Sendai Weather in March

 Season: Spring
 In short:
1. The weather of Sendai in March is cold overall, with temperatures below 0°C (32℉) occurring occasionally in the day.
2. Rainfall is mild mostly, and snowfall may occur for several times.
3. March is a good time to admire plum blossoms.

Temperature: Cold Overall

Average high temperature: 9 degrees Celsius (48.2 degrees Fahrenheit)
Average low temperature: 1℃ (30.2℉)

Although March marks the arrival of early spring, temperatures haven’t seen a significant rise this month, remaining relatively low. Most daytime temperatures range from 6°C to 12°C (42.8-53.6℉), occasionally exceeding 14°C (57.2℉) when sunshine is abundant. However, on inclement days, even daytime highs are as low as 5°C (41℉), with lows dipping to several degrees below freezing point. In the early morning hours and after sunset, temperatures drop sharply: the temperature is generally no more than 10°C (50℉), 5°C or below is the norm, and the lowest temperature may potentially drop to around -3°C (26.6℉). 

Precipitation: Mild Rain & Several Snowfalls

Rainfall is not much throughout March, averaging 68mm monthly. There are approximately 12 rainy days, during which light rain is common while moderate rainfall may only occur for 2-4 days. For tourists who are obsessed with snowfall and only available in this month, you still have chance to enjoy a pure snow scenery in Sendai. According to historical weather statistics, there are about 5 snowy days in March, with the snowfall averaging 48mm. In 2024, there was a heavy snowfall even in late March, yet it didn’t accumulate for too long before melting. Particularly, snowfall is more prone to occur in the evening and early morning, after which it turns to sleet or drizzle. 

Mean relative humidity is about 62%, which is at a low level throughout the year, but is pleasant for human body.

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 to a suitable range, from just over 11 hours at the beginning of the month to around 12.5 hours towards the end of the month. By virtue of sufficient daylight hours, tourists who have difficulty getting up early due to fatigue on the way to the destination can spend more time having a good rest in bed; besides, you can adjust your itinerary flexibly according to the weather conditions instead of visiting attractions in a hurry. 

Pros & Cons of Visiting Sendai in March

Pros: 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. Also, you can have a peaceful travel experience when visiting tourist attractions where there are seldom crowds. For snow lovers, you’re likely to catch a romantic snowfall in the city center, or you can go to suburban areas like the Miyagi Zao region where there is more fascinating with snowy nature. 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: The climate is cold, which is not beneficial for long-time outdoor sightseeing, especially for the elderly tourists. In addition, March is not a good time for admiring the cherry flowers in Sendai, since most cheery trees just start to bloom from early April. 

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, which is suitable for cloudy or sunny weather. However, considering the wet days, especially when the snow is melting that causes the temperature to plummet, you’d better prepare thicker outwears like a light down coat or 3-in-1 jacket 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.

 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 so you can wear them for extra warmth, and embellish your outfit as well. Plus, don’t forget to pack rain gear in your bag in case of the occasional rainfalls or sleet.

Travel Suggestions & Tips

 If it’s very cold in the morning or there is rainfall, it is recommended to go to the Sendai Asaichi Market for a hot breakfast at around 8 o’clock when most of the stores start to open. Then, around 9 o’clock, indoor attractions such as the Sendai City Museum, Miyagi Museum of Art, and Sendai Uminomori Aquarium start operating. You can visit these places for sightseeing and it will be warmer there. Once the rain or snow stops, you can go to outdoor attractions such as Aoba Castle and Jozenji-dori Avenue to have a stroll.

 You’d better check the closing time before visiting a certain attraction because some close very early before sunset. For example, the Sendai City Museum closes at 16:45, but tourists are not allowed to enter since 16:15.

Sendai Weather by Month