Embark on a journey through the enchanting landscapes of Japan as we unveil the secrets of its breathtaking springtime charm. Join us in this captivating adventure, where we navigate the delicate beauty of sakura-lined streets, indulge in the exquisite flavors of seasonal cuisine, and discover the timeless allure of Japan in its most vibrant season. Compiled by our experienced TripLeader, this ‘Spring in Japan Guide’ will be your buddy to navigate through the blossoming season!
Spring in Japan Guide – Summary
- Is Japan a Good Place to Visit During Spring?
- When is Spring in Japan?
- How is the Weather?
- Things to Do
- Best Spring Destinations
- What to Wear
Is Japan a Good Place to Visit During Spring?
Japan has been at the top of travelers’ minds for a bucket list-worthy destination. The country is bursting with an incredible blend of traditional and sophisticated culture, spectacular flavors, and breathtaking landscapes. With all it has to offer, spring (March-May) is the best time to visit Japan. From the bewitching sakura-adorned streets to joyful festivals welcoming the season, spring in Japan is exceptional.
Travelers from all over the world fly to the country to see the cherry blossoms. The soft pink blossoms are Japan’s unofficial flower, as well as something the country is iconic for. Moreover, spring marks the beginning of feisty cultural festivals. Spring symbolizes rebirth and new beginnings in the Japanese culture and therefore celebrated around the country.
When is Spring in Japan?
The period of spring in Japan varies based on the geography. Central Japan area, home to big cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Kyoto, witnesses the beginning of the colorful season in early March. Cherry blossoms start blooming in the region from mid-March, along with warmer temperatures. Meanwhile, the northern Japan area, including Hokkaido and Fukushima, experiences spring at a later time. Spring rain falls around mid-April, replacing the light snowfall in the earlier months. Generally, spring lasts from mid-March to May.
How is the Weather?
The weather is cool with occasional drizzles during spring in Japan. Winter leaves at the beginning of March, bringing warmer weather and breezy days. Thus, spring is characterized by warm afternoons and cool evenings. In March, the temperature ranges around 5-15°C, with cool night and warmer mornings. As May approaches, the weather becomes warmer. The temperature hovers around 20°C with the lowest point of 15°C. Moreover, spring in Japan brings long days of sunshine with barely any humidity. For that reason, it is a pleasant time to go outdoors and take relaxing strolls.
Things to Do during Spring in Japan
Baby blue sky adorned with soft white clouds, pinkish hues of cherry blossoms, and verdant meadows paint Japan’s scenery in spring. The air is filled with joy, welcoming the blooming season of fertility and harvest. Then, here are the best things to do during spring in Japan to get the best out of the season!
Cherry Blossoms
The soft pink flowers are the main reason thousands of travelers visit Japan in spring. From late March, cherry blossoms bloom in central regions like Kyoto and Tokyo. An extensive series of cherry blossom trees make cities turn into a lovely sea of pink. While travelers love relaxing strolls along the sakura trees, locals are excited for Hanami. The centuries-old Japanese custom involves having a picnic under a cluster of cherry blossom trees. Some of the most popular cherry blossom viewing spots are Ueno Park in Tokyo and Kamo River in Kyoto.
Traditional Festivals
Japan recognizes spring as a season of new beginnings, health, and rebirth. Jubilant festivals are bursting to wish for prosperity and good health during the blooming season. Therefore, seeing a traditional festival is one of the best things to do for spring. Cherry blossom festivals, like the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival and Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival, are long-awaited events that attract thousands of people. However, you can also see other vibrant cultural festivals during that time.
Takayama Spring Festival introduces Japan’s fascinating culture and fresh spring harvest. The two-day festival features gigantic floats, puppets, traditional music, and food stalls. Other spring festivals you should look forward to include Takoage (kite festival) and Beppa Hatou Onsen Festival, in which you can enjoy free hot springs.
Parks
Japan’s city parks and gardens turn twice as beautiful as spring arrives in the country. From the pink-hued cherry blossoms to enchanting wisterias, every corner of Japan welcomes wonderful flowers. Tokyo welcomes a long line of visitors wanting to visit Ueno Park and Yoyogi Park. Sitting on the outskirts of Tokyo, Showa Kinen Park stuns with its variety of tulips and bonsai. Another popular park you should visit is Hitachi Seaside Park. It is filled with baby blue nemophilias.
Sakura-Themed Food
Japan goes all-out when it comes to flavors and dishes, especially in spring. Cherry blossoms play an important role in the Japanese culture, as well as their food. You can spoil your tastebuds with sakura-themed delicacies during the blossoming season. Hanami dango (pink rice balls), sakura mochi, and sakura senbei (cherry blossom-flavored crackers) are some of the sweet treats you need to try.
Spring Destinations in Japan
1. Kyoto
Kyoto is hands-down one of the best places to visit in spring, thanks to its countless cherry blossom spots. Maruyama Park and the Philosopher’s Path turn into dreamy landscapes with pink petals floating in the air. The historical temples, like Kiyomizu-dera and Kinkaku-ji, look even more stunning with the seasonal blooms. Don’t forget to try some sakura-themed sweets at traditional teahouses!
2. Tokyo
Japan’s capital is another fantastic place to enjoy the cherry blossoms, especially in Ueno Park and Shinjuku Gyoen. Alongside hanami (flower-viewing) picnics, Tokyo also offers seasonal events like the Sumida Park Sakura Festival. If you’re looking for a unique view, hop on a boat ride along the Meguro River, where cherry trees line both sides, creating a picturesque tunnel of flowers. Plus, Tokyo Disneyland also gets a spring makeover with floral decorations and limited-time treats.
3. Mount Yoshino
Located in Nara Prefecture, Mount Yoshino is famous for having over 30,000 cherry trees covering its slopes. The mountain is divided into four viewing levels, allowing visitors to experience different blooming stages as they hike up. The best part? The view from the top is breathtaking, with a sea of pink blossoms stretching as far as the eye can see. It’s no wonder this spot has been a hanami favorite for centuries.
4. Hirosaki
If you want a less crowded but equally stunning cherry blossom experience, head to Hirosaki in Aomori Prefecture. Hirosaki Castle Park boasts around 2,600 cherry trees, with some forming beautiful archways over the moat. When the petals start falling, the water turns into a pink wonderland, creating a fairytale-like scenery. The annual Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival also features local food stalls, nighttime illuminations, and even rowing boats to enjoy the view from the water.
5. Hakone
For a mix of nature, hot springs, and cherry blossoms, Hakone is the perfect spring getaway. Lake Ashi provides a spectacular setting to see Mount Fuji framed by sakura trees in full bloom. After a day of sightseeing, soak in an onsen (hot spring) while admiring the tranquil beauty of the season. Hakone’s outdoor museums, like the Hakone Open-Air Museum, also offer a unique way to enjoy art and nature together.
What to Wear
Here is a question everyone always asks about before traveling to Japan – what to wear during spring in Japan? As you won’t stumble upon bone-biting temperatures and freezing snow, it is recommended to pack lighter layers and jackets. Sweaters, fleece jackets, hoodies, puffer vests, quick-dry inners, and parkas are some of the clothing items you would want to bring. Also, make sure to pack your waterproof jacket as there will be a chance of a lot rain and mist. Additionally, bring a pair of comfortable waterproof shoes or boots.
The season of cherry blossoms and gaudy flowers, spring in the Land of Rising Sun is simply astonishing. Then, are you planning to spend the beautiful season in Japan but have no one to go with? Well, we have something for you!
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