Japan in Spring: How to Enjoy Cherry Blossoms, Festivals and More

Japan is an amazing destination to explore all year round, but nothing beats the magic of visiting during springtime. Spring in Japan is all about cherry blossoms, festivals, and pleasant temperatures, making it a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the country's rich culture and natural beauty.

But cherry blossoms are not the only highlight of spring in Japan. The country is also known for its vibrant festivals and events during this season, such as the famous 'Golden Week' holiday that typically falls at the end of April to early May. During this week, you can witness parades, street food stalls, traditional performances and more all over the country.

In this guide, we'll take you on a journey to explore the best Japan has to offer during spring. From the famous Hanami cherry blossom viewing tradition to sumo festivals, onsen experiences, and stunning flowers blooming across the country, we've got you covered with insider tips, travel advice, and top-notch recommendations to help you plan your perfect trip to Japan.

Table of Contents

• Why Travel to Japan in Spring?
• Best Spots to See Sakura Blossoms in Japan
• Temperatures in Spring and What to Wear
• Spring Festivals and How to Enjoy Them
• Spring Festivals in Japan
• Sumo Festivals in March
• Cormorant Fishing (Ukai)
• Best Food and Drinks to Have during Spring
• How to Plan Your Trip: Tailor-Made or Group Tour
• Climate in Spring and Cherry Blossom Prediction
• Spring Beyond Cherry Blossoms - Different Glowers to See
• Best Onsen in Spring
• Golden Week and Why to Avoid
• Spring in Japan Also Means Snow
• Insider Tips From Japanspecialist
• Conclusion

 

Why Travel to Japan in Spring?

Spring in Japan starts from late March and lasts until mid-June, making it the ideal season to enjoy mild temperatures, clear skies, and beautiful natural landscapes. The main reason to visit Japan during spring is, of course, the cherry blossoms.

The blooming of cherry blossoms, a national symbol of Japan, is celebrated with Hanami, a traditional Japanese custom of picnicking under the cherry trees. It's an opportunity for people to appreciate the fleeting beauty of nature, spend time with loved ones, and enjoy delicious food and drinks under the blossoms.

On average, you can view cherry blossoms from March until May. The first cherries usually blossom in the southern part of the country, while the latest blossoms occur in the Hokkaido region in the north. Every January, the Japan Meteorological Corporation releases the official cherry blossom forecast, guiding you to find the best time to catch the most breathtaking views in the best spots.

Best Spots to See Sakura Blossoms in Japan

The cherry blossom season is a major event in Japan and is celebrated all over the country. Some of the most popular spots to witness the sakura blossoms are Tokyo's Ueno Park, Kyoto's Philosopher's Path, and Osaka's Japan Mint Bureau. But if you're looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, we recommend visiting Mount Yoshino in Nara, where you can find over 30,000 cherry trees on the mountain slopes. Another great spot to explore is Kakunodate, a picturesque samurai town in Akita prefecture, with its stunning cherry tree-lined streets.

Temperatures in Spring and What to Wear

Spring temperatures in Japan can range from cool to mild, making it an ideal season to explore the country. Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C, so you'll need a light jacket or a sweater for outdoor activities.

During night-time, the temperature drops to around 10°C, so make sure to pack a warm coat if you plan to go out in the evening. The weather is still unpredictable in spring, so make sure to check the weather forecast beforehand.

Spring Festivals and How to Enjoy Them

Spring in Japan is packed with festivals, and there's something for everyone. One of the most popular festivals is the Kanda Matsuri in Tokyo, held every two years in May. It's a colourful celebration of the Shinto religion, with floats, mikoshi, and a parade of people in traditional outfits.

Another festival worth visiting is the Takayama Festival in Gifu, held in the first two weeks of April, featuring stunning parade floats, lanterns, and live performances.

Hinamatsuri, also known as the Doll's Festival or Girl's Day, is a charming spring festival celebrated on the 3rd of March every year. The festival is centred around praying for the happiness and healthy growth of girls. Families with young daughters mark this day by setting up a display of dolls inside the house. These dolls, dressed in traditional court attire of the Heian period, represent a traditional wedding ceremony.

May 5th is Children's Day in Japan, formerly known as Boy's Day. It's a day of celebration for both boys and girls, with traditional snacks, decorations, and activities. Families hang Koinobori, carp-shaped streamers, symbolizing strength, good luck, and success, outside their homes to wish their children a bright future.

While attending or participating in these Japanese festivals, it's crucial to respect the cultural and social norms associated with them.

For Hinamatsuri, if you're invited to a Japanese home, it's polite to bring a gift for the girl being celebrated. Be sure to enjoy the traditional foods offered, as they form a significant part of the cultural experience. Remember, it's a family-focused event, so be considerate and respectful of the household's customs.

On Children's Day, public spaces often hold community events. If you're attending these, be mindful not to touch the Koinobori or other decorations as they hold symbolic value. Moreover, if you participate in traditional games or activities, listen to the instructions carefully and follow suit. Remember that these festivals are about celebration and respect for children and their growth, so maintain a positive and respectful attitude throughout.

Spring Festivals in Japan

March 3rd: Hinamatsuri (Doll's Day or Girls' Day)

Late March to Early April: Hanami parties, the tradition of viewing cherry blossoms, take place in parks across the country. Ueno Park in Tokyo and Philosopher's Path in Kyoto are renowned for their sakura displays.

First Sunday of April: The Kanamara Matsuri (Festival of the Steel Phallus) takes place in Kawasaki. This unusual festival is rooted in ancient Shinto tradition and celebrates fertility and marital happiness.

Mid-April: Takayama Spring Festival, one of the most beautiful festivals in Japan, occurs in the historic town of Takayama. This festival features elaborate floats, marionette performances, and processions.

Late April to Early May: The Kanda Matsuri in Tokyo is one of the city's three major Shinto festivals, featuring parades, music, and dance.

May 5th: Children's Day (Kodomo no Hi)

May 15th: On this day, multiple spring festivals take place across Japan to celebrate the arrival of summer. These include Kamigamo Shrine Festival in Kyoto, and Suwa Taisha Chigo Parade in Nagano. These festivals are a great way to experience traditional Japanese culture and customs.

Third Sunday of May: The Sanja Matsuri, one of Tokyo's biggest and wildest festivals, sees Asakusa transformed into a lively spectacle of music and dance. Three main mikoshi (portable shrines) are paraded around the district, accompanied by traditional music and the cheers of the crowd.

End of May: Aoi Matsuri in Kyoto is one of the city's three major festivals. Participants dressed in Heian Era costumes parade from the Imperial Palace to the Kamo Shrines. The highlight of the festival is a grand procession featuring over 500 people in traditional attire.

Sumo Festivals in March

If you're a fan of sumo wrestling, Japan's national sport, you'll want to witness the grand sumo tournament held every year in Osaka. It takes place in March and attracts over 10,000 visitors from around the world. You can watch the matches from the special seat for a more intimate experience and learn about the traditions and rules of sumo wrestling. In case you want secure your spot, make sure to do in time on the official website.

Cormorant Fishing (Ukai)

Another unique experience to try in spring is Cormorant fishing or Ukai, a traditional fishing technique that dates back to the Heian period. It involves using trained cormorant birds to catch ayu (sweetfish) in rivers at night. It's a fascinating performance to watch as the birds dive into the water, catching the fish and bringing them back to the boat. You can witness this ancient tradition in cities like Gifu and Kyoto, where it takes place from May to October.

Cormorant fishing was initially practiced by the nobility and was later adopted by the common folk. It has been recognised as a significant aspect of Japanese cultural heritage, and it showcases the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature.

Best Food and Drinks to Have during Spring

Spring is a fantastic time to enjoy seasonal Japanese cuisine. One of the most iconic dishes is Sakura Mochi, a rice cake wrapped in salted cherry blossom leaves, available for a limited time only during the cherry blossom season. Other popular dishes include Takenoko, fresh bamboo shoots, and Sashimi, fresh raw fish.

For drinks, we recommend trying Amazake, a sweet sake, and Hojicha, roasted green tea. Both drinks are perfect for warming up on chilly spring days. Japanese food won´t certainly disappoint you.

How to Plan Your Trip: Tailor-Made or Group Tour

Whether you prefer a tailor-made tour or a group tour, both experiences can show the best of what Japan has to offer.

Tailor-made tours offer a personalized experience, where you can customize your itinerary based on your preferences and budget. It's an excellent option if you want to explore Japan at your own pace and have specific interests in mind.

On the other hand, group tours are an excellent way to meet like-minded travellers and have a fully guided experience, with everything organized for you. Choose the best option based on your travel style, budget, and expectations.

Climate in Spring and Cherry Blossom Prediction

It's important to keep in mind that the cherry blossom season in Japan varies from year to year, depending on the temperature and weather conditions. The Japan Weather Association releases a cherry blossom forecast every year, predicting the best time to see the blossoms in different regions of Japan.

The forecast for 2024 predicts that the cherry blossoms will begin blooming in Tokyo on March 21st and will reach full bloom by March 29th. Check the official website for updates and plan your trip accordingly.

Spring Is Not Only Cherry Blossoms - Different Types of Flowers to See

Japan in spring is not just about cherry blossoms. You can also witness other stunning flowers blooming across the country, such as Glycine parks in Ashikaga in Tochigi and the Glycine park in Kawachi, Fukuoka, featuring colourful Wisteria flowers. Other must-see flowers include Nemophilias in Ibaraki and Azaleas in Nara. We recommend exploring different regions of Japan to discover these beautiful flowers and natural landscapes.

Best Onsen in Spring

Onsen, Japanese hot springs, are a must-try experience in Japan, especially during spring when the temperature is mild. Some of the best onsen to enjoy during spring are Gero Onsen in Gifu, Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma, and Arima Onsen in Hyogo. Be sure to check the rules of the onsen, as they usually have separate areas for men and women. Do you have a tattoo? Here´s what you should know.

Golden Week and Why to Avoid

Golden Week is a Japanese holiday period that lasts from the end of April to early May, and it's one of the busiest travel seasons in Japan. It's a time when many Japanese people travel to visit their families, and hotels and transportation can get booked up quickly. It's best to avoid travelling during this period, if possible, as prices can increase, and crowds can be overwhelming.

Spring in Japan Also Means Snow

If you're a snow lover, Japan has plenty of options to offer during spring. Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, is a winter wonderland during spring, with its beautiful snow-covered landscapes and excellent ski slopes. Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, a scenic mountain pass in the Japanese Alps, is also a popular destination for snow lovers, where you can walk through beautiful snow walls up to 20 meters high.

The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, often referred to as the "Roof of Japan", is a unique and spectacular route through the Northern Japan Alps, which is traversed by various means of transportation, including cable cars, trolley buses and a ropeway. The route is renowned for its scenic beauty with panoramic views of Mt. Tateyama and the stunning Kurobe Dam.

The route is open from mid-April to late November, and the best time to visit is during spring, when the towering snow corridor can be experienced. This dramatic landscape, where snow walls reach up to 20 meters high on both sides, is a sight to behold and one of the key highlights of the route.

Insider Tips From Travel Consultants at Japanspecialist

1. Allergies: If you suffer from allergies, be aware that spring in Japan brings pollen from cedar and cypress trees, causing hay fever symptoms like runny nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing. Make sure to bring allergy medication with you and consider wearing a mask to protect yourself from the pollen.

2. Dress in layers: The weather can be quite unpredictable during spring in Japan, so it's best to pack and dress in layers. This will allow you to adjust your clothing accordingly and stay comfortable throughout the day.

3. Try seasonal food: Spring is a great time to indulge in some of Japan's seasonal delicacies such as sakura (cherry blossom) flavoured treats and fresh bamboo shoots. Make sure to try out some of these delicious dishes while you're there.

4. Explore off-the-beaten-path destinations: While popular cities like Tokyo and Kyoto are definitely worth a visit, don't be afraid to venture off the beaten path and explore smaller towns and villages during spring. Consider visiting Yoshino in Nara Prefecture, the most famous cherry blossom viewing spot in Japan. Its mountainsides are covered in over 30,000 cherry trees, making for a breath-taking display of blossoms. Another gem is the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture. Here, you can witness the early blooming Kawazu sakura, relax in hot springs, and explore beautiful coastlines. The Shiroyone Senmaida, a collection of over a thousand rice terraces on the Noto Peninsula, is a sight to behold, particularly in the spring when the paddies are filled with water. Finally, consider visiting Sakura-no-Sato, a park in Izu that hosts over a hundred varieties of cherry trees. The park's extended blooming period from late February to mid-April provides ample opportunity to enjoy the enchanting cherry blossoms.

5. Go hiking: Spring is the perfect time to go hiking in Japan, as the weather is mild and the countryside is covered in colourful flowers and lush greenery. Whether it's climbing Mount Fuji or exploring the many trails in Nikko National Park, there are plenty of opportunities to connect with nature and enjoy stunning views.

6. Experience hanami: Last but not least, no spring trip to Japan is complete without experiencing hanami – the tradition of admiring cherry blossoms. Grab a picnic blanket and some snacks and join the locals in parks and gardens as they gather under the blooming trees to celebrate the beauty of nature. It's a truly magical experience that shouldn't be missed. So why wait? Start planning your spring trip now!

Conclusion

Japan in spring is truly a magical experience, offering a combination of natural beauty, cultural traditions, and delicious food. From the stunning cherry blossoms to the fascinating festivals, sumo wrestling tournaments, and traditional experiences like Onsen and Ukai, you're sure to find something that piques your interest. Whether you prefer to travel on your own or in a group tour, Japan is waiting for you to discover its springtime charms. Now that you have all the information you need, it's time to plan your perfect trip to Japan.