Japan Weather in April

April weather of Japan is generally characterized by warmth and moderate precipitation. Temperatures across the country rise significantly, though regional differences remain pronounced: Hokkaido still experiences some a-bit-cold moments, while Okinawa enjoys totally warm conditions. Meanwhile, nearly all cities will receive some showers this month, though not very frequently. April marks the peak of cherry blossom season.

Temperature

By April, most cities in Japan have become quite warm. Among them, the warmest and most comfortable regions are undoubtedly the southernmost areas like Okinawa. This month, temperatures there typically range from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius (68-77 degrees Fahrenheit). Whether it’s early or late in the month, day or night, you won’t feel cold.

Tourists Hiking in Warm Japan in April

Moving northward to cities in central Japan, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, temperatures are slightly cooler. During the first half of the month, mornings and evenings remain somewhat cool, with temperatures of around 5-10°C (41-50°F). Towards midday, temperatures gradually rise to about 15°C (59°F). By the second half of the month, the daily temperatures generally climb to around 15-20°C (59-68°F).

As for the northernmost region of Hokkaido, the situation is a bit more complex. In early April, the weather is still chilly, with nighttime temperatures around -5 to 0°C (23-32°F) and daytime temperatures around 5-10°C (41-50°F). In the latter half of the month, days with temperatures below freezing are virtually nonexistent, and daily ranges are generally between 5-15°C (41-59°F). It’s worth noting that temperatures here are unstable this month. Specifically, during the latter half, daily highs could soar to around 20°C (68°F) or dip as low as 5°C (41°F) occasionally. Therefore, if you plan to visit Hokkaido in April, be sure to constantly monitor the weather forecast and pack plenty of clothes.

Precipitation

The precipitation across Japan this month reaches a moderate level, with an average of 10 or more rainy days. In other words, if you travel to Japan in April, you may encounter slightly frequent rain. However, don’t be worried, the frequency is far below that of the rainy season. Moreover, light rain is generally more common. 

Note that Hokkaido with lower temperatures may still experience several snowfalls at the beginning of the month.

Kyoto in April with Perfect Sunshine

Daylight Hours/Sunshine Hours

In April, daylight hours in Japan increase significantly, with most cities averaging a daytime of around 13 hours. In Hokkaido, the daylight hours even stretch to 14 hours and the sun rises as early as 04:30 by month’s end. Consequently, many scenic spots extend their operating hours, offering you more opportunities to explore and allowing for a more leisurely pace to your travels.

Most cities experience an average of 5 to 6 sunshine hours per day this month, a relatively long level.

Besides, if you visit Okinawa in April, you will find the sunlight particularly intense - this month’s UV index can reach as high as 11. Therefore, be sure to take precautions against sunburn when going out.

Is April a Good Time to Go to Japan?

Yes, in fact, April is one of the best months to visit Japan. So, what can you expect during your April trip to Japan?

1. Relatively Favorable Climate: As mentioned above, except for Hokkaido, which can be a bit chilly at the beginning of the month, nearly all other cities enjoy warm and comfortable temperatures. Plus, the climate of Japan is generally sunny and the daytime is long enough, providing excellent conditions for touring outdoors.
2. Cherry Blossom Season: No matter when you visit Japan this month, you have a chance to see the romantic pink cherry blossoms, one of the must-see views in Japan. In early April, cherry blossoms are in full bloom in central Japan, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. By mid-April, higher-altitude areas like Nagano are full of these beautiful flowers. By late April, northern regions such as Hokkaido and Aomori see Sakura blooming. Furthermore, cherry blossom festivals will be held across the country during the blooming season, allowing you to enjoy nighttime viewing and sample unique cherry blossom-themed foods. 
3. Magnificent Mount Fuji: April is absolutely a good time to visit Mount Fuji, when it has the largest snow-covered area throughout the year. In places like Lake Kawaguchi, you can even spot the Mount and pink cherry blooms at the same time.

View of Cherry Blossom Season

Peak Tourism Season with High Costs

Overall, Japan will be packed with tourists throughout April, with even more crowds toward the end of the month. First, April is cherry blossom season, inevitably drawing large numbers of visitors to Japan. Second, starting April 29, Japan will enter its 2026 “Golden Week” holiday, when most Japanese will also begin traveling. Consequently, both air tickets and hotels will be extremely expensive.

Crowded Osaka in April

What to Pack when Visiting Japan in April?

For cities located in northern Japan, like Hokkaido: First, you need to pack sweaters, hoodies, and thick sweatpants or jeans. For outerwear, if you plan to travel during the first half of the month, you are recommended to bring overcoats or lightweight down jackets. If you plan to travel during the second half of the month, windbreakers or leather jackets are sufficient. Comfortable and warm boots are advised to pack. 

For cities located in central Japan, like Tokyo: For your upper body, you are recommended to wear at least two layers: a long-sleeved T-shirt underneath, topped with a shirt or knit sweater. For early morning and late evening, you also need to bring warm windbreakers or hoodie jackets. For your lower body, thin jeans are OK. For footwear, opt for comfortable sneakers, as you will inevitably walk a lot.

For cities located in southern Japan, like Okinawa: Men can wear thin long pants with short-sleeved T-shirts; women can wear sun-protective jackets with long dresses. However, to ensure you can stay warm on rainy days and during cooler mornings and evenings, it’s advisable to pack one or two lightweight jackets. As for footwear, water shoes are the most convenient choice. Don’t forget to bring sun protection essentials like sunglasses and sunscreen.

Tips for Visiting Japan in April

1. When traveling to Japan in April, it’s best to book flights and accommodations several months in advance to secure more affordable rates.
2. During this season of cherry blooms, if you have pollen allergies, be sure to carry masks with you at all times.
3. If you don’t like crowds, you are recommended to begin your trip early each day to avoid peak travel times. This also allows for more extended sightseeing hours.
4. Sakura blooms for a short period, and the exact timing each year can shift earlier or later depending on temperatures. Therefore, keep a close eye on the latest bloom forecasts and be prepared to adjust your itinerary accordingly.

See Also: Japan Cherry Blossom Date Prediction 2026

April Weather of Major Cities in Japan

April	Temperature		Sunrise / Sunset	Humidity (%)
	High	Low
Aomori	11°C / 51.8°F	3°C / 37.4°F	04:59 / 18:16	65
Asahikawa	10°C / 50°F	2°C / 35.6°F	04:45 / 18:02	63
Fukuoka	19°C / 66.2°F	11°C / 51.8°F	05:48 / 18:49	65
Hakata	18°C / 64.4°F	9°C / 48.2°F	06:06 / 18:39	65
Hakodate	11°C / 51.8°F	3°C / 37.4°F	05:21 / 18:03	66
Hakone	19.3°C / 66.7°F	8.9°C / 48°F	05:42 / 18:17	75
Hirosaki	10°C / 50°F	3°C / 37°F	05:01 / 18:17	77
Hiroshima	19°C / 66.2°F	11°C / 51.8°F	05:39 / 18:42	60
Kagoshima	22°C / 71.6°F	12°C / 53.6°F	05:50 / 18:46	65
Kamakura	17°C / 62.6°F	11°C / 51.8°F	04:51 / 18:26	61
Kanazawa	17°C / 62.6°F	7°C / 44.6°F	05:22 / 18:27	62
Kobe	19°C / 66.2°F	10°C / 50°F	05:10 / 18:42	58
Kochi	20°C / 68°F	12°C / 53.6°F	05:37 / 18:36	63
Kyoto	19°C / 66.2°F	10°C / 50°F	05:25 / 18:29	59
Lake Kawaguchi	15°C / 59°F	2°C / 35.6°F	05:15 / 18:18	77
Mount Fuji	16°C / 60.8°F	5°C / 39.2°F	05:14 / 18: 16	68
Nagasaki	20°C / 68°F	11°C / 52°F	05:52 / 18:49	68
Nagoya	19°C / 66.2°F	10°C / 50°F	05:21 / 18:25	62
Nara	19°C / 66.2°F	10°C / 50°F	05:24 / 18:28	59
Niigata	15°C / 59°F	8°C / 46.4°F	05:09 / 18:19	66
Nikko	13°C / 55°F	3°C / 37.4°F	05:27 / 18:29	70
Okinawa	24°C / 75.2°F	19°C / 66.2°F	06:06 / 18:54	74
Osaka	19°C / 66.2°F	12°C / 53.6°F	05:27 / 18:30	52
Sapporo	12°C / 53.6°F	3°C / 37.4°F	04:53 / 18:17	60
Sendai	15°C / 59°F	6°C / 42.8°F	05:02 / 18:13	64
Shirakawa-go	16°C / 60.8°F	3°C / 37.4°F	05:01 / 18:41	78
Takayama	17°C / 62.6°F	3°C / 37.4°F	05:19 / 18:25	73
Tokyo	18°C / 64.4°F	13°C / 55.4°F	05:09 / 18:14	61
Wakayama	17°C / 62.6°F	11°C / 52°F	05:29 / 18:29	65
Yokohama	18°C / 64.4°F	11°C / 52°F	05:40 / 18:50	64