Hokkaido Weather in March 2026: The Off-time to Enjoy Late-season Skiing

Hokkaido in March is chilly (around 1°C / 34°F) but less crowded.

Spring won't arrive until April. Ski resorts still have fresh snow, which is perfect for late-season skiing.

After February's busy season, fewer tourists in March mean cheaper hotels, shorter lines, and peaceful snowy views. This is the perfect time to ski in Hokkaido with fewer crowds and enjoy quieter stays in Hokkaido with less cost.

Hokkaido's Weather and Climate in March

• Average Temperature: 1°C (34°F)
• Daytime Highs: 5°C (41°F)
• Nighttime Lows: -3°C (27°F)
• Snowfall: 134mm/ 5.28″

Hokkaido is cold in March, with temperatures around -3°C (27°F), but slowly warms up to 3°C (37°F) by month's end. Snowfall lessens, and the snow starts to melt, showing early signs of spring.

With fewer visitors after February, you would enjoy quieter slopes, cheaper hotels, and shorter lift lines. Regions like Niseko, Furano, and Rusutsu could be Hokkaido's finest ski resorts at this time of year, and they still have excellent skiing conditions, usually operating until late April to early May.

Remember to pack warm layers with you. Even as the weather gets milder, temperature differences between mornings and evenings are still large. And it's better to book your hotel and ski passes at least three months early for the best deals, and visit on weekdays to skip weekend crowds.

Where to Go in March in Hokkaido

Sapporo

• Suggested schedule time: 2 days

March in Sapporo sees melting snow but retaining a crisp chill.

After your arrival, maybe Odori Park could be moved back a bit, since there is not much to see right after the Sapporo Snow Festival. Head straight to Ramen Street for authentic Sapporo miso ramen to warm your body up, or get up early for Sapporo Nijo Market, where you'll find fresh crab and salmon bowls.

Take a day trip to Otaru to enjoy the romance of winter. March's softer light and thinner crowds make it ideal for slow, romantic strolls. You could wander along the snowy canal-side streets, listen to the tinkling music in the music box shop, or have a bowl of creamy and refreshing sea urchin rice.

Niseko

• Suggested schedule time: 3–4 days

The snow conditions in Niseko in March may not be as good as January and February, but you could expect fewer crowds and quieter slopes. Get your Niseko United All Mountain Pass to enjoy softer slopes.

Mornings are ideal for snowboarding, while you could enjoy your after-ski time by soaking in steamy hot springs(onsens) or dining on juicy wagyu skewers.

Although this is the shoulder season to visit Hokkaido, book your lodges and ski passes early to save money and avoid stress.

Asahikawa

• Suggested schedule time: 1 day

March is ideal for families with children to visit Asahiyama Zoo. This is a good chance for kids to get up close with animals such as polar bears, seals, and red pandas. The star attraction is the King Penguin Parade, which is limited to winter and runs until mid-March.

Extend your day with Asahikawa Ramen Village for soy broth ramen, or the Snow Crystal Museum to make your trip more interesting.

Furano

• Suggested schedule time: 2 days

Besides skiing at Furano Ski Resort, you could venture to nearby Biei for more winter charm. Sip fruit-infused wines at cozy Furano Wine Houses, or hike the iconic Blue Pond to marvel at its frozen turquoise waters framed by snow-dusted trees.

For a hidden gem, you could visit Shirahige Waterfall, where icy cascades sparkle under March sunlight, and treat yourself with a drive through Biei's rolling snowy hills dotted with lone trees.

Top Things to Do in Hokkaido in March

Enjoy Late-Season Skiing and Snow Activities

Though snow is melting in March, it is still in good condition for snow activities and offers quieter slopes, which is perfect for tourists who travel a long way to Hokkaido to enjoy the fun of skiing. Niseko remains a top pick with its comprehensive facilities and top-notch service, while Furano attracts families with affordable costs and slopes suit for beginners.

If you are not a big fan of skiing or snowboarding, snowshoe at Daisetsu National Park, which is led by our experienced guide, or join a drift ice walk in Shiretoko Peninsula that only lasts until early March.

Soak in Onsens with Natural Scenery

After a day on conquering slopes, surrender to an open-air onsen (hot spring) for relieving. Noboribetsu Hell Valley offers steaming hot spring pools amid melting snow, allowing you sink into steaming mineral waters as snowflakes falling down, and admire some stunning snow views further far.

For an exclusive experience, soak at dusk for a golden sunset, or at night under starry skies to enjoy the beauty quietly and immerse yourself in nature.

Crowds and Costs in Hokkaido in March

March in Hokkaido is a shoulder season, blending winter's end with quieter crowds and slightly lower prices, around 15% lower than peak months of January and February.

While snowfall lessens, ski resorts remain open but less busy, with late-season discounts on passes and accommodations. Though this is an off-time, remember to book popular spots in advance for better deals, as demand may still outweigh availability in key areas.

What to Pack and Wear in Hokkaido in March

Hokkaido's March weather is milder than February but still cold. Bring your thick layers with you to cope with sub-zero mornings and nights. Waterproof jackets and boots are also required for melting snow and slushy trails.

You could expect sunnier days in March, so bring your sunglasses with you for the sun-rays and glazing snows.

If you are traveling in late March, bring an umbrella to prepare for the occasional rain showers.

FAQs About Hokkaido Weather in March

Does it Snow Every Day in Hokkaido in March?

No, snowfall is less in March.

The weather starts to mix between winter and spring in Hokkaido in March. You could expect more sunny days, but mountain areas like Niseko or Daisetsuzan might still get light snow. Coastal towns like Otaru or Hakodate might even have rainy days as the season changes, so bringing an umbrella with you is always a good idea.

Can I Still Ski in March in Hokkaido?

Yes, you can.

Ski resorts like Niseko, Furano, and Rusutsu stay open until late April or even early May. You could still have a good ski experience in March, the snow only becomes softer during the day. However, night skiing usually ends earlier in March, so check the ski resort schedule before you go.

Keep in mind that most ski areas could be busy during weekends, so it's better to plan your trip early and reserve your lodgings in advance.

Is Self-driving Safe in March in Hokkaido?

Self-driving is safer in March than in January, but you still need to be experienced and careful.

Due to the lesser snowfall in March, most roads are clearer, and heavy snowstorms are less likely. However, winter tires are required since roads could still be icy and slippery at night.

If you're concerned about driving in winter and unfamiliar road conditions, flights, trains, and buses are good alternatives for getting around Hokkaido. Contact us and travel with Japan Highlights, and you will at good hands with a hassle-free journey.

Can I See Cherry Blossoms in March?

You might see cherry blossoms in March, but in other parts of Japan, instead Hokkaido.

Attractions in Hokkaido, such as Hakodate's Goryokaku Park or Matsumae Castle, often have the earliest blooms, usually around late April, depending on the weather.

However, you could enjoy stunning cherry blossoms in March in the southern cities of Japan, such as Tokyo or Kyoto. So if this is your first visit to Japan and the cherry blossoms in March are your must, focus on the southern areas information for a chance to see these famous pink flowers.

Let Us Help You Plan Your 2026 Trip

Are you expecting to travel to Hokkaido in 2026? See below for some of our most popular tour itineraries that include Hokkaido:

• 8-Day Hokkaido Summer Vacation
• 9-Day Best of Japan's Winter
• 14-Day Japan Highlights and Skiing in Hokkaido

Contact us and we'll help you to plan your Hokkaido itinerary based on your personal preferences.