'd better book your ryokan at least 3 months before.
Suggested reading: How to Plan a Trip to Kyoto>>>
2. Osaka: Cherry Blossoms and Family-Friendly Theme Parks
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.
Boasting Universal Studios, Super Nintendo World, and Lego Land, you could immerse yourself in the theme park attractions with fewer crowds in early March. If you're interested in sumo, don't miss the Grand Sumo Tournament in Osaka.
Get more ideas about Plan Your Trip to Osaka>>>
3. Tokyo: Paradise with Anime and Cherry Blossoms
March in Tokyo is cool, with temperatures peaking at around 14°C (58°F). With moderate rain on only 6 days, you may not see the occasional rain.
If you're keen on cherry blossoms, visit Tokyo in late March. To appreciate them, you could wander around Ueno Park or take a boat ride on Tokyo's moats alongside Chidorigafuchi Park.
Home to anime, Tokyo is full of anime shopping centers (like Pokémon Center Mega), anime theme cafés, and anime museums (notably Ghibli Museum/Park). Anime enthusiasts shouldn't miss AnimeJapan in late March, one of the biggest anime events in the country.
Suggested reading: Plan Your First Trip to Tokyo>>>
4. Nara: Feed Deer beneath Cherry Blossom Trees
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.
Nara is also one of the best places to enjoy breathtaking cherry blossoms. Mt. Yoshino is the best spot in Nara. You could hike among the cherry blossom forests or take a cable car for a panoramic view.
If your time is limited, you could take a quick daytrip to Nara from Kyoto or Osaka with a private transfer, as Nara is quite close to both cities at only around 1 hour away.
5. Hiroshima: A Warmer Place That Sees Cherry Blossoms Earlier
You can expect a cool breeze and mild temperatures in Hiroshima in March. There is also a 1-in-3-day chance of rain, but it won't affect your trip as it only comes as light/moderate showers.
With fewer crowds in early March, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park can be appreciated more peacefully. It's a must to recall the tragedy of the war.
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.
Costs and Crowding in March in Japan
Japan has two faces in March: shoulder season before mid-March and peak season after mid-March.
Traveling in early March means lower costs, fewer tourists, unobstructed views of the highlights, and the freedom to peruse sights at your own pace.
When the cherry blossom is blooming from late March, you'll encounter the highest costs, biggest crowds, and limited accommodations. Booking your Japan trip a year in advance is the best way to secure the best deals.
To escape from the crowds, try to visit must-sees on weekdays or explore somewhere off the beaten path. A private tour can effectively alleviate the inconvenience caused by group tour crowds. Check our handpicked private Japan tours>>>
What to Pack 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...
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.
Why Travel with Asia Highlights (98.8% positive customer reviews among 10,000+)
- Unique experiences tailored to your interests: Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.
- Hassle-free travel and peace of mind: Every aspect of your trip will be carefully planned and organized by your 1:1 travel consultant.
- Experienced and knowledgeable guides: Your guides will be local and love to work for travelers' smiles.
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