Shirakawa-go Weather in April

Season: Spring

In short:
1. Shirakawa-go’s weather in April gets warm, but you feel a bit chilly at night. The accumulated snow remains till early April.
2. The rainfall is low.
3. Mid-April steps into the cherry flower season, and late April enters a short-term travel peak time.

Warming up

Spring comes into Shirakawa-go in April and the climate becomes warmer and warmer. In the beginning of the month, it is a bit chilly with the high temperature of around 12 - 20℃ (53.6 - 68℉), but by middle and late April, the maximum temperature is usually around 15 - 25℃ (59 - 77℉). In some warmer years, it can even reach as high as 25℃ (77℉) or above. As the temperature increases, blooming cherry flowers scatter around the village since the middle of the month. However, Shirakawa-go experiences the temperature plunge after sunset, generally below 10℃ (50℉).

Low Rainfall

April View from Observatory

During this month, the average precipitation of Shirakawa-go is about 197mm (7.8 in), distributed over 13 rainy days. Most rainfall is drizzle or light rain, whose duration is basically no more than 6 hours, but it may rain several times throughout a day. Do note that the rain brings a sudden drop in temperature.

Is there snow in Shirakawa-go in April?

Yes. In early April, there is still accumulated snow from winter, but looking a tad dirty; in the second half of the month, it mostly melts away, apart from that on the summits in distance. As for snowfall, sleet is possible in the first half of the month.

Daylight Hours & Sunshine Hours

The sun rises at 5:00 - 5:40 and sets at 18:15 - 18:41, bringing the daytime length of 12.5 - 13.5 hours on average per day. Although overcast skies take up much of time in April, sunny conditions still increase and daily sunshine hours average 7.4 hours, meaning that you have more time to capture beautiful landscapes under bright sunlight.

Meanwhile, the sunshine is more intense, with the maximum UV Index of 9, making sun protection necessary during long-time outdoor sightseeing, if you decide to visit Shirikawa-go in this time of 2026.

Recommended Outfits in Shirakawa-go in April

Clothes: You’re advised to wear medium-weight hoodies, light down jackets or padded coats, and fleece-lined jeans or sweatpants. At warm midday with strong sunlight, take off your outer clothes to stay comfortable; as early mornings, evenings and rainy days get much cooler, you may add a vest.

Shoes: Given long walking time in Shirakawa-go, pack comfy casual shoes or hiking shoes you often wear. Non-slip and waterproof ones are more advised.

Others: Raingear and UV-protective items like sunblock and sunglasses are indispensable in this month. As there is plenty of cedar and cypress pollen in the air, those with a sensitive nose should remember to wear facial masks. Plus, shoes and pants may be soiled by muddy snowmelt, so cleaning wipes are very useful to help remove dirt.

Top Sites to Admire Cherry Blossoms in Shirakawa-go

Gasshozukuri Minkaen Outdoor Museum

Gasshozukuri Minkaen Outdoor Museum is home to lots of cherry flower trees. In middle April, historic gassho-style farmhouses are interweaved with elegant cherry flowers in full bloom, forming an awe-inspiring natural wonder. Seseragi Park Parking Lot, not far from the museum, is also a good viewing place.

Bonus tips: Starting in this month, the museum opens every day, so you can choose any day to go here.

Seseragi Park Parking

Myozenji Temple Museum

At the same time, a cherry flower tree nearby the entrance of Myozenji Temple Museum is in blossom. Walk inside, stand at the area just in front of Shoromon Gate, raise your camera or mobile phone, and take such a stunning picture: the thatched roof of the gate, the ancient bell with historic charm and pink cherry flowers perfectly blend together.

Travel Suggestions for Shirakawa-go in April

1. Though the cherry blossom season brings a short-term tourism peak, partially coinciding with Japan’s Golden Week when locals have a week-long vacation from the last few days of April till early May, visitors here are far fewer than in Kyoto and other popular destinations. However, due to local limited hotels and restaurants, early reservation is still needed.
2. Since the specific flowering period of cherry blossoms changes with temperature, it’s better to continuously check related information and flexibly arrange your travel plan.

Store in Shirakawa-go