March in Japan heralds the arrival of one of the most iconic and enchanting natural spectacles - cherry blossoms. The Land of the Rising Sun transforms into a pastel paradise as delicate pink petals blanket the country. Here, we’ll delve into the allure of traveling to Japan in March, covering the weather, crowds, prices, and events. And, of course, we’ll detail the benefits of joining one of our expert-led guided tours to make the most of this mesmerizing journey.
Weather in Japan in March

March signifies the transition from winter to spring in Japan, bringing with it milder temperatures and the much-anticipated cherry blossoms. While northern areas like Hokkaido may still experience winter chill, cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka enjoy comfortable weather, ideal for exploring. As the cherry blossoms bloom, Japan becomes a magnet for visitors. That being said, March is still considered the prelude to the peak season, allowing for a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds.
Price Fluctuations
The popularity of cherry blossom season does lead to increased demand, but March still offers a more budget-friendly alternative compared to the peak of spring. Accommodations and flights may be more reasonable during this period, allowing travelers to witness the stunning landscapes without a significant dent in their wallets. Our Japan budget package tours are the ultimate solution for those looking to keep costs as low as possible throughout the year. Including budget-friendly accommodation, tours, activities, and transport, you’ll affordably see the best of Japan without compromising on quality or experience.
Events and Festivals

- March 1-14, 2027: Omizutori Festival in Nara
- March 3, 2027: Doll Festival- Hina-Matsuri
- March 7th, 2027: Tokyo Marathon 2027
- March 14-28, 2027: Osaka Grand Sumo Tournament (See the Grand Sumo Tournament Schedule)
- Late March-Early April, 2027: Maruyama Park Cherry Blossom Festival in Kyoto
- March 27-28, 2027: Anime Japan Exhibition in Osaka
Best Places to Visit in Japan in March
Tokyo: Japan’s bustling capital comes alive in March with cherry blossoms adorning parks and streets. Explore iconic landmarks like the Tokyo Tower, Senso-ji Temple, and the electric districts of Shibuya and Shinjuku. To maximize your experience at these landmarks and gain fascinating insights, choose one of our guided Tokyo tours. If you’re visiting later in the month, witness the peak of Tokyo’s cherry blossoms on our Tokyo Cherry Blossom Day Tour. Led by an expert local guide, you’ll admire some of Tokyo’s most beautiful sakura locations up close, including secret viewpoints known only to locals. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking cherry blossom views and plenty of incredible photo opportunities.
Kyoto: Known for its traditional architecture and historic temples, Kyoto is a cherry blossom haven. The Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kinkaku-ji, and the Philosopher’s Path offer serene settings to gaze at the sakura. Participating in one of our Kyoto tours ensures you hit all the best cherry blossom spots and learn all about Kyoto’s history and culture. In particular, our Kyoto Cherry Blossom Day Tour is the perfect way to see the city in full bloom. A knowledgeable local guide will show you Kyoto’s most stunning treasures framed by pink petals, along with hidden cherry blossom spots that are often missed by travelers exploring on their own.
Osaka: A vibrant city with a rich culinary scene, Osaka combines modern attractions like Universal Studios Japan with historic sites like Osaka Castle. Cherry blossoms along the Okawa River create a picturesque backdrop. Don’t stress about navigating the streets of Osaka alone and book one of our captivating Osaka tours. Take in the beautiful surroundings and cherry blossoms while your expert guide leads the way.
Best Things to Do in Japan in March

Hanami Picnics: Join the locals in the age-old tradition of Hanami. Indulge in a picnic beneath the cherry blossoms in Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, or Maruyama Park.
Cultural Immersion: Experience traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, witness geisha performances in Gion, and visit ancient temples and shrines that showcase Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Our Japan Insider Package Tours focus specifically on these cultural experiences that Japan has to offer. Available in a range of lengths, we also recommend our 8 Day Insider Japan Small Group Tour Package for those with limited time.
Mount Fuji Excursions: Take advantage of the clear skies to embark on a day trip to the iconic Mount Fuji. Capture breathtaking views of the snow-capped peak against a backdrop of cherry blossoms. For the ultimate experience, secure your spot on one of our best-selling Mount Fuji tours.
Experience the March Bloom With Tourist Japan
While independent exploration is enticing, Japan guided tours elevate the Japanese experience, especially during the cherry blossom season. Expert guides provide in-depth knowledge about the cultural significance of sakura, ensuring a profound connection with the surroundings. Navigating through crowds to find the best cherry blossom spots becomes seamless with the guidance of a local expert. Moreover, if you join one of our Japan tour packages, you’ll have your accommodation, transport, and multi-day itinerary taken care of too! Browse through our extensive range of tour package options and find the itinerary that best suits your timing, budget, and interests.
Don’t see an itinerary that fits? Check out our Japan custom travel service and see what we can do for you. We specialize in designing customized itineraries for travelers on all budgets. Be in touch with our team of travel experts to find out more. Prefer to go it alone? Planning a trip to Japan on your own is no easy task. Make the most of our vast online Japan travel resources to prepare adequately for your travels.
















