Spring in Japan: Sakura, Kyoto and Hanami
Travel to Japan in spring: cherry blossoms, hanami, Kyoto in celebration, traditional festivals and tips for March to May.
BLOG JAPAN
9/14/20259 min read
This article is part 4 of a series dedicated to the four seasons in Japan:
Each season has its own unique charm. Let’s start with summer, a festive season full of contrasts and discoveries.
1. Spring in Japan
Spring, stretching from March to May, is undoubtedly the most popular season to discover Japan. It’s a time when the entire country transforms: temperatures become milder, nature comes back to life, and the landscapes are dressed in pastel tones, dominated by the famous cherry blossoms — the sakura.
A symbol of renewal and fleeting beauty, this bloom attracts both Japanese people and travelers from around the world. Everywhere, you’ll find a joyful, festive atmosphere: families, friends, and colleagues gather in parks to practice hanami, the tradition of picnicking under the blooming cherry trees.
Beyond nature, spring in Japan is also rich in cultural events, with countless traditional festivals and local celebrations. With its pleasant climate, enchanting landscapes, and convivial atmosphere, this is the perfect season to combine cultural discoveries with immersion in the Japanese way of life.
This page is part of the series “Visiting Japan by Season”, which guides you through the four distinct Japanese seasons and their unique highlights. After this dive into spring, you can explore summer, autumn, and winter to choose the best time for your trip.
2. Climate and Spring Atmosphere
Spring in Japan generally offers pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from around 10°C in March to 20–23°C in May, depending on the region. Early spring can still feel chilly, especially in the north and during the evenings, while May already brings an almost summer-like atmosphere in the south.
It’s a season marked by clear, sunny skies, although some rainfall can occur, particularly in April. Unlike the humid Japanese summer, spring remains comfortable, making city strolls and countryside excursions especially enjoyable.
The overall mood is one of renewal and togetherness. Blooming cherry trees (sakura) turn parks, temples, and streets into picture-perfect scenes, while the custom of hanami — admiring and celebrating the blossoms — leads to lively picnics under the trees. This unique atmosphere draws not only tourists but also locals, who fully embrace this magical interlude.
In addition to cherry blossoms, other flowers enhance the beauty of the season: plum blossoms in March, azaleas and wisteria in April, and irises in May. Each month reveals a different palette, offering varied and photogenic landscapes.
👉 In short, spring in Japan combines mild weather, flower-filled scenery, and a festive spirit, making it the country’s most iconic and anticipated season.
3. Where to Go in Japan in Spring?
Spring is perhaps the season that best showcases Japan’s diversity of landscapes and regions. Whether you’re drawn to cities, nature, culture, or traditions, certain destinations become truly unmissable at this time of year.
Tokyo: Parks in Bloom in the Capital
In Tokyo, cherry blossoms transform major parks into must-visit gathering spots. Ueno Park, with its long alleys lined with sakura, draws thousands of visitors, while Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden offers a more refined and tranquil setting. For a romantic walk, the Chidorigafuchi moat near the Imperial Palace provides unforgettable views of cherry blossoms reflected on the water.
Kyoto: Temples and Traditions under the Sakura
In Kyoto, spring feels almost magical. Temples and shrines take on an even more spiritual aura when surrounded by blossoms. The Philosopher’s Path, a canal-side walkway lined with cherry trees, is one of the most famous hanami spots in Japan. Meanwhile, Maruyama Park becomes a lively hub with hanami parties that continue late into the night.
Osaka and Nara: Between Modernity and Nature
In Osaka, the castle and its gardens look spectacular when framed by cherry blossoms, creating a striking contrast between history and modern urban life. Nearby Nara, with its vast park and roaming deer, offers a more peaceful, traditional setting to enjoy the blossoms.
Hokkaido: The Late Bloom
While cherry blossoms have already faded in Tokyo and Kyoto, the northern island of Hokkaido comes alive in late April and May. Sapporo, Hakodate, and Matsumae are among the best places to admire the later blooms. Meanwhile, the flower fields of Furano and Biei start to burst with color, providing a different facet of Japan’s spring charm.
Kanazawa and Takayama: Immersion in Traditional Japan
For a more authentic feel, Kanazawa captivates with its Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan’s top three gardens, especially stunning in April. Takayama, with its preserved traditional houses and its famous spring festival (Takayama Matsuri), immerses visitors in a unique historical atmosphere.
👉 In summary, spring in Japan offers a wide variety of destinations, from festive metropolises to preserved traditional towns, and even remote regions like Hokkaido, perfect for extending the magic of the sakura.
4. What to Do in Japan in Spring?
Spring in Japan is a season packed with opportunities. Between traditions, cultural events, and natural experiences, travelers have countless ways to enrich their journey.
Admire the Cherry Blossoms and Experience Hanami
Cherry blossom viewing is a true national ritual. Locals gather with family, friends, or coworkers to enjoy festive picnics beneath the blossoms. From Tokyo’s Ueno Park and Shinjuku Gyoen to Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path and Nara Park, every city has its must-see hanami spots.
Join the Spring Festivals (Matsuri)
Spring is one of Japan’s most festive seasons. Across the country, matsuri (traditional festivals) bring the streets to life with colorful processions, ornate floats, period costumes, and a convivial atmosphere that unites locals and visitors alike.
✨ Takayama Matsuri (April 14–15, Takayama)
Regarded as one of Japan’s most beautiful festivals, Takayama Matsuri is held in the charming town of Takayama, nestled in the Japanese Alps. The festival features magnificent floats (yatai) adorned with carvings and lanterns. By day, they are on display in the streets; by night, they parade illuminated, creating a magical scene. Mechanical puppet performances (karakuri ningyō) add to the spectacle, delighting audiences of all ages.
✨ Aoi Matsuri (May 15, Kyoto)
One of Kyoto’s three great festivals, the Aoi Matsuri dates back to the Heian period (794–1185). Its highlight is a grand procession of over 500 participants dressed in exquisite historical costumes, inspired by the imperial court. The parade begins at the Imperial Palace and continues to Shimogamo and Kamigamo Shrines. The motif of hollyhock leaves (aoi), the festival’s symbol, adorns both costumes and accessories.
✨ Kanamara Matsuri (early April, Kawasaki)
Perhaps Japan’s most unusual festival, the Kanamara Matsuri, or “Festival of the Steel Phallus,” is held each year at Kanayama Shrine in Kawasaki, near Tokyo. Rooted in fertility traditions, the event features giant phallic statues carried in procession. The lively, humorous, and welcoming atmosphere includes food stalls, artisan crafts, and novelty sweets. Beyond the spectacle, the festival also supports modern social causes, such as HIV/AIDS awareness.
👉 Together, these three festivals showcase the richness of spring in Japan: from historical refinement to spiritual tradition to quirky celebrations, they offer travelers unforgettable cultural experiences.
Experience Japan’s Spring Holidays
Springtime in Japan is punctuated by national holidays that bring both joy and travel challenges:
🌸 Shōwa no Hi (April 29) – Honoring Emperor Shōwa (Hirohito), this day encourages reflection on Japan’s history and peace. For many, it marks the start of spring holidays, with families flocking to parks and gardens.
📜 Kenpō Kinenbi (May 3) – Constitution Memorial Day, commemorating the 1947 Constitution. It’s a civic reflection day, but also a chance to visit public institutions like the National Diet in Tokyo, often open to visitors.
🌿 Midori no Hi (May 4) – Greenery Day, dedicated to nature. Many gardens and parks are free to enter, making it perfect for enjoying azaleas, wisteria, and irises in bloom.
🎏 Kodomo no Hi (May 5) – Children’s Day, celebrated with colorful koinobori (carp streamers) flying across Japan. Families wish health and success to their children, while shrines hold special ceremonies and activities.
The Golden Week: Opportunity and Challenge
These holidays combine into the famous Golden Week (late April – early May), one of Japan’s busiest travel periods. For locals, it’s a time to travel domestically, visit relatives, or attend festivals. For foreign visitors, it often means crowded trains, fully booked hotels, and higher prices.
➡️ Experiencing Golden Week can be fascinating, with vibrant streets and collective excitement. However, if you prefer tranquility, it’s wise to plan your itinerary to avoid major travel days.
👉 In short: Japan’s spring holidays are a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the culture — but they require careful planning to avoid the downsides of peak-season crowds.
Enjoy Nature and Hiking
The mild spring climate is ideal for outdoor adventures:
Mount Yoshino (Nara): famed for its thousands of cherry trees covering the slopes.
The Japanese Alps (Nagano, Toyama, Gifu): perfect for fresh air and views of snow-capped peaks.
National parks like Nikko or Hakone: combining walks, hot springs, and spring landscapes.
Taste the Flavors of the Season
Spring in Japan is also a culinary delight, with seasonal treats inspired by blossoms:
Sakura mochi (sweet rice cakes wrapped in salted cherry leaves).
Kakigōri (shaved ice, often flavored with floral syrups).
Tempura made with fresh spring shoots and vegetables.
Special drinks like cherry blossom lattes or teas.
👉 In short, spring in Japan means: admiring cherry blossoms, joining unique festivals, experiencing national holidays, exploring reborn nature, and savoring seasonal delights.
5. Practical Tips
Plan Ahead for a Spring Trip
Since spring is peak tourist season, it’s essential to book flights, accommodations, and trains several months in advance. Prices soar around cherry blossom season and during Golden Week (late April – early May). Traveling in March or in early May, just after Golden Week, can sometimes mean lower rates.
Estimated Budget for 15 Days in Japan (Spring)
Here’s a budget estimate for a two-week trip in March/April, based on a “comfort” stay (not luxury, but not extreme backpacking either). Costs vary depending on your departure city, accommodation style, and pace of travel:
International flight: €700–1,000 (round trip from Europe).
Transport within Japan:
JR Pass 14 days (unlimited travel on most Shinkansen and JR lines): ~€420.
Local transport (metro, buses, short trips): ~€100.
Accommodation:
Average €70–100 per night for a decent 3★ hotel or ryokan.
Total for 14 nights: €1,000–1,400.
Meals:
€10–20 per meal (local restaurants, izakaya, ramen shops).
Average €30–40/day → ~€500–600 for 15 days.
Activities & sightseeing:
Entrance fees for temples, museums, gardens, festivals: €5–10 on average per site.
Total: ~€150–200.
Extras & shopping:
Souvenirs, cafés, experiences (e.g., kimono rental, private onsen): €200–300.
👉 Estimated total for 15 days: €3,000–4,000 per person (excluding luxury extras).
Money-Saving Tips
Book flights 6–8 months in advance to avoid last-minute surcharges.
Mix hotels with ryokan stays (traditional inns) to balance cost and experience.
Grab affordable meals from konbini (7-Eleven, FamilyMart) or depachika (department store food halls).
If traveling during Golden Week, book trains and hotels well in advance — everything sells out quickly.
Get a Suica or Pasmo card for metro/bus rides: convenient and sometimes slightly cheaper.
👉 In short: A 15-day spring trip to Japan requires a solid budget, but with careful planning and smart choices, you can enjoy a rich, varied experience without spending more than €3,000 per person.
6. Conclusion: Spring, Japan’s Signature Season
Traveling to Japan in spring means diving into one of the most magical times of the year. Between cherry blossoms turning the country into a postcard, traditional festivals blending spirituality and conviviality, and national holidays shaping daily life, this season offers a unique mix of natural beauty and cultural richness.
True, the tourist crowds and higher prices demand some organization, but the memories you’ll create are priceless: sharing hanami with locals, admiring the floats of Takayama Matsuri, or watching hundreds of koinobori (carp streamers) fly on Children’s Day.
👉 Spring is often seen as the best season to visit Japan, but the country reinvents itself year-round. After cherry blossoms come the summer festivals, then the fiery foliage of autumn, and finally snow and onsen retreats in winter.
Continue your journey with our seasonal guides:
❓ FAQ – Preparing Your Spring Trip to Japan
Which temples should I visit in Japan during spring?
Temples in Kyoto, such as Kiyomizu-dera and Nanzen-ji, are breathtaking under cherry blossoms. In Kamakura, Buddhist temples surrounded by greenery and flowers offer a unique zen atmosphere.
Can you see Mt Fuji in spring?
Yes, Mount Fuji is visible in spring, especially from the Kawaguchiko area. Its snow-capped peak makes it particularly photogenic. Spring is also a great time to admire Japan’s most iconic volcano, without the intense summer heat.
Which UNESCO World Heritage sites are worth visiting in spring?
Japan has many UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Kyoto and Nara temples, the Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima (with its famous floating torii), and the Buddhist monuments of Horyu-ji. All are ideal to explore in spring.
Where to go in Japan in spring beyond Tokyo and Kyoto?
Beyond the big cities, Kansai charms with Osaka, Nara, and Kobe. Kyushu attracts visitors with its hot springs and volcanic landscapes, while Shikoku is famous for its Buddhist pilgrimage trails and zen atmosphere.
How to get around Japan in spring?
The most practical option is the Japan Rail Pass, which allows unlimited travel on most Shinkansen and JR lines. It’s perfect for connecting Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and more remote regions.
What Shinto festivals happen in spring?
Many Shinto matsuri celebrate nature and renewal. On Miyajima, the Itsukushima Shrine holds rituals, while Kawasaki’s Kanamara Matsuri showcases fertility traditions.
Where can I see cherry blossoms in Japan?
The best spots to enjoy cherry blossoms include Tokyo (Ueno, Shinjuku Gyoen, Chidorigafuchi), Kyoto (Philosopher’s Path, Maruyama Park), and Nara. In Hiroshima, the castle park and Miyajima Island also offer stunning spring scenery.
How much does a 15-day trip to Japan in spring cost?
Expect to spend around €3,000–4,000 per person (including flights, accommodation, meals, transport with the Japan Rail Pass, and activities). Costs vary depending on hotel choices and dining habits, but spring holidays in Japan are an investment worth planning for.
Which neighborhoods should I visit in Tokyo in spring?
The Shibuya district, famous for its giant crossing, is a must-see. Spring is also perfect for exploring Asakusa (traditional atmosphere), Shinjuku (with its large gardens), and Ginza (shopping).
What to eat in Japan in spring?
Seasonal specialties include fresh fish sushi, sakura-inspired sweets like sakura mochi and drinks, as well as spring vegetable tempura. Sushi, of course, remains a reliable favorite throughout the trip.
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