March is a whisper of fresh air in Japan, when cherry blossoms bloom shyly, and the country shakes off the winter chill, welcoming a season of renewal and celebration. Are you dreaming of meandering through pink-hued pathways and indulging in the country’s rich cultural tapestry? Japan in March is a canvas of cultural festivities, natural beauty, and culinary delights waiting to be explored. Let’s Designer Journeys unveil the best places as enchanting as a delicate cherry blossom yet invigorating as the spring breeze.
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Best Places to Go in Japan in March 2024
As the snow melts and the days grow longer, March 2024 in Japan is set to be a canvas of cultural vibrancy, natural beauty, and serene escapes. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a curious explorer, Japan’s diverse landscapes offer a plethora of destinations that are especially enchanting during this time of year. From the northern reaches of Hokkaido to the subtropical climes of Okinawa, let’s journey through some of Japan’s best places to visit in March 2024.
Tokyo: A Modern Metropolis in Bloom
In Tokyo, the capital city, March is when the delicate pink hues of cherry blossoms soften the urban landscape. The famous Ueno Park becomes a hotspot for hanami (flower viewing) parties, where locals and tourists gather under the blooming sakura trees. Take the chance to visit Shinjuku Gyoen, a sprawling park with over a thousand cherry trees and a blend of traditional Japanese, English, and French garden designs.
Ueno Park in Tokyo.
Kyoto: Ancient Traditions and Tranquil Gardens
Kyoto, the heart of Japan’s cultural heritage, is breathtaking in March. The city’s numerous shrines, temples, and traditional gardens are quietly framed by cherry and plum trees. The Philosopher’s Path, a stone walkway that follows a cherry-tree-lined canal, offers a meditative journey through the city’s eastern part. Meanwhile, the historic district of Gion, known for its wooden machiya houses and geisha culture, provides a glimpse into Japan’s past.
Gion district in Kyoto.
Nara: Deer and Blossoms
Nara, once the capital of ancient Japan, is a place where history and nature intertwine. The city’s expansive Nara Park is home to hundreds of freely roaming deer, considered messengers of the gods in Shinto religion. In March, the park is also a popular site for cherry blossom viewing, with the deer adding a unique and almost mystical element to the experience.
Feed the Deer in Nara Park is a unique experience.
Hokkaido: A Winter Wonderland Transforming
For those who enjoy the tail end of winter, Hokkaido still offers snowy landscapes and winter sports in early March. As the month progresses, the island embraces spring, particularly in cities like Hakodate, where the cherry blossoms bloom a bit later than in the rest of Japan. The Goryokaku Fort, a star-shaped citadel, is a must-visit for its spectacular cherry blossoms and panoramic views.
Goryokaku Fort in Hokkaido has a unique design.
Okinawa: An Early Spring
In the southernmost prefecture of Okinawa, March is well into spring, with warmer temperatures and early blooming flowers. The islands offer a different side of Japan, with their own unique Ryukyu culture, pristine beaches, and historical sites like Shuri Castle. It’s the perfect escape for those looking to combine cultural exploration with a bit of relaxation by the sea.
Shuri Castle in Japan.
Kanazawa: A Cultural Gem
In Ishikawa Prefecture, Kanazawa is often called “little Kyoto” for its well-preserved Edo-era districts, art museums, and regional handicrafts. The Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s “three great gardens,” is particularly stunning in March when the plum and cherry trees start to bloom, creating a picturesque scene alongside the garden’s ponds, bridges, and teahouses.
Kanazawa is often called “little Kyoto”.
Miyajima: Scenic Views and Spiritual Sites
Miyajima, a small island in Hiroshima Bay, is famous for its floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine. The island’s cherry trees bloom in March, framing the iconic gate and shrine in soft pinks and whites. The island also offers lovely hiking trails and panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Torii Gate of Itsukushima Shine.
As March rolls in, Japan dresses in a spectrum of colours and offers a variety of experiences, from the fast-paced excitement of Tokyo to the serene beauty of rural landscapes. Each destination mentioned here promises unique adventure, cultural enrichment, and natural beauty, making them some of the best places to visit in Japan in March 2024.
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What to Do in Japan in March
March in Japan is not just about where to go but also about what to do. The transitional period from the cold winter to the warm spring offers a variety of activities that cater to every type of traveller. Whether you’re interested in cultural festivities, outdoor adventures, or culinary experiences, March has something special for you. Here’s a guide to some of the most engaging and memorable activities to indulge in during your March visit to Japan.
1. Participate in Hanami (Cherry Blossom Viewing)
The quintessential Japanese spring activity is hanami or cherry blossom viewing. Parks, riverbanks, and temples across the country are adorned with cherry trees that bloom spectacularly for a short period. Join the locals in a picnic under the blossoms in spots like Tokyo’s Ueno Park, Kyoto’s Maruyama Park, or Hirosaki Park in Aomori. Remember, it’s not just about seeing the flowers; it’s about enjoying the transient beauty of life they represent.
Cherry Blossom Viewing in Japan.
2. Attend a Spring Festival
March is a time for numerous festivals across Japan, celebrating everything from the blossoms to the changing seasons. One of the most famous is the Hina Matsuri (Doll Festival) on March 3rd, where families display ornamental dolls to wish for their daughters’ health and happiness. Another is the Omizutori in Nara, a Buddhist water-drawing ceremony that has been held for over 1,000 years.
3. Savor Seasonal Delicacies
Japanese cuisine is heavily influenced by the seasons. Enjoy sakura-flavoured treats like mochi and lattes in March, or try fresh seafood like clams and seabream, which are in season. Make sure to have a traditional multi-course kaiseki meal with the freshest spring ingredients.
Enjoy sakura-flavored treats like mochi and lattes.
4. Explore the Great Outdoors
As the weather warms up, it’s a great time to explore Japan’s natural landscapes. Consider visiting the Yoshino Mountains in Nara, which are renowned for their thousands of cherry trees. Or, take a trip to the Izu Peninsula for its beautiful coastlines and hot springs. For a unique experience, visit the snow walls of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, which are at their highest in early April.
Yoshino Mountains in Nara.
5. Experience the Sumo Spring Tournament
If you’re in Tokyo in March, you might catch the Grand Sumo Tournament, one of the six annual tournaments of Japan’s national sport. It’s a unique opportunity to witness the power and tradition of sumo wrestling firsthand.
Sumo Spring Tournament.
6. Take Part in a Tea Ceremony
The traditional Japanese tea ceremony is a profound experience of hospitality and zen. In March, the backdrop of blooming cherry blossoms adds an extra layer of tranquillity and beauty to the ceremony. Kyoto, known for its tea culture, is an ideal place to participate in one.
Tea Ceremony in Japan.
7. Go Shopping for Spring Fashions and Goods
With the new season comes new styles. Areas like Tokyo’s Harajuku and Ginza or Osaka’s Shinsaibashi are perfect for picking up the latest Japanese fashion and accessories. Also, look out for seasonal items like sakura-themed crafts, which make excellent souvenirs.
Shinsaibashi is perfect for picking up the latest Japanese fashion and accessories.
March in Japan is a dynamic month filled with the promise of new beginnings and many activities to match. Whether you’re strolling under the cherry blossoms, savouring seasonal cuisine, or immersing yourself in cultural festivities, you will surely find an activity that resonates with your travel spirit.
Special Events in Japan in March 2024
March in Japan is a month of natural beauty and cultural activities and a time for unique and special events that draw visitors worldwide. Here are some notable events happening in March 2024, complete with the days they are held, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich tapestry of traditions and modern festivities.
1. Hina Matsuri (Doll Festival) – March 3, 2024
Hina Matsuri, also known as Girls’ Day, is a time when families celebrate the young girls in their households for their health and happiness. Beautiful displays of ornamental dolls representing the Emperor, Empress, and their court in traditional Heian period attire are set up in homes. The dolls are believed to ward off evil spirits. Special foods like chirashi sushi, clam soup, and strawberry daifuku mark this festival.
2. Omizutori (Water Drawing Festival)
Held at Todaiji Temple in Nara, Omizutori is part of the Shuni-e ceremony and has been celebrated for over 1,250 years. The most spectacular part of this Buddhist repentance ritual is the nightly procession of monks holding giant flaming torches on the temple’s balcony. The event culminates in the drawing of sacred water from the Wakasa well on the final morning, believed to bring about a year of happiness and good health.
3. Tokyo Marathon
The Tokyo Marathon is one of the world’s largest and most popular marathons, attracting runners and spectators from across the globe. The event usually takes place in early March and offers a unique way to see the city as participants run past some of Tokyo’s most famous landmarks.
4. Sumo Spring Basho
The Spring Grand Sumo Tournament is one of Japan’s six annual sumo tournaments. Taking place in Osaka, it’s a fantastic opportunity to witness the power and ceremony of sumo wrestling. The tournament lasts for 15 days in March in Japan, bringing new matches and excitement each day.
5. Hanami (Cherry Blossom Viewing)
While not a single-day event, the cherry blossom season starts in late March and continues into early April. This is the most famous and anticipated event in Japan, with locations all over the country hosting viewings, parties, and festivals. The exact dates vary yearly depending on when the trees bloom, so it’s wise to check annual forecasts.
6. AnimeJapan
For anime and manga fans, AnimeJapan is one of the largest anime conventions in the world, held annually in Tokyo. The event features everything from new anime announcements and merchandise to cosplay and industry panels.
7. Shunbun no Hi (Vernal Equinox Day) – March 20, 2024
This national holiday is a day for appreciating nature and living things. Many people take the time to visit family graves and hold family reunions. The equinox also marks a change in seasons, from the cold winter to the warmer spring, and is a time for fresh starts.
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Things to Know Before You Go
If you’re planning to visit Japan in January, here are a few things you should know before you go:
- Currency: The currency in Japan is the yen. Having some cash on hand is essential, as many small shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
- Visa: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Japan. Check with the Japanese embassy in your home country to see what the requirements are for your nationality.
- Weather: January is one of the coldest months in Japan, so be sure to pack warm clothing and accessories. Bring waterproof shoes or boots with good traction if you plan to visit areas with heavy snowfall, such as Hokkaido.
- Cultural habits: Japan has many unique cultural customs and habits, so it’s essential to be respectful and mindful of local customs. For example, removing your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple is customary. Being quiet and respectful in public spaces like trains and buses is also important.
- Language: Japanese is the official language in Japan, although many people in tourist areas and major cities may speak some English. Learning some basic Japanese phrases to help communicate and show respect for the local culture is a good idea.
Remember to prepare for the Japan trip.
As the cherry blossoms prepare to bloom and the land of the rising sun ushers in the vibrant spirit of spring, your journey to Japan in March promises to be an unforgettable adventure. From the serene beauty of ancient temples amidst the blossoming trees to the lively festivals celebrating the season, every moment is a chance to embrace the unique blend of tradition and modernity that defines Japan.
Whether you’re captivated by the delicate pink sakura, intrigued by the rich cultural heritage, or simply looking to explore the diverse landscapes, Japan in March is a destination that offers something for every traveller. So pack your bags, set your itinerary, and get ready to embark on a journey filled with beauty, adventure, and discovery.
