Japan in March is an incredible time to visit, as the country awakens from its winter slumber and bursts into bloom with the arrival of the cherry blossoms. The delicate pink flowers are a symbol of hope, renewal, and the fleeting beauty of life, and the annual blooming of these trees is a highly anticipated event across Japan. Visitors can enjoy the stunning sights of the cherry blossoms at iconic locations like Tokyo’s Ueno Park, Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path, and Hiroshima’s Peace Park, just to name a few.

In addition to cherry blossoms, March is also a month of celebrations and cultural richness. Hinamatsuri, also known as Girls’ Day, is another festival celebrated on March 3rd that honours young girls and wishes them health, happiness, and success.
March is also a fantastic time to enjoy Japanese cuisine, as the country’s seasonal ingredients change with the arrival of spring. Visitors can indulge in seasonal delicacies like fugu, a poisonous pufferfish that is expertly prepared by licensed chefs, or take part in traditional tea ceremonies that highlight the unique flavours and rituals of Japanese tea culture.

With so many wonderful events, festivals, and experiences, Japan in March is a true feast for the senses and a perfect time to immerse yourself in the country’s rich culture and natural beauty.
Where to Go in Japan in March
March is one of the best times to visit Japan, with many regions across the country bursting into bloom with the arrival of the famous cherry blossoms. One of the top destinations for cherry blossom viewing is Kyoto, where visitors can stroll along the Philosopher’s Path, visit the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, and enjoy the cherry blossoms in the city’s many parks and gardens. Tokyo’s Ueno Park is another popular spot for cherry blossom viewing, with over 1,000 cherry trees providing a stunning backdrop for picnics and leisurely walks. You will see both of these sights during our 9-Day Luxury Tokyo, Kyoto & Hiroshima trip.

For those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of Japan in the spring, the region of Tohoku offers spectacular views of cherry blossoms against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains. The city of Hirosaki in Aomori Prefecture is particularly famous for its cherry blossoms, with over 2,500 cherry trees lining the moats of Hirosaki Castle. You can experience it during our 5-Day Tohoku Sake tour.

March is also a great time to visit Hokkaido, where visitors can still enjoy winter activities like skiing and snowboarding while also catching the early blooms of cherry blossoms. You can experience this unusual phenomenon during our 10-Day Hokkaido Skiing and Culture trip.
No matter where you choose to go in Japan in March, don’t forget to bring warm layers, as temperatures can still be chilly even as the cherry blossoms bloom.
Designer Journeys’ network of in-destination Local Designers will use their expert knowledge, local insight and travel planning skills to design your ultimate Japan experience. Begin designing your journey today! March is an exciting month to visit Japan, with many unique experiences and places to visit. One must-visit destination during this time is Nara, where visitors can witness the ancient tradition of “Omizutori” at the Todaiji Temple. This event involves monks lighting giant torches and running with them down a balcony, creating a stunning display of fire and smoke. You can experience this tradition in Nara during our 7-Day Kyoto Highlights & Trips to Nara, Osaka, Hiroshima trip. For those looking to experience traditional Japanese culture, a visit to a tea ceremony in Kyoto is a must. Visitors can learn about the art of tea-making, as well as the customs and etiquette surrounding this important aspect of Japanese culture. You will learn all about culture of Japan during our 6-Day Tradition Meets Future in Tokyo & Kyoto tour. Another great place to visit in March is the island of Miyajima, near Hiroshima, which boasts stunning views of cherry blossoms against the backdrop of the famous Itsukushima Shrine. This shrine, with its iconic floating torii gate, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is particularly beautiful during the cherry blossom season. For nature lovers, the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail offers a unique hiking experience through lush forests and picturesque mountain vistas. Visitors can also visit the Nachi Waterfall, one of the tallest waterfalls in Japan, and the stunningly beautiful Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine. Finally, for those interested in Japanese history, a visit to the Peace Memorial Museum and Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima is a sobering but important experience. This museum serves as a reminder of the tragic events of August 6, 1945, and the devastation caused by the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. Overall, Japan in March offers a unique blend of traditional culture, natural beauty, and historical significance that is sure to leave visitors with unforgettable memories. March is a month of festivities and special events in Japan, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the unique and diverse culture of the country. One of the most notable events during this month is the Hina Matsuri or Doll Festival, which is celebrated on March 3rd. The festival involves the display of ornate dolls representing the emperor, empress, and their court in traditional costumes. Families with young daughters often celebrate this event by decorating their homes with these dolls and preparing special foods. For the ultimate travel inspiration, local insight straight from our expert Local Designers and exclusive offers you won’t find anywhere else from Designer Journeys, sign up today! Don’t miss out.
Another popular event in March is the Omizutori, held in Nara at the Todai-ji temple. This event is a series of Buddhist ceremonies that date back to the 8th century and are believed to bring good luck and safety for the year ahead. For more inspiration on Nara, check out our 7-Day Kyoto Highlights & Trips to Nara, Osaka, Hiroshima trip. For those who enjoy cultural experiences, the Kanamara Matsuri or “Festival of the Steel Phallus” in Kawasaki is a must-see. This festival is held on the first Sunday of April but has events leading up to it in March. Visitors can witness the procession of giant phallus-shaped floats and enjoy food and drink stalls during the festivities. Additionally, March is a great time to visit Japan for hanami, or cherry blossom viewing. The cherry blossoms typically bloom in late March or early April, and many parks and temples hold special events and illuminations during this time. Finally, the Tokyo Anime Fair is held in late March and is a must-visit for anime and manga fans. The event features exhibitions, stage shows, and booths selling merchandise from popular anime and manga series. Include it in your 5-Day Explore Tokyo and the Surrounds tour. March marks the transition from winter to spring in Japan. It is still relatively chilly, especially in the northern regions, but the temperatures begin to warm up towards the end of the month. The weather in March is generally dry, making it a great time to explore Japan’s cities and countryside without worrying about the rain. Cherry blossom season begins towards the end of March in southern Japan, which is a popular time to visit for tourists. However, it’s important to note that the blooming of cherry blossoms can vary depending on the region and weather conditions. We recommend checking the official cherry blossom forecast here. In terms of clothing, it’s best to pack warm layers for the beginning of the month and lighter clothing for the end of the month when the temperatures start to rise. Overall, March is a great time to visit Japan for those who want to avoid the peak tourist season and experience the start of spring. If you’re planning to visit Japan in January, here are a few things you should know before you go: Designer Journeys’ network of in-destination Local Designers will use their expert knowledge, local insight and travel planning skills to design your ultimate Japan experience. Begin designing your journey today! In conclusion, visiting Japan in March is an ideal time for travellers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. With the cherry blossoms beginning to bloom, visitors can enjoy the stunning natural beauty and cultural significance of this event. There are also numerous festivals and events happening throughout the country, providing a great opportunity to learn more about Japan’s history and traditions. Furthermore, Japan’s food scene is always worth exploring, with delicious seasonal specialities available to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in exploring the cities or the countryside, Japan in March has something to offer everyone. With this guide, visitors can make the most of their trip, ensuring an unforgettable experience. To find your dream holiday to Japan in March, scroll through our gallery of fully customisable Japan trips or connect with our Local Designers on the ground and let them help you craft your ultimate Japan stay!Planning to Visit Japan?
Best Places to Visit in Japan in March
Festivals and Special Events in Japan in March
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