April is when Japan truly comes alive. Soft spring light, gentle breezes, and the first vibrant colors of the season transform familiar landscapes into something fresh and beautiful. From blooming gardens to lively seasonal events, this is a month that invites you to slow down, wander, and enjoy the simple pleasures of spring.
If you’re planning a trip around this time of year, understanding how April unfolds—from the timing of cherry blossoms to regional weather and the best places to visit—will help you make the most of your journey. The guide below walks you through everything you need to know for a smooth and memorable spring experience in Japan.
Is April a Good Time to Visit Japan?
Absolutely—April is one of the best times to visit Japan. With cherry blossoms in full bloom and mild, comfortable weather, it’s a beautiful and vibrant season.
When Should You Visit: Early–Mid April or Late April?
If your top priority is seeing cherry blossoms, early April offers the best chance to catch them at their peak—especially in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, where full bloom typically occurs between late March and the first week of April. However, this period also overlaps with Japan’s school spring break, making it one of the busiest travel times of the season. Expect crowded parks, busy transportation, and long lines at popular cherry blossom spots.
Late April brings a different challenge: starting on April 29, Japan enters Golden Week, a string of national holidays that leads to another surge in domestic travel.
For a more relaxed and comfortable trip, consider visiting in mid-April. While the peak bloom in big cities may have passed, you can still enjoy lingering blossoms in cooler regions or higher-altitude areas, and popular destinations feel noticeably calmer. With the spring break rush over and Golden Week yet to begin, this middle window offers the perfect balance of pleasant weather, lighter crowds, and the soft, fading beauty of spring.
Weather in Japan in April
The weather and rainfall can vary significantly by region, so checking the climate of your destination beforehand is essential. Here are the average temperatures and rainfall for key tourist cities in April, based on data on 2025:
- Tokyo: Average temperature 15.6°C （60.08°F）, rainfall 154.5mm
- Osaka: Average temperature 15.9°C （60.62°F）, rainfall 63.5mm
- Kyoto: Average temperature 15.4°C（59.72°F）, rainfall 51.0mm
- Hiroshima: Average temperature 15.5 °C（59.9°F）, rainfall 100.5mm
- Sendai, Miyagi: Average temperature 12.0°C（53.6°F）, rainfall 89.5mm
- Niigata: Average temperature 12.3°C（54.14°F）, rainfall 91.0mm
- Sapporo, Hokkaido: Average temperature 8.5°C （47.3°F）, rainfall 110.0mm
- Fukuoka: Average temperature 16.2°C（61.16°F）, rainfall 37.0mm
- Naha, Okinawa: Average temperature 20.5°C（68.9°F）, rainfall 172.0mm
Reference: Japan Meteorological Agency｜Monthly mean daily maximum temperature
What to Wear in Japan in April
April brings milder temperatures across Japan, making it one of the most comfortable months for travel and sightseeing. While daytime weather is often pleasant enough for lighter clothing, mornings and evenings can still be chilly—so layering is key.
A good combination for most areas includes long- or short-sleeved tops paired with a light jacket or cardigan. This allows you to adjust easily throughout the day. If you’re planning to be outdoors in the early morning or late evening, consider packing a warmer coat or scarf to stay comfortable.
For colder regions like Hokkaido or parts of Tohoku, spring arrives more slowly. In these areas, daytime temperatures can still linger around 10°C (50°F), and winter coats, gloves, and other cold-weather gear may still be necessary. Always check the forecast for your destination before packing to make sure you’re prepared.
Things to do in Japan in April
Hanami
In April, hanami—the tradition of cherry blossom viewing—is a must-do experience in Japan. But hanami isn’t just about admiring flowers; it’s about embracing the season with good food, good company, and a sense of celebration beneath the fleeting beauty of the sakura. Cherry blossoms start blooming in southern Kyushu in late March and gradually move northward to Hokkaido by late April. If you’re planning to travel across regions, following the bloom from south to north allows you to enjoy the blossoms for a longer period and appreciate the changing scenery along the way.
Across Japan, sakura festivals bring extra excitement with food stalls serving iconic Japanese street foods like yakisoba (fried noodles) and takoyaki (octopus balls). Enjoying these local favorites beneath the blossoms is a beloved springtime ritual—and a delicious way to connect with Japanese culture. While strolling under cherry trees is delightful, spending time picnicking beneath them is the true hanami experience. Be sure to bring a picnic sheet, drinks, snacks, and layers to stay warm in the cooler evenings. In recent years, some restaurants and traditional ryotei have begun offering elegant hanami bento (boxed meals) for takeaway—perfect for an upgraded, no-fuss picnic. Availability is often limited, so check official websites or social media in advance if you’re hoping to try one.
Hanami Spots in Japan
- The Expo’70 Commemorative Park | Osaka
- Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival | Aomori (April 17 to May 5, 2026)
- Kakunodate Cherry Blossom Festival | Akita
Seasonal Festival
April brings Japan into full bloom—not just with cherry blossoms, but also with traditional festivals that offer rich cultural insight. Here are two standout events where you can experience the depth and elegance of Japanese tradition.
Miyako Odori | Kyoto
Held every April in Kyoto, Miyako Odori is a rare chance to witness graceful dance performances by geiko and maiko (Kyoto’s geisha and apprentice geisha).
In 2026, the show will run from April 1 to April 30, inviting visitors into an elegant theater where traditional music, seasonal motifs, and Kyoto’s refined aesthetic come together on stage. With meticulously crafted costumes and immersive stage settings, each performance highlights the depth of artistry that defines Kyoto’s cultural heritage.
Kamakura Matsuri | Kanagawa
First held in 1959, Kamakura Matsuri centers around the historic Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. One of the highlights is the Shizuka no Mai, a classical dance dedicated to the legendary figure Yoshitsune. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor tea ceremonies and parades featuring participants in traditional attire. Set against the backdrop of Kamakura’s temples and coastal scenery, the festival offers a charming blend of history and seasonal beauty.
Best Places to visit in Japan in April in 2026
Tokyo
April is the peak cherry blossom season in Tokyo, offering both stunning floral displays and vibrant city life. Whether you’re here for the sakura or the city’s cultural depth, Tokyo has it all.
Recommended April Spots in Tokyo
- Inokashira Park: A local favorite with over 100 years of history, this park charms visitors with its serene pond, wooded paths, and soft pink blossoms.
- Showa Memorial Park: Sprawling and spacious, this park was created to commemorate Emperor Showa’s reign. It’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon surrounded by cherry trees and seasonal flowers.
- Chidorigafuchi Greenway: Stroll along the Imperial Palace’s moat under arching cherry blossoms. At night, the illuminated trees create a magical atmosphere.
- Meguro River: Walk beneath a tunnel of over 800 cherry trees lining this picturesque riverside. It’s especially enchanting in the early evening when the lanterns are lit.
Beyond the Blossoms
Tokyo’s appeal doesn’t end with sakura.
- Asakusa, home to Senso-ji Temple, offers a glimpse into old Tokyo.
- Tokyo Tower and Skytree provide panoramic city views and photo-worthy backdrops.
- Ginza invites you to shop in style, with its high-end boutiques and refined cafés.
- Roppongi is your go-to for contemporary art, upscale dining, and a sophisticated nightlife scene.
Whether you’re admiring cherry blossoms or discovering the energy of Tokyo’s neighborhoods, April is one of the best times to experience the city at its most beautiful and vibrant.
Read More: 8 Cherry Blossoms Spots and Festivals in Tokyo 2026
Kyoto
beauty of cherry blossoms. The city offers numerous enchanting spots, each with its unique charm.
Recommended April Spots in Kyoto
- Shojuin Temple: famed for its heart-shaped window framing stunning cherry blossom views, providing a serene and heartwarming experience for visitors.
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple: remains an all-time favorite, showcasing the breathtaking harmony between its majestic architecture and blooming cherry trees.
- Gion Shirakawa: with its stone-paved lanes and traditional townhouses, offers a romantic stroll under gently falling petals.
- Nijo Castle: illuminated cherry blossoms and projection mapping, creates a mesmerizing blend of history and modern artistry.
Explore Iconic Kyoto Landscapes
- In Arashiyama, the cherry blossoms add a soft touch to the riverside views around Togetsukyo Bridge, and nearby bamboo groves enhance the sense of timeless beauty.
- Fushimi Inari Taisha, with its thousands of red torii gates, offers a striking contrast during sakura season—the pink petals and vivid red pathways create one of Kyoto’s most photogenic scenes.
Whether seeking serene temple gardens or lively festivals, Kyoto offers an unforgettable spring experience steeped in tradition and natural beauty.
Hakone, Kanagawa
Kanagawa Prefecture is often associated with Yokohama, but the nature-rich Hakone area is equally worth exploring.
Recommended April Spots in Hakone, Kanagawa
- Miyagino: a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing, featuring a stunning 450-meter-long row of cherry trees lining the riverside. This picturesque landscape offers a quintessential springtime experience, captivating visitors with its beauty.
- Odawara Castle: home to approximately 300 cherry trees in full bloom during the season. The contrast between the historic castle and the vibrant blossoms creates a breathtaking scene. Visitors can enjoy a memorable hanami experience while admiring the majestic view of the castle’s tower framed by cherry blossoms.
Hakone is also famous for its onsen, and during sakura season, many ryokan offer open-air baths with cherry trees nearby. Soaking in a warm bath while petals drift around you is one of Japan’s most relaxing and luxurious seasonal pleasures—especially on a cool spring evening.
Toyama
Known for its dramatic mountain scenery and pristine nature, Toyama Prefecture offers some of Japan’s most striking spring landscapes. The region has even been featured in the New York Times for its remarkable seasonal scenery.
Recommended April Spots in Toyama
- Asahi Funagawa “Spring Quartet”:a beloved April highlight where four seasonal elements—rows of tulips, cherry trees, the Funagawa riverside, and the still-snow-covered Northern Alps—align to create a breathtaking panorama.
- Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route: one of Japan’s most iconic mountain routes, famous for its soaring Yuki-no-Otani snow walls that reach up to 20 meters in height.
Toyama also offers relaxing hot springs with views of the surrounding mountains. Staying at a traditional ryokan and soaking in an open-air bath while gazing at the lingering snow peaks is one of the most serene ways to enjoy the region in April.
Tochigi
Rich in nature, traditional towns, and vibrant seasonal landscapes, Tochigi Prefecture offers a gentle and colorful side of Japan in April.
Recommended April Spots in Tochigi
- Ashikaga Flower Park: a popular late-April highlight where over 350 wisteria trees create sweeping tunnels and cascading blooms.
- Ichikai Town Shibazakura Park: a picturesque hillside covered in vibrant moss phlox that paints the landscape in vivid shades of pink, purple, and white.
Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a day trip from Tokyo, Tochigi offers a peaceful spring escape filled with color and charm.
Read More: 8 Stunning Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan
Q&A
Q: What Season is April in Japan
April is part of spring, one of the most popular seasons in Japan. The weather is mild, flowers begin to bloom across the country, and many regions are at their most vibrant and comfortable for sightseeing.
Q: How busy is Japan in April?
April is generally quite busy, especially in early April when school spring break overlaps with the peak of flower-viewing season. Crowds ease in mid-April before picking up again from April 29, when the Golden Week holidays begin.
Q: What to Pack for Japan in April?
April is one of the most comfortable months to visit Japan, with mild temperatures and plenty of outdoor activities. Light layers—a long-sleeve shirt, a cardigan or light jacket, and comfortable walking shoes—are ideal for changing temperatures between day and night.
If you’re prone to hay fever or seasonal allergies, keep in mind that April is also peak season for cedar and cypress pollen. Bringing masks, antihistamines, and eye drops can make a big difference in ensuring a comfortable trip.
Q: Can I Ski in Japan in April?
Yes, but options are limited. While most ski resorts close by late March, a few high-altitude areas—such as Hakuba, Shiga Kogen, and parts of Hokkaido—may stay open into early April depending on snow conditions. Expect spring skiing with softer snow, warmer temperatures, and reduced lift operations.
Summary
April in Japan brings mild temperatures and clear, comfortable days, making it one of the best months for travel. Across the country, cherry blossoms reach full bloom, transforming parks, riversides, and city streets into soft shades of pink. With nature at its peak and communities celebrating the new season, April offers a vivid and memorable way to discover Japan.
For travelers looking to experience the very best of this season, our Best of Japan Group Tour in Spring is an excellent choice. This 14-day journey covers Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Hakone, Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima, Wakayama, Osaka and more, combining must-see landmarks with cultural experiences such as tea ceremony, a Maiko performance, a scenic Lake Ashi cruise, and a serene temple stay in Koyasan.
If this sounds like the kind of spring trip you’ve been dreaming about, I’d be happy to share more details or answer any questions. Please feel free to reach out anytime.
