Tokyo Weather in March: Cherry Blossom Starts, and Travel Tips

March marks the beginning of spring in Tokyo. It's still cold, with temperatures just a few degrees. However, you'll witness the season's first sign: cherry blossoms.

As the month progresses, the weather gets warmer. By late March, temperatures could rise to over ten degrees. This change leads to cherry blossoms blooming, reaching their peak around March 28th.

Explore more information to enhance your Tokyo trip in March. In this article, I will share insights on the weather, seasonal activities, recommended clothing, crowd levels, and costs, all based on my real experience.

Tokyo's Weather and Climate in March

• Temperature: 6-13°C (43-55°F)
• Rainy days: 10 days
• Feeling: Cold

Although Tokyo steps into spring in March, the weather stays chilly. The average temperature ranges from 6-13°C (43-55°F), with early mornings and evenings feeling colder.

March is a relatively dry season in Tokyo, with about 10 rainy days. The rainfall is mainly light showers or drizzles, with occasional snowfall.

However, Tokyo's March weather is unpredictable. It's possible to encounter snowy days and summer-like heat all in the same month. For example, on March 19, 2025, Tokyo saw heavy snow, but just a week later, it was suddenly hot enough for short-sleeved.

Is March a Good Time to Visit Tokyo?

Absolutely yes! March in Tokyo offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Plus, you get to see cherry blossoms!

By late March, Tokyo's cherry blossoms start blooming, peaking around March 28th. If you're visiting in early March and want to see cherry blossoms, head to Izu. It's just 1.5 hours from Tokyo, where bloomers are already in full bloom.

March is usually quieter in Tokyo, so you won't face large crowds until the cherry blossom season starts. You could find reasonably priced accommodations, but it's a good idea to book at least 3 months in advance, especially if you're visiting at the end of the month.

Top 5 Things to Do in Tokyo in March

Besides admiring cherry blossoms, Tokyo has a lot to offer in March. You could enjoy seasonal events or explore the outdoors near Tokyo. Here are the details.

1. Stroll Under a Cloud of Cherry Blossoms in Izu

If you plan a vacation in early March but prefer to see cherry blossoms, try Izu! It's just 1.5 hours from Tokyo by Shinkansen. Unlike Tokyo's cherry trees, the blossoms here typically peak from late February to early March.

For a more enjoyable cherry blossom viewing experience in Izu, I recommend visiting Shimogamo. This place has fewer crowds than other spots, making it easier to capture great photos.

On the other hand, Tokyo's cherry blossoms bloom later, usually starting to bloom after March 20th and reaching full bloom between March 28th and April 5th.

Tokyo has many cherry blossom spots, but my top pick is Shinjuku Gyoen. It features various types of cherry trees, a longer blooming season (you're sure to see full blooms in late March!), and a well-designed Japanese garden. It's perfect for photos and peaceful getaways.

2. Enjoy a Clear View of Mount Fuji in Lake Kawaguchi

In March, you have a better chance of seeing Mount Fuji clearly. The best place to enjoy the view of Mount Fuji is Lake Kawaguchi, only 1.5 hours from Tokyo. You can often get a full view of the mountain from here during this month.

While there are no cherry blossoms at Mount Fuji in March, you could still have a great time by engaging in fun outdoor activities like biking, kayaking, or light hiking to admire Mount Fuji.

3. Hike Part of the Ancient Route in Hakone

How about enjoying a hike in the lovely March weather? Hakone Hachiri is the ideal choice. This ancient route was built during the Edo period to connect Tokyo and Kyoto.

Hiking here allows you to immerse yourself in nature and Japanese culture. You can breathe in the fresh mountain air, wander by ancient temples, and enjoy matcha and snacks at a tea house.

4. See Mt. Takao Fire Walking Festival

Every second Sunday of March, a unique ritual takes place at Mount Takao, just an hour away from Tokyo: the Fire-Walking Festival.

The highlight is watching monks walk barefoot across hot embers while chanting sutras to pray for health and safety. After the ceremony ends and the fire is put out, you can even try walking on the embers yourself!

Don't worry! The charcoal is only slightly warmer than your body temperature, so you won't get burned.

5. Watch the Dance of the Golden Dragon at Sensoji Temple

Sensoji Temple celebrates the completion of its main hall with a festival on March 18th. The key to the event is a dance performance featuring an impressive 18-meter-long golden dragon.

This ancient dance tells the story of Kannon, who transformed into a dragon to bless the land with a bountiful harvest. The dance performances will take place three times on this day: at 11:30 am, 2 pm, and 3 pm.

Following the performance, temple staff will carry the golden dragon around the temple. You can then touch the dragon's head, as it is believed to bring good luck for the entire year.

What to Wear in Tokyo in March?

When visiting Tokyo in March, I suggest dressing in layers. The weather can change a lot during that month, making it easier for you to adjust to temperature changes.

Make sure to pack a mix of thick and light clothing for various weather conditions.

For example, wear a down jacket or thick coat for the cooler mornings and nights, and a hoodie or long-sleeve shirt for the warmer daytime temperatures.

How Crowded and Expensive is Tokyo in March?

In most of March, you'll encounter fewer crowds and average prices. However, as the cherry blossom season arrives in late March, the crowds increase, and prices double.

Travel costs usually rise during the cherry blossom season, especially for hotels, often going up by around 50%.

FAQs about Visiting Tokyo in March

March or April: Which month should I visit?

If you prefer smaller crowds and don't mind whether you see the cherry blossoms or not, March is perfect for you.

If you enjoy warm weather and want to see cherry blossoms in full bloom, April is a better choice.

Is March Cold in Tokyo?

Yes, Tokyo remains cold throughout March, especially in early to mid-March. The weather gradually warms up towards the end of the month.

Does it Snow in Tokyo in March?

Yes, it snows in Tokyo during March, mostly in early March. Occasionally, there might be snowfall in mid to late March.

Let's Plan Your Tokyo Trip Now!

No matter what you want to experience in Tokyo, our Japan travel advisors are here to make your dream trip a reality! We'll create the trip based on your preferences, answer any questions you have, and handle all the details for you.

Here are our popular Japan tours for inspiration:

• 5-Day Tokyo Highlights and Hakone Leisure Tour
• 11-Day Traditional Japan Tour with Historical Hiroshima

Tokyo Travel Guide by Month

Here are the weather details and travel guide information for each month in Tokyo.