Japan Weather in March

In March, most regions of Japan welcome spring, except Hokkaido, which remains in winter. Overall, temperatures turn from slightly chilly to warm. Precipitation is moderate across the country, with both rain and snow possible. The second half of March marks the peak cherry blossom season in many Japanese cities.

Japan in March with Pink Sakura

Turing Warm Overall

In March, temperatures across Japan exhibit a significant upward trend:

Hokkaido, located at the northernmost tip of Japan, remains the only region with lingering coldness throughout the month: During the first half, temperatures hover between -5 and 0 degrees Celsius (23-32 degrees Fahrenheit). By the latter half, they gradually rise to around 0-5°C (32-41°F), and the daily high rarely exceeds 10°C (50°F). 

Warm Nara in March

As temperatures generally increase with latitude, in central Japan, March weather transitions from somewhat cold to relatively warm. Early in the month, coastal areas in western Japan, such as Kanazawa, see temperatures around 0-5°C (32-41°F), coastal regions in eastern Japan, like Tokyo, are a bit warmer at 5-10°C (41-50°F), while higher-elevation areas like Nagano may remain cold at -5 to 0°C (23-32°F). By month’s end, daytime highs of nearly all these regions reach around 15°C (59°F), occasionally hitting 20°C (68°F). However, thicker clothing remains necessary for mornings and evenings, when temperatures hover between 5-10°C (41-50°F). Note that temperatures in these regions are highly unstable during this period, with sudden drops from around 20°C (68°F) to 10°C (50°F) possible even toward the end of the month.

In southernmost areas like Okinawa, daily temperatures are around 20-25°C (68-77°F), a totally warm level.

Both Rain and Snow Exist

In March, Japan generally receives moderate precipitation nationwide, and most cities will experience around 10-15 days with precipitation. However, due to temperature variations, precipitation patterns differ: Northern areas like Hokkaido experience frequent snowfall. Yet, as temperatures rise slightly, rainy days may also occur, particularly in the latter half of the month. Cities located along the western coastal areas, such as Kanazawa and Mitsuke, primarily experience snowfall during the first half of the month and rainfall during the latter half. Cities along the eastern coastal areas, like Tokyo, typically see around 10 rainy days on average in March, with snowfall being extremely rare. As for Okinawa in the south, it experiences only rain.

Note that this month, wherever you go, you may encounter heavy precipitation that could disrupt your travel plans, though infrequently. Therefore, be sure to check the weather forecast regularly and try to minimize any potential impact by making adjustments in advance.

Hokkaido in Snow

Daylight Hours/Sunshine Hours

In March, the daylight hours of Japan increase to around 12 on average, and you can even expect a daylight time of around 12.5 in some cities in late March, indicating that you have ample time per day to pay outdoor visits. The sunshine hours reach 5-6 across the country per day on average, thanks to the overall sunny weather of Japan.

It’s important to note that while UV levels are relatively low in most cities at this time, Okinawa’s UV index reaches 10, a level that requires you to take proper sun protection measures.

Best Month to See Cherry Blossoms 

With warmer temperatures, cherry blossoms can be admired throughout the whole month, but in different cities, making March one of the best months to see cherry blossoms.

Pink Sakura in Japan in March

In the first days of March, some early cherry blossoms have not faded in Kawazu, Izu Peninsula. By mid-March, cherry blossoms are in full bloom across Kyushu regions like Fukuoka and Kagoshima. By late March, you can see clusters of pink and captivating cherry blossoms throughout most cities of Japan, except for Okinawa, where the blossoms have already fallen, as well as Hokkaido and northern Honshu areas like Sendai and Aomori, where the blossoms have not burst into bloom yet.

See Also: Japan Cherry Blossom Dates Forecast in 2026

Is March a Good Time to Visit Japan?

Yes, and it is actually one of the best months to visit most cities of Japan.

From the Perspective of Japan Climate: 
While temperatures are not stable this month, most areas experience relatively warm conditions for the majority of the month, particularly in the latter half. As for precipitation, it is generally moderate across most of Japan, with heavy snow or rain that hinders outdoor activities occurring infrequently. This also contributes to relatively long sunshine hours. 

From the Perspective of Scenery and Activities/What You Can See: 
As mentioned above, from mid- to late March, many Japanese cities enter the peak season for cherry blossom - one of Japan’s most attractive sights. During this time, cherry blossom festivals will also be held in some areas, offering opportunities to sample Sakura ice cream and Sakura mochi taiyaki, and to witness cherry blossoms illuminated at night. In contrast, until mid-to-late March, the Tohoku region and Hokkaido retain their pure white snowy landscapes as winter snow has not yet fully melted. Furthermore, Mount Fuji’s summit still bears snow in March.

Mount Fuji Bearing Snow at the Summit

Crowds and Costs of Trips to Japan in March

For most cities in central Japan, like Tokyo, early March is the slack season, with fewer crowds and lower costs. However, later this month, as cherry blossoms bloom in abundance, these cities transition from the slack to the peak tourism season. Popular cities like Kyoto, Tokyo, Nara, and Osaka will become crowded, and costs for accommodation and transportation will inevitably rise. 

Crowded Visitors Viewing Cherry Blossoms

Hokkaido experiences its shoulder season in March as snow begins to melt, no longer as deep as in previous months. By month’s end, the ground may be completely snow-free. Okinawa also sees not many visitors at this time, as many beaches remain closed and some water activities are restricted. Travel costs in both regions will naturally be more affordable.

What to Wear when Visiting Japan in March 2026?

In Hokkaido, down jackets, sweaters, fleece-lined pants, and snow boots are still essential during the first half of the month. For the latter half, consider changing your down jacket into a thick windbreaker or overcoat.

In most central Japanese regions like Tokyo and Osaka, relatively thick clothing is still recommended for the first half of the month. For instance, you can layer overcoats over sweatshirts and thick sweatpants. If you are sensitive to cold, pack a lightweight down jacket. By the second half, warm daytime temperatures allow you to wear long-sleeve shirts, jeans, and knitwear. However, remember to add a windbreaker or leather jacket for evening outings. As for footwear, warm and comfortable casual shoes will suffice for these destinations.

In warmer Okinawa, a daytime outfit can consist of a long-sleeved or short-sleeved T-shirt as your top, and thin pants as your bottom. For slightly cooler mornings and evenings, pack a denim jacket.

Others you should pack:
1. If you are sensitive to pollens, remember to pack masks.
2. To prevent getting wet by sudden rain, you are recommended to bring an umbrella.
3. Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential if you plan to visit Okinawa. If you are heading to places like Hokkaido to admire snow scenery, sunglasses are also recommended to protect your eyes.

March Weather of Major Japan Cities