Sendai Weather in March

 Season: Spring
 In short:
1.    The weather of Sendai in March is cold overall, with temperatures still dropping below 0°C (32℉) occasionally.
2.    Snowfall may occur for several times.
3.    March is a good time to admire plum blossoms.

Sendai in March

Cold Overall

Average high temperature: 9 degrees Celsius (48 degrees Fahrenheit)
Average low temperature: 1℃ (30℉)

Although March marks the arrival of early spring, temperatures haven’t seen a significant rise, remaining relatively low. Most daytime temperatures range from 6-12°C (43-54℉), occasionally exceeding 14°C (57℉) when sunshine is abundant. However, on inclement days, even highs are as low as 5°C (41℉). In the early morning hours and after sunset, temperatures drop sharply: it is generally no more than 10°C (50℉), 5°C or below is the norm, and the lowest may potentially drop to around -3°C (27℉). 

Low Precipitation & Several Snowfalls

Sendai experiences low precipitation in March, with the monthly amount averaging 74mm from 12 days. For tourists who are obsessed with snowfall, you still have chance to enjoy a pure snow scenery. According to historical weather statistics of Sendai, there are about 5 snowy days in March, though it’s usually very mild and brief. However, exceptions may exist: for example, in 2024, there was a heavy snowfall even in late March, yet it didn’t stay for too long and melted away soon. Particularly, snowfall is more prone to occur in the evening and early morning, after which it turns to sleet or drizzle.

Increasing Daylight Hours

Sunrise time (1st-31st): 06:10 – 05:24
Sunset time (1st-31st): 17:30 – 17:59

The duration of daylight in Sendai gradually increases, from just over 11 hours at the beginning of the month to around 12.5 hours towards the end. By virtue of sufficient daylight hours, you don’t have to get up early and follow a tight a schedule; instead, you can adjust your itinerary flexibly according to the weather conditions and enjoy your trip unhurriedly.

Sunset Glow of Sendai in March

Pros & Cons of Visiting Sendai in March

Pros: 
1.    Visiting Sendai in March 2026, you will enjoy favorable prices for air/train tickets and accommodation, as this period is not the peak season for tourism. 
2.    Also, you can have a peaceful travel experience as there are seldom crowds. 
3.    For snow lovers, you’re likely to catch a romantic snowfall in the downtown; even if not, you can go to suburban areas like the Miyagi Zao region where fascinating snowscape remains. 
4.    It is also worth noting that March is the best time to enjoy the plum blossoms in Sendai. You can appreciate this seasonal beauty at places such as the Zuihoden, Nishi Park, Akiu, and Zuiganji Temple in the Matsushima. If it snows, the plum blossoms will take on a unique charm against the snowy backdrop.

Cons: 
1.    The climate is cold, which is not beneficial for long-time outdoor sightseeing, especially for the elderly tourists and children. 
2.    In addition, March is not the time for admiring cherry flowers in Sendai yet, since most cherry flower trees just start to bloom in early April.

Plum Blossoms in Snow

Dressing Method for Sendai Trip in March

 Tops
Most of the time, you are recommended to wear a fleece-lined hoodie plus a long wool coat. However, on rainy or snowy days and days after snow when the snow is melting that causes the temperature to plummet, you’d better wear thicker outwears like a light down coat or 3-in-1 windbreaker to keep warm.

 Bottoms 
As for pants, you can just wear thick sweatpants in fine weather. Remember to bring long johns so as to cope with dropping temperatures in bad weather.

 Shoes
Snow boots or thick hiking boots are suitable for keeping warm and long walk.

 Other Accessories

You’re advised to bring a scarf and a hat for extra warmth, and embellish your outfit as well. Plus, don’t forget to pack rain gear in your bag.

Travel Suggestions & Tips

 If it’s very cold in the morning, it is recommended to go to the Sendai Asaichi Market for breakfast, not only to satisfy your appetite, but also to warm up. There, most of the stores start to open at around 8 o’clock. Then, around 9 o’clock, indoor attractions such as the Sendai City Museum, Miyagi Museum of Art, and Sendai Uminomori Aquarium start operating. Around noon or in early afternoon, you can go to outdoor attractions such as Aoba Castle and Jozenji-dori Avenue to have a stroll.

Eating Area in Sendai Asaichi Market

 You’d better check the closing time before visiting a certain attraction because some close very early due to somehow early sunset. For example, the Sendai City Museum closes at 16:45 with last entry at 16:15.

Sendai Weather by Month