best places to visit in japan april

27 Best Places to Visit in Japan in April

Looking for the best places to visit in Japan in April? You’re in for a treat!

From the cherry blossom-laden streets of Tokyo to the tranquil beauty of Hakone, our curated list of 27 destinations will take you on an adventure through a springtime Japan that’s bursting with color.

Let’s dive in and start planning your Japanese spring getaway!

1. Ueno Park

Let’s start our journey in the pulsating heart of Japan – Tokyo. Once you navigate through its dizzying skyscrapers and neon lights, you’ll find yourself in the serene oasis of Ueno Park, one of the city’s largest public parks.

In April, Ueno Park transforms into a picture straight out of a dreamy anime. Thousands of cherry blossom trees bloom in unison, creating a dazzling canopy of pink. And the locals? They’re out in full force with picnic mats, food, and an infectious spirit of camaraderie, partaking in ‘Hanami,’ the centuries-old tradition of flower viewing. Just imagine yourself sitting under a sakura tree, bento box in hand, soaking in this breathtaking spectacle – now that’s what I call a Tokyo moment!

Pro travel tip: Arrive early in the day to snag a prime viewing spot, as the park can get quite crowded during cherry blossom season.

2. Chidorigafuchi

Next up, we take a leisurely boat ride at Chidorigafuchi, one of Tokyo’s most famous cherry blossom spots. Imagine rowing a boat under a vibrant tunnel of sakura trees lining the moat of the Imperial Palace – a truly magical experience!

Pro travel tip: Although the boat ride is the main attraction, don’t miss the nighttime illumination of the cherry blossoms. The ethereal beauty of these radiant trees under the evening lights is an unforgettable sight!

3. Senso-ji temple

Now, we head to Asakusa, home to the venerable Senso-ji temple. Stroll through the bustling Nakamise shopping street, savor traditional Japanese snacks, and soak in the vibrant culture of old Tokyo, with the majestic temple and its iconic giant red lantern as the backdrop.

Dining and Accommodation Recommendations: Savor Tokyo’s world-class sushi at Sukiyabashi Jiro, or try some tempura at Tempura Tendon Tenya. For a truly immersive stay, consider Hoshinoya Tokyo, a luxury ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) nestled amidst the city’s towering skyscrapers.

4. Maruyama Park

Let’s make our way to Kyoto, a city that effortlessly straddles the line between the past and the present. No visit to Kyoto in April would be complete without indulging in ‘Hanami’ at Maruyama Park. During Sakura season, the park becomes a massive outdoor party venue, with food stalls, lanterns, and a general merry spirit permeating the air.

Pro travel tip : Don’t miss the giant weeping cherry tree (‘shidarezakura’) at the center of the park. It’s lit up at night, offering a stunningly ethereal sight.

5. Fushimi Inari Shrine

Next on the list is the Fushimi Inari Shrine, a must-visit when in Kyoto. Known for its iconic red torii gate pathway, this shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice. Walking through the seemingly endless path lined with torii gates is a truly humbling experience.

Pro travel tip : While the shrine is open 24/7, an early morning visit can help avoid the crowds and provide a more tranquil experience.

6. the Philosopher’s Path

The Philosopher’s Path, is a scenic walkway along a canal lined by hundreds of cherry trees. Named after Nishida Kitaro, one of Japan’s most famous philosophers, who was known to meditate while walking this route, it provides a peaceful and introspective journey.

Dining and Accommodation Recommendations: Try some ‘kaiseki’ (traditional multi-course dinner) at Gion Nanba or have a cup of matcha tea at Ippodo Tea House. Stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto, for a luxurious experience or Kyoto Travellers Inn for a more budget-friendly option.

7. Peace Park

Our journey continues to Hiroshima, a city that’s risen from the ashes of World War II to become a beacon of peace and resilience. In April, the Hiroshima Peace Park is adorned with cherry blossoms, adding an ethereal beauty to this place of deep reflection.

Pro travel tip : Take a quiet moment to reflect at the Atomic Bomb Dome and the Children’s Peace Monument, poignant reminders of the city’s past.

8. Itsukushima Shrine

Next, we’ll take a short ferry ride to the island of Miyajima, home to the Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic ‘floating’ torii gate. This UNESCO World Heritage site, paired with the backdrop of cherry blossoms, creates an unforgettable sight.

Pro travel tip : While here, don’t forget to try ‘momiji manju,’ a local sweet shaped like a maple leaf.

9. Hiroshima Castle

We’ll round up our Hiroshima tour with a visit to Hiroshima Castle. Surrounded by sakura trees, the castle is a sight to behold during the cherry blossom season.

Dining and Accommodation Recommendations: Try the city’s signature dish, Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki, at Okonomimura. For accommodation, consider staying at the Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel for a luxury experience or at the Hiroshima Hana Hostel for a more budget-friendly option.

10. Osaka Castle

We move on to Osaka, Japan’s culinary capital and home to friendly, forthright locals. Our first stop is Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. Surrounded by hundreds of cherry blossom trees, the castle looks especially spectacular in April.

Pro travel tip: Take a boat ride in the castle moat for a unique viewing experience of the sakura trees.

11. Dotonbori Street

Next, we delve into the heart of Osaka’s entertainment district – Dotonbori. With neon lights and gigantic signboards, it’s an assault on the senses. Here you can indulge in Osaka’s legendary street food – takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and more.

Pro travel tip: For the best takoyaki, visit the popular stand, Creo-ru. You won’t be disappointed!

12. Universal Studios Japan

It’s time to bring out your inner child with a visit to Universal Studios Japan. While it might seem out of place in this list, believe me, the sight of your favorite characters against the backdrop of cherry blossoms is uniquely delightful.

Dining and Accommodation Recommendations: Try the famous Kushikatsu at Daruma in Shinsekai. Stay at the Intercontinental Osaka for a plush experience or at Drop Inn Osaka for a budget stay.

13. Lake Ashi Cruise

Our journey now takes us to Hakone, known for its hot springs, natural beauty, and the majestic view of nearby Mt. Fuji. We’ll begin with a serene Lake Ashi cruise. The sight of the tranquil lake surrounded by blooming cherry blossom trees with Mt. Fuji in the backdrop is something you wouldn’t want to miss.

Pro travel tip: If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the elusive Mt. Fuji from the boat – a real treat for any nature lover!

14. Hakone Open Air Museum

Next, we visit the Hakone Open Air Museum, an innovative space where nature and art harmoniously coexist. Wandering amidst the sculptures with the cherry blossoms in full bloom truly elevates the entire experience.

Pro travel tip: Don’t miss the Picasso Exhibition Hall, which hosts an extensive collection of the artist’s work.

15. Soak in an Onsen

And of course, no trip to Hakone would be complete without soaking in an Onsen (hot spring). Imagine unwinding in a warm, natural spring bath surrounded by the gorgeous colors of sakura trees – the ultimate Japanese relaxation experience.

Dining and Accommodation Recommendations: For a unique dining experience, try the local ‘kaiseki’ meals at Hakone Ginyu. Consider staying at the Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and Spa for a luxury experience or at the Hakone Guest House gaku. for a budget-friendly stay.

16. Shikisai-no-oka flower field

Our next destination is Hokkaido, the northernmost of Japan’s main islands, known for its volcanoes, natural hot springs, and ski areas. A visit to the enchanting Shikisai-no-oka flower field is a must. In April, the tulips are in full bloom, creating a vibrant sea of colors.

Pro travel tip: Try the tractor-pulled cart tour for a unique and fun way to explore the fields.

17. Historical Village of Hokkaido

Take a step back in time at the Historical Village of Hokkaido. The open-air museum features about 60 buildings from all over Hokkaido, dating from the Meiji and Taisho periods (1868 to 1926). During Sakura season, the historic architecture paired with the blooming cherry blossoms creates a nostalgic atmosphere.

Pro travel tip: The horse-drawn trolley ride is a must-try while you’re here!

18. Niseko for Spring Skiing

For those looking for a more active experience, Niseko offers great spring skiing conditions in April. And yes, the ski slopes are dotted with cherry blossom trees, making for a beautiful view as you ski down the mountain.

Dining and Accommodation Recommendations: Enjoy Hokkaido’s famous seafood at Niseko Soan or try a variety of local dishes at Prativo. Consider staying at the Hilton Niseko Village for a luxury experience or at the Niseko Backpacker for a budget-friendly option.

19. Kenroku-en Garden

Our adventure continues to Kanazawa, a city that’s kept its traditional charm while embracing modernity. One of the highlights of the city is Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan’s top three landscape gardens. The garden’s beauty peaks in spring with cherry blossoms lining its paths.

Pro travel tip: Be sure to check out the Kotoji-toro, a two-legged stone lantern that’s become the symbol of the garden.

20. Kanazawa Castle Park

Adjacent to the Kenroku-en Garden is Kanazawa Castle Park, the former residence of the Maeda family. In April, the cherry blossoms add an extra layer of splendor to the already impressive castle grounds.

Pro travel tip: Visit at night to see the sakura trees beautifully illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.

21. Higashi Chaya District

Higashi Chaya District is known for its well-preserved chaya (teahouses) where geishas perform. Walking through this district with its wooden buildings and cobblestone streets during the cherry blossom season is like stepping into a time machine.

Dining and Accommodation Recommendations: Try the city’s famed Kanazawa Curry at Champion Curry. For a luxury stay, consider the Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel, or for a more budget-friendly option, try the Emblem Stay Kanazawa.

22. Matsumoto Castle

It’s time to head to Nagano, a mountainous, landlocked prefecture known for its hot springs and temples. We start with a visit to Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s most beautiful original castles. The black exterior set against the pink of the cherry blossoms is a sight to behold.

Pro travel tip: Don’t miss the opportunity to climb to the top floor for a panoramic view of the city surrounded by the Japanese Alps.

23. Jigokudani Monkey Park

Jigokudani Monkey Park is home to Japan’s famous snow monkeys. Though best known for the winter shots of monkeys bathing in hot springs, visiting the park in April provides a unique viewing experience with the cherry blossoms in bloom.

Pro travel tip: Remember to keep a respectful distance from the monkeys – they are wild animals, after all.

24. Zenko-ji Temple

Let’s take a look at Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most important Buddhist temples. During April, the temple grounds are enveloped in soft pink hues, making it an incredibly peaceful place to visit.

Dining and Accommodation Recommendations: Try ‘soba’ noodles, a specialty of Nagano, at Kobayashi Soba. For accommodations, consider the Hotel Metropolitan Nagano for luxury or the Dot Hostel Nagano for budget-conscious travelers.

25. Beach-hopping

Okinawa is a tropical paradise known for its pristine beaches and rich history. April is the perfect time to beach-hop in Okinawa, with the weather being warm but not too hot.

Pro travel tip: Don’t miss Furuzamami Beach on Zamami Island, known for its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.

26. Shurijo Castle Park

On to Shurijo Castle Park, a testament to Okinawa’s unique history and cultural heritage. Although the main castle building suffered a fire in 2019, the restoration process is ongoing, and many parts of the park, including several beautiful gates and walls adorned with cherry blossoms in spring, remain for visitors to enjoy.

Pro travel tip: Be sure to visit the reconstructed Shureimon Gate, an iconic symbol of Okinawa.

27. Churaumi Aquarium

Finally, we explore one of the world’s largest aquariums, the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium. While not directly related to cherry blossoms, it’s too impressive to miss. The massive Kuroshio Sea tank, home to whale sharks and manta rays, is a particular highlight.

Dining and Accommodation Recommendations: For an unforgettable dining experience, try Okinawa soba at Shuri Soba. Consider staying at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa, or at the Guest House Okinawa Monogatari for a budget-friendly option.

From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene landscapes of Hakone, from the rich history of Kyoto to the tropical beaches of Okinawa, there’s so much to explore and enjoy in Japan in April. Each place offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, made even more enchanting by the cherry blossoms. So, why wait? Embrace the blossom and let the land of the rising sun amaze you this April!

Practical Tips for Traveling in Japan in April

What to pack: April weather in Japan can be unpredictable. Be sure to pack a lightweight jacket and umbrella, along with comfortable walking shoes.

Understanding Japanese etiquette: Japanese society is polite and reserved. Basic etiquettes include bowing when greeting, not speaking loudly in public places, and removing shoes when entering someone’s home or a traditional restaurant.

Transportation tips: Japan’s public transportation system is efficient and punctual. The JR Pass can be a cost-effective method for long-distance travel.

Tips for Cherry Blossom viewing (Hanami): Arrive early if you’re planning a picnic under the cherry blossom trees as spots can fill up quickly. Also, remember to respect the blossoms – don’t shake the trees or pluck the flowers.

As your journey unfolds, I’m sure you’ll discover many more unique and memorable aspects of Japan. Safe travels, and enjoy the cherry blossoms!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to travel within japan.

Japan’s public transportation system is known for its efficiency and punctuality. For long-distance travel, the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) can be a cost-effective option. For local commutes, you can rely on the subway, buses, and taxis.

Is English widely spoken in Japan?

While English is taught in schools, not all Japanese people are comfortable speaking it. However, in major cities and tourist spots, English signs and assistance are usually available. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases can be helpful.

What should I pack for a trip to Japan in April?

Japan’s weather in April is usually mild, but can be unpredictable. Pack a lightweight jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella. Don’t forget to bring any necessary personal items, as well as a universal adapter for your electronic devices.

What are some Japanese etiquettes that tourists should know?

Japanese culture values respect and politeness. Basic etiquettes include bowing when greeting, not speaking loudly in public places, removing shoes when entering someone’s home or a traditional restaurant, and not eating while walking in public.

What should I know about cherry blossom viewing (Hanami)?

Cherry blossom viewing, or Hanami, is a significant event in Japan. If you’re planning a picnic under the cherry blossom trees, arrive early as spots can fill up quickly. Also, remember to respect the blossoms—don’t shake the trees or pluck the flowers.

Whether you’re seeking history, culture, or natural beauty, there are countless incredible destinations to visit in Japan that promise unforgettable experiences.

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About Ronaldo Stewart

Wantigo was born out of a deep passion for exploring new places and experiencing different cultures. With a keen sense of adventure and an insatiable thirst for knowledge, I’ve traveled far and wide, immersing myself in the beauty and wonder of the world.

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Top 10 Things To Do In Japan In April | Best Tourist Attractions And Adventures In Japan

April is an exciting time to visit Japan, as the country bursts into bloom with cherry blossom festivals and a range of cultural events. The country is a blend of ancient traditions and modern marvels, and there are countless experiences and attractions to explore. Here are the top 10 tourist attractions and adventures in Japan that you can enjoy in April.

1. Cherry Blossom Viewing

April is the peak cherry blossom season in Japan, with beautiful pink and white blooms covering the country. Cherry blossom viewing, also known as "hanami," is a popular pastime for locals and tourists alike. Some of the best places to view cherry blossoms in Japan include Tokyo's Ueno park or Yoyogi park, Kyoto's philosopher's path , and Osaka castle park . (Just a few of them)

2. Visit Shrines & Temples

Experience Japanese culture by visiting some of the country's most iconic shrines and temples . Explore the impressive five-storied pagoda, Kiyomizu Temple's awe-inspiring architecture, the Meiji Shrine which is a Shinto shrine in Tokyo dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, the thousands of torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Temple Taizoin's enchanting garden, and the peaceful Daisenji Temple.

The five-storied pagoda is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered one of Japan's most iconic landmarks. Meanwhile, Kiyomizu Temple is known for its beautiful views of Kyoto and its impressive wooden structure, which dates back to the 17th century. The Meiji Shrine is surrounded by a tranquil forest and features an impressive torii gate and a traditional Japanese garden. Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine is famous for its thousands of torii gates, which lead visitors through a stunning forested area. Temple Taizoin is another hidden gem, featuring a beautiful garden that's particularly striking in the springtime. April is the perfect time to visit these shrines and temples, with mild weather and beautiful cherry blossoms adding to the enchantment.

3. Explore the Imperial Palace

The Imperial Palace is the home of Japan's emperor and is one of Tokyo 's most famous landmarks. Inside the palace, you'll discover a treasure trove of artifacts and exhibits that showcase Japan's cultural heritage . From ancient artworks and manuscripts to priceless imperial regalia, the collection is sure to captivate your imagination and leave you with a deeper appreciation for Japan's rich history. During the guided tours of the palace, you will learn about the lives of the imperial family, as well as the architectural and artistic traditions that have shaped the palace over the centuries.

4. Explore the Tsukiji Fish Market

A visit to the Tsukiji fish market in Tokyo is a unique and immersive experience that offers a fascinating glimpse into one of the world's largest fish markets. Tourists can begin their day at the market in the early morning by exploring the Tsukiji outer market and watching the famous tuna auction. Then, they can enjoy a fresh sushi breakfast at one of the many fresh seafood restaurants in the area. A guided tour is available for those who want a deeper insight into the market's history, culture, and operations.

5. Observatory Decks & Towers

Explore the country's many observation decks and towers! From the iconic Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower to the stunning JR Tower and Shirahama undersea observatory, there are countless opportunities to experience the splendor of Japan from a whole new perspective. Climb to the top of the towering Tokyo Skytree and enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo and beyond, including a magnificent sight of Mt. Fuji on a clear day. Or, visit the Tokyo Tower for a unique view of the city and a chance to see the tower's iconic structure up close. Head to Hokkaido 's JR Tower for breathtaking views of Sapporo and the surrounding mountains, or venture down to the Shirahama undersea observatory to explore the underwater world and see the fascinating marine life of Japan's Pacific coast. April is the perfect time to visit these observation decks, with mild weather and clear skies offering ideal conditions for taking in the views.

6. Snorkeling, Kayaking & Cave Exploration in Okinawa Prefecture

Get ready to experience the ultimate adventure in one of Japan's most beautiful natural settings! Discover the thrill of snorkeling in the blue cave, kayaking in the crystal-clear sea, and exploring the ancient pumpkin limestone cave in Okinawa prefecture , including the stunning Ishigaki island , Iriomote island , and Miyakojima . Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the blue cave, where you'll snorkel alongside vibrant schools of fish, graceful sea turtles, and other amazing sea creatures. Then, hop in a kayak and paddle your way through the turquoise waters of Okinawa, taking in the stunning views and fresh sea air. Finally, explore the pumpkin limestone cave, an ancient wonder of nature that was formed by the erosion of coral reef limestone by groundwater over a long period of time.

7. Canyon Swinging in Chichibu

Get ready for an adrenaline-packed adventure that will take your breath away. Come experience the rush of canyon swinging in Chichibu city , Saitama prefecture , Japan. Located just a short distance from Tokyo, Chichibu is home to some of the most beautiful canyons and gorges in the country. With our expert guides and state-of-the-art equipment, you'll soar high above the canyon floor, taking in the breathtaking scenery from a whole new perspective. Feel the wind rushing past you as you swing back and forth, and let out a scream of excitement as you take the leap into the unknown. April is the perfect time to experience the thrill of canyon swinging in Chichibu .

8. Ziplining Activity

Experience the ultimate thrill-seeking adventure on your trip to Japan with ziplining! Soar through the treetops and take in the stunning scenery of Nozawa Onsen village or Yanbaru island in an exciting and unforgettable way. With state-of-the-art equipment and experienced guides to ensure your safety, ziplining across Japan is a fantastic way to explore the natural beauty of the country. Take in the breathtaking views and fresh mountain air as you fly high above the ground and see the landscape from a whole new perspective. April is the perfect time to try ziplining in Japan, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful spring scenery to enhance your adventure.

9. Camping, Glamping & BBQ

Experience the best of Japan's natural beauty with camping and glamping in some of the country's most picturesque locations! From camping with a view of Mount Fuji to glamping surrounded by forests and rivers, and BBQ sites across Japan, there's something for every type of traveler and outdoor enthusiast. Set up camp in the shadow of the iconic Mount Fuji and wake up to stunning views of Japan's highest mountain. Or, indulge in a luxurious glamping experience surrounded by the lush forests and pristine rivers of Japan's countryside. Either way, you'll have the chance to reconnect with nature and enjoy a peaceful and relaxing getaway. And what's a camping or glamping trip without a delicious BBQ? Across Japan, there are countless scenic spots to grill up your favorite foods and enjoy a meal with loved ones under the open sky. Mid April is the perfect time to experience camping and glamping in Japan, with mild weather and the beautiful spring scenery in full bloom.

10. Paragliding, Hot-air Balloon Ride & Helicopter Sightseeing Flight

Looking for a thrilling adventure in Japan? Take to the skies with paragliding, hot-air balloon rides, and helicopter sightseeing flights! Experience the exhilaration of flying high above Japan's stunning landscapes and cities, and discover the country's beauty from a unique perspective. Take a paragliding ride over the rolling hills and breathtaking scenery of Miyagi prefecture , or enjoy a hot-air balloon ride over the picturesque landscapes of Saitama prefecture . For an even more thrilling adventure, try a helicopter tour over Tokyo, Osaka, or the majestic Mt. Fuji. Whether you're looking for a heart-pumping adventure or a romantic getaway, these activities offer an unforgettable experience that you'll cherish forever.

Recommended For You

In conclusion, Japan in April offers an unforgettable experience that will leave any traveler with lasting memories. With the cherry blossoms in full bloom, there's no better time to explore the country's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, there's something for everyone in Japan in April. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene countryside, Japan's diverse landscape is sure to captivate your senses. So pack your bags, book your trip, and get ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime. Japan is waiting for you!

Frequently asked questions

Q what is the peak season for cherry blossom viewing in japan.

A April is the peak cherry blossom season in Japan.

Q What are the best places to view cherry blossoms in Japan?

A Some of the best places to view cherry blossoms include Tokyo's Ueno park or Yoyogi park, Kyoto's philosopher's path, and Osaka castle park among several others.

Q What are the famous shrines and temples to visit in Japan in April?

A What are the famous shrines and temples to visit in Japan in April?

Q What can tourists see at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo?

A Tourists can discover a treasure trove of artifacts and exhibits that showcase Japan's cultural heritage, from ancient artworks and manuscripts to priceless imperial regalia.

Q What is the Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo, and what can tourists do there?

A The Tsukiji fish market is one of the world's largest fish markets in Tokyo, where tourists can watch the famous tuna auction and enjoy a fresh sushi meal.

Q What adventure activities can tourists enjoy in Japan in April?

A Tourists can enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, cave exploration, canyon swinging, ziplining, camping, glamping, paragliding, hot-air balloon rides, and helicopter sightseeing flights among other activities.

Q What is the best time to visit Japan for outdoor adventure activities?

A April is the perfect time to visit Japan for outdoor adventure activities, with mild weather and beautiful spring scenery.

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How to enjoy new activities in the after / with corona era

Even if you are a customer, when you continue to go out, in addition to avoiding so-called [three secrets], cough etiquette, thorough hand washing and alcohol disinfection, etc., on June 19, 2020 (Friday), Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, sightseeing Please be aware of the [new travel etiquette ] announced by the Japan Tourism Agency, take actions to avoid the risk of infectious diseases, and enjoy activities and leisure activities safely.

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Visiting Japan in April 2024: Complete Guide to Weather, What to See & Do

If you ask anyone who has visited Japan what their favorite time of the year in the country is, they will probably tell you spring . And among the spring months, April is king. This is when sakura trees in most parts of the country are in full bloom, but also a time of festivals, traditional food, amazing sightseeing, and a very welcoming atmosphere all around. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at everything you’ll need to know, with this complete guide to visiting Japan in April.

What’s the weather in Tokyo in April?

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The weather in Tokyo in April is generally pleasantly warm. Even nighttime low temperatures are very manageable, and days are mostly sunny. There could be some anomalies, like April 2019 when temperatures were on average lower and precipitations more frequent, but it doesn’t happen often.

When it comes to the weather in the country, as you can see from the chart above, things change depending on the area you are visiting. While Sapporo and the whole of Hokkaido tend to be much colder, on average, even during this generally warmer month, Okinawa sports the temperatures of a mild summer , even in colder hours.

Unless you’re visiting Hokkaido, or other colder regions, prepare for average spring temperatures and weather. Absolutely do not forget some comfortable shoes, you will walk a lot. Bring with you a sweater or some heavier clothes just in case, but for the most part, you will be fine with shirts, skirts, shorts, and other light, comfortable clothing. What if I’m visiting Hokkaido? If you are visiting colder regions, prepare for a mild winter . Especially in the evening, temperatures will get pretty rigid. We recommend heavier clothing and underclothing, winter socks, long pants, sweaters, as well as lighter clothes for the daytime. It will be useful to have jackets and sweaters easy to carry during the warmer hours so that the colder night hours won’t catch you off guard. Hiking shoes and/or boots could also come in handy.

If you are not visiting the colder areas of Japan, bring comfortable shoes, and socks, as well as shirts, and comfortable pants and skirts. When visiting other countries, there is often a lot of walking to do, but this is especially true in Japan, in April. In addition, bring a backpack that allows you for some spare room for something to wear at night, if you’re going to be out for several hours, as well as water, sunglasses, and some snacks.

Of course, we will start with hanami (cherry blossoms viewing). Hanami can hardly be defined as an event. It’s a centenary tradition that permeates the whole country. Cherry flowers are as beautiful as they are ephemeral, and the best period to see them in full bloom varies depending on the kind of trees, and on the location in which they are. Live Japan always offers an up-to-date map with the most accurate cherry blossom forecast , so make sure to check it out to get the best out of your trip, regardless of where in Japan you are! If you are in Tokyo, some of the most beautiful and popular places are Meguro River , Ueno Park , Shinjuku Gyoen. There are many spots in Tokyo, and also in Sapporo , Kyoto, Osaka, and virtually every city of Japan, so make sure you explore as many places as you can. But what do people usually do for hanami? Hanami can be simply taking a stroll among beautiful cherry trees or make a day of it with friends, family, or dates. Every year, flocks of people look for the most beautiful places to set up a nice picnic (make sure that the location you want to visit allows BBQs if you’re looking to organize one) and enjoy food and drinks. Some of the most popular locations will have people holding the best spots for hours (even days), but the good news is that while some areas are more famous than others, Tokyo and many other cities in Japan have wonderful spots just waiting for you. Some examples would be the area of Nishikyogoku in Kyoto or the small towns just outside of Tokyo, which will offer a very anime -like hanami experience. April is also the first time of the year that sees masses of people going out in warmer weather, which also means a lot of concerts , many of which outdoors. Summer is usually when most outdoor musical events happen, but also in April, you will have the chance to attend various events, as well as concerts of national and international artists. Festivals is where April really shines. For sakura, there are too many cherry blossom festivals to be all named, but here are some of them: ・ Hirosaki Castle , Aichi . ・ Ueno Park , Tokyo. ・Meguro River , Tokyo. ・Satte Gongendo Park , Saitama. ・Takada Castle , Niigata . ・ Odawara Castle , Kanagawa. ・Izu Highland, Shizuoka. Look for some festivals in your area, and you will surely find many.

Early April, though, is not only time for cherry blossoms-related festivals. Japan offers many other events where you can enjoy traditional food, costumes, dances, and culture. ・ Miyako Odori, April 1-30 (Kyoto) A month's worth of dances, and music, performed by real maiko and geiko (who are usually hard to see performing in public). ・ Onbashira Festival, April-May, every 6 years (Nagano) The next event of this dangerous, rare, and very old event (1000 years), will be held in 2022. If you have the opportunity to see it, you will witness people riding huge tree logs sliding down a dangerous mountain slope. Not for the faint of heart. ・ Ose Matsuri , April 4 (Shizuoka) A festival in which men dressed as women dance on boats in the harbor by Ose Shrine , accompanied by festive music. ・ Beppu Hot Spring Festival, the first week of April, Oita A week-long festival that involves the whole city of Beppu to give thanks to its fantastic hot springs . ・ Kanamara Festival, early April (sometimes late March), Kawasaki , Kanagawa The famous ' Kawasaki Penis Festival ' that celebrates phalluses. Yeah, it’s really that odd (and fun). ・ Yakumo Jinja Shunki Reitaisai, April, Tokyo Sporting amazing floats, music, food, and colorful decorations ・ Fuji (Wisteria) Matsuri , mid-April to early May, Kameido Tenjin Shrine Here you will see the beautiful flowers of the temple blooming in a festival of scents, colors, and light shows . Dozens of other festivals happen all over the country for the whole month of April. When you decide your itinerary, make sure to look for the ones in the areas you will be visiting. You won’t be disappointed.

April allows you to immortalize some magical moments and landscapes in pictures that will look like images from a fantastic fictional world. In particular, if you wait for that “magic hour” moment at sunset, here are some places that will be well worth the wait. ・Meguro River (when not crowded), Tokyo ・Kamogawa River , Kyoto ・ Mount Fuji from Oishi Park by Lake Kawaguchi, and from the top of the panoramic ropeway ・Kiyomizu Dera, Kyoto ・Akagi Senbozakura, Gunma ・Matsumoto castle , Nagano ・Nagoya Castle , Nagoya ・Philosopher’s Path, Kyoto ・Maruyama Park , Kyoto ・ Osaka Castle , Osaka ・ Nara Park , Nara ・Handayama Botanical Garden , Okayama

Golden week is a period that contains a number of Japanese national holidays starting on April 29 and which sees the whole country going on vacation. Visiting during this time could exactly what you’re looking for or something to avoid. Many stores, museums , and other attractions will be closed. The streets, and especially touristic spots will be more crowded than usual, seeing an increase in national tourism. That also means that it will be easier to get in touch with the locals, participate to events with Japanese people, and experience a week of partying.

April is a time of festivals and festivals are a great time to try seasonal dishes, and also familiar snacks and drinks switching to a more cherry-esque feel. For example, you will find cherry-themed KitKats, chips, beers, wines, sake, and more. April is also the time of the “king of fish,” Tai, an exquisite and delicate fish very popular among many celebratory events, and, of course in April. Takenoko (bamboo shoots) is another very popular dish in Japan, in April, served in a variety of ways, on its own, or as a side dish, or topping. And here you have it! Everything you need to know to enjoy your April in Japan to the fullest!

Written by:

Lucio Maurizi

Lucio Maurizi is an automotive expert specializing in Japan's car scene and auto-tourism. With an MA in East Asian History from La Sapienza Università di Roma, he's a multi-talented contributor to travel platforms like LIVE JAPAN, Japan Travel, and GPlus Media. His Instagram account (50k+ followers) offers insider views on Japan's automotive culture. Lucio also actively collaborates with professional drivers and influencers and organizes can't-miss car events in Tokyo. Instagram: @italian_in_japan Other links: https://linktr.ee/italianinjapan

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Japan in April 2024

April in Japan is synonymous with Sakura, the enchanting cherry blossoms that blanket the country in a delicate sea of pink and white. This fleeting spectacle transforms the landscape into a dreamlike setting, drawing travelers from around the world to witness the beauty of spring in the Land of the Rising Sun. In this article, we’ll explore the allure of traveling to Japan in April, delving into the weather, crowds, price fluctuations, events, the best cities to visit, and the unique experiences that await. As we unveil the wonders of April in Japan, we’ll also highlight the advantages of guided tours, offering a curated journey through the Sakura-filled landscapes.

Weather in Japan in April

April brings milder temperatures to Japan, with cherry blossoms in full bloom. The weather is generally pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor exploration . While the Sakura season attracts a considerable number of visitors, the earlier part of April allows for a more comfortable experience, with blossoms adorning parks, streets, and historic sites across the country.

The main cities of Japan can expect the following temperatures in April:

• Daytime Temperature: 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F)
• Nighttime Temperature: 8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F)
• Daytime Temperature: 14°C to 21°C (57°F to 70°F)
• Nighttime Temperature: 7°C to 12°C (45°F to 54°F)
• Daytime Temperature: 16°C to 23°C (61°F to 73°F)
• Nighttime Temperature: 9°C to 14°C (48°F to 57°F)

Price Fluctuations

April is a peak season for tourism in Japan due to the cherry blossom festival, and this popularity can lead to increased costs for accommodations and flights. Early April may offer a balance between favorable weather and more reasonable prices compared to the peak cherry blossom period slightly later on in April.

It’s worth noting that tours and hotels sell out months in advance during this popular time of year. If you’re hoping to plan a last-minute trip to Japan in April, Tourist Japan is here to help. Due to our industry connections and unique abilities to serve a higher number of customers, we will usually have last-minute availability on our numerous Japan tour packages . Available in budget, regular, and private, these include Japan hotels and tours at extremely competitive prices.

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Events and Festivals

April in Japan is synonymous with the Sakura Matsuri (cherry blossom festivals) celebrated throughout the country. Major cities like Tokyo , Kyoto , and Osaka host events showcasing traditional music, dance, and illuminated night views of cherry blossoms . The atmosphere is festive, creating a sense of unity as locals and tourists celebrate spring’s arrival.

Other events and festivals include:

• April 1-30: Miyako Odori in Kyoto – Colorful Spring dance performances performed by Kyoto geisha. Three shows take place every day in the Minami-za Kabuki theater.
• April 8: Hana Matsuri (Buddha’s Birthday) – ceremonies held at Buddhist temples across the country.
• Mid-April: Kamakura Matsuri ( Kamakura Festival) in Kamakura – A week-long festival to welcome Spring. Festivities include horseback archery, parades, and dances.
• April 14-15: Sanno Matsuri (Takayama Spring Festival) in Takayama – Extravagant floats parade through the village streets.
• April 16-17: Yayoi Matsuri in Nikko – Large parades featuring cherry blossom-themed floats and paper lanterns.
• April 29 – May 5: Japanese Golden Week – Major national holiday period. Many businesses and services will be closed during this time. Check out our full Japan in May calendar for more details on Golden Week festivals.

Best Places to Visit in Japan in April

Tokyo: The metropolis comes alive with cherry blossoms in April. Visit Ueno Park , Chidorigafuchi, and Sumida Park for breathtaking Sakura displays. Explore the contrast between modernity and tradition in districts like Harajuku and Asakusa . All our Tokyo tours are led by expert guides who are not only filled with insider insights about the sights but also know all the best cherry blossom viewing spots.

Kyoto: The ancient capital is a cherry blossom paradise with iconic spots like Kiyomizu-dera, Philosopher’s Path, and Maruyama Park. Discover the beauty of traditional tea ceremonies and the elegance of geisha culture in the historic Gion district . For the most authentic experience, join our Kyoto tours and be led through the winding streets by a local insider.

Hiroshima: Beyond its historical significance, Hiroshima offers stunning cherry blossom views along the Peace Memorial Park and the iconic Hiroshima Castle. Enjoy the serenity of the Shukkeien Garden adorned with sakura. Due to its remote location and complex nature, Hiroshima can be an overwhelming place to venture to alone. Join our Hiroshima tours for a stress-free arrival and to ensure you make the most of your time there.

Best Things to Do in Japan in April

Hanami Parties: Participate in hanami (flower-viewing) parties under the cherry blossoms, bringing locals and travelers together in parks and gardens for picnics and celebrations.

Night Illuminations: Witness the magic of Sakura at night as many parks and landmarks are illuminated, creating a romantic and ethereal ambiance.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in Japanese culture by trying on a kimono, experiencing a tea ceremony , and attending traditional performances that showcase the country’s rich heritage.

Feel the Full Bloom With Tourist Japan

Although the allure of cherry blossoms in April is captivating on its own, guided tours of Japan offer an unparalleled experience, combining the beauty of Sakura with expert insights and curated itineraries. Our guided tours provide a seamless journey through the best cherry blossom spots, ensuring you capture the essence of Japan’s springtime magic. With the guidance of knowledgeable locals, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of Sakura and create lasting memories amidst the blooming landscapes. Join us on a curated adventure that celebrates the splendor of April in Japan, where every moment is a masterpiece painted in the hues of cherry blossoms. Considering a trip to Japan in March instead? Check out our overview of Japan events and monthly guides to explore all your options.

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Things to do in Japan in April

April is a month of celebration in Japan. With the back-to-school period nearing and the famous cherry trees blooming, Japanese people invade parks and gardens, searching for the best spot to spread their blue tarpaulin and enjoy picnicking with friends and family. Vendors selling popular local food fan out near shrines and temples and draw hungry visitors coming to witness the wonders of the traditional landscapes.

Tourism statistics

April is among one of the three main touristic periods in Japan. Recognized by travel experts as one, if not the most, beautiful season of the year, the Japanese spring appeals to a dense crowd of foreign visitors, from Western countries and from Asia.

Booking your travel months in advance is highly recommended, especially as accommodations for group travel fill quickly.

Before enjoying their one week vacation, the Golden Week starting around April 29th, Japanese people will join the tourists crowds in the evenings and on the weekends earlier in the month.

Climate and weather

Temperatures become nicer with an average of 12 to 14°C (53 to 57°F) in the main cities. At midday, the sunny weather will bring a pleasant warmth with a temperature close to 20°C (68°F). This climate is totally suitable for outdoor urban wanderings. Hiking in the mountains remains cold and slippery if it is raining.

The sun rises around 5:15 a.m. and sets around 6:15 p.m.; therefore, we can count about 13 hours of sunlight per day. Nocturnal events usually begin before 7 p.m.

Some days in the month see rain  ☔️ and wind. Japanese weather experts carefully watch the weather as it favors the fall  🍁 of the cherry blossom trees’ flower petals, called fubuki , and therefore accelerates the end of the blooming, which is already ephemeral.

National public holidays

A transitional month, April displays only one public holiday, marking the beginning of the Japanese Golden Week:

• April 29 -- 昭和の日 S howa no Hi : Showa Day (birthday of Emperor Hirohito)

There is also another important date:

• April 8 -- Hana Matsuri , a floral festival celebrating Buddha’s Birthday

Top things to do

During this important period of the year, cherry blossoms can be admired throughout the whole archipelago, depending on the climatic conditions. The main regions, which are Kanto , Kansai , the Shikoku and Kyushu islands, reach their flowering peak up to mid-April. Chubu and north of Tohoku (above Sendai) come next and should be visited at the end of the month.

The blooming cherry trees delight all Japanese people, including the geiko of Kyoto . Therefore, from the beginning of April, each hanamachi presents its spring dance show:

• Kamishichiken (Kitano Odori)
• Miyagawacho (Kyo Odori)
• Gion Kobu (Miyako Odori) or
• Pontocho (Kamogawa Odori in May )

The shows are held in a theatre in the city, last about one hour, and can include a tea ceremony. Booking in advance is mandatory.

Below is a list of Japanese seasonal attractions and events in April:

Travel packing tips

Pack a mixed suitcase, with winter clothes for cloudy, colder days and mid-season clothes for warm afternoons. A good closed and waterproof pair of shoes to easily walk around blooming nature is required. Sunglasses perfectly complete this outfit.

With numerous open-air events, from days to nights, pack an antibacterial gel and a small towel to keep your hands clean and ready to welcome another culinary discovery.

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The Seven Best Places to Visit in Japan During Spring

Cherry blossoms may have a reputation for being the main attraction during spring, but there are plenty of other surprises to discover in Japan . You just need to know where to look.

Springtime in Japan means so many things to so many different people. For some, the arrival of April marks the start of new, exciting beginnings: it’s when children head back to school, university students graduate and employees start their new jobs. Like New Year’s in many Western countries, spring is a time of unbridled optimism and a celebration of what the future holds.

1. Tokyo’s inner city parks

Park, Shrine

2. Yamanashi’s Fuji Motosuko Resort

So you’ve seen the cherry blossoms and are on the hunt for a little variety? Hop on a train to Fuji Motosuko Resort at the base of Mount Fuji. Here, you’ll find a landscape that can really only be described as surreal. Fields of hot pink and pale pink shibazakura ‘pink moss’ flowers (officially known as a moss phlox) cover the rolling hills, backdropped by the snow-covered Mt. Fuji of spring.

To celebrate the arrival of this stunning scene, the Fuji Motosuko Resort holds an annual Moss Phlox Shibazakura Festival from mid-April to late May, where guests are welcome to stroll through the grounds.

4. Spring cycling along the Shimanami Kaido

Architectural Landmark

One for the more adventurous traveller, Shimanami Kaido is a popular cycling route that takes the form of an impressive 60km (37mi) long road that connects the southern island of Shikoku to the main island of Honshu. From point A to point B, the bridge skims across a number of small islands that peak through the sapphire blue waters, making for one of the most picturesque bike rides you’ll ever take.

Given the harsh dry winters in Japan, almost unbearably humid summers and at times unpredictable early months of autumn, it’s best to make this journey in spring when the weather (and surrounding views) are at their best.

5. The magic city of Matsuyama

Natural Feature, Building

6. Ibaraki’s rainbow-colored Hitachi Seaside Park

7. Hyogo’s castle in the cotton candy-coloured sky

The Takeda Castle ruins in Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture, are often referred to as the Castle in the Sky or the Machu Picchu of Japan. On foggy mornings, they look like a castle floating on the low-hanging clouds that sweep across the land.

Impressive in its decaying beauty all year round, there are two seasons during which the ruins are at their best: in autumn when the air is super thick with fog, and spring when surrounded by a smattering of cloud-like pink sakura flowers. Beyond the floating castle, the Hyogo area is home to a huge selection of other incredible cherry blossom viewing spots; one you can’t miss is the pearly white-walled Himeji Castle, the most famous castle in all of Japan .

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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Japan in April 2024: A Guide For Everything To Know

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As the spring temperatures arrive, Japan comes alive with blooming flowers, eager tourists, and warm sunshine. If you’re planning a trip to Japan in April, keep reading for everything you need to know!

Is April a good time to visit Japan?

With colourful cherry blossoms, green foliage, and generally pleasant weather, April is a great time to visit Japan. The mild spring temperatures make it excellent for sightseeing, exploring national parks, attending spring festivals, and relaxing under the blossoms.

Overview of Weather in Japan in April

The weather in Japan in April will depend on the area you’re visiting. As a whole, Japan’s climate in April ranges from 2°-24°C. Generally, the temperature remains around 21°C with April rainfall ranging between 102 and 134 mm total in cities like Osaka and Tokyo. A light rain jacket is probably a good idea! 

Further north, in towns like Sapporo, the temperature can get as low as 2°-10°C. If you plan on visiting northern Japan, you may want to bring a warm coat.

What to Wear in Japan in April

Because the weather can be a bit unpredictable in April with frequent rain showers, it’s always a good idea to dress in layers. As your first layer, dress in lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen, keeping you cool if the temperature rises. Bring along a warm second layer like a light jacket or trench coat. 

Remember that neutral colours are more common in Japan, but bright colours and pastels are more accepted during April as the springtime represents renewal and freshness.

Visitor Arrivals: Is Japan crowded during April?

Also known as Sakura season, late March through April is one of the most popular times to visit Japan. While you might encounter more tourists during this time of year, this is the best season to admire the blooming pink cherry blossoms. Because most of the April rain showers only happen during the evening, you can enjoy long and pleasant days amongst the spring flowers and greenery while sightseeing.

Average Costs of a Trip to Japan in April

The average cost of a trip to Japan will depend on where you travel from and where you plan to stay. You can expect to pay around £900 for the flight there, £150 per day on hotels, £50 per day on food, over £500 on transportation and trains, and £200 on miscellaneous spending. Keeping all of these expenses in mind, a two-week trip to Japan averages almost £5,000.

With a Japan holiday package, you could bundle these separate costs into one discounted rate – the perfect option if you are travelling on a budget!

Things to Do in Japan in April

From the blooming cherry blossoms and fresh strawberries to beaches and mountain activities, April is one of the best times to enjoy everything that Japan has to offer.

Where to Stay in Japan in April

From family-owned ryokans surrounded by lush vegetation to well-appointed hotels in downtown Tokyo, the choice of accommodation in Japan is abundant. April is one of the more popular times for tourist visits, so we recommend booking in advance. Below, you will find some of the hotels from our holiday package deals. To learn about them in more detail, check out our deal section.

Best Resorts and Hotels in Japan in April

What to Eat in Japan in April

Whether you’ve packed a picnic under the cherry blossoms or you are dining at a local restaurant, here are some of the best things to eat in Japan in April:

• Ume: Also known as Japanese plums, ume is a must-try during the spring. 
• Sakura mochi: This treat is made with pink-coloured mochi filled with a red bean paste and wrapped in a pickled sakura leaf.
• Ikanago: These are small Japanese sand eels from the Kansai region.

Hacks & Tips to Visit Japan in April

• Pack light: Japan’s convenience stores have everything you need if you forget something!
• Buy a Pasmo or Suica train card , allowing you to charge a specific amount of cash automatically withdrawn as you travel from city to city.
• Take advantage of one-day metro passes: These are available in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
• Koban: You’ll see this term in most major cities, and it means “police boxes.” If you’re lost, this is the best place to go for directions.

Read Also: Best time to visit Japan | Things to do in Japan

Japan in March

FAQs for Japan in April

Balmy temperatures and the peak of the cherry blossom season make April one of the best months for tourism to Japan. Viewing the blooming Sakura trees is especially popular in big cities like Tokyo and Kyoto.

April is not part of the rainy season in Japan, which starts from the beginning of June to mid-July. In fact, most regions of Japan get very little rain during this month.

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Japan Weather in April 2024, Travel Tips (for First-Timers)

Among its spring months (March to May), April is the most weather-wise time to visit Japan . Except for cold Hokkaido, most of Japan experiences mild conditions with an average temperature of 19°C (67°F) at daytime.

As for rainfall, the further north you go, the drier it gets. With just a few spring showers to dampen the flowering trees, you could celebrate a milestone trip amongst an idyllic backdrop of the most-loved cherry blossom in the world.

Find out about average temperatures, rainfall, and tips on where to go and what to wear in Japan in April below...

• Weather of Japan's Major Cities in April

6 Best Places to Visit in Japan in April

• Costs and Crowding

What to Pack in April

Japan weather in april: averages.

• Temperature range: 10–19°C (50–67°F)
• Rainfall: 113 mm (4 inches)
• Rainy days: 9
• Sunny days: 21

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Weather in Japan's Major Cities in April

Tokyo and central japan: cherry blossom viewing parties.

April is one of the best times to explore central Japan. The warmest temperature varies around 20°C (68°F). Spring rainfall usually comes as showers or night rain. That means you could fully indulge in the breathtaking cherry blossom viewing most of the time without cloud or rain.

In major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, the cherry blossoms reach their peak from late March to early April . Meanwhile, they usually flower from around mid-April in mountain areas, such as Takayama and Mt. Fuji.

Inevitably, you'll encounter large crowds and higher costs. You'd need to book at least 3 months before to lock down a price. Check our cherry blossom tours for inspiration or contact us for your own tailor-made private tour with hassle-free experiences.

Okinawa and Southern Japan: Crowd-Free Beaches

Southern Japan is an ideal destination to visit in April, owing to its comfortably warm weather.

The cherry blossoms in southern Japan gradually fade away in late March , so you might catch the tail end of a chance to appreciate them in the first week of April.

If you want a peaceful beach vacation, April is the best time to enjoy Okinawa. With fewer crowds and moderate temperatures, you could peacefully soak up the sun and enjoy water sports like snorkeling, surfing, and diving.

Hokkaido and Northern Japan: Quiet, Last Skiing Month

Compared with mild central and southern Japan, northern Japan is still cold with daily highs at 12°C (53°F).

With its colder temperatures, cherry blossom season usually arrives in late April in northern Japan. Northernmost Hokkaido even sees its first cherry blossoms in early May.

Skiing season is coming to the end in April and most resorts close at some point in this month on Hokkaido. If you're a die-hard winter sports enthusiast, you could seize the last chance to enjoy them in higher mountain areas like Mt. Hakodate. You'd definitely benefit from fewer crowds.

Too hectic to plan your Japan trip? Leave your interests and requests , and your travel expert will personalize a private tour for you within 24 hours!

In April, stunning cherry blossoms and comfortable weather attract people to visit Japan for their big celebrations , such as their big birthdays, 20-year anniversaries, and the start of retirement.

Cherry blossoms last the whole of April in Japan. You are recommended to see the full-blooming flowers in Japan's "golden triangle" (Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka) in early April. Iconic Mt. Fuji is not to be missed, as well. Check  7-Day Japan Cherry Blossom Tour: Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Kyoto, and Osaka

Around mid-April, forested Takayama is a wonderful place to celebrate festivals among the cherry blossoms. Check  12-Day Classic Japan Tour: Tokyo, Nagoya, Takayama, Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go, Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka

In late April, Aomori, on the north Honshu coast, would be an ideal place to go to catch its cherry trees in full bloom.

1. Mt. Fuji: Capture Iconic Photos of Cherry Blossom

Apart from the spring showers, you would have plenty of sunny hours to enjoy the stunning scenery and go for outdoor activities.

If weather permits, what could be more Japanese and romantic than seeing Mt. Fuji surrounded by cherry blossoms? Lake Kawaguchi (1.5 hours' driving from Tokyo) is an excellent vantage point for the iconic mountain.

Suggested reading:  How to Plan a Trip to Mount Fuji >>>

2. Kyoto: Ancient Capital with Side Trip to Nara

In addition to ancient gardens and temples, cherry blossoms add a romantic touch to Kyoto in April, and you can effortlessly find them, as they are everywhere.

Dress in a traditional kimono and pause beneath the blooming trees for a picturesque couple's photo, and have a romantic kaiseki feast inside a ryokan .

For a less crowded experience, you could take a quick 30-minute train ride from Kyoto to Nara and feed the cute deer, also under beautiful cherry blossom trees.

3. Tokyo: The Most Convenient Spot for Cherry Blossom Parties

With the spring weather, cherry blossoms are breathtaking in Tokyo, making April great for outdoor activities with your beloved and friends.

If you're celebrating a spring break with your kids, don't miss Tokyo Disneyland for its special "Disney's Easter" . You'll experience a rich Easter atmosphere: Easter-theme decoration, special parades, egg-hunting games...

Check out Plan Your First Trip to Tokyo> >>

4. Osaka: Himeji Castle and Universal Studios' Easter Celebration

Osaka in April is quite pleasant, with an average temperature of 20°C (68°F). You'll encounter rainfall every 1 in 3 days, but the precipitation is light, totaling just 102 mm (4 in).

Like the locals, you could enjoy a lovely picnic under the cherry blossom trees with friends or family, and savor local delicacies in Osaka Castle and Osaka Expo' 70 Park.

Keen on a quieter experience? Have a side trip to centuries-old Himeji Castle, just 1 hour from Osaka.

Get more ideas about Plan Your Trip to Osaka >>>

For theme park lovers, you could also enjoy the Universal Easter Celebration and play computer games at Super Nintendo World .

5. Takayama: Festive Cherry Blossom Viewing

The average temperature in Takayama in April is around 16°C (61°F). You'll see warmer weather after mid-April.

Tired of crowded tourist spots in Tokyo and Kyoto during cherry blossom season? Around mid-April, you could appreciate cherry blossoms in Takayama with a quieter setting.

Besides, Takayama Spring Festival (14–15th April) is a great chance to celebrate a traditional festival with locals: displays of festival floats, traditional music, and swinging lanterns feature.

6. Aomori: A Less-Crowded Hidden Gem

April is generally mild in Aomori, although it can still be cold in early April. Late April is better for warmer weather and cherry blossoms.

To escape the crowds in larger destinations, head to Aomori. Take a paddleboat on petal-covered moats and wander around Hirosaki Castle, or take a unique tram ride through a blossoming cherry tree forest.

Costs and Crowding in April in Japan

The cherry blossom season is Japan's busiest travel period , which means it comes with high tourist crowding, and the highest prices are usually found in April.

To avoid the largest crowds, try to visit the attractions early in the morning or during weekdays . A private tour with an experienced guide is helpful in avoiding the stress caused by group tour crowds. Check more Japan tours for inspiration.

Regarding the costs, airfares and room rates are likely to go through the roof approaching April. Due to high demand, you are suggested to plan your cherry blossom trip at least 3 months before departure .

Early booking is a must to secure price deals and guarantee room availability, especially if you're keen on a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) experience or hotels with cherry blossom views. You could find out more cost information in How Much Is a Trip to Japan >>>

In April, northern Japan and mountain areas are still cold. Thus, it's necessary to prepare some light winter clothes.

For other places in Japan, you could pack light trousers and t-shirts for daytimes, and a warm jacket (e.g. a fleece) for the chilly mornings and evenings.

Layers are helpful to deal with the changeable temperature in spring as well. Light rain gear is advisable for possible rainfall.

Monthly Weather and Travel Tips for Japan

Learn about the weather in Japan for 12 months and find out the best places to visit each month.

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20 Best Spring Destinations in Japan 2024

Many people think spring is the best time of the year for traveling, with pleasant temperatures, beautiful blooming flowers under the blue sky, and the exciting start of a new season full of happiness after a cold winter season. The arrival of spring in Japan is for many also seen as a perfect time to start something new, including memorable trips to other countries! What’s better than exploring scenic spots and indulging yourself in other cultures with good weather. Another reason why the perfect season to visit Japan is spring is because of the beautiful cherry blossoms! 

▼ Book our Private Tour in Tokyo

Spring in Japan

1. kawazuzakura, 2. mother farm, 3. huis ten bosch, 4. isumi railway, 5. inabe plum festival, 6. shiudeyama, 7. mt. yoshino, 8. kawachi wisteria garden, 9. hirosaki park, 10. awa katsuura hina matsuri, 11. hitachi seaside park, 12. ashikaga flower park, 13. fuji shibazakura festival, 14. unkai terrace, 15. poppy festival, 16. sanja matsuri, 17. beaches in okinawa, 18. the strawberry kingdom:tochigi, 19. kanda matsuri, 20. mifuneyama rakuen, japan wonder travel tours , other articles you might like.

Sakura, the beautiful cherry tree blossom, is without a doubt the most popular attraction in springtime. The stunning cherry blossom is a symbolic spring flower that marks the arrival of warmer weather and has been loved by Japanese people for centuries. There is a variety of different types of cherry blossom flowers with different colors and shapes of petals and it might be difficult for some people to spot the difference, but you can start by comparing several types of trees that are spread across the country. The cherry blossom season lasts about 2 weeks, depending on the region and the weather, but typically starts towards the end of March. During this period many famous sakura viewing spots will be extremely crowded. But also other flower parks throughout Japan feature all different kinds of spring flowers that make for a beautiful sight. Japan boasts a number of tourist destinations that offer incredible scenery during the spring season. Here is a list of the best spring destinations in Japan.

Kawazuzakura (河津ザクラ) refers to a specific type of cherry blossom which can be seen in the Kawazu area located on the Izu peninsula in Shizuoka prefecture . It is known as an early-blooming cherry blossom , and its beautiful flowers start to open up from early February. The flower has large petals which have a relatively dark pink color. Along the Kawazu River, the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival is held from early February through the beginning of March and draws millions of visitors every year. The popular event fascinates visitors with about 800 cherry blossom trees blooming along the river!     

Mother Farm is a popular tourist attraction located in Chiba prefecture . Located on Mt. Kano, it covers a vast area of 250ha that is suited for a range of outdoor activities and entertaining attractions. Visitors can enjoy interacting with cute animals such as sheep, horses, cows as well as smaller animals including rabbits and capybara. Horse riding is one of the most popular activities among children. The farm is also home to a variety of seasonal flowers. During the summer season, it draws numerous visitors with a beautiful petunia garden offering incredible scenery created by the pink flowers. For children, Wakuwaku Land is an enjoyable theme park with exciting rides and attractions such as a Ferris wheel and a roller coaster!

▼ You can get E-Ticket for Mother Farm from HERE!

Huis Ten Bosch is known as one of the most popular theme parks in Japan. It is located in Nagasaki Prefecture in the Kyushu region, and attracts almost 3 million visitors every year. The Western-style buildings are based on the townscape found in the Netherlands back in the 17 th century. The name of the park means “house of forest” in Dutch. The park features a peaceful river running through the park for 8km, along which houses and other buildings are built. In spring, the entire park is filled with beautiful flowers and plants that grow in the Netherlands such as tulips and roses. Special course menus and sweets that can be enjoyed only during that specific season are served at restaurants and cafes. At night, you feel as if you are in a completely different world created by thousands of lights illuminating flowers with fascinating colors. 

Isumi Railway is a 26.8km railway line situated in the east part of Boso peninsula in Chiba Prefecture. Since its opening in 1988, it connects Ohara Station to Kazusa Nakano Station with a peaceful train ride, crossing the beautiful countryside landscape that can be enjoyed through your window. Even though it doesn’t receive a large number of passengers like major railway lines in big cities, many people go there to enjoy the sight of rape blossoms (also known as Nano Hana in Japanese), beautiful yellow flowers which start to bloom from the mid-March to early April. From late March, you can also enjoy the incredible contrast created by them and cherry blossoms!

Along with cherry blossoms, the plum is another iconic flower that indicates the arrival of spring. They start to bloom a little earlier than cherry blossoms; the small darker pink flowers can be enjoyed from mid-February onwards. The Inabe Plum Festival is a famous festival that is held every spring in Mie Prefecture , where you can find one of the largest plum farms, covering about a 38ha area, in Inabe City Nogyo-koen. Enjoy exploring the stunning park while viewing 4,000 plum trees that spread across the park with pink and white flowers with the Suzuka Mountains in the background. On the first or second weekend of March, a special food event called Umaimon-ichi (うまいもん市) is also held. At the event, you will have the chance to try local specialties from some of the neighboring areas!

Shiudeyama is a scenic mountain located in Kagawa prefecture in the Shikoku region. Facing the Seto Inland Sea, it offers a stunning view of the cluster of remote islands from the observation deck on the summit which stands 352m above sea level. Between the end of March and early April, the entire mountain is covered with majestic cherry blossoms that create breathtaking scenery. The pink petals covering the paths and creating a magical atmosphere are a sight to behold. Despite the remote location that is a little far from major tourist destinations such as Tokyo and Osaka, it is definitely worth visiting! You can take the bullet train or a domestic flight.

▼ JR All Shikoku Rail Pass E-Ticket The JR All Shikoku Rail Pass offers unlimited travel for 3-7 consecutive days on all JR Shikoku trains, selected private railways, the Shodoshima Olive Bus, and the Shodoshima Ferry. To explore Shikoku hassle-free, visitors on Temporary Visitor status can easily book an e-ticket and enjoy the convenience of stress-free travel planning. Book now to make the most of your visit to Shikoku.

Click here to book JR All Shikoku Rail Pass E-Tickets

Mt. Yoshino is widely known as an amazing cherry blossom viewing spot that is situated in Nara Prefecture . The mountain is covered by thousands of cherry trees, creating a stunning scenery. Nara is home to world-famous historical sites like Todai-ji temple and the popular free-roaming deer that attract a lot of visitors. However, during the spring season, the city of Nara is packed with tourists who flock there to catch a glimpse of the iconic mountain range covered in beautiful cherry blossoms. When you have the chance to go, you will understand what the craze is about with thousands of cherry blossoms that literally spread from mountain to mountain! 

If you want to enjoy spring flowers other than cherry blossoms, we recommend visiting the Kawachi Wisteria Garden in Fukuoka prefecture . The garden welcomes visitors with majestic scenery created by thousands of Wisteria flowers. They come in a range of colors which include purple, white and pink, creating an incredibly beautiful contrast along with the nature around. Walking through the 100m long Wisteria tunnel takes you to a mystical world where you can take memorable pictures with the beautiful flowers. In fall, the garden also attracts numerous visitors as a perfect spot to enjoy the autumn colors!

▼Check out the full day tour of Kitakyushu, including Kawachi Wisteria Garden! Kitakyusyu is known for its delicious food and beautiful scenery, with stunning shorelines and attractions to suit every taste. This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Kitakyushu! Additionally, you can visit the famous Kawachi Wisteria Garden, a private garden in the wooded hills south of central Kitakyushu. Kitakyushu Full Day Private Tour

Located in Aomori Prefecture , Hirosaki Park is widely known as one of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in the Tohoku region. From mid-April through early May, the entire park is packed with visitors from all around Japan, who want to witness the breathtaking scenery created by beautiful cherry blossoms and Hirosaki Castle . Hirosaki Castle is officially designated as one of the 12 original castles which were built in the Edo period (1603-1868) or earlier. Going on a popular boat cruise in the moat around the castle offers you a fun experience. Enjoy viewing the pink flowers dancing in the air or floating on the water gracefully! 

▼Discover the best of Hirosaki on a fully customized private tour with ultimate flexibility and personalization! Click here to book the tour

Hina Matsuri refers to a traditional Japanese custom held on March 3 rd every year. People celebrate the special day by displaying beautiful hina dolls, ‘hina ningyou‘, dressed in a kimono , the traditional Japanese garment. It is mainly dedicated to girls, wishing for their good health and sound growth. Throughout Japan, many Hina festivals are organized with the most famous one being Awa Katsuura Hina Matsuri , held annually in Tokushima Prefecture . It features numerous Hina matsuri dolls that are displayed on a giant platform standing 7m high. More than 20,000 dolls donated from across Japan are also put on show to fascinate visitors! There are many food stalls selling local street food and the whole event is a fun experience.

Recognized as a national park in Japan, Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki prefecture is famous for having 7 areas that are filled with different types of flowers almost every season. It is said that the best time of year to go to the park is in the spring from mid-April to early May when there are thousands of nemophilia flowers that blanket the park with a beautiful light blue color. Other than viewing the flowers, there are fun outdoor activities you can enjoy such as cycling on the local trails, golfing, or having a nice BBQ. This park is only 2 hours from Tokyo and can make for a nice day trip.

▼ Join a tour to visit Hitachi Seaside Park! On this tour, you can not only enjoy beautiful flowers but also find the items you want at Kitakyushu’s largest outlet mall! Click here to book the tour

Chosen as one of the top 10 dream destinations in the world by CNN in 2014, Ashikaga Flower Park in Tochiji prefecture is a magical place to visit in the spring. Bringing in about 1.5 million people on an average year, it is famous for its 350 wisteria trees that turn various shades of purple and are in bloom between mid-April to mid-May. This fantasy like setting looks like something you would see in a movie and is definitely worth checking out. There is an 80m long wisteria tunnel that is very picturesque and is a popular spot to snap some good shots. The famous Great Wisteria Festival takes place here every year from mid-April. Ashikaga Flower Park is also home to many other flowers including cherry trees that are usually in bloom in April.

Shibazakura, or moss phlox in English, is a species of pink flowering plant that grows on the ground but resembles sakura in color and shape. Hence the name shibazakura, shiba meaning lawn, and zakura meaning cherry blossom, roughly translating to ‘lawn cherry blossom’. The festival is held in Yamanashi prefecture from April to May near the base of Mt. Fuji , with an amazing view of the famous mountain in the background. There are usually food stands where you can buy your favorite food and drinks while enjoying an unbeatable view.

Unkai Terrace is an amazing place in Hokkaido prefecture to see a beautiful view above the clouds. “ Unkai ” in Japanese means “sea of clouds”. Although this terrace is open from mid-May to October, the best time of year to see this spectacular sight 1,088m up is in spring. If you take the gondola up to the terrace early in the morning you can enjoy drinking a hot cup of coffee while feeling like you are on top of the world. Up at the top there are attractions like the “cloud walk”, where you literally feel like you are walking on clouds, as well as other decks that overlook the area.

Held annually from mid to late May in Saitama prefecture , the Poppy Festival is only about an hour away from Tokyo. Known as Japan’s largest poppy fields, Poppy Happy Square spans over 125,000 square meters and has more than 30 million poppy flowers! There are various different kinds of poppies that include California poppies as well as the common variety that tend to be red. If you are lucky enough to join the festival on a sunny day, you will have a great view of Mt. Fuji as you stroll through the vibrant poppy fields.

The Sanja Matsuri(festival) takes place in Asakusa in Tokyo and is one of the biggest festivals of the year in Japan during spring . The festival is held annually for three days on the third Saturday of May, but starts on that Friday and goes through Sunday. Every year about 1.8 million people flock to this popular festival! You can expect big portable shrines to be carried through the streets of Asakusa, along with lots of places to buy food and drinks. If you are planning on being in the Tokyo area in the springtime, this lively festival is worth checking out.

▼Let’s enjoy Tokyo with a professional guide!

It’s popular to wear a kimono or yukata to celebrate the festival in Japan. There’s a kimono rental shop in Asakusa where you can easily try on a beautiful kimono and get your hair done. If you want to explore the traditional town of Tokyo and enjoy the festival, check out and book the kimono rental experience! Kimono Rental Shop in Asakusa

You might think it would be too cold to swim in the springtime, but that is not the case in Okinawa . Beaches throughout Okinawa open up in the springtime between March and April and are a perfect getaway from the still fairly chilly weather everywhere else in Japan. A great place to take advantage of spring beaching is Miyakojima , that is about 300km south of the main island and is home to a number of spectacular beaches such as Maehama Beach and Toguchi no Hama Beach . Ishigaki Island is another great place to enjoy in spring with beaches that are hard to beat. Yonehara Beach , Sukui Beach , and Fusaki Beach are a few of the famous ones. Okinawa is a great option if you want to be somewhere warm where you can swim in spring.

Another fun thing to do in Japan in spring is visit what is known as the strawberry kingdom, Tochigi prefecture, where as you may have guessed, strawberries are the main attraction. Although Ashikaga Flower Park might be the most famous destination in the prefecture, who wouldn’t want to go pick and eat strawberries too? Tochigi happens to be the biggest cultivator nationwide when it comes to strawberries. Some of the farms even have an all you can pick and eat activity that you can partake in! With rich nature and fertile land as well as a climate that has long sunlight hours during winter and a large temperature difference between day and night, there are various farms overflowing with strawberries throughout the prefecture.

Kanda Matsuri(festival) is a big festival that takes place at Kanda Myojin in Ochanomizu in Tokyo . This special event is known as one of the three major festivals of Tokyo and is held over the span of a week. Although this festival is held every year during the springtime in mid-April, the events of the festival change every year depending on whether the year is odd or even. On an odd numbered year, it is called “Honmatsuri”, and is held in quite an upscale and lavish way. However on an even numbered year, it is called “Kage Matsuri”, and it is shorter as well as less luxurious. Whether it’s an odd or even year, it is an amazing event to witness in the spring.

Located at the base of Mt. Mifune in Saga prefecture , Mifuneyama Rakuen is a massive garden spreading 500,000 square meters. Filled with flowers that change color from season to season, spring is one of the best times to go see this beautilful sight in Japan. During springtime, when you first make your way into the garden it’s almost hard to believe that it’s real, as all of the flowers are in bloom and make an ocean of all different colors. In this area, the sakura(cherry blossoms) bloom from late March to early April, while the Azalea usually bloom from mid April to May. The garden is right next to Takeo Onsen so you can enjoy a relaxing overnight stay if you want as well.

Japan Wonder Travel is a travel agency that offers guided tours throughout Japan.  From private walking tours to delicious Food and Drink tours, we can help you organize the best tours just for you! If you want to explore Japan and learn more about the history and backstories of each area you are visiting, our knowledgeable and friendly English speaking guides will happily take you to the best spots!  In addition, we can provide you with any assistance you may need for your upcoming trip to Japan, so please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need some help! 

▶ Tokyo Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Drink Tour Explore the most lively and popular fish market in Tokyo and try some of the local’s favorite street foods and sake with one of our friendly and knowledgeable English speaking guides! 

▶ Tokyo 1–Day Highlights Private Walking Tour (8 Hours) There’s no better way to explore an area than taking a tour with a knowledgeable local guide. You will have the chance to learn about the history and interesting background stories of Tokyo, as well as discover some hidden gems which can be hard to do without a guide.

▶ Mt. Fuji Day Trip Bus Tour from Tokyo Experience the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji by visiting the highlights of the area on our guided sightseeing bus tour! Departing from Shinjuku in central Tokyo, you can travel comfortably to all of the best spots in the area by bus.

▶ Kyoto Private Full Day Walking Tour On this full-day private tour of Kyoto, you will be able to see the highlights of Kyoto in just one day and at the same time develop a deeper understanding of both the culture of the area and Japan as a whole.

Traveling around Japan in spring will allow you to witness the most impressive scenery with some of the most beautiful, unique flowers in full bloom. They bring the refreshing smell of a new season that embraces us peacefully and gracefully. You can explore other famous tourist attractions with pleasant weather which will make your time in Japan exceptional. We hope you found some Japan spring destinations that you want to visit!

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Happy traveling!

I was about to visit Japan last year but because of the Covid-19 everything changed and changed plans but I am still very interesting about going to Jpan for two weeks when everything backs to the normal. Thank you for such very important info you provide here.

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TRAVELING JAPAN IN APRIL? BROWSE OUR RECOMMENDED APRIL EXPERIENCES IN JAPAN!

Cherry blossoms in central and northern japan.

In April, the cherry blossom season hits central Japan and floats up north. In the Kanto region, the small, delicate flowers usually appear towards the end of March and into early April. Both rural areas and big cities crawl with travelers determined to catch the short-lived season. Even the concrete jungle of Tokyo becomes a jungle of pink. In Ueno Park , over 1,000 Japanese sakura trees grow closely together creating a dense tunnel of petals. Outside of Tokyo, if you go to Hakone , you’ll cruise around Lake Ashi , where you can see the cherry blossoms in strikingly picturesque landscapes with Mt. Fuji in the distance. The northernmost island, Hokkaido , is the last to get cherry blossoms. Sakura spotters usually predict Hokkaido’s season to start in late April, but in the past few years, popular destinations like Odori Park in Sapporo haven’t experienced a full bloom until the first week of May. Click Here for Our Cherry Blossom Tours for 2024, 2025 & 2026

TAKAYAMA SANNO SPRING FESTIVAL

The Takayama Sanno Spring Festival is one of the most well-known festivals in Japan. During this event, 1,000 people participate in a procession straight out of the 15th century. The musicians leading the parade beat drums, sound bells, and wear hats adorned with bird feathers. Meanwhile, dancers perform the shishimai (lion dance) and wear headgear designed to look like lions. At the end of the parade, over 10 yatai (giant floats) are pulled through the streets. These yatai have all sorts of decorations including marionettes that move from systems of pulleys built inside of them. The marionettes move so fluidly, you'll find it difficult to believe they were developed during the Edo period ! At night, 100 paper lanterns are placed on each float creating an even more spectacular sight. It’s no wonder that the Sanno Festival is the pride of the small mountain town of Takayama. Click Here for Tours that Include Takayama Spring Festival for 2024, 2025 & 2026

WISTERIA IN ASHIKAGA FLOWER PARK

If you love flowers, take an hour and a half ride from Tokyo on the bullet train to Tochigi Prefecture’s Ashikaga Flower Park. All year, you can see different types of seasonal flowers and a stunning LED light display in the winter . Ashikaga Flower Park’s main attraction is the wisteria flowers that bloom from mid-April to mid-May. During this time, you can walk through an 80-meter (262 foot) wisteria tunnel and see one of Tochigi Prefecture’s greatest treasures: A 100-year-old wisteria tree so massive its branches have to be supported by beams. Click Here for Tours that Include Ashikaga Flower Park for 2024, 2025 & 2026 Click Here to Read About More Stunning Gardens in Japan

MIYAKO ODORI

Geisha —women trained in traditional Japanese arts —are the very embodiment of Japanese beauty and culture. Travelers to Japan often scramble for the chance to catch just a glimpse of a geisha on the streets or have the opportunity to meet one. Unfortunately, it’s not so easy. Geisha don’t step out on the streets in full get-up unless they’re dashing to a taxi on their way to work, and to schedule a meeting with a geisha you must go through a third party—like our well-connected staff at All Japan Tours . In April, however, geisha and maiko (apprentice geisha) put on a public performance at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater in Kyoto called the Miyako Odori. Shows happen every day through April, but be warned: this event often sells out quickly as the theater can only hold about 900 people! Click Here for More Information About the Miyako Odori

HUNT FOR KOINOBORI

From April 29th to May 5th, you might start to notice more and more Japanese people spending their time leisurely. During this season, five national holidays and two weekends pass in a period known as Golden Week. Many Japanese businesses and all schools close on these days. Locals usually take this opportunity to travel either domestically or abroad (Showa Day being one of the biggest days for travel in Japan), hence the crowds getting bigger and prices rising. One of the most anticipated holidays is Kodomo no Hi (Children’s Day) which falls on May 5th, but you’ll start to see the preparations during April. No matter where you are in Japan, you’ll see koinobori (koi fish streamers) hanging from homes and businesses. Koi are said to be the most spirited and strongest fish in Japan because they can swim upstream, thus these windsocks represent children's abilities to overcome challenges. Not only do the colorful koi make for wonderful photos, but some businesses use customized streamers to represent their industries making “koi hunting” a fun activity as you explore Japan! Whether you prefer to spend your spring strolling through flower gardens or reveling in joyous festivals, Japan has something for everyone! If you plan to continue your vacation itinerary from April to May….

CLICK HERE TO READ ABOUT THINGS TO DO IN JAPAN IN MAY

Click here to see our april itineraries.

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Best places to visit in japan.

Known as the Land of the Rising Sun, Japan's civilization dates as far back as 30,000 years. Today, the archipelago seamlessly blends its rich history with its ultra-modern present. And while its capital, Tokyo, is a must-visit for first timers, Japan has so much more to offer travelers of all types, from cherry blossoms to white sand beaches to soothing onsen (hot spring spas). U.S. News took into account cultural attractions, culinary options and accessibility (among other factors) to bring you the best places to visit in Japan. Have a favorite? Vote below to help decide next year's ranking.

Izu Peninsula

This metropolis is a feast for the senses. Neighborhoods like Ginza and Akihabara buzz with flashing lights and larger-than-life shopping, while Meiji Shrine and the Tokyo Imperial Palace give you a look into Japan's storied past. There are also a number of green spaces like Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, which acts as a place to escape from the chaotic, concrete jungle. What's more, Tokyo is regularly regarded as a top foodie city thanks in part to its abundant Michelin-starred restaurants (the most you'll find in any city in the world), so come hungry.

Travelers most interested in Japan's history and traditions should head to Kyoto. Centrally located on the archipelago, Kyoto has long been considered the cultural capital of Japan. Here, you'll find more than 1,000 Buddhist temples and 400-plus Shinto shrines (you can't miss the Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha), including a whopping 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites. You can also stroll through geisha districts like Gion and Miyagawacho, admire classic wooden architecture and visit traditional teahouses before checking out more modern attractions, such as the Kyoto Aquarium.

Nikko is the place to go to see lavish architecture surrounded by nature. Head to Nikko National Park, one of Japan's oldest national parks, to enjoy an up-close look at traditional structures situated alongside mountains, lakes, waterfalls and hot springs. The park is especially beautiful in fall when its trees display vivid shades of yellow, red and orange. The 103 Edo-era (1603–1868) temples and shrines in Nikko include world-renowned sites like Toshogu Shrine and Rinnoji Temple.

Situated about 35 miles southwest of Kyoto, this port city is worth a visit for its food alone. One of the city's most famous dishes, the tasty pancake-like okonomiyaki (which means "grilled as you like it" in Japanese), is made with batter, cabbage and your choice of meat and other toppings. After you've gotten your fill of the delectable local cuisine, explore the flashy Dotonbori neighborhood, check out the reconstructed 16th-century Osaka Castle or head to contemporary sights like Universal Studios Japan and the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.

As Japan's second most populous city, Yokohama is often touted as a more approachable and more affordable alternative to Tokyo (located 22 miles northeast). As one of the country's first ports to open to international trade, Yokohama features unique culture fusions, including a sizable expat population, Western-style buildings in the Yamate area and the largest Chinatown in Japan (it has more businesses than residents). While here, visitors can explore Minato Mirai 21, the city's modern central district teeming with skyscrapers and shopping malls, and visit museums ranging from the Cup Noodles Museum to the Mitsubishi Minatomirai Industrial Museum.

More than 160 islands comprise Okinawa, a top destination for snorkeling and diving. The Japanese prefecture boasts proximity to multiple coral reefs teeming with fish, manta rays and hammerhead sharks that you can access from beautiful beaches like those found on Okinawa's Kerama Islands. These 20-plus islands are also ideal places to see migrating whales between January and March. Back on the main island, visitors will find one of the world's largest aquariums, several castle ruins and a museum that focuses on Okinawa's unique history and culture. And on the less developed Iriomote Island, adventurous travelers can hike to awe-inspiring waterfalls.

Spared from World War II air raids and the major natural disasters that have affected other Japanese cities, Kanazawa on the western coast is home to some of the country's best-preserved architecture from the Edo period. Sites like Kanazawa Castle, Seisonkaku Villa and Myoryuji temple are popular among visitors, as are the Higashi Chaya geisha district and Nagamachi Samurai District. Plus, no trip to Kanazawa would be complete without a visit to the resplendent Kenrokuen Garden. With its water features, bridges and a variety of flowering trees that add beauty to any season, Kenrokuen is often described as the perfect garden.

Nestled in the mountains of the Gifu prefecture, Takayama is ideal for visitors looking for a rural retreat with a dose of history. Start your visit with a rickshaw ride through the well-preserved old town, which features sake breweries, traditional residences and shops that date back to the feudal ages. Then, head to the Hida Folk Village, a former farming village with 30 gassho-style houses. When you've worked up an appetite, indulge in must-try local specialties including Hida beef and Takayama ramen. To further immerse yourself in Takayama culture, visit during the Takayama Festival, held for two days every spring and fall.

The country's tallest mountain and one of its most iconic landmarks is a popular destination for outdoor recreation. For centuries, Japanese artists and poets have been inspired by Mount Fuji's almost perfectly round form. The Fuji Five Lakes region at the foot of this UNESCO World Heritage Site makes a great base for the thousands of climbers who visit each year. Enjoy the area's museums and amusement park during the warmer months. Or, arrive in winter to soak in the onsen and ski Mount Fuji's slopes.

Located on Kyushu (Japan's third-largest island), Fukuoka offers travelers a mix of urban sprawl, sandy coastlines and ancient temples and shrines. Can't-miss sights include Tochoji Temple – home of the largest sitting wooden Buddha in Japan – and Nokonoshima Island, which features colorful flower fields and beautiful views of the surrounding bay. Fukuoka is also known for its incredible Hakata ramen, so be sure to try this tasty dish at one of the city's many food stalls. Plan your visit around one of Fukuoka's lively festivals, such as the Hakata Gion Yamakasa, which takes place throughout the first half of July.

Head to the smallest of Japan's four main islands if you're looking to get off the beaten path. Shikoku is best known for its 88 Temple Pilgrimage – a nearly 750-mile loop that covers sacred sites around the island. Whether you're trekking this path or creating your own, you'll encounter Shikoku's natural beauty (think: forest-covered mountains and an unspoiled coastline). Meanwhile, the city of Kochi features cheap eats and a well-preserved castle. If you're visiting in mid-August, add Shikoku's cultural pinnacle, Awa Odori, to your itinerary. One of the most famous festivals in Japan, this dance celebration in the city of Takushima is a must-do.

Mountainous Hakone is one of Japan's most popular hot spring destinations. Nestled within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, the town features 17 different hot springs, plus a hot spring theme park with unique baths like one with coffee and another with mulled wine. After you've dried off, visit one of Hakone's art museums, such as the Hakone Open-Air Museum, the Okada Museum of Art or the Hakone Museum of Art. No Hakone vacation would be complete without enjoying spectacular views of Mount Fuji from Lake Ashinoko and the Komagatake Ropeway.

After an earthquake caused significant damage to the city in 1995, Kobe rebuilt itself into a thriving cosmopolitan city. You'll want to remember to bring your appetite when you visit. Kobe is famous for its namesake beef, as well as its sake. It's also considered one of Japan's most attractive cities, with sleek architecture and beautiful green spaces like Sorakuen Garden. For some of the city's best views – especially at sunset – go to the top of Mount Rokko or ride the Kobe Nunobiki Ropeway. End your evening exploring Nankinmachi (Kobe's compact Chinatown) or dining at one of Kobe Harborland's waterfront restaurants.

For many, Hiroshima brings up memories of war, as the city is where the world's first atomic bomb attack occurred in 1945. But today, Hiroshima is a city of peace, with the vast Peace Memorial Park as the center for monuments and memorials like the  the Children's Peace Monument and the UNESCO-certified Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Atomic Bomb Dome). It is also a city of great beauty. Travelers can take a scenic stroll through Shukkeien Garden, peruse the exhibits at the Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art or visit Sandankyo Gorge to hike or boat past its beautiful waterfalls, caves and coves.

Tourists flock to the island of Miyajima (formally named Itsukushima) for its prime attraction: Itsukushima Shrine and its postcard-worthy torii gate. To see the shrine at its most picturesque, try to visit during high tide, when the gate appears to float on the water. Since the island is just a 30-minute ferry ride from Hiroshima, it makes for a great day trip. However, visitors may want to stay the night at a charming ryokan (Japanese-style inn) to experience Miyajima at its most serene and walk by the illuminated shrine at night.

An outdoor-lover's delight, Matsumoto is just 22 miles east of Kamikochi, an awe-inspiring valley in the Hotaka mountain range. But though it serves as a gateway to the Japanese Alps, this city in central Japan should not be skipped over. As the birthplace of contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama, known for polka dots and pumpkins, Matsumoto pays her tribute at the Matsumoto City Museum of Art. Meanwhile, those who prefer more ancient masterpieces can visit Matsumoto Castle, one of the oldest and grandest castles in the country.  

Japan's first permanent capital is famous for housing the Great Buddha, a nearly 50-foot-tall bronze statue of Buddha. You'll find this jaw-dropping national treasure in Nara's Todaiji temple, which is the one of the largest wooden buildings in the world. While on the temple grounds, explore the deer-filled Nara Park and the ornate Kasuga Taisha shrine. Also save time for visiting Yakushiji Temple, one of Japan's oldest temples that dates back to A.D. 730.

This peninsula situated 62 miles southwest of Tokyo makes a great getaway from the busy city. It is popular among locals and tourists alike thanks to its relaxing hot springs and stunning beaches. These, along with various museums and ryokans, can be found in cities like Atami and Shimoda on the Izu Peninsula's eastern coast. During spring visits, travelers will also want to check out Kawazu's vibrant pink blooms at the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. Meanwhile, on the southern and western coasts, vacationers will find more rugged yet equally scenic coastlines, such as Cape Irozaki and Dogashima.

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13 Fun Things To Do In Japan In April 2024

Here are fun things to do in Japan in April. Check it out!

Are you visiting Japan this upcoming April?

Then you are obviously looking to do something fun and exciting.

However, do you really know what Japan has to offer during this month?

Well, I know that you have collided with me after searching for things to do in Japan in April.

Hence, of course, you are here to gather as much information as needed to be prepared to travel to our beautiful country.

And, don’t worry, as I have enough knowledge about Japan, from stunning spots to the delightful festivals, you are at the right hand now.

Today I will introduce you to some fun things to do in Japan that you should definitely add to your bucket list.

Fun Things to Do in Japan in April: Don’t Miss The Highlights!

While planning a trip to Japan in April, there are many places to visit and festivals to attend.

The arrival of spring brings warm temperatures throughout the country, and it is the best time to visit Japan if you want to avoid the cold winter.

Okay, it’s time to move forward to see what type of fun is waiting for you.

Attend Japanese Festivals & Events in April

Festivals are where April shines the most!

And that’s why my first segment is all about entertaining festivals and events./spa

1. Miyako Odori Dance Festival in Kyoto

Beautiful girls are dancing and entertaining you!!

Doesn’t it sound appealing?

Yes, the Miyako Odori Dance Festival is such a treat for you.

This fest has been traditionally held each year since 1873, from April 1 to April 24 (closed on Monday), in Kyoto’s Minami-za Kabuki theatre building.

Around 60 actors perform on this fiesta, including the famous geisha and maiko.

In case you are trying to figure out what to do in Japan during April, which is vastly fun and holds historical background, you should not miss attending this show.

The dance performance has a long history and has been maintained carefully for ages.

Each year they come up with a new theme of a dance show, and you are going to be pleased with their unique presentation of performances.

The show lasts for one hour which features eight scenes representing all of the seasons of Japan.

The engaging scenery, costumes, and live music are simply exceptional that even without understanding the Japanese language, you will be mesmerized by the execution.

Anyway, keep in mind that taking photos during the performances is prohibited.

But, there are colorful booklets available to purchase, which are worth buying.

Each day three shows are executed starting at 12.30, 14.30, and 16.30.

You can purchase the ticket on the day of the show, but I will suggest you reserve beforehand through their official site .

Also, check out the performance time as it may vary from time to time.

2. Inuyama Festival in Aichi Prefecture

Inuyama festival has been held on the first Saturday and Sunday of April each year since 1635 at Inuyama city.

The main fascination of this event is the parade consisting of 13 three-story floats designated as tangible folk culture assets that go out to the town showing off Karakuri dolls, together with flutes and drums.

Even though you can enjoy the scenery in the daytime, but to me, the evening holds the most exciting part.

Inuyama Yosakoi festival today. Amazingly cool pic.twitter.com/wYQfGwCiz7 — Mike T (@Janny_Nash) June 3, 2018

At night, each vehicle is lit up by 365 Japanese lanterns creating an instagrammable scene.

So, make sure your camera is always prepared to capture some stunning pictures and videos.

3. Takayama Festival in Gifu Prefecture

Here I came up with another float festival.

And, this fiesta is organized at the renowned historic town in Japan Alps, Takayama city, twice a year in autumn and spring .

You can attend this spring festival on April 14 and 15.

It is considered one of Japan’s most charming festivals, along with Saitama’s Chichibu Yomatsuri and Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri.

From morning to late afternoon, the floats (yatai) are exhibited in the streets of Takayama.

Several of these floats are decorated with karakuri ningyo (sophisticated mechanical dolls) that can move and dance.

Watching such cool stuff is going to add a new chapter to your Japan trip.

If you plan this tour with your family and kids, I will recommend you attend this fest, as your child will surely enjoy the puppets show.

It’s quite possible that your little kiddo will start dancing along with the dolls!!

4. Enjoy Hanami Party Throughout The Month

In Japanese, Hanami means cherry blossom viewing, and it’s been a part of the culture among Japanese people for many generations.

If you are coming to Japan in April, watching the fully bloomed cherry blossoms is a must-see activity.

These beautiful flowers cover the whole country with a soft pink blanket that attracts thousands of tourists from far away to its parks, gardens, and lakes.

The view will give you a feeling of entering a colorful wonderland.

People of all ages enjoy Hanami parties at parks by drinking with family and friends under the cherry trees.

Some of the most well-known cherry blossom viewing spots like Yoyogi Park and Ueno Park tend to get busy during the blooming period, so expect crowds in these places.

Generally, people leave a blue plastic sheet to reserve their place in the early morning and begin the Hanami party from the day until the night.

So, don’t forget to pack your box of food and drinks to join the Japanese in this upcoming Hanami party.

Other stunning spots in Tokyo for Sakura viewing are Shinjuku Gyoen, Meguro River, Chidorigafuchi, Sumida Park, Inokashira Park, Rikugien Garden, Tokyo Midtown, and so on.

Among them, Chidorigafuchi is mostly famous among couples; hence if your trip partner is your spouse, visiting this place can bring a romantic date opportunity for you.

And of course, as Tokyo is one of the best cities to visit in Japan in April, there is always something happening to catch your eyes.

Now, if you are a night bird, then you should go for Yozakura (cherry blossoms at night) events in Japan, and many places hold illumination of cherry trees during the season.

To name a few spots with amazing light-up are Hirosaki Park (in Aomori Prefecture), Takada Castle (in Niigata Prefecture), Sagami Lake (in Kanto area), and Maruyama Park (in Kyoto).

5. Watch Some Other Beautiful Spring Flower Festivals

Well, if you think that only cherry blossoms brighten up Japan’s gardens, then you are wrong.

Many other gorgeous flower events are arranged around the whole country in April.

The most famous ones are Nemophila Harmony at Hitachi Seaside Park, Wisteria Festival at Ashikaga Park, and Fuji Shibazakura Festival at the base of Mount Fuji.

Every year I can’t resist going to Hitachi Seaside Park, and you can guess the reason by looking at the photo below.

Isn’t it lovely?

I assume when you post a photo with this background on social media, all of your friends will ask where the location is.

And getting such feedback will definitely make your trip a hit.

The Kanamara Festival 

One of the most crowded spring events in Japan is the Kawasaki Kanamara Festival, which takes place on the first Sunday in April.

In this festival you’ll see three giant phallic portable shrines being carried away in a huge parade. You’ll also find phallic shaped merchandise to pick as souvenirs.   

This festival began in the 1600s when people gathered to pray to protect them against STIs and STDs. Today, the festival raises money for protection against HIV. 

Today, instead of focusing on the sex industry, the festival today focuses more on successful marriages and pregnancies 

6. Join The Disney’s Easter Event

As most travelers choose Japan’s capital city for their tour destination, I have been asked quite a lot, where to go in Tokyo in April?

Well, it is one of the best places to visit throughout the year, and you will find something happening all the time.

But, there is a special event that only takes place during the month of April to June, which is Disney’s Easter.

Celebrated in Tokyo Disney Resort, the whole park is decorated with an Easter theme at the time of the occasion.

Joining the event will give you the opportunity of enjoying special parades and egg hunting games.

Also, shops sell limited merchandise, and you can taste special menus at cafes & restaurants.

You May Read:

Top 18 Entertaining Things to Do in Japan in May

7. The Beppu Hot Spring Festival

We celebrate a festival called “Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival” every April in Beppu, home to some of the finest onsens in the world.

It is arranged to show gratitude to the onsen in Beppu.

In early April, many events take place for a week, including the Ogiyama Fire Festival and the Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival.

Ogiyama is Japan’s largest fire festival in which they burn the front side of Mount Ohira.

First, they light up fire on the edges, and then the wind does the rest work, spreading it throughout the area.

If you are afraid, then be noted that the fire is controlled by the management, and you shouldn’t be worried about any accident.

Anyway, it takes nearly 2.5 hours to burn the entire side of the mountain.

On the other hand, during the Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival, people carry onsen hot water, splash them everywhere, and dance to the music.

Moreover, many of the city’s onsen facilities are free at this time. Thus, visitors from all over the country come to soak their bodies in the hot onsen and relax.

And, be assured not to miss the local delicacies served in the stalls.

8. The Tejikara Fire Festival

Said to have more than 300 years of history, the Tejikara Fire Festival is organized on the second Saturday of every April.

On this occasion, muscular men carry around firecracker-filled portable shrines.

The fire sparks fly up from the shrine, and a lot of men dance wildly around it, ringing bells.

So, don’t you think watching such a scene will add a dramatic experience to your trip?

Yes, obviously, especially if you are a woman, it will be one of the crazy things to do, looking at masculine men dancing and entertaining!!

Anyway, it is believed that if you walk underneath the flames, you won’t get sick for a year.

9. Celebrate The Rich Culture of Kamakura

In Kamakura, the ancient city in Kanagawa Prefecture, every year on the second and third Sunday of April, a festival is held in Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.

On the first day, the Shizuka no Mai dance performance takes place, which is based on the tragic love story of Lady Shizuka , a popular figure of Japanese history.

The dance represents the heroine’s story from the “Tale of Heike”, a classic of old Japanese literature.

Lady Shizuka was in deep love with the warlord Minamoto no Yoshitsune. She was caught by an enemy warlord Yoritomo and either died by suicide or killed, depending on the verdict.

Therefore, if you visit Kamakura, don’t forget to attend this ceremony.

On the festival’s last day, the yabusame tournament of horseback archery competition happens.

Showing off exceptional samurai skills, each competitor must shoot an arrow at the target when the horse is running at full speed.

10. The Golden Week of Japan

From April 29th to May 5th is the golden week in Japan, which has five national holidays and two weekends.

At this time, many Japanese businesses and all schools remain closed.

And that’s why you will find more Japanese people in various tourist spots.

As the golden week is the busiest travel season in Japan, hotel rooms get pricey, and trains and places are packed with locals and tourists.

So, if you are not a fan of the crowd, you should avoid this period of the year.

But, it is when you will see more Japanese people and their way of partying and spending leisure time.

Apart from that, you will be able to attend the Spring Grand Festival, which is arranged at Meiji Shrine in Tokyo.

The week-long celebration features a splendid lineup of many ceremonies and traditional performances led by the masters in the field.

Hence, if you decide to come during the golden week, don’t forget to pay a visit to this shrine.

Best Places to Visit in Japan in April

Besides all the above festivals, there are many excellent sights available to see in Japan in April that you shouldn’t miss out on.

Here take a peek at all these phenomenal locations.

11. Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

Limitedly open from mid-April to November, Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is a mountain sightseeing route.

If you hope to see the great snow wall “Yuki no Otani”, April is the most suitable time for visiting there, as the snow starts to melt from the end of May.

The routes include numerous spectacular viewpoints, and you can enjoy seven different types of transport including, bus, funicular, trolleybus, and aerial tramway.

The route is closed for any type of private vehicle.

You can also hike towards the peak of Mount Tateyama.

Personally, I like Murodo, the highest point of Tateyama Alpine Route, where you will be stunned by the magnificent view of the mountain range with the pond.

You can also ride the 1.7 Km long ropeway between the Kurobedaira and Daikando station, which will give you an adventurous thrill.

For ticket prices and other information, I suggest you visit their official site .

12. Hit Okinawa’s Beaches When The Crowd is Less!!

An ocean wind can put your mind at peace!!

And, you don’t need to wait till summer to enjoy a beach trip.

If you want to enjoy swimming in a beautiful ocean, Okinawa is ready to treat you in April.

Most of the beaches are officially open around March and April.

Many people wonder whether April is a good time to visit Okinawa or not.

If you have the same concern, then let me inform you that the temperature during this month is moderate. That’s why, it is one of the best times to visit there.

As Okinawa has some of the best resorts in Japan with a cozy feel and high-end facilities, you don’t even need to worry about your stay at all.

Apart from beaches, April allows you to cherish some magical moments and landscapes that will give you a fantastic fictional world vibe.

And, some of the places that are worth visiting include Meguro River (in Tokyo), Kamogawa River (in Kyoto), Akagi Senbonzakura (in Gunma), Matsumoto Castle (in Nagano), Nagoya Castle (in Nagoya), Osaka Castle (in Osaka), Nara Park (in Nara), and so on.

Try Seasonal Japanese Food in April

As you have already seen that April is a month of lots of festivals, various seasonal dishes & snacks are available throughout the country.

Many restaurants and cafes in Japan offer cherry blossom-flavored drinks and sweets.

Starbucks Japan sells limited-time cherry blossom Frappuccino and hot beverages, which are extremely popular.

Apart from this, when you are in Japan in April, you can’t miss the opportunity to taste premium Japanese strawberries.

From January to May, numerous hotels host strawberry dessert buffets with an exceptional menu.

Takenoko (bamboo shoots) is another famous dish that is served in various ways, on its own or with side dishes and toppings.

Okay, I have completed discussing the things you can do as well as foods that you can try in April.

And now, I am going to share some important facts like the climate, expected crowd, and cost of Japan in April.

Weather in Japan During April 2023

When it comes to the temperature, expect a difference from region to region.

Here you can see the variance in the below chart.

What to Wear in Japan in April?

If you are not going to visit Hokkaido or other colder regions of Japan, be prepared for an average spring temperature and weather.

Do not forget to bring some comfortable shoes as you will walk a lot.

I recommend you pack some heavier clothes just in case you need them, but otherwise, you will be fine with skirts, shirts, shorts, and other light clothing.

On the other hand, if you travel to Hokkaido, prepare yourself for a mild winter.

Especially in the evening, the temperature of this region gets pretty cold, so pack clothing like long pants, sweaters, winter socks, and boots.

And for the daytime, you will be okay with lighter clothes.

Costs & Crowds In Japan in April 2023

April is considered one of the busiest months in Japan. Many travelers choose this month to avoid the cold winter, and there are several holidays throughout the month.

Schools in Japan have their spring holidays from late March to earlier April, and later in the month is the beginning of Golden Week, when several public holidays fall.

Also, many Japanese people take their annual leave at this time, and that’s why most of Japan’s tourist attractions get very busy.

Availability of trains and domestic flights can be limited due to the rush.

So, if you are traveling in this time period, be sure to book everything as soon in advance as possible.

As well, expect to pay relatively high prices for hotel rooms and other expenses.

Alright, we are now at the edge of our writing.

Hence, I am going to wrap it up here.

By far, you have gathered all the necessary information about the things to do in Japan in April.

However, remember that no matter where you visit in April, there is always something that will please your interest.

And wherever you will be, you are going to have a blast in our country.

Lastly, happy traveling.

Japan In April: FAQs

What season is april in japan.

In Japan, April falls in the season of spring. It is also one of the best seasons to visit Japan because of the fresh weather, which is not too cold or warm.

Can you ski in Japan in April?

Generally, the ski season in Japan is from mid-January to early April. However, the season may run longer or shorter depending on the region and weather conditions.

As many ski resorts are open till early May, you can surely ski in Japan in April.

Such as, Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort stays open till May 6th, and you can easily go there to enjoy this popular snow activity.

Is April a good time to visit Japan?

April is a good time to visit Japan. During April, Japan will be the most vibrant as it’ll be spring in Japan. You can attend lots of Spring festivals in Japan during this time. You can also view the beautiful cherry blossoms in April.

You will also get to try out a lot of seasonal foods in Japan during the month of April. The weather is also pretty pleasant and warm across Japan in April. 

Is it cold in Japan in April?

It’s not too cold in April in Japan. Infact, it’s pleasantly warm in Japan in April. The temperatures can rise up to an average of 19°C (66°F) and dip to 10°C (50°F) during early mornings and nights. 

What clothes to wear in Tokyo in April?

In the month of April, Tokyo is not too cold and is pleasantly warm. The temperatures may dip a bit in the nights. So as long as you carry cardigans and light coats that you can easily wear or remove depending on the temperature you should be good. A couple of jeans and some tops and shirts should be good for Tokyo in April. 

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Best Places to Visit in Japan During Spring

By: Author Corinne Vail

Posted on Published: 19 February 21  - Last updated: 17 January 24

Home » DIY Travel » Japan » Best Places to Visit in Japan During Spring

Spring is the most beautiful time of year in Japan, but the best visits will need some planning. Of course, you will want to know the very best places to go in spring in Japan.

To help you plan your trip to Japan in spring, we have the following answers: What is the Weather in Spring? What to Pack Are Japanese Tourist Sites Crowded? Spring Festivals in Japan What are the Best Places to Go? Spring Photo Opportunities

When is Spring?

Just like in many places, the spring calendar begins with March equinox and ends with Summer Solstice. That’s the calendar, but you can be sure that in a country with four season, most of your spring weather will be from March to the end of May.

Spring in Japan brings out the sun and the mild, but warmer, temperatures, perfect for being outside and doing activities like biking and hiking. You rarely need to break a sweat, yet you can enjoy all the greenery from the mountains to the sea. Luckily, it’s not quite rainy season, but of course the showers come through a little here and there, just enough to wash off the pollen.

What is the Weather in Spring?

Spring in Japan is the most comfortable time of year, and has the best weather overall. The temperatures start climbing pretty early in the year, but they don’t get too hot until summer hits. There is not too much rain, but enough to have gorgeous blooms throughout the country. I would say it’s one of the prettiest times to visit Japan.

As might be expected, March can be quite chilly. It doesn’t ever really get too cold, but if there’s a wind and some rain, it sure feels cold. Even in the mountains, where there is still snow, the temperatures are warming up and during the day, even warm.

April and May are very similar in temperature, across the board. They are resplendent with fantastic warm days and cool nights, perfect for not only doing outdoor things but lots of sightseeing.

The average rainfall around the country is about eight days, which is not too bad. As you can see in the graph, though, Sapporo gets much more than that. The rainy season doesn’t really start until June, so spring is an ideal time to enjoy some warmer temperatures without getting too wet.

Pro Tip: With the arrival of spring comes some allergies. The two most common during this time are from the cedar and cypress trees. If you think you might be allergic to them, bring your medication. Don’t worry, though, there is a pharmacy open every day in Japan. Just ask your hotelier where to go.

What to Pack for Spring in Japan?

The most important things to pack in spring are a compact umbrella, light jacket or fleece, and some good socks and shoes. The spring weather will get you outside, but you still want to be prepared for a rain shower. Carrying around a compact umbrella will do just that.

Also, you will want to be able to layer your clothes from t-shirt (short or long-sleeved) to a light jacket or fleece, especially in the evenings. Socks and shoes are important for keeping your feet comfortable as you walk mile after mile of sidewalks enjoying the spring weather.

Are Japan Tourist Sites Crowded in Spring?

Naturally, the mild weather and blossoming flowers attract many visitors to most tourist spots in Japan. Local tourists as well as foreigners want to enjoy the vibrancy of spring whether they are going to wander some castle grounds, a city park, get out into the countryside, or whatever. Many, many will do it in spring. Most tourist sites will be crowded.

Here is a list of national spring holidays which would also be busier than usual.

Vernal Equinox Day – 20 March Showa Day – 29 April Golden Week – Last few days of April until first Saturday in May Constitutional Memorial Day – 3 May Greenery Day – 4 May Children’s Day – 5 May

The red parts of the graph show when something significant is happening in that city, like a festival or cherry bloom. To use the graph effectively, think about which cities you’d like to visit and why. However, if you are hoping to see the blooms, or participate in the large cultural festivals, just know those are the times to make reservations as far in advance as possible.

As you can see from the graph, the absolute best time to visit Japan in spring to avoid large crowds would be in May, after Golden week has come to an end.

A Warning: Golden Week

One of the main reasons that spring is the most popular season and therefore has the most crowds is because of Golden Week. At the end of April through to the end of the first week in May, there are a bunch of federal holidays. During this time, some businesses will close down or downsize for the period, and all their employees will go on holiday.

Golden Week is not the time to wing it in Japan. I don’t travel during that time, because everything is busy and over-crowded and it’s near impossible to make restaurant or train reservations. However, if that is the time that you will be there, make sure to make as many reservations as you can, as soon as possible. Locals will be making reservations one year out, so it’s never too early.

Spring Festivals in Japan

As in many places of the world, spring is a very popular time of year for festivals. The season has always been revered as a re-birth, a new beginning, so there are many rituals that have developed. Add that to the love of following the flowers, and you have the perfect recipe for a fun festival.

Here are some of the more popular festivals held during spring in Japan:

• Daruma Fair – Get your good luck for the year at this fun fest.
• Omizutori – A stunning fire festival, if you are in Nara, don’t miss it.
• Odawara Ume Matsuri – The beginning of the flower season, Odawara pops with pink plum blossoms in early spring.
• Kamakura Spring Festival – A traditional festival that highlights archers on horseback showing off their skills.

• Takayama Spring Festival – One of the biggest festivals of the year, you will see lots of mikoshi (a palanquin carried by many people).
• Yayoi in Nikko – Lots of pink flowers decorating the parade floats will put you in a very festive mood.
• Nakizumo – To predict a baby’s character, the Nakizumo (literally – baby cry) festival is a surprise and a lot of fun.
• Hirosaki Cherry Festival – One of the prettiest places to really see great cherry blossoms, Hirosaki throws quite the festival. Great food.
• Hitsuyama Shibazakura- The moss flox flowers are the star of this show, and you will love the photo ops.
• Hamamatsu Kite Festival- A weekend full of fun, the kite festival specializes in huge Japanese kites.
• Kanda Matsuri – One of the biggest festivals all year at Asakusa temple.
• Aoi Matsuri in Kyoto – one of the most important of the year, the Aoi or Hollyhock festival is a great time to see a parade to the shrine.

What are the Best Places to Go in Spring?

Spring in Japan is the ultimate time to get outdoors and enjoy some hiking, biking, flower viewing, as well as the cultural sightseeing this traditional country has to offer.

Here are some of the places that we suggest you go to in spring:

• Nogogiriyama
• Shimanami Kaido
• Tatayama Kurobe
• Kinosaki Onsen

Nokogiriyama

There are plenty of great hikes to do in Japan, and some like Nokogiriyama on the Boso Peninsula , are an easy day trip from Tokyo . If you get cabin fever like I do, then you’ll be itching to get out into nature by the end of February.

Nogogiriyama is famous for its Big Buddha, the Hyakushaku Kannon, and the 1500 or so small Buddhas that greet you all the way up to the top of the mountain.

The path itself, although very well marked and easy to follow, is not for the light-hearted. There are hundreds of stairs, roots, and inclines to navigate along your way. We always take our time, and we spent about three hours on the hike, which I’m sure can be done much faster if you wanted.

There’s not much in the way of restaurants on the mountain, so we recommend picking up a picnic lunch from a combini (convenience store such as 7-11) to be eaten in the shade of the cherry blossoms near the Big Buddha. It’s well worth a trip to get out and enjoy some hiking in early spring on Nogogiriyama.

Shimanami Kaido Bike Ride (near Osaka)

A great activity to do in the Spring time is the Shimanami Kaido Bike Ride between Imabari and Onomichi in the Seto Inland Sea – this area is easily accessible between Hiroshima and Osaka. After collecting our bicycles from the Sunrise Itoyama Guesthouse in Imabari and having them adjusted to suit our various sizes, we set out to complete the first 20 km of the Shiminai Kaido Cycling Route.

One of the great things about the route is that you do not need a map, it is very well sign-posted and the road grades have been built with cycling in mind so most of the hills and expressway on ramps are relatively easy to ascend. We really enjoyed travelling over the 4 km Kurushima Bridge, and seeing the fog progressively lift as the day went on.

Cycling across Oshima Island was lovely – at our slow bicycle speed it had a great combination of beautiful views and the small village feel throughout, although we could also see signs of houses having been abandoned, an issue which is prevalent across rural Japan townships. The hill in the middle of the island was a steady slog where we definitely had to rest to recover our heart-rates to normal levels, and from there we moved back onto the flatter lands before crossing the bridge to Hakata Island, our final destination.

After a great morning cycling we were happy to return our bikes and grab some well earned lunch while waiting for the bus to take us to our next destination. We definitely felt energised by the experience of travelling more slowly through such a beautiful location within Japan. The full Shimanami Kaido Cycling Route is a 80 km journey, where you should plan to take 2-3 days if you want to do the whole route from start to finish including local sightseeing. In our case we only had time to do a section of the route, so we did the first (and most scenic!) 20 km section from Imabari to Hakata as a family.

The great thing is that you can get a one way bicycle hire (make sure you get a bicycle which has 21 gears – you need them for the hills!), and there are also buses which travel regularly along the route so it is very easy to travel one way to one of the bicycle drop off points and then catch the bus the rest of the way.

There is also a same day luggage forwarding service in either direction, however your luggage can only be delivered to another hotel at either end so ensure you pre-book accommodation at each end to be able to use this service. Otherwise you can use the normal next day luggage delivery services if required.

by Anne at Japan Travel Planning

Sake Tasting in Suwa (near Matsumoto)

Sake tasting in Suwa. Suwa is a city on Japan’s Honshu Island. It sits on the shore of Lake Suwa and is in the Nagano prefecture of Japan. This ancient city nestles beautifully on the edge of Lake Suwa and is both a fascinating and tranquil place to visit. If you plan to visit Japan in spring, then you may be in for the occasional rain showers.

Looking for the best thing to do in Suwa on a rainy day? What better than to indulge in a Sake tasting tour. When in Suwa, we recommend taking a visit to the venerable Masumi Brewery. Here you will spend a couple of hours enjoying a very personal and highly informative introduction to Japanese sake.

I can guarantee it will leave you fascinated about the history of this wine and the different varieties available. After entering into the little wooden building and being given your very own sake glass (seems a bit small I agree, but take my word for it, sake is powerful stuff!), you will slowly make your way around the heavily scented tasting rooms led by a well-informed guide.

You will be offered a variety of Sake wines to taste, starting from the cheapest to the very expensive. Yes, of course, you will prefer the latter! You are under no obligation to buy the wine, you are simply there to enjoy the wine and the calmness that only a Japanese host can provide.

You will leave the building feeling warm and slightly fuzzy inside you will be glad that you now know all there is you know about Japans favourite tipple. The rain has now stopped – time to wander leisurely around the beautiful lake!

by Liz at It’s a Drama

Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route (near Toyama)

The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, best known for its “Great Snow Wall”, is a major spring-time attraction in the Japanese Alps, often dubbed as the “Roof of Japan”. The event takes every year when the snows are cleared from the mountains, and it will continue between April and June, as any earlier and the route will be hidden beneath thick snow, and any later and it will be melted. It also coincides with Golden Week in Japan, so it can be rather busy at peak times.

The Alpine Route is more or less a string of transport that navigates the Japanese Alps starting at Toyama, where a funicular train brings you up the mountains to reach a roadway in the higher peaks of Mount Tateyama. From arrival there is then a bus route through the Alpine Forests and snowy mountain backdrops before reaching the famous Snow Wall which is a 20 meter Gorge of Snow cut into the mountain roads.

It is possible to then turn back from here, or stay for some skiing and snow sports, however I recommend continuing to follow the network of cable cars ropeways and trolley busses that climb up, over and cut through the mountains to the final attraction of the route at the Kurobe Dam.

by Allen at Live Less Ordinary

The southernmost islands in Japan get warmer earlier than Honshu, and in fact in Okinawa the weather is getting really warm and ready for swimming by the end of March. Some beaches will open at the end of March, but most will open around the first week in April.

The best beaches to head to would be Takahiki and Zumami, because that’s where you have the best chance of seeing sea turtles (they’re both an easy ferry ride away from the main island, in a chain called the Keramas Islands). Chura Sun Beach down in Naha is good in the spring also, because it’s wide and expansive so it doesn’t matter that it’s crowded because you can find good sunbathing room there.

April is the best time to visit Okinawa, because it’s warm but not a sauna. The humidity hasn’t really kicked in yet. The rainy season starts in May, and the jelly fish start turning up in July.

Swimming isn’t the only thing to do in Okinawa, you can go boating, fishing, visit the castle ruins, hiking, and just really enjoy being outside.

By Kari Frazier

Where to Go Flower Viewing in Spring

Hanami, or Flower viewing, is a major Japanese love. They look forward to it every year, and you’ll be hard-pressed not to see plenty of people out taking photos from the very first bloom until the very last falls to the ground.

Make sure to read our article on Hanami for much more information.

Odawara Ume Matsuri

Once winter is dried up, people start getting excited about flower season, and one of the very first flower festivals is the plum blossom in Odawara. Not even an hour from Tokyo by train, Odawara is super simple to reach, and it is the place to go in early spring.

The Odawara Plum Blossom Festival starts sometime towards the end of February or the beginning of March, depending on that year’s weather. The delicate plum blossoms are often a much deeper pink than that of the cherry, and it’s such a stark contrast to the gray and barren winter.

The orchards of Japanese plum blossoms are varied, all beautiful. My favorite it the weeping plum with its deep pink blooms. After meandering the trees, there is a lane where the main part of the festival is.

There you can try all kinds of plum products, view artwork, and have some great street food, then buy a few souvenirs. It’s a great day out, and one you won’t want to miss.

The festival lasts a few weeks, so there’s plenty of time to get there. Of course it is much more crowded on the weekend, and if you go then go super early in order to get parking if you are driving. Probably the best way to go is by train and then bus or taxi. It’s much easier than driving.

Nara’s Cherry Blossoms

Imagine a soft breeze on the first warm day of spring. Everything is quiet as you gaze upon an ancient temple and pink cherry blossoms flutter through the air like tiny butterflies. This is Nara at its best.

Nara is a popular destination and you won’t have it to yourself, but there are moments when the crowds clear at Todai-Ji that allow you to experience the serenity that must have been felt when this temple was first constructed. The giant Buddha will fill you with awe and contribute to overall peaceful setting at Todai-Ji.

If you’re looking for a bit of excitement to spice up the tranquillity of the place, try your luck squeezing through the Buddha’s Nostril. You can’t miss this pillar that will have people lining up to see if they can squeeze their bodies through small hole.

Supposedly, anyone who can get through is guaranteed enlightenment…I don’t know about that (I made it through and don’t feel any wiser for it), but it’s still fun. When you’re ready for more beautiful cherry blossoms, take your lunch over to Nara Park.

Here, you can find a quiet space under a cherry tree while you watch the famous deer frolic about. These deer were once considered sacred beings (now they have been demoted to national treasures, but that’s still pretty sacred if you ask me). Seeing them sleep, eat, run, and play amidst cherry blossoms only adds to the magic.

Japan is full of excitement, weirdness, and awesome things to do. Nara in the springtime is a chance to experience the softer side of Japan.

by Jennifer at The Rainbow Route

A fantastic way to enjoy spring in Japan is to go cherry blossom viewing in Kyoto. This historic city not only has plenty of blossom viewing locations, but it welcomes in the season with great fanfare. Throughout Kyoto, visitors can see hanami parties (blossom viewing parties) in action. People lay down tarps or blankets and gather under cherry trees for picnics.

A popular place for hanami parties in Kyoto is Maruyama Park. It’s a festival like atmosphere with locals coming dressed in their finest traditional clothing to have photos taken under the large weeping cherry tree and enjoy snacks from the food stalls.

A tasty way to enjoy spring in Japan is by indulging in the cherry blossom flavoured treats, like sakura soft ice cream, that are popular this time of year. These pink delicacies are a delicious way to reenergize after visiting Kyoto’s many cherry blossom locations.

Some great sakura walks in Kyoto are along the Philosopher’s Path, Shimbashi Street, and the Hozu River in Arashiyama. Even at night, some cherry trees around the city are festively illuminated by floodlights so they can be admired after dark. Night or day, Kyoto is a wonderful place to enjoy the Japanese tradition of cherry blossom viewing.

by Rhonda at Travel? Yes Please!

Kinosaki Onsen (near Kyoto)

Kinosaki Onsen is a hot spring resort town just 2.5 hours by train from Kyoto or Osaka, and it’s a great spring destination. Onsen towns are a unique Japanese experience and are where locals come to relax. You stay in a ryokan (traditional inn), sleep on a futon in a tatami mat room, and enjoy delicious multi-course meals served in your room.

After putting on the provided yukata (cotton kimono) and geta (wooden sandals), you head out into the streets to hop from one onsen (hot spring bath) to another and soak in the steaming waters. Kinosaki Onsen has seven public onsen which are all included in the free pass you get with your accommodation.

Your hotel might also have a private onsen available for mixed gender use (ideal if travelling with family or a partner of the opposite sex). You’ll need to be aware of onsen etiquette (you must be completely naked and shower thoroughly before getting in the bath), but once you get over any initial apprehension, it’s a very relaxing experience. Some of the onsen have multiple baths (and even saunas) to enjoy and many have garden views.

Spring (usually early April) is a lovely time to visit Kinosaki as the cherry blossoms are in bloom along the pretty canals and it’s still cool enough to appreciate the hot spring baths. It’s also much less busy than Kyoto, so you can enjoy the blossoms without fighting crowds.

by Erin at Never Ending Voyage

When people think about Japanese spring and seeing the cherry blossoms in Japan they mostly focus on cities like Kyoto. However, if you are a bit late for the cherry blossom season, don’t worry, just go up to Hokkaido, in the north, and you can still see it up to a month later than in Kyoto (May)!

A perfect place to see the cherry blossoms is Maruyama Park in Sapporo. In fact, this park was modeled after an equally named park in Kyoto. Maruyama Park is huge, almost 70 hectares and lies at the foot of Mt. Maruyama. It’s popular for its rich virgin forest where there are lots of wild animals, including some incredibly cute squirrels.

Don’t worry, they won’t steal your lunch – in fact, one of the best ways to explore Maruyama Park during cherry blossom season is to bring along a picnic! You will see many locals do the same. In order to get to the park, just take the Tozai metro line to Maruyama-Koen – it is less than five minutes walking from there to the entrance of the park! Admission to the park is free – in fact, there are no gates or anything like that!

I hope, you will enjoy this secret stop as much as I did! Not only is Maruyama loved by locals for its stunning cherry blossom trees, it is also home to one of the most important Shinto shrines in Japan, the Hokkaido-Jingu Shrine. When you visit, you won’t want to miss it!

by Sarah at Fernweh Sarah

My favorite place in Japan to see cherry blossoms in spring is Shukugawa near Osaka. Shukugawa River runs through Shukugawa Park where over 1,700 cherry trees line both sides of the river, draping prettily over the edges into the water. They also run parallel to the riverside trees, forming a spectacular tunnel of flowers.

When some petals have fallen, creating a rosy carpet, you are surrounded below, beside and above by pink cherry blossoms. It’s stunning. This park is not on the regular tourist trail, but it is most definitely a popular spot with locals, and in fact made it on the list of the top 100 spots in Japan to see cherry blossoms. People spread blue tarpaulins under the trees early in the morning to stake a claim for their friends, family or coworkers.

The thing to do when cherry trees bloom is to have a hanami – a picnic under the trees – so rows of stalls set up nearby selling obento lunch boxes, sake, beer, noodles, toys and more. It’s incredibly festive way to enjoy the spring blooms. Shukugawa Park is on the Kobe JR line about 10 minutes from Umeda station in Osaka. So, hop on the train, gran a sake or beer, spread out your tarpaulin or blanket and enjoy the spring cherry blossoms alongside dozens of local Japanese people.

by James at Travel Collecting

Wisteria Festival at the Kameido Tenjin Shrine (Tokyo)

If you are visiting Tokyo during the spring, make sure you include Kameido Tenjin Shrine in your Japan itinerary. From mid-April to early May it hosts a famous wisteria festival, as its hundreds of wisteria trees bloom and the delicate lilac flowers descend from trellised tunnels.

Japan has more than 20 native species of wisteria and this is one of the city’s best spots for seeing them bloom in spectacular style. The dates of the festival coincide with the Golden Week national holidays, so I would recommend going early to avoid the crowds who are drawn here. Entrance is free and the gardens are open 24 hours a day, and sometimes beautifully lit up at night.

The shrine is located 15 minutes’ walk from Kameido Station, off Kameido Tenjin-dori Avenue, and its side streets are lined with stalls offering freshly prepared food. The recently restored shrine was founded in 1646 and its attractive gardens, which have inspired artists, are also filled with plum trees, turtle ponds and an iconic red arched bridge.

Sitting in front of the ornate temple is a bronze statue of a cow, symbolic in the Tenjin faith, which you can touch and stroke for good luck. From the shrine you have a fantastic view of the Tokyo Skytree tower, which you can visit afterwards as it is only a short walk away.

by Claire at Backpacking Bella

Spring Photo Opportunities

There are many significant things happening during spring that will make you snap away with your camera. Some things that you’ll want to capture include:

• Of course the multitude of flowers that bloom continually throughout the season. It’s not just the flowers you can snap, but the people, and even dogs get into the act.
• Girl’s Day is March 3rd, and if you go to a shrine, you will probably see many little girls in traditional kimono.
• Schoolchildren with their new uniforms and backpacks as they begin a new school year in April.
• Spring planting of the rice. There are many places in the country that celebrate it.
• May 5th is Boy’s Day and kites are flown all over the country. It’s also another time to visit a shrine and see them receive their blessings.

When planning your trip to Japan in spring, be sure to make arrangements well ahead of time since it’s the most popular time of year. Even though it is tourist high season, you can still find plenty of things to do and sights to see. You will love the spring festivals and the flower viewing, as well as all the other special things that a Japanese spring has to offer.

Author Bio: Corinne Vail is a travel photographer, food lover, and a perpetual traveler who has been travel writing for over 14 years. For many years she lived overseas in Germany, Japan, Turkey, South Korea, and the Netherlands teaching the children of the US. military. She’s visited over 90 countries, and she’s not stopping anytime soon.

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Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Mar 20, 2024

Japan is an enigma. It's the perfect juxtaposition of centuries-old traditions overlapped with lightning speed, cutting-edge technology. Many first-time visitors to Japan are often surprised to learn that, as one of the world's most advanced industrialized nations, this relatively small Asian country also boasts a rich and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years.

Indeed, long before many of Europe's most spectacular cathedrals were built, Japan's Shinto and Buddhist temples were already well-established and drawing pilgrims and patrons to their elaborate designs and décor. At the same time, the country was already perfecting the skills and trades that would set it on the path to riches, from fine porcelains and ceramics to textiles such as silk.

Much of this rich tradition has, despite wars and natural devastation, been preserved (or rebuilt), and a visit to Japan is a memorable adventure. Boasting an endless list of top attractions, fun things to do, and points of interest to explore, a vacation in Japan is certainly a great investment of time and money.

Discover the best places to visit in the country with our list of the top tourist attractions in Japan.

1. Mount Fuji

2. imperial tokyo, 3. hiroshima peace memorial park, 4. historic kyoto, 5. the island shrine of itsukushima, miyajima, 6. temple city: historic nara, 7. osaka castle, 8. chūbu-sangaku national park and the japanese alps, 9. the atsuta shrine, nagoya, 10. fukuoka castle ruins and the city's ancient festivals, 11. sapporo, hokkaido, 12. fushimi inari-taisha shrine, kyoto, 13. koyasan okunoin, 14. kiyomizu-dera, kyoto, 15. shinjuku gyoen national garden, tokyo, 16. hakone open-air museum, hakone, 17. naritasan shinsho-ji, narita, 18. okinawa churaumi aquarium, 19. matsumoto castle, nagano, 20. arashiyama monkey park, kyoto, 21. kenrokuen garden, kanazawa, tips for making the most of your visit to japan, best time to visit japan.

Without a doubt Japan's most recognizable landmark, majestic Mount Fuji (Fuji-san) is also the country's highest mountain peak. Towering 3,776 meters over an otherwise largely flat landscape to the south and east, this majestic and fabled mountain is tall enough to be seen from Tokyo, more than 100 kilometers away.

Mount Fuji has for centuries been celebrated in art and literature and is now considered so important an icon that UNESCO recognized its world cultural significance in 2013. Part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park , Mount Fuji is climbed by more than a million people each summer as an act of pilgrimage, which culminates in watching the sunrise from its summit.

While some still choose to begin their climb from the base, the majority of climbers now start from above the halfway mark, at the 5th Station, resulting in a more manageable six-or-so-hour ascent. Those who do attempt the complete climb are advised to depart in the afternoon, breaking up the climb with an overnight stop at one of the "Mountain Huts" designed for this very purpose. An early start the next day gets you to the top for the sunrise.

Of course, for many, simply viewing the mountain from the distance, or from the comfort of a speeding train, is enough to say "been there, done that."

• Read More: Exploring Mount Fuji: A Visitor's Guide

Tokyo's most famous landmark, the Imperial Palace with its beautiful 17th-century parks surrounded by walls and moats, is a must-see when visiting the nation's capital. Don't be put off by the fact that the majority of the palace is closed to the public (it's still in use by the Imperial family), as there is still enough to see simply by strolling the grounds.

In addition to the many fine views of the palace from numerous points in the surrounding parkland, visitors are permitted into the East Higashi-Gyoen Garden and other areas that are opened to the public as part of an organized tour. One of the most romantic views is of the famous Nijubashi Bridge , or "double bridge," so named for its watery reflection.

Another one of the must-sees for tourists visiting Tokyo is the famous Ginza shopping district. This always bustling area is home to the Kabuki-za Theatre with its Kabuki performances, as well as the Shimbashi Enbujo Theatre with its traditional Azuma-odori dances and Bunraku performances.

While little needs to be said here of the horrors of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in August 1945, much can be said of the incredible efforts this vibrant city has made to commemorate the many victims of the world's first nuclear attack. Perhaps even more importantly, Hiroshima has become a symbol of lasting peace.

Visited by more than a million people each year, many from overseas, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park (Hiroshima Heiwa Kinen Kōen) lies at the epicenter of the atomic blast in what was once a bustling part of the city. Here you'll find a number of important monuments, memorials, and museums relating to the events of that fateful day.

In addition to the grounds and gardens with their colorful cherry blossoms, the park is where you'll find the Peace Memorial Museum, with its numerous exhibits dealing with the issue of world peace. It's also where you'll find the Memorial Cenotaph and the Flame of Peace , as well as the Atom Bomb Dome , the ruins of an administrative building that lay at the center of the explosion.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hiroshima

One of Japan's most visited cities, lovely Kyoto – one of the few cities in the country to be spared the devastation of WWII – attracts more than 10 million visitors annually. Most of them are here to explore Kyoto's fine old streets and architecture, much of it unchanged since the Imperial family took up residence here more than 1,000 years ago.

Even then, the city was Japan's most important cultural center. This legacy, in fact, continues to this day with its many museums and art galleries, each bursting with important sculptures, paintings, and other art forms.

Highlights of Kyoto's Buddhist-influenced architecture include its many well-preserved temples, 30 of which are still in use, and important structures such as the 14th-century Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), famous for its exquisite gold-leaf-clad exterior.

Be sure to also visit Nijo Castle , a 17th-century fortress that has retained its original walls, towers, and moat. Also worth seeing are the castle's beautiful gates, along with its palace with fine interior décor.

Another landmark to visit is the original Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto-gosho ) . Built in AD 794, it's one of the city's most visited historic sites.

Finally, no visit to Kyoto is complete without spending time exploring the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove . This beautiful area of tall bamboo is just a few minutes' walk from the town center.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kyoto

Just a short ferry ride from mainland Hiroshima is the island of Miyajima , famous the world over as Japan's Shrine Island. Covering an area of 30 square kilometers in Hiroshima Bay, Miyajima is best known as the home of the Itsukushima Shrine, a Shinto temple dedicated to the Princess daughters of the wind god Susanoo.

Dating from the eighth century, the majority of the shrine's buildings rise out of the waters of a small bay supported only by piles. The effect at high tide is simply stunning, making these structures - including the famous Great Floating Gate (O-Torii) - appear as if they're floating on water.

Linked together by walkways and bridges, it's a fascinating place to explore, in particular its larger halls. These include the exquisite Honden (Main Hall), the Offerings Hall (Heiden), the Prayer Hall (Haiden), and the Hall of a Thousand Mats (Senjokaku).

Another notable feature is the shrine's stage, where visitors are entertained with traditional dances and musical performances. Also worth exploring are the island's exquisite grounds and gardens, home to wild deer and numerous bird colonies.

Please note: You can expect some interruptions and inconvenience from now until 2022 due to major renovations taking place at this historic site.

For centuries the hub of Japanese culture, the lovely unspoiled city of Nara is home to a large number of historic buildings, along with important national treasures and works of art.

In addition to its many historic streets, the city boasts numerous important old temples. These includ the magnificent seventh-century Kofuku-ji Temple , perhaps the best known of the Seven Great Temples of Nara; and the splendid eighth-century Todai-ji (Great East Temple), famous for its huge bronze statue of the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), cast here in AD 749.

Also of interest in Todai-ji are its Great South Gate (Nandaimon). This spectacular two-story structure is borne on 18 columns, with two Nio statues standing eight meters tall, and it guards the temple entrance. Also of note here is the Hall of the Great Buddha, the world's largest timber building.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nara

Built in 1586 by famous Japanese warrior and politician Toyotomi Hideyoshi , Osaka Castle (Ōsaka-jō) was at the time the largest and most important fortress in the country. Although destroyed and rebuilt a number of times since, the present structure, built in 1931, remains true to the original.

Highlights of a visit include the huge five-story, 42-meter-tall main tower. Built on an imposing 14-meter-tall stone base, the tower is home to a number of displays detailing the history of the castle and the city. Be sure to visit the top floor for its superb views over Osaka, an especially attractive sight as the sun sets.

Also of interest in Osaka Castle Park is the Hokoku Shrine , while Osaka's best-known temple, Shitennō-ji , is also worth visiting and dates back to AD 59. Notable as Japan's first Buddhist temple, this lovely shrine features a five-story pagoda along with a number of other exquisitely decorated buildings. Among them are the Golden Pavilion (Kondō), with its fine statues and paintings; the Lecture Hall (Kōdō); and a lovely covered corridor linking three of the site's gates.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Osaka

Japan boasts a number of outstanding areas of natural beauty, many of them designated as national parks or, in some cases, UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One of the country's most spectacular of these is Chūbu-Sangaku National Park in the center of Honshu. Located in the park's northern and central regions is the group of mountains collectively referred to as the Hida Mountains , or Japanese Alps.

This region contains some of the highest peaks in the country, including Hotaka at 3,190 meters, and Yari at 3,180 meters. Similar in many ways to the Alps of Central Europe - both in the character of the landscape and in its abundance of snow in winter - the Japanese Alps attract large numbers of walkers and climbers in summer and skiers in winter.

Of particular interest is the park's abundance of flora and fauna, including the rare ptarmigan and mountain antelopes found at higher altitudes. The park's many hot springs also draw visitors and led to the development of various spas and holiday resorts, the best known being Kamikōchi .

The Atsuta Shrine, in the heart of the city of Nagoya, is the most important Shinto shrine in Japan, and attracts more than five million visitors each year. Established in the first century, this religious site is famous for its preserved Imperial insignia, the "grass-mowing sword" (kusanagi-no-tsurugi), one of only three in the country.

Also of interest are its principal shrine, Hongu, surrounded by an enclosing wall, and the treasury with its numerous works of art, including old and modern paintings, ceramics, jewelry, and traditional masks. While in Nagoya, be sure to also visit Nagoya Castle . This splendid moated complex was built in 1612 and boasts a 48-meter-high main tower that is famous for its two gilded dolphins (shachi). It's also a popular place to visit for its museum, containing art treasures from the former palace, and its spectacular views over the city and the Nobi Plain.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nagoya

The ruins of the once-grand Fukuoka Castle (Fukuoka-jō), built in the early 1600s, punctuate the middle of Maizuru Park. The castle was once a fine example of the prolific and majestic hilltop homes preferred by Shoguns and city rulers. But it was destroyed after the Meiji Restoration as a backlash against the feudal system.

Today, only the ruins of the castle remain, including the main gate and one of the turrets. Visitors mainly come here for the leafy walking trails and scenic lookouts, with beautiful views over the Naka River. If you climb to the top of the ruins, you can see views of the city beyond. The park is especially lovely in spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

Fukuoka is also well known for its many events and festivals. The best-known of these is Hakata Gion Yamakasa , a famous two-week long, 700-year-old celebration held each July that draws millions of visitors from across the country to its colorful parades, as well as its traditional races and costumes.

The city is not without its modern attractions, too. Most notable among them is Canal City Hakata , a-city-within-the-city complete with a canal running through the complex, along with great shops, hotels, restaurants, and a theater.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Fukuoka

Located on Japan's northernmost island, Hokkaido, the city of Sapporo offers many things to do for tourists . As the island's largest city, it's a hub of cultural activity, hosting many excellent events and festivals. It also has a distinctive culinary style; a rich theatrical history; and plenty of museums, galleries, and parks.

The focal point here is very much the city's attractive downtown area, the center of which is Odori Park, a large swath of green that's very pleasant to explore. From here, you can also access points of interest such as the Sapporo TV Tower , as well as the city's famous aerial tramway, an easy walk away. The Mount Moiwa Ropeway will eventually get you to the summit's Upper Station, from where you can enjoy incredible views over the city, a real treat at night.

The mountain is also the location of the Mount Moiwa Ski Resort, a popular winter destination, especially since the 1972 Winter Olympics were held in the city. And if you're arriving in winter, be sure to visit the Sapporo Snow Festival , held here each February and drawing in excess of two million revelers.

When you visit Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, you'll be seeing red – but in a beautiful way. One of the most important shrines in Japan, the Fushimi Inari shrine is found in southern Kyoto, made famous for the thousands (yes, thousands) of scarlet-colored gates that arch over a web of trails. These arch-covered trails command silence, so expect a very peaceful walk towards the forest around Mt. Inari.

Inari is the Shinto god of rice – one of the most important gods in Shintoism. Of the thousands of shrines dedicated to him, Fushimi Inari is decidedly the most important. Most travelers come to see the vermilion gates, but the shrine itself is also open for exploration, and the buildings are quite spectacular.

Visitors can also hike to the top of Mt. Inari, which takes roughly two to three hours round-trip. The route up the mountain is dotted with shrines and smaller gates, as well as spots to grab something to eat.

While a cemetery may not seem like an obvious top attraction, Japan's Koyasan Okunoin is a great exception. One of the most sacred places in the country, this popular pilgrimage spot holds the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism.

Daishi, also called Kukai, is one of the most important figures in Japan's Buddhist history. It is said that he sits in eternal meditation while waiting for the Buddha of the Future. Those who make the pilgrimage to his mausoleum do so to ask for salvation in this life.

Upon reaching the cemetery, visitors will cross the Ichinohashi Bridge, which is the first bridge into the cemetery. On the way to the mausoleum, visitors will pass more than 200,000 tombstones. The path leads to Gokusho Offering Hall, where visitors can make offerings, as well as pray for family members they have lost.

A second bridge, the Gobyobashi Bridge, is what separates the most sacred center of the site from the rest of the cemetery. Here is where you'll find the Miroku Stone, as well as Torodo Hall, which is a main worship hall just in front of the mausoleum. The hall is aglow with thousands of lanterns. Behind the hall is the mausoleum itself, and it is a most awesome experience to visit.

You'll feel the power of something – whether you believe or not – as pilgrims from all over the country have come to chant and pray in the presence of Kobo Daishi.

Kyoto is practically overflowing with gorgeous sites and landmarks. The city is a top attraction itself. But one can't come to Kyoto without visiting Kiyomizu-Dera, or the Pure Water Temple.

One of the most important temples in Japan, Kiyomizu-Dera was built in 780 CE on the grounds of the Otowa Waterfall. It was originally built to be part of the Hosso sect of Buddhism, but later formed its own sect in the mid 20th century.

Today the UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its wooden stage, which overlooks the beautiful rooftops of Kyoto, and the marvelous trees that always put on fantastic color displays in both the fall and cherry blossom season.

On the grounds, visitors will find other important sites, like the Jishu Shrine, as well as the Otowa Waterfall itself, which still gushes at the base of the monument's main hall.

One of Tokyo's most famous districts is the Shinjuku district, known for its electric nightlife, trendy restaurants, and upscale hotels. But the heart of the district is also home to one of Tokyo's most naturally beautiful attractions – the Shinjuku Gyoen park.

Within the park are sprawling green spaces and trails of walking paths that wind around stunning floral displays, ponds, and manicured shrubbery. Come cherry blossom season, the park is one of the best spots to catch the brilliant waves of powder pink.

The park was built during Japan's Edo Period (1603-1867) as the residence of a feudal lord. After that it became a botanical garden and then was an entertaining grounds for Japan's Imperial Family in the early 20th century. It opened in 1949 as a public park.

Within the park are three different styles of garden, including a Japanese landscape, English landscape, and French landscape.

The town of Hakone, located within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park to the west of Tokyo, is known for its stunning mountains and tranquil hot spring resorts. That is reason enough to visit this stunning small town. But another top draw to this peaceful bit of paradise is the impressive Open-Air Museum.

True to its name, the outdoor museum is a sculpture park that spreads over 17 acres. Opened in 1969, it is one of the first open-air museums in Japan, featuring more than 100 sculptures all over the grounds.

One of the most impressive sculptures here is the Symphonic Sculpture, which allows visitors to climb a stained-glass tower to reach a viewing platform that overlooks the surrounding mountains, as well as the other works of art on the grounds.

In addition to the outdoor exhibits, the museum has an indoor exhibit, including one of the world's most impressive collections of Picasso . You'll find more than 300 of the great Spanish painter's works here, including his oil paintings, prints, ceramics, and sculptures.

Dating back more than 1,000 years, the Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is one of the most popular Buddhist temples in Japan. The purpose for the temple was to protect and pay homage to a statue of the Buddhist god, Fudo Myoo, which is said to have been carved by Kobo Daishi. Within the temple grounds are several buildings, including several different style pagodas, a park, and the main halls.

Approaching the temple complex is like stepping back in time. The half-mile journey from the rail station to the temple complex is a road lined with restaurants and handicraft stores. The same has been true of this street for hundreds of years. While the stores themselves may have a 21st-century appeal, the arrival experience to the temple complex has remained unchanged for centuries.

Japan's Okinawa archipelago consists of more than 150 islands that speckle the area between Taiwan and Japan's mainland. This tropical environment is completely unique to other areas of Japan, home to beautiful beaches and swaying palm trees. The main island is also called Okinawa, and is home to several museums, as well as the Churaumi Aquarium.

The aquarium is widely considered to be the best in Japan, known for its Kuroshio Tank. Within this massive tank are about 60 different species of animals, but most visitors come to see the gigantic whale sharks and gliding manta rays.

Other attractions within the aquarium include a deep water exhibit, which shows off bioluminescent fish, as well as an area dedicated to tiger and bull sharks. Outside are a variety of pools that are home to dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees.

Japan has hundreds of beautiful, historic castles. But none is as complete or mesmerizing as Matsumoto Castle. Built from 1592 to 1614, Matsumoto is located in the city of Nagano. Tip: One of the best times to visit the castle is in the spring , when the grounds of the castle are powdered a soft pink with the bloom of thousands of cherry blossoms.

Inside the castle, visitors have one of the best glimpses back into time. Matsumoto Castle has maintained its wooden interiors, giving a true historic feel to the experience. Matsumoto is considered to be one of five castles that are designated as "National Treasures of Japan." It is the oldest six-story castle tower that remains in the country.

Located in the Arishayama section of Kyoto, the famous Arashiayama Monkey Park is one of the best things to do both in Kyoto, as well as Japan overall. A short hike up a forest-covered mountain opens up to sweeping views over the city, as well as a troop of more than 120 Japanese macaque monkeys.

The macaques roam freely in the monkey park, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with these energetic creatures. You can even feed them with food you purchase at the park. You'll find a small, wooden enclosure where you can feed the monkeys. Outside the enclosure the macaques roam freely, bouncing from branch to branch and scattering across the dirt trails.

The top of the peak also provides a great view of Kyoto and the beautiful mountain peaks in the distance. Visiting the monkey park is wonderful in both spring and fall because you'll have a bird's eye view of the cherry blossoms and the brilliant changing of the leaves.

Perfectly manicured with the highest attention to detail, the gardens in Japan are truly works of art. To visit a Japanese garden is to step into a painting. Arguably the most beautiful garden in Japan is the Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa. The grounds used to be a part of Kanazawa Castle and were opened to the public in the 19th century.

What makes the garden so special is that it was designed around what are known as the six essentials to make a perfect garden. These include spaciousness, seclusion, antiquity, abundant water, views, and artificiality.

While exploring the grounds, visitors will pass by beautiful pools, babbling brooks, bridges, teahouses, artfully placed stones and flowerbeds, as well as sweeping views and secluded pockets.

The park is a beautiful spot to witness the cherry blossoms in the spring, as well as the sweeping autumn colors that take over in the fall.

• Shoulder Season Travel : Due to its being blessed with so many amazing points of interest, Japan's top attractions can, during the peak summer months, get rather busy. If you can be flexible with your trip planning, create a sightseeing itinerary that will allow you to explore this beautiful country during the quieter shoulder seasons. You'll not only be rewarded by fewer lineups, but will be able to enjoy things other visitors will miss out on: spring cherry blossoms in places like Nara Park; amazing fall colors in the hillside spa destination of Jozankei Onsen; and historic structures such as Fukuoka Castle blanketed in snow.
• Faster Than a Speeding Bullet (Train) : Thanks to its superb modern and efficient public railway system, Japan is an easy country to get around. Japan Railways is responsible for more than 21,000 kilometers of rail lines, connecting all points to larger cities such as Tokyo. The best of these is the Shinkansen Bullet Train , capable of traveling 320 kilometers per hour, making a trip such as Tokyo to Fukuoka - some 1,170 kilometers away - doable in just over six hours. Be sure to pick up your Japan Rail Pass or book your rail tours before departure to ensure savings.

Despite its small size, Japan experiences almost every kind of weather you could imagine – from rainy typhoon seasons to snowy winters to hot humid summers. Whether you want to ski, hike, or explore the city, Japan has much to offer – and a perfect season for each of these activities.

For most tourists interested in sightseeing, the best time to visit Japan is during the months of March and April , as the weather is milder, the sakura (cherry blossoms) are in bloom, and the big summer crowds haven't arrived yet.

A land of contrasts and surprises, Japan has stunning springs, snowcapped mountains in winter, and plenty to do outdoors in the warmer months. The best time to visit Japan can be any time, depending on your interests.

Spring: Sakura (cherry blossoms) completely transform Japan during the months of March and April, making spring one of the most beautiful seasons in the country . Spring temperatures can vary widely depending on where you're heading, with the northern destinations seeing around 4 degrees Celsius in April, and the southern cities experiencing temperatures in the mid to high teens-in many places like Tokyo, temperatures are usually in the single digits in the early mornings and at night, but a comfortable 13 to 15 degrees during the day.

Summer: Japan's summers are hot, humid, and often wet . Temperatures in the cities often reach into the high 20s and sometimes 30s, but with high humidity present, it feels much hotter. Summer is a great time to head to the mountains and the countryside to escape the urban heat . Between July and October, the coast of Japan is under the threat of typhoons and heavy rains, although the wettest months are usually August and September .

Fall: Fall is a great time to travel around Japan , as you'll get cooler weather, great Autumn colors, and discounted prices. Although spring has similar temperatures, fall is drier , so you won't have to constantly carry an umbrella with you everywhere you go. Rikugien Garden in Tokyo and Lake Kawaguchi at the foot of Mt. Fuji are great places to catch the autumn colors.

Winter: Depending on your destination, Japanese winters can be very cold (as low as -10 degrees Celsius in Sapporo) or mild (Naha regularly sees January temperatures around 15 degrees Celsius). In most places, however, winters are dry-no humidity and very little rain, with snow mostly falling on the countryside but sometimes also blanketing the bigger cities. The alpine regions, including the ski resorts around Hokkaido, are among the best places to visit in Japan in winter. Slopes are great in January and February, with plenty of powdery snow for outdoor sports.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Endless Day Trip Options : Wherever you choose to visit in Japan, the country's fast rail services open up endless possibilities for day trippers. Even if you are only visiting one city, you may be able to see several important tourist attractions in the surroundings. For more detail in planning your trip, see our articles on day trips from Tokyo , as well as historic Kyoto , and Osaka .

More on Japan

12 Best Things to Do in Tokyo in April

What to Do in Tokyo in April

Visiting Tokyo this April?? Check out the latest travel information in Tokyo in April!! Numbers of special events and tourist attractions are available in this month including the beautiful cherry blossoms which we all have been waiting for! Moreover, don’t miss the seasonal festivals and delicious food only available in this time of the year!

Plan your perfect trip in Tokyo with our April To-Do list!

*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.

Tokyo in April

Spring is one of the best seasons to visit Japan and Tokyo, and April, the middle of spring, offers a variety of things to do to tourists from overseas. Cherry blossoms fully bloom between late Match and early April in the metropolitan area. There are lots of nice spots to view beautiful Sakura flowers in Tokyo including parks, rivers, gardens and temples. You can enjoy joining events related to cherry blossoms and other spring things.

April is the month you can travel in Tokyo comfortably since the average daily temperature in April in Tokyo ranges from 13°C (55.4°F) to 17°C (62.6°F) in the recent decade. On the other hand, it may be a little tough period for those who suffer from hay fever, which is known as Kafunsho in Japanese.

1. Cherry Blossoms

Yes, it’s time for cherry blossoms! Tokyo’s cherry blossoms usually start flourishing from late March and can be enjoyed till early April depending on the weather condition. In Tokyo, there are numbers of amazing places to see cherry blossoms as well as Sakura Matsuri (Cherry Blossom Festival) to enjoy delicious food and drinks along with the beautiful flowers.

In case you miss the peak time for cherry blossom viewing in Tokyo, there are some places where you can enjoy cherry blossoms till mid April. Shinjuku Gyoen Garden is a popular spot to enjoy late blooming cherry blossoms. Or fallen cherry blossom petals are another spectacular scenery to enjoy after the peak blooming season. Meguro River and Chidorigafuchi are two famous spots in central Tokyo where pink petals cover the surface of the water and create stunning scenery.

Check out the below links for more information about cherry blossoms in Tokyo!

▶ Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo

▶ Tokyo Sakura Guide: Nest Hanami Spots in Tokyo

▶ Best Cherry Blossom Festivals in Tokyo

2. Bunkyo Azalea Festival

Right after the cherry blossom season ends in Tokyo, a popular flower event kicks off at the traditional serene shrines in the heart of Tokyo. Bunkyo Azalea Festival (or Bunkyo Tsutsuji Matsuri, 文京つつじまつり) is held at Nezu Shrine from early April to early May. The astonishing view of colourful Azalea flowers and traditional Japanese garden with a row of red torii gate can be enjoy during the festival. The best viewing time of Azalea flower is mid April usually.

Click the link below to find out more information about Bunkyo Azalea Festival!

▶ Bunkyo Azalea Festival Tsutsuji Matsuri

3. Strawberry Buffet

The season for Japanese strawberries continue through April, and the best way to enjoy delicious, juicy and exquisite Japanese strawberries is definitely strawberry dessert buffets. ANA InterContinental Tokyo , Hilton Tokyo, Grand Hyatt, etc, numbers of high end hotels in Tokyo offer tasty, creative and photo-worthy strawberry dessert buffets with their original themes, and guests can be indulged with deluxe strawberry desserts with all-you-can-eat style only in this time of the year.

Click the link below to find your favourite strawberry dessert buffet from the previous year!

▶ Best Strawberry Buffets in Tokyo

4. Disney Easter

One of the most anticipating events at Tokyo Disney Resort, Disney Easter usually takes place from late March and the event runs until mid June. Both Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea will have special Easter decoration, parades and shows as well as limited-time food menu and merchandise collection.

Book your tickets to Tokyo Disney Resort! ▶ Book Tokyo Disneyland Tickets ▶ Book Tokyo DisneySea Tickets

5. Watch Baseball Games

Baseball is one of the most beloved sports in Japan, and Japanese professional baseball league (NPB) runs from March to October annually. Yomiuri Giants and Tokyo Yakult Swallows are two popular professional baseball teams both based in Tokyo, and baseball games are held at their stadiums (Tokyo Dome and Meiji Jingu Stadium) during the season regularly. It’s great way to experience Japanese sports culture!

Related article: How to Get Japanese Baseball Game Tickets

6. Cherry Blossom Themed Events

There are numbers of cherry blossom themed/related events that you can enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms in unique ways besides viewing. From digital art to night illumination, various cherry blossom themed events are held in Tokyo during spring!

Related article: Best Cherry Blossom Events in Tokyo

7. Tokyo Rainbow Pride

Tokyo Rainbow Pride has become city’s most enthusiastic event in the past years, which about 150,000 people participated. It’s organised by the LGBT community in Tokyo and takes place in end of April at the event square of Yoyogi Park. Various kinds of events including street booths, live performances and the pride parade.

Map: http://bit.ly/2D6XfGM

8. Kanamara Festival

Kanamara Festival, a.k.a. the Penis Festival is known as one of the most unique and bizarre events in the world. The phallus themed festival features Mikoshi floats with giant phallic statues as well as phallus shaped food, decorations, etc. It’s extremely unique and become hugely famous around the world nowadays. The festival is held at the first Sunday of every April at Kanayama Shrine in Kawasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture which you can access within 30 mins by train from central Tokyo.

Map: http://bit.ly/2t5xJNm

More festivals are available in Japan in April! Check out the link below for more information.

▶ Japan’s 3 Biggest Festivals in April

9. Showa Memorial Park

Showa Memorial Park (or Showa Kinen Koen, 昭和記念公園) is a vast park located in the outskirt of Tokyo. The park is a top visited spot in Tokyo for cherry blossom and autumn leaves viewing. A wide variety of flowers and plants can be enjoyed at the park especially during spring and summer including Tulip, Cosmos and Sunflowers.

More info: Showa Memorial Park: Best Flower Park in Tokyo

10. Sakura Tulip Festa

Sakura Tulip Festa (佐倉チューリップフェスタ) is a largest Tulip festival around Tokyo which features 70 kinds of over 600,000 Tulip. The festival is held from early to late April at Sakura City, Chiba Prefecture and the nearest station is Keisei Sakura Station which can be accessed directly by Keisei Line from Nippori Station. It’s one of the best day trip destinations from Tokyo in April.

More info: Sakura Tulip Festa

11. The Great Wisteria Festival

The Great Wisteria Festival is a flower event held annually at Ashikaga Flower Park in Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture. The event features over 350 wisteria trees that flourish colourfully and display a breathtaking view.

More info: Great Wisteria Festival at Ashikaga Flower Park

Ashikaga City is one of the most attractive cities near Tokyo, yet it’s still lesser known among tourists. If you are planning to visit the wisteria festival, I’d highly recommend you to explore this city that is full of history and culture!

Related article: Best Things to Do in Ashikaga, Tochigi

12. Cycling

Cycling tour is becoming a huge trend in Tokyo nowadays as you can explore the streets of Tokyo in an extraordinary way! Join a sightseeing cycling tour “Tokyo Good Old Bike Tour” which is one of the most popular day tours in Tokyo today, offering a 5-hour cycling trip through the coolest neighbourhoods of Tokyo including Yanaka, Ueno and Asakura. Check the link below for more retails and book the tour with special discount!

▼Going to Tokyo in May??▼

Which events in April do you look forward to most?? For more information about travelling in Japan in April, here are some more articles you should definitely check out 🙂

▽Related Articles▽

▼Editor’s Picks▼

"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Born and raised in Japan, I have lived and explored countries around the world. As a resident of Japan and based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling Japan with my readers. I hope my story will help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈

• Things to Do

16 Unmissable Places to Visit in Japan in 2024

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Japan is somewhere I think everyone should visit. From futuristic skyscrapers to tranquil bamboo forests and neon arcades to serene temples, it’s like nowhere else on the planet.

The food is incredible, the people are ultra polite, and it has one of the most efficient public transport systems in the world. We love the combination of ease of travel and glorious bewilderment.

Japan has so much to offer but where should you start? These are our picks for the 10 best places to visit in Japan, perfect for your first or second trip to the country (plus extra suggestions for the repeat visits that are likely to happen!).

I’ve included our favourite things to do in each place, how long to spend there, and where we stayed. At the end of the post you’ll find a map of all these Japan destinations to start planning your route. 

I recommend mixing a few of the popular cities (most people won’t want to miss Tokyo and Kyoto) with some quieter, more rural places in Japan to see a different side of the country and take a break from the crowds.

Video of Japan Must Sees

Top places to visit in japan, more amazing japan destinations, and a few more places to go in japan, best places to visit in japan map, japan travel tips.

Watch our short video for ideas on where to go in Japan for an amazing trip.

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If you only have time for one Japan destination, make it Kyoto.

This is traditional Japan as you imagined it—geisha in brightly coloured kimonos emerging from wooden teahouses, forests of bamboo, temples and shrines in gold and silver and scarlet, raked gravel Zen gardens, intricate feasts served on lacquered plates, graceful tea ceremonies, and markets full of intriguing but unidentifiable ingredients.

The concrete high-rises of downtown Kyoto can be disappointing, so head out towards the mountains to the surrounding neighbourhoods where you’ll find narrow stone streets, old wooden houses, monks in flowing robes, and the sounds of chanting and gongs from the many temples and shrines.

Gion is the place to spot geisha, Higashiyama has many beautiful temples to explore, and Arashiyama, up in the western hills, is one of the most traditional neighbourhoods and home to bamboo groves, quirky temples, and monkeys.

Kyoto is one of the top Japan tourist spots, so try to visit the popular temples early in the morning as they do get crowded.

In Kyoto don’t miss:

• Wandering through the red torii gates of Fushimi Inari shrine.
• Drinking matcha in a traditional tea ceremony. We loved Tea Ceremony Ju-An at Jotokuji Temple.
• Learning to cook traditional Japanese cuisine in a Kyoto cooking class .
• Taking the train to the village of Kibune and walking across the valley to the beautiful Kurama-dera temple.
• Retreating from the busy streets of Gion to the magical Yasaka-jinja at night.
• Strolling the Philosopher’s Path.
• Experiencing Zen Buddhist cuisine at the Tenryu-ji temple.
• Getting off the beaten track at the quirky Otagi Nenbutsuji temple .
• Exploring these magical Kyoto cherry blossom spots  if you visit in late-March or early-April.
• Enjoying the magnificent autumn colours if you visit in mid to late-November (Eikando and Enkoji are our favourite temples in autumn).

How Long to Spend: 3 nights minimum but 5 nights would be better. We’ve spent two months in Kyoto and still haven’t done everything! A longer stay also allows you to avoid the crowds more easily (you have more early mornings available) and take some of these wonderful day trips from Kyoto .

Read: Our post on the many amazing things to do in Kyoto (and how to avoid the crowds) and our guide to Kyoto’s temples and shrines and the best vegetarian restaurants in Kyoto

Where to stay in Kyoto: For a traditional ryokan, we loved our huge room with private bath overlooking the garden at Ryokan Yachiyo near Nanzenji temple (choose a suite not a standard room). At central Sora Niwa Terrace we enjoyed the amazing view from its onsen and rooftop bar. Or in a quiet part of Gion, Hotel The Celestine is stylish and close to temples. Find more accommodation in Kyoto here .

If Kyoto is the heart of traditional Japan, Tokyo is its ultramodern counterpart.

It’s here you’ll find the skyscrapers, noisy arcades, busy pedestrian crossings, quirky youth fashions, and many many incredibly delicious restaurants.

If all you do in Tokyo is eat, you’ll have an amazing time—even as vegetarians we ate so well.

Tokyo is also home to some of the weirdest activities we’ve ever done. From themed cafes (cats, owls, maids, robots, goats—you name it, Tokyo has it) to sensory-overload shows and arcades to cos-play go-karting.

On my first trip to Tokyo I was overwhelmed by the sprawling city and couldn’t help comparing it unfavourably to Kyoto.

On repeat visits I’ve grown to love the city (the food certainly helped) and while it isn’t as attractive as Kyoto, there is so much to do that you won’t want to skip it.

In Tokyo don’t miss:

• Driving a go-kart on the real roads while dressed as your favourite character. Insanity but so much fun!
• Eating in a tiny restaurant on atmospheric Memory Lane in Shinjuku .
• Gazing at the 360º skyline from the Shibuya Sky observatory (go at sunset for day and night views)
• Walking across the famous Shibuya Crossing.
• Gawping at the outrageous outfits on Takeshita Street in Harajuku.
• Visiting the brilliant DisneySea (our favourite Disney park in the world!) or neighbouring Tokyo Disneyland (or both if you have two days spare).
• Immersing yourself in the colourful digital art museum, TeamLab Planets (and don’t miss Uzu vegan ramen afterwards).
• Watching sumo wrestlers train— we did this morning sumo stable visit and it felt such an honour to see these impressive athletes close up.
• Drinking green tea at the relaxing Sakurai Japanese Tea Experience (the tea course is worth it).
• Exploring the cool neighbourhood of Shimokitazawa for cafes, vintage clothes, and record stores.

How Long to Spend: 3 – 5 nights or longer if you want to take day trips (such as to Nikko, Kawaguchiko or Hakone (for Mt Fuji), and Kamakura). We’ve spent over 6 weeks here on various trips and still find new things to do. If time is limited, I would allocate more time to Kyoto than Tokyo. 

Read: 23 cool things to do in Tokyo and the best vegetarian restaurants in Tokyo .

Where to stay in Tokyo: Read why I think Shinjuku is the best area to stay in Tokyo . My top pick is Hotel Century Southern Tower next to Shinjuku Station—our panoramic king room had an incredible view and was more spacious than most Tokyo hotel rooms. Or splurge on the luxurious Hotel Park Hyatt where the film Lost in Translation was filmed. Search for hotels in Tokyo here .

Top tip: Consider buying a Japan Rail Pass in advance as it’s so easy being able to hop on and off trains all over the country. Read our Japan Rail Pass guide for full details.

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3) Takayama

Takayama is an utterly gorgeous small town on the edge of the Japan Alps and one of the best less-visited places to go in Japan.

I loved wandering the historic centre full of traditional wooden houses, colourful shrines, neatly shaped trees, and bright red bridges over the river.

In Takayama don’t miss:

• Wandering the old town in the early morning before the crowds arrive.
• Buying delicious fruit from the morning markets.
• Snacking on mitarashi-dango (rice balls grilled in soy) from a street stall.
• Seeing the extravagant floats at the Festival Floats Exhibition Hall.
• Visiting the Hida Folk Village to see traditional thatched houses.
• Cycling through the countryside with Satoyama Experience .

How Long to Spend: 2-3 nights. We had 2 nights and wished we’d had longer because there’s lots to do in the surrounding countryside. With a longer stay you could take day trips to the traditional thatched roof houses of Shirakawa-go and go hiking in Kamikochi in the Japan Alps.

Read: 54 Best Things to do in Japan for an Unforgettable Trip

Where to stay in Takayama: We stayed at Super Hotel Hida Takayama , a good mid-range business hotel near the train station. Next time I want to stay at Oyado Koto No Yume , a ryokan with onsen which gets excellent reviews. Find more hotels in Takayama here .

Top tip: See our Japan 2 week itinerary for more details on combining these top places in Japan for an amazing trip.

Mount Fuji is on most people’s lists of places to visit in Japan, but this must-see Japan landmark can be rather elusive and is often hidden by clouds.

There are a number of places you can see the mountain from ( Kawaguchiko is another great option), but Hakone is easy to reach from Tokyo and there are lots of other things to do in the area in case you are out of luck with a sighting.

Despite visiting on a cloudy, drizzly day, we were lucky that Mount Fuji emerged from the clouds above Lake Ashi and it was magical!

Hakone is also fun to visit because you can do a loop of the sights on different modes of transport—train, bus, pirate boat (yes, really!), and cable car.

In Hakone don’t miss:

• Buying a Hakone Free Pass so you can hop on and off all the transport options on the Hakone Loop.
• Seeing Mount Fuji from the lake or cable car.
• Eating a black egg cooked in the hot sulphur springs at volcanic Owakudani (not really, we skipped this, but the Japanese love them).
• Soaking in an onsen.
• Staying in a tatami room in a ryokan (traditional inn) and enjoying an elaborate dinner.
• Wandering the outdoor sculpture gallery at Hakone Open Air Museum .

How Long to Spend: You could visit on a day trip from Tokyo but I recommend 1-2 nights to experience a ryokan and onsen. We had one night and did part of the loop in the afternoon we arrived and the rest in the morning. While it was just enough for the main sights, we wished we’d had longer to enjoy our ryokan.

Where to stay in Hakone: Hotel Musashiya was one of the best places we stayed in Japan. It’s a modern ryokan on the shores of Lake Ashi in Moto Hakone. We loved our comfortable tatami room with lake views, the indoor and outdoor onsen baths (also with lake views), and the delicious vegetarian feast we were served in our room. It was wonderfully relaxing. Find more hotels in Hakone here .

5) Kanazawa

Kanazawa is one of the best cities to visit in Japan, but few foreign tourists make it here.

Consider Kanazawa as a quieter alternative to Kyoto to experience geisha districts with preserved wooden buildings.

There is also one of the most beautiful gardens in the country, a stunning castle, and many art museums to explore.

In Kanazawa don’t miss:

• Wandering Kenroku-en Garden , one of the top three gardens in Japan.
• Exploring the wooden teahouses of the geisha districts Higashi Chaya and the quieter Kazuemachi and Nishi Chaya.
• Experiencing a traditional tea ceremony at the exquisite Gyokusen-en Gardens.

How Long to Spend: 2 nights. 

Where to stay in Kanazawa: We stayed in a standard business hotel in the centre—there are lots of budget options. Find hotels in Kanazawa here .

Nikko is a temple town and UNESCO world heritage site in the mountains a few hours north of Tokyo and makes a cool retreat from the city. The area is famous for its vibrant autumn colours.

The temples and shrines with their vermillion gates and moss-covered stone lanterns are scattered on the wooded hillside.

The main attraction is Toshogu Shrine, a stunning complex with more than a dozen lavishly decorated red and gold buildings amongst huge, ancient cedar trees. The crowds can be overwhelming, so afterwards head to one of the quieter shrines.

In Nikko don’t miss:

• Visiting Toshogu Shrine early to avoid the crowds
• Playing games at atmospheric Futarasan-jinja
• Exploring Taiyuinbyo
• Hiking up the mountain to the peaceful Takino shrine
• Photographing the bright red Shinkyo bridge
• Munching on dango (grilled rice balls on a stick) from a street stall
• Eating sushi at Komekichi Kozushi

How Long to Spend: You could visit Nikko as a day trip from Tokyo, but it’s worth spending a night or two to explore one of the most beautiful places in Japan including hiking trails, lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs. 

We had one night and wished we’d had two so that we could have visited Toshogu Shrine early on the second day. 

Where to stay in Nikko: We stayed at Nikko Park Lodge Tobu Station , a good budget option conveniently located close to the train stations. For more character, you could stay in a traditional ryokan with views and outdoor onsen baths such as Nikko Hoshino Yado . Find more hotels in Nikko here .

7) Koya-San

Koya-san (Mount Koya) is one of the most interesting places in Japan to experience the traditional side of the country.

This secluded and sacred temple town is located in the forest-covered mountains of Kansai and is one of the best places to get a taste of life as a monk by staying in a shukubo or temple lodging.

After wandering around the otherworldly Okunoin forest cemetery , we checked into our simple tatami room at the temple, soaked in the communal onsen bath, and enjoyed a delicious shojin ryori  vegetarian Buddhist meal.

In the morning we were up early for the chanting and meditation ceremony with the monks.

A temple stay at Koya-san is a fascinating experience and well worth the detour from Osaka or Kyoto.

How Long to Spend: 1 night. 

Read: Sleeping with Monks: A Night in a Japanese Temple in Koya-San

Where to stay in Koya-san: We stayed in Haryo-in, the cheapest temple accommodation, but it’s quite basic and I’d recommend paying more to stay at one of the more traditional temples like 1000-year-old Eko-in which gets superb reviews. Find more temple lodgings here .

Tsumago is a picture-perfect traditional mountain village in the Kiso Valley.

It is one of the best-preserved post towns in Japan and you feel like you’ve stepped back in time on the traffic-less streets of beautifully restored wooden inns.

During the Edo period 300 years ago, Tsumago was a stop on the Nakasendo Way between Kyoto and Edo (now Tokyo).

You can hike part of this trail to the village of Magome in about two to three hours. Unfortunately, a typhoon prevented us doing this, but it’s supposed to be a scenic and easy walk.

How Long to Spend: 1-2 nights. If you can arrive early enough on the first day to hike the Nakasendo Way in the afternoon, then 1 night is enough as it’s a tiny village. 

Where to stay in Tsumago: In keeping with the Edo-era atmosphere, stay in a traditional ryokan or minshuku (a simpler family-run inn). We stayed at the basic Minshuku Shimosagaya . Neighbouring Magome has more choice including the budget Chaya Hotel or historic Tajimaya .

Nara was Japan’s first permanent capital and is full of historic treasures including many UNESCO world heritage sites.

It’s one of the top Japan attractions and makes a rewarding day trip from Kyoto to visit the temples and wild deer in Nara Park.

The Daibutsu-den (Hall of the Great Buddha) at Todaiji is the main sight—it’s the largest wooden building in the world and nothing prepares you for the immense sight.

Inside is the 15-metre tall gold and bronze statue of Buddha that dates back to 751.

We also love the forest shrine complex Kasuga Taisha.

How Long to Spend: Most people visit as a day trip from Kyoto or Osaka. You can see the highlights in half a day but a full day is better.

Where to stay in Nara: The advantages of staying overnight in Nara are avoiding the crowds with an early start and experiencing our favourite ryokan in Japan. Tsukihitei is a small traditional inn with a magical forest setting and delicious meals. It’s only a 15-minute walk to the Nara temples.

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10) hiroshima and miyajima.

Come to pay your respects to the victims of the atomic bombing at Hiroshima’s moving Peace Memorial Museum and Park and stay to explore the modern city that was almost entirely rebuilt after World War II.

Hiroshima is usually combined with a visit to the famous floating torii gate at Itsukushima shrine on nearby Miyajima Island.

You’ll also want to try the delicious local speciality okonomiyaki, a thick pancake of batter, vegetables and noodles.

How Long to Spend: 1-2 nights is enough to visit the Peace Memorial Museum and Miyajima Island or you could visit as a long day trip from Kyoto, Osaka or Okayama. We spent 1 night in Hiroshima then 1 night on Miyajima.

Read: 14 Best Day Trips from Kyoto .

Where to stay in Hiroshima: The Sheraton Grand Hiroshima was the most spacious Western-style hotel we stayed in in Japan. We really appreciated the king size bed after a few weeks of small Japanese hotels. It’s right next to the station too. Find more hotels in Hiroshima here . Where to stay in Miyajima: While you could visit the island on a day trip, we loved seeing the top sights without the crowds at night and early in the morning. Iwaso Ryokan has the perfect location (secluded but central), beautiful meals, and our room had a view of the torii gate.

There are so many incredible places to explore in Japan. Here are some more destinations that we absolutely loved (and it was hard to leave them off the top 10 list!).

If any of these appeal to you more than the ones above (or fit into your itinerary better), then they will be just as enjoyable. 

Osaka is a Japan must-see for many visitors. We love the neon craziness of Dotonburi, the amazing food ( for vegetarians too ), friendly people, affordable prices, and the scary rides and brilliant Harry Potter World at Universal Studios Japan . 

But, if you have limited time on your first trip to Japan, I would probably say choose Osaka or Tokyo as they are both sprawling modern cities. 

If you are flying into or out of Kansai airport then it makes sense to spend a night or two in Osaka. You could also visit as a day trip from Kyoto. 

In Osaka, we loved staying in Shinsaibashi . The location is ideal—quiet but close to lots of cool shops and restaurants and within walking distance of Dotonburi. Hotel options include the stylish Hotel The Flag .

12) Kinosaki Onsen

On our first Japan trip we were terrified of getting naked in onsens, but on our latest visit we were brave enough to spend a few nights in an onsen town. 

Onsen hopping dressed in a kimono in a traditional hot spring resort is a classic Japanese experience. Kinosaki Onsen is a great place to experience it.

It’s only a few hours from Kyoto or Osaka and the canal-side town is very pretty, especially in cherry blossom season.

We stayed in a traditional tatami mat room at Morizuya Ryokan . It’s ideal for first-timers as they speak English and are very friendly, walking you through everything you need to know. The epic meals served in your room are delicious too.

Read our Kinosaki Onsen guide for all the details including onsen etiquette and how to get over your fears. 

13) Naoshima Island

Contemporary art fans will love Naoshima, a sleepy island in the Seto Inland Sea known for its art galleries and outdoor sculptures. 

We visited on a day trip from Okayama and had a wonderful day cycling around and combining art with beautiful sea views and tiny fishing villages.

Read our Naoshima Island guide for a recommended one day itinerary.

14) Okayama

If you are interested in getting off-the-beaten-track, Okayama is a great place to visit in Japan. 

This modern city is home to one of the best gardens in the country and is especially beautiful in sakura season when you can enjoy the cherry blossoms without the crowds of Kyoto or Tokyo. 

As it’s on a bullet train line, it’s a convenient and affordable base for exploring the area including the historic Kurashiki, Naoshima Island, Himeji Castle, and Hiroshima.

We also did a fantastic bike trip on the Kibiji Bike Trail through rice fields to untouristy temples. 

Our post on the best things to do in Okayama has all our tips.

15) Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle is one of the few original castles in Japan (most were destroyed at some point and rebuilt). It’s well worth a visit, especially in cherry blossom season. 

You can easily visit in half a day from Osaka, Kyoto, Okayama (as we did) or on the way to Hiroshima. 

16) Kawaguchiko

For the best views of Mount Fuji, head to Lake Kawaguchiko. It’s especially lovely in cherry blossom or autumn leaf seasons. 

You can enjoy the views by walking or cycling around the lake or taking a trip on a cable car or boat (we hired a panda pedal boat!).

The lake is also home to one of my favourite museums and tea houses in Japan.

Kawaguchiko Lakeside Hotel is an excellent affordable option here. Unusually for Japan, our room was huge, and it’s close to the lake with Mt Fuji views from some rooms.

See my Lake Kawaguchiko guide for more tips. 

These Japan tourist attractions and off-the-beaten-path gems are on our list for our next trip:

• Kamakura – Beaches, Buddhas, hikes and vegetarian-friendly food. You could visit as a day trip from Tokyo.
• The Izu Peninsula – Rugged coastline, mountains, and hot springs not far from Tokyo.
• Shirakawa-go – A village of traditional grass-roofed houses in a scenic setting. You could fit in a visit between Takayama and Kanazawa.
• Takaragawa Onsen – A scenic onsen resort a few hours from Tokyo. It has a large mixed-gender onsen, so unusually you don’t have to be naked.
• Hokkaido – The northernmost island of Japan known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities.
• Okinawa – A chain of tropical islands in the far south of Japan.

Read our detailed Japan guides for everything you need to know to plan a brilliant trip.

• 54 Best Things to Do in Japan for an Unforgettable Trip
• Planning a Trip to Japan: Dos and Don’ts
• Two Weeks in Japan: A Detailed Itinerary
• Is a Japan Rail Pass Worth It?
• Where to Stay in Japan: The Ultimate Guide to Accommodation
• 20 Fascinating Books to Read Before Visiting Japan
• Vegetarian Survival Guide to Japan

More Japan, Direct to your Inbox!

I hope this post has given you some ideas of where to go in Japan. Wherever you decide to visit you are sure to have an amazing trip. 

What are your favourite places in Japan? Leave a comment and let us know so we can add them to our Japan bucket list. 

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61 Comments

thanks for sharing

Reply ↓

First of all – your posts are fantastic and so full of great detail. We are planning our first trip to Japan in November. First draft is 5 days Tokyo – 2 days Hakone – 5 days Kyoto – 3 days Hiroshima – 4 days Tokyo.

I was trying to see how to fit Lake Kawaguchi or Takayama or Kanazawa into the trip but they all seem to require quite the journey time given the other places we have picked. Wondering if it would be better to add some days to the end of the trip and just visit from Tokyo. So maybe do Tokyo to Kanazawa for a couple of days. Not particular keen on 5-6 hour trip from Takayama back to Tokyo so may have to skip that.

Hi Kevin I would do Tokyo – Hakone – Takayama – Kyoto – Hiroshima – Tokyo.

We did Tokyo – Hakone – Takayama – Kanazawa on our 2 week itinerary: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/japan-2-week-itinerary/

I prefer Takayama to Kanazawa, especially as you already have lots of big cities on your itinerary. If you really want to fit it in, do so between Takayama and Kyoto.

Lake Kawaguchi is harder to fit in. You could do it as a day trip from Tokyo at the end if you didn’t see Mt Fuji at Hakone (due to clouds) and if you have the energy.

One thing you might also consider is reducing Hiroshima to 2 nights and adding a night on Miyajima Island. We did that last October (one night in each) and really preferred the island after the day trippers had left and early in the morning. You might catch the autumn colour on the island if you are visiting later in November. Again, it changes up the pace from the cities.

If you have big suitcases, you could use a luggage delivery service from Hiroshima to Tokyo and just take a day bag for the overnight (we decided against that but only had a carry on suitcase and laptop bag each).

Good luck with the planning and enjoy Japan!

Erin – Thanks for the advice – good to hear input from someone who has actually experienced it

Apologies for posting the reply so many times – i kept picking the wrong reply option

Awesome guide. Thank you. A lot of the accommodation is around $500aud a night! Extremely expensive. Is that normal around Japan? Me and my partner were wanting to travel around Japan in July this year but if the cost of accommodation us that expensive we might not be able to do the trip. I assume we will be able to find cheap accommodation at most places?

You can definitely find much cheaper accommodation. We did our first few Japan trips on much tighter budgets, but now have the ability to choose more special places to stay.

Your best bet is to look for business hotels in the cities – rooms are usually small but clean and well equipped. Have a browse on Booking.com and you should find plenty of options.

Planning trip(first time ever in Japan) arriving afternoon of December 18th and leaving evening of December 30th. I will be traveling with my 18 and 20 year old boys (privacy should be interesting in the tiny hotel rooms). Planning to stay in Tokyo either 5 nights with day trips to Hakone and either Kamakura or Yokohama OR 4 nights with day trip to either Kamakura or Yokohama and 1 night in Hakone. Is it worth staying the night in Hakone, or just day trip from Tokyo? Then we will spend 3 nights in Kyoto and 3 nights in Osaka (does it matter which order?) with a day trip from each city. One to Nara and one to Hiroshima and Miyajima. My 18 year old wants to have Kobe beef in Kobe, but don’t think it will happen as it’s likely not worth the time away from the other places. I’d love to be able to visit both Kamakura and Yokohama, but don’t think it will work. Likely choosing to go to Kamakura. We will return to Tokyo for the last night and spend the last day (really 1/2 day) in Tokyo before heading to the airport to fly home. Thoughts on the plan? Any specific recommendations?

I think it’s worth spending the night in Hakone if you stay in a ryokan as it will be a unique experience that you won’t get in the cities.

I would probably go to Kyoto before Osaka but it doesn’t make a huge difference. Your day trip choices sound good.

Enjoy Japan!

thank you very much for all the infos and the very beautiful photos!

Hello, Have you been to Tamba-Sasayama in Hyogo? We have a lot of nature, local food, and cultures! Tamba black beans are famous local food and also you can experience a pottery making. I hope you will visit here one day;)

We haven’t but we’ll put it on our list for our next trip this autumn! Thank you for the recommendation!

Wow, this is such a great travel guide. Thanks a lot!

Odd how all of the “best places in Japan to visit” are all in central Japan near Tokyo and Kyoto. How disappointing the travels of the writers to these other parts of the country must have been.

Have you been to the Autumn Takayama Festival? 😊

We did not buy plane tickets yet, but we were going to land on Oct 22 to experience the Kurama Fire Festival in Kyoto. We heard about Takayama festival on Oct 9th and wanted to know if it’s worth changing our plans to fly in earlier for it, and if the weather will be horrible or not during that time? Thank you so mochi for your help! I’m so torn!

We haven’t been but it does look cool! I’m not sure it’s worth changing your plans for. Later in October you’ll have more of a chance of seeing fall colours in Kyoto. If you do decide to go, book your accommodation asap as it gets extremely busy during the festival.

What is the best way to get around these places? Train or car?

Train. You might find this post helpful: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/planning-a-trip-to-japan/

very nice good work

Thanks for the detailed post with nice photographs

I forgot to include in early to mid December.

I’ve been to all the tourist sites and a few others. Where would you recommend for an overnight not far from Tokyo?

Have you been to the Izu Peninsula? We haven’t yet but our friend who lives in Tokyo recommends it. The onsens would be nice in the winter.

planning on going japan next year, getting lots of ideas from these blogs

Beppu should be on this list!

Hopefully we’ll make it there next time!

nice one thank you i learn lot of things about this web site

what about Harajuku?

I included it in the Tokyo section :)

It’s definitely worth visiting!

Hello I am relooking at your Japan highlights. I had the most amazing trip in Spring 2020 many thanks to your post which seems now to have gone and been replaced by more posts. The one thing I would like to say is that you put before Miyajama on the one i read and i have to say that this was one of my favourite spots. I totally recommend it. We also did the two walks one of which was the edo trail and the other outside of Kyoto. We stayed in Koyasan too thanks to you. Thank you again.

Hi, I’m thinking of planning a trip for me and my daughter to visit Japan but haven’t any ideas of where to start. I was thinking a two week trip but maybe more time would be needed for the things we would like to do. If staying for longer than two weeks is there visas needed ect. I haven’t a clue where to start I’ve looked at your guide which is very helpful. Would I be better of speaking to a travel agent for help and advice ??? Many thanks Paul Miller.

It depends where you are from but many nationalities (including UK and US) can stay in Japan for 90 days without a visa.

Two weeks would give you a great overview (here’s a suggested itinerary: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/japan-2-week-itinerary/ ) but if you have more time (and the budget), there’s always more to see.

I think Japan is manageable without a travel agent. See our post on planning a trip for ideas to get started: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/planning-a-trip-to-japan/

We used this page during our six week Japanese adventure and it was brilliantly helpful! Thank you!

I’m glad it helped, Alex. I hope you enjoyed Japan as much as we do.

This page has been very helpful! I am planning a two week trip to Japan next year and this has helped break down each city and what to not miss. Thanks again!

I hope someday, I can visit Japan for some other reasons. As pictures shown, fantastic and very interesting places and educational as well.

Japan has always been a remarkable place for me. I think I missed those places you described about. I hope I can give a shot on my future trip if possible. Btw thanks for sharing your experience with us.

Japanese pachislot, mechanical games,are different from foreign slot machine and popular recently. From 2020 smorking will be prohibited in the pachinko parlors or pachislot parlors. Terefore more and more people will have a good time during playing games. If you come to Japan, you might want to play them.

We keep meaning to try pachinko! That’s good news about the smoking ban!

Hi Great website thanks. We are looking to travel to Japan (arrive Tokyo) in late January for about 14 days. This is our first visit and we don’t mind driving. I would be interested to know what places you could recommend to get a real feel of Japan. Thanks

I don’t recommend driving in Japan. The train system is so efficient and it’ll be less stressful than driving. Here’s our 2 week itinerary: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/japan-2-week-itinerary/

Thanks for the guidance. If you were going in November for 6 weeks what would you do with your time Cheers Walter

That’s a great amount of time and you should so some great autumn foliage. You could visit everywhere on this list so it really depends on your interests and what pace of travel you prefer.

On our latest 7 week trip we chose to base ourselves in Kyoto for a month then travel around for a couple of weeks and finish with a week in Tokyo. If you prefer to move at a faster pace you could cover a lot of ground.

Hi Guys, great site. I was wondering why you seem to spend so much time in the large cities? I’m planning my first trip and my initial thoughts were to spend just a few days in Tokyo and Kyoto? Arent the more remote sights more rewarding?

I was also wondering about a cherry blossom visit – when if the best time to see them but to avoid the worst of the crowds??

Thanks! Chris

We love the smaller places in Japan and think the ideal trip includes a mix of them with the big cities. I wouldn’t say they are more rewarding, just different. There’s just so much to see (and eat) in Tokyo and especially Kyoto that we keep returning to them.

If you’re not a big city person a few days in Tokyo would be fine. Kyoto has a lot of history, temples, and traditional architecture (and more tourists), so you’ll only cover some of the highlights in a few days.

The cherry blossom are only in full bloom for about a week so there’s no way of avoiding the crowds in popular spots then. It’ll be slightly less crowded at the beginning or end of the blooming period, but it’s hard to predict exactly when that will be (and it varies by location).

I would focus on visiting places that have cherry blossoms but fewer crowds. We were in Kyoto at the beginning of April when the blooms just started (and it was already quite busy) then moved on to Kinosaki Onsen and Okayama where we enjoyed the blossoms without many people around.

I’ve written more about it here (and will be doing an Okayama post at some point): https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/kyoto-cherry-blossoms/

hi guys really nice blog, could you itemize it, how many days you spent in each city, village? and if you would change something, where to stay maybe longer, where shorter?

regards tomek

That’s a good idea! We’re currently travelling in Japan and will update this post soon so I’ll add that info then. If you’d like to know about a specific place now just let me know. Usually we spend a week or more in Kyoto and Tokyo and only 1-3 nights in the smaller places.

My husband and I are interested in making a second trip to Japan in March with our 5 month old baby. This will be our second trip…we’ve done Tokyo, Takayama, and Kyoto previously (along with one night in Osaka). We LOVED Takayama for its food and quaintness. We liked Tokyo but got bored after a few days. Kyoto was probably our least favorite – too touristy, What should we do for our second trip??

It’s very difficult to make recommendations without having any idea of what you like to do, how long you plan to visit, or if your baby goes everywhere with you. Given that you liked Takayama, you might consider Kanazawa, Kurashiki, and Nikko. The first two are small cities of about 400,000 that have delightful walking areas and interesting sights in general. Nikko is very small but houses the shrines of Tokugawa Ieyasu and Tokugawa Iemitsu, who were the first and third shoguns of the Tokugawa Shogunate. These are UNESCO World Heritage and incredible.

You didn’t indicate when you visited Japan on your first trip. If you went to Kyoto during fall foliage you would have encountered a lot of tourists, most of whom are Japanese. Kyoto draws tourists because it is a world class city with a very large number of World Heritage sites in addition to spectacular fall color. I don’t want to sound rude regarding your Tokyo comment. I can understand not liking Tokyo because it is a bit overwhelming in size, although that is part of what makes it so enjoyable for us. However, I cannot comprehend getting bored there.

I wish you luck.

It sounds like you enjoy the smaller, more traditional places so I’d recommend Tsumago, Koya-san and Kanazawa (a bigger city but with some lovely traditional neighbourhoods). Nikko is also beautiful but we found it very crowded (it would have been quieter if we’d stayed overnight and arrived early though).

Your website is terrific. I was provided a link to a couple of regions in Italy for a major summer trip. Your comments, photos and recommendations were of such interest that my wife and I decided to completely change the first 10 days of our trip. Then I got so immersed in the various places you have gone, I decided to look at Japan. We spent a month there five years ago, and then we spent another month this December including Christmas. We have been to all but two of your 10 unmissable places in Japan and have used the trains and metros as our primary modes of transport. We would agree that Japan is a great place to visit and the people are terrific.

Since you asked for additions to your bucket list, I would like to suggest the following. Near Hiroshima is the island of Miyajima. This is the site of the great in the water torii gate, which is quite magical. The museum at the Hiroshima Peace Park provides an incredibly moving experience. Himeji Castle (White Heron Castle) is one of the original late 16th century castles and I believe the largest. It is on the route between Hiroshima and Osaka. It has been recently renovated. Osaka Station is beautifully done with some terrific surrounding buildings. The Dotonburi area is neon heaven with street food in abundance. Kyoto, as you stated, is amazing with probably more UNESCO World Heritage locations than anywhere else in the world. South of Kyoto in Uji is Byodo-in, a world heritage temple with a beautiful new museum.

I agree that Kanazawa is a really nice smaller city. Like Kyoto it was not bombed. The D.T. Suzuki Museum is an outstanding piece of architecture, although of primary interest to people steeped in Buddhism, philosophy. The Seisonkaku Villa is a 10,000 foot samurai home located at the edge of Kenrokuen Gardens and is very interesting. There are two places in Takayama you didn’t mention, each of which is very worthwhile. First, next door to the Float Museum and on the same admission ticket is the Sakurayama Nikkokan. This museum contains scale models of the shrines in Nikko. It took 33 master carpenters and 17 years to complete during the first part of the 20th century. It is incredible. Second, the Takayama Museum of Art houses an outstanding (Michelin 3 star) collection of art nouveau and art deco objects. We visited Matsumoto to see the Matsumoto Castle (Black Crow Castle). It is also one of the oldest castles in Japan.

I would also like to suggest Nagoya, which is one of Japan’s largest and most industrial cities. It is home to Toyota. Three recommendations. First, tour the Toyota Factory to get real insight into a truly sophisticated approach to assembly line manufacture. Second, the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Science and Technology is phenomenal. Many demonstrations of working textile machines and auto robotics. Third, the Nagoya Palace has been rebuilt (just opened in 2018) to exact specifications of the original palace (early 1600s) including all the screens. Even though it is a replica, it’s incredible.

You covered the shrines in Nikko. I would only add that if one did nothing else but see the Nikko shrines, a trip to Japan is warranted. Finally, Tokyo is to us the most exciting city around. Never ending pleasure of wandering around. There are just too many places to enumerate. One little side note: the Isetan Department Store in Shinjuku has a roof garden. You can buy incredible take away food in the basement food halls and take to the roof to eat, if the weather is good. Better than either Harrod’s or Selfridge’s.

Thanks so much for the tips David! We are returning to Japan in a few weeks for two months so we’ll try to visit some of these places.

Hi! Thanks, I am definitely gonna copy your ideas! One question – is it worth to go to Hiroshima instead of Takayama? My husband and I are gonna visit Japan in March 2019 for 9 days. I think it is not enough to fulfil your itinerary and we have to shorten it a bit. Thank you for your blog ;)

Honestly, we preferred Takayama. It’s just so pretty with the traditional Japanese architecture and we like small towns. Hiroshima is more of a big modern city BUT of course, the peace memorial is very moving, so if you really want to see that then choose Hiroshima instead (which is actually what we did on our first trip to Japan).

My husband is wanting to visit , the place that his father served in Japen . He is not sure exactly where that is ?

Hi..!! the blog is very informative.Me and my wife would be visiting Japan in Mar’19 for 8 days.We have opted for a package tour.Based on your recommendations Kyoto & Tokyo seem the 2 top places.Can you please recommend us the third place to visit..??

We are going there on a tour to Himazi with 3 homestays & I want to visit a friend in Miyago. Can we still see Mt Fuji & Kyoto after the tour? Thank you for your wonderful blog. Lynne

If you have time I don’t see why not. You can check train times/distances on the Hyperdia site http://www.hyperdia.com/en/ . Have an amazing trip!

Interesting blog, thank you for sharing your experiences! We will have 9 full days in Japan and hoping to see Tokyo, Mount Fuji ( want to stay two nights there ) Takayama, Kyoto and Hiroshima ( as a one day trip from Kyoto ). We are flying back home from Osaka ( our arrival is at Haneda ).. do you think it is do-able or are we overdoing it? Maybe we should leave out Takayama? but since we are going middle of October we are hoping to see some of autumn there..any recommendations? Thank you!

Hi Nath I think it will be a busy trip but it’s definitely possible to do all that in 9 days. I love Takayama so it’s hard to recommend skipping it. It all depends on your energy levels! If you are up for busy days then go for it! Enjoy! Erin

Wooooow love this post!! I have always dreamed of visiting Japan and seeing real Cherry blossoms.. Though I was able to make one dream a reality – see real cherry blossoms in Atok, Benguet, Philippines (but just a few because we were told that it will took two years for the trees to bloom). They look lovely!! :) I’m still not giving up on the bigger dream which is to go to Japan :D And once I get there, I’d definitely visit Kyoto coz I find their culture very rich.. from geishas to kimonos, to sushi and temples! :) See you soon Japaaaaaaaaan!

Who knew there were cherry blossoms in the Philippines?!

We’re planning to go back to Japan next year for the cherry blossom season, although I’m a little worried the crowds will be crazy. Kyoto is a definite highlight of Japan – I hope you make it there!

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GUIDE Japan in March

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• Japan in March

New beginnings in early spring

Although the weather in March is significantly warmer and more spring-like than February, temperatures can drop suddenly. Skiing and snowboarding are still possible at most resorts and languid hot spring excursions remain a popular way to spend some of the coldest days.

Know Before You Go

• Temperatures fluctuate heavily in March
• Winter sports are still possible but expect spring conditions
• Popular areas like Kyoto, Nara and Hiroshima can get quite busy in March
• The cherry blossom season starts in warmer regions, such as southern Japan and Tokyo, and lasts until around May in colder regions

Spring snow

Spring skiing benefits from warmer temperatures and relatively empty slopes compared with winter. Sudden snowfalls do sometimes occur at higher altitudes, though rain is a more likely occurrence. Check weather reports in your area to see if a ski excursion is a viable option on the day.

Getting out and about

Gero Onsen—a fun excursion from Nagoya

The rich pageant of Hinamatsuri

As with many Japanese holidays, most people experience Hinamatsuri in a domestic setting inaccessible to short-term visitors. On and around March 3, however, several shrines and temples around the country hold Hinamatsuri celebrations for the general public.

Nagashibina—an ancient custom

Fire, light, vitality

Scene from the Kyoto Higashiyama Hanatouro

The fiery climax of the Shunie event

Spring sumo

An early sign of spring.

Plum trees in bloom at Kairakuen Garden

Cherry blossom season closes in

Cherry blossoms in the capital

* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.

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Trip within a Trip: Osaka and Kyoto, Japan

May 1, 2024 • 9 min read

Make your next trip to Japan even better by adding on four days in exciting Osaka (pictured) and Kyoto © EarnestTse / Shutterstock

Senior Director of Content Laura Motta recently spent 10 days in Japan . To make the most of her time in the country, she included a four-day mini-excursion to Osaka and Kyoto – a trip within a trip, if you will, which anyone can replicate.

Everyone goes to Tokyo , and I would never tell you to skip it. But another critical part of any Japan itinerary is that magical Shinkansen (bullet train) ride south to Osaka , and the astounding sites that await beyond. A mind-boggling pair of cities – Osaka and Kyoto – are crammed with more shrines and temples, steel-and-glass skyscraper malls, scenic vistas and world-class restaurants than you can experience in a month, never mind in just a few days. This was my third trip to Japan and my second time visiting Osaka and Kyoto.

Before I get to my recommendations, here are a few practical tips:

• When to arrive: Arriving in Osaka around midday lets you drop your bags at the hotel, rest and then hit Dōtonbori in the evening, when its famous neon lights are ablaze. 
• Getting there from the airport: The spotless, inexpensive airport limousine bus from Kansai Airport makes eight stops in Osaka, which include all of its main train stations.
• Getting around: Japan is world-famous for the ease and comprehensiveness of its public transit for a reason. You can – and certainly should – do this route without a car. High-speed (more expensive/faster) and local (less expensive/slower) trains cover every inch of this region and will shuttle you quickly between Kyoto and Osaka. Both cities have easy-to-use subway systems.
• What to pack: Certainly, your walking shoes and room in your stomach for a lot of ramen. Keep in mind that Japan has four distinct seasons and temperatures vary significantly between them. Check the weather ahead of time – and pack accordingly.
• How to structure your days: It’s tempting to cram your schedule when there are so many things to see. Yet realistically, you won’t be able to do more than two major sites – maybe three, if you’re really going for it – in a single day. This is especially true in Kyoto, where the best sites are far apart and can require up to an hour of travel to reach.
• Take it easy:  Don’t forget to eat, hydrate, rest and wander. And tell yourself you’ll be back.

Day 1: Osaka

Snack time .

You’ve been traveling all morning. It’s time to eat. (Unless, of course, you stuffed yourself en route on the amazing bento boxes you can get at Tokyo Station.) Keep it simple like I did and grab onigiri (rice balls) or a  sando  at 7-Eleven. There’s one on every corner, you’ll only spend a few dollars, and buying local snacks – especially in Japan – is among travel’s greatest joys. 

See the neon

If you’re in Osaka, go see the Glico man. It's a rule. Or maybe it's just mine. This famous animated sign of a runner, arms raised, about to cross the finish line in some hypothetical marathon in the sky, remains delightful despite the tourist crush on the streets below. This ad for the Glico candy company (candy bars give you energy – get it?) has become an informal mascot of Dotonbori , Osaka’s dining and nightlife district. After dark, it’s fun to wander here through the area’s many arcades, claw-machine and pachinko parlors, and shops. If you start here on a weeknight, it’s delightfully quiet.

Insider tip: Arrive before sunset and duck into a tiny side street to Hōzen-ji , a small temple known for its moss-covered statues. I was there when they were lighting the lanterns for the evening – a dreamy experience indeed.

Have a cheap and cheerful dinner

Dotonbori is teeming with restaurants. You can’t miss the distinctive signage advertising takoyaki (grilled octopus balls), gyoza and crab. My favorite takoyaki stand, Takoyaki Yoriyabunzaemon , is humble compared to its bombastic neighbors; there is no 5ft marquee. Inside, you’ll sit on a well-worn barstool while the single cook pours takoyaki batter into the famous round molds and serves it to you still piping hot, and slathered in mayo, barbecue sauce and bonito flakes. A warning: if you value the skin on the roof of your mouth, do not eat too fast here.

Day 2: Kyoto

Bullet train .

The Shinkansen train between Osaka and Kyoto is cheap and lightning fast. This trip is included in many Japanese rail passes , but if you’re paying for a standalone ticket, you’ll pay 1420 yen (about US$10). The trip takes 15 minutes, so slower local trains hardly seem worth the mildly cheaper price. Arrive midday and head to your hotel to check in and drop your luggage. Before you depart, don’t forget to look around Kyoto Station for the eki  ink stamp, which you can imprint into a notebook as a souvenir. Every train station in Japan has a uniquely designed stamp, even if you sometimes have to ask the attendant at smaller stations where to find it.

Stay in style

If there’s one place to splurge on a fabulous hotel in Japan, it’s in Kyoto. Whether you’re strolling under vibrant fall leaves or spring cherry blossoms, or wandering the narrow alleys and stepped streets of the Gion district , Kyoto is romantic, its temples and shrines otherworldly. My choice was Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto , a new luxury property that blends smart contemporary design with traditional Japanese accents. Beside its excellent restaurant – more on that below – the highlight is the hotel's updated approach to the traditional onsen, called Thermal Spring. This vast, moodily lit indoor space offers heated pools and loungers amid beautiful rock formations and water features. And unlike many onsen experiences, this one is a bathing-suits-required, mixed-gender space where everyone can hang out. There is also no surcharge for entry.

Visit the temples

My boyfriend cheekily refers to Fushimi Inari Taisha , Kyoto’s famous shrine with its rows and rows of vermillion gates ascending a dramatic hillside, as “the Instagram shrine.” It’s hard to say that he’s wrong: the site is a favorite among foreign travelers for good reason. The gates are simply gorgeous and – yes – photogenic. Just don’t expect to find yourself there alone. 

Insider tip: Afterward, stop at the charming Vermillion Cafe for a sweet snack and coffee. Sit on the back porch, which overlooks a lovely stretch of forest, for especially serene vibes (spectacular in autumn).

If you still have energy left in the afternoon, head to Nishi Hongan-ji , a mammoth Buddhist temple complex that’s home to some of the largest wooden structures in Japan. After you marvel at the huge lanterns and expansive halls, stop by the brightly painted Chinese Gate, which dates back to the late 1500s. This temple is also within walking distance of Kyoto Station, and can be a good place to start or end your trip.

Day 3: Kyoto

Go for the gold.

Kinkaku-Ji , sometimes called the Golden Pavilion, is among Kyoto’s (and Japan’s) most famous and photographed landmarks. This UNESCO World Heritage site , where a brilliant gold temple appears to float along the shores of a serene lake, is well worth braving the crowds for, especially in sunny weather when the reflection of the lake glints off of the temple’s exterior walls. Go early, packing your patience – and you’ll understand instantly why so many people flock here. 

School Bus Coffee Stop is a charming spot for an easy, affordable breakfast or lunch in cozy, industrial-farmhouse-style surroundings. Comforting selections like bagel sandwiches and avocado toast are accompanied by the shop’s excellent, house-roasted coffee.

Modern love

For an aesthetic palate cleanser after a quick lunch, stop by the Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art , which houses rotating exhibits, often of contemporary and modern art, in a fantastic brick structure that dates to the 1930s.

Taste sensation

And you’d be remiss if you stayed at the Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto without eating at its elegantly flamboyant Italian restaurant, Forni . Yes, there are pizzas and pastas on its à la carte menu. But I’d highly recommend the tasting dinner, where impeccably composed dishes like sea bream citrus tartare and grilled wagyu arrive on geometric plates and stands. It’s a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach.

Day 4: Osaka

Smart hotel.

After going luxe in Kyoto on meals and lodging, I came back to Osaka looking to save money without sacrificing too much comfort. I wasn’t ready to sleep in a sarcophagus-sized pod or get every meal at 7-Eleven. (Well, not every meal – just a few.) After getting off the train from Kyoto at the massive Shin-Osaka Station, I took the easy-to-use metro to one of the best places I’ve stayed in Japan, the chicly designed, austere-but-comfortable  Hotel Noum , just across the river from Temmabashi Station. The location made transportation connections easy and kept me sheltered from the stark urban rush of Umeda, Osaka’s high-rise business district. Rooms are small, comfortable and spotless; mine had a river view. The hotel also has an airy coffee shop in its lobby that attracts as many locals as travelers. I popped in here for a breakfast pastry and a latte and was ready to start the day.

Window(less) shopping

Even if you don’t stay in Umeda, visiting the neighborhood is a must. Spend a day wandering its cavernous, endless indoor shopping malls and underground food courts. You may never see daylight, but you will find everything from Hermès bags to the best 300-yen (US$2) gyoza you’ve ever tasted. I like to check in on the enormous red whale, which hangs suspended from the atrium of the Hep Five department store, which also happens to have a ferris wheel on its roof.

Enjoy a messy lunch

Train stations are where you’ll find some of the best food in Japan – and Osaka’s sprawling Umeda Station is no exception. My favorite train-station ramen is at Menya Takei, located behind the entry gates for the Hankyu Railway. Menya Takei specializes in tsukemen , in which the ramen noodles and broth are served separately. Dip the noodles into the broth to eat – yes, you’ll undoubtedly get it all over your clothes, but that’s part of the fun. Lots of laundry to do when you return home is a sure sign of a great trip. 

Insider tip : Ask the gate agent to let you through. They’ll make you pay for a rail ticket on the way in, and then may refund you on the way out.

From Osaka, hop back onboard the Shinkansen for more exploring in Japan, or do what I did and catch a quick, affordable domestic flight to Tokyo’s Haneda airport to connect to your flight home.

Keep planning your trip to Japan:

The 24 best things to do in Japan Find out if you need a visa to enter the country Take to the open road on these top drives How to discover Japan on a budget

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10 Reasons Why April Is the Best Time To Visit Japan

Japan is an island country in East Asia that is a hub for pop culture and significant history. The destination has diverse offerings for tourists since some areas are bustling with locals while others have a more zen atmosphere. In spring, Japan has nearly perfect outdoor conditions as the country livens up to welcome the new season. With lush greenery, blooming cherry blossoms , and plenty to explore, it is no surprise that travelers enjoy Japan in April. Learn more about this time of year and what travelers can expect from the best time to visit Japan.

Average Temperature This Time of Year

52-66 Degrees F

Haru Weather

Springtime is a highly celebrated season in Japan. As it is around the world, spring is a time for nature to thrive and blossom. It is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities. This is especially true for April since there is only moderate rainfall. The weather in April is both mild and pleasant, with evenings that are usually cooler. Days are mostly sunny, so there are comfortable conditions for exploration of the country which makes it the best time to visit Japan.

Travel Tip :

Travelers should bring a light rain jacket or small umbrella in case of short showers.

Sakura Season

The Japanese Cherry Blossom season is a magical experience for locals and visitors. Around five million people come from all around the world to witness the short-lived natural phenomenon. Counting foreigners and locals, around 63 million people flock to the Sakura festivals in Japan. The actual blooming of the cherry blossoms happens in only one to two weeks, but the stunning aftermath is what attracts so many admiring eyes. While the best times to view the cherry blossoms vary since the entire season lasts from the end of March until early May, April is the safest bet for travelers.

Some great viewing destinations are Kyoto, Himeji, Tokyo, Aomori, Iwate, and Miyagi. These are all cities in different parts of the country that have their own viewing parks and cultural offerings.

Otaku Culture

Otaku culture is a love for all things anime, manga, video games, or even technology. This culture is thriving in Japan, as many tourists know, so Japan is a great place to go for fans of cosplay, collectibles, and those in fandoms. This pop culture is especially thriving in Akihabara (or Akiba), which is nicknamed Japan’s Electric Town . The city has an Anime Center, gaming center, electronic stores, and more. For many, Akihabara is an Otaku paradise. During April, tourists can enjoy the district much more and engage in indoor and outdoor activities. These factors make it the best time to visit Japan’s Electric Town.

In April, travelers should try Mario Kart racing around Akihabara while the surrounding nature is thriving and there are great photo opportunities.

Relaxing Wellness Retreats

Japan is known for its innovation in health and wellness. Many Japanese traditions are rooted in promoting long life and mental dexterity. Not that the country needs much help in that area, since Japan has one of the highest life expectancies in the world. As the country’s natural surroundings flourish, there’s no better time for travelers to restore their inner and outer wellness than during spring. The ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort and Spa in Japan is among one of the most popular wellness resorts . Regardless of where travelers choose to stay on their trip to Japan, there is often a wellness retreat not too far away.

There are many mainstream wellness treatments available in Japan. However, it might be worth a try to check out some traditional practices like onsen bathing and meditation.

Fresh Seafood

Japan’s culinary influence is popular worldwide. Culinary fanatics will love their visit to Japan in April since they can enjoy some of the best outdoor seating and seasonal foods. Hokkaido, which is Japan’s northernmost island, is well known for its fresh seafood. The most common (and most delicious) seafood for travelers to try in Japan are scallops, sea urchin, crab, and salmon roe. Throughout Japan, countless high-rated restaurants will allow guests to get a taste of prime selections. The in-season seafood options for April are Japanese whiting, amberjack, bonito, and chicken grunt.

Another top destination for fresh seafood is the capital of Ishikawa, Kanazawa. There travelers can check out stores with fresh catches sashimi style, grilled, or fried.

Cultural Tea Ceremonies

In Japan, tea ceremonies are very culturally significant. The practice is deeply rooted in Zen philosophy and it is considered a spiritual process. To many, it is a way to bring internal peace and harmony as the simple act helps guests detach themselves from the outside world. Traditionally, these ceremonies take place in a chashitsu tea house. The stunning natural backdrop in April makes it the best time to visit Japan and enjoy a tea ceremony. A full-length (and formal) tea ceremony will likely last around four hours. The ceremonies are hosted so they guide guests through a full meal and several tea servings and help them learn about the Japanese tradition.

Many tourists enjoy a tea ceremony In Osaka. While this is an authentic Japanese cultural experience, it typically lasts less than four hours unless travelers book a special ceremony.

This theme park is extremely popular and was built in 1983, so it is relatively new. It was the first Disney-themed park outside of the United States. Some travelers may have been to other Disney theme parks, but each park offers its own unique experiences. For example, Disneyland Japan has Adventureland, Westernland, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, Critter Country, Mickey’s Toontown, and World Bazaar.

During April, there is quite pleasant weather and it is not sweltering hot so visitors can enjoy their time at the park. There may even be a special event or festival at the park during this month, depending on when travelers visit. Although this park is called the Tokyo Disney Resort, it isn’t technically located there. It is in Urayasu, Chiba prefecture in Japan. This is pretty close to Tokyo though so travelers should not worry about a long commute if they stay in Tokyo.

To save time on the commute, it may be wise to stay at a Tokyo Disneyland Resort. This is especially true if travelers want to see the whole park, which is estimated to take around four days.

Mount Fuji is one of the most popular attractions in Japan. It is a breathtaking natural attraction. The active volcano is located southwest of Tokyo and attracts around 300,000 tourists every year who climb it. It is the tallest peak in the country and has served as inspiration for plenty of art throughout the years. In April, it is a good idea for travelers to explore Mount Fuji. Technically the spring is the off-season, so travelers will most likely be able to avoid crowds.

Although the weather is warm compared to the winter, there are still remnants of snow on Mount Fuji trails in April. Travelers should anticipate this as they prepare for their hike.

Local Festivals

Many festivals are occurring in Japan during April, which is yet another bonus for it being the best time to visit. The Takayama Matsuri (or Sanno Matsuri) is a celebration of spring. To bring the season in, travelers can attend the exciting festival. This event has even been ranked as one of Japan’s most beautiful festivals. Another popular festival is the Miyako Odori which is commonly held in Kyoto. This festival is a celebration of “geiko” and “maiko” which are professional arts entertainers and their apprentices. Much of the word refers to these performers as geisha. The Miyako Odori is a rare chance for travelers to observe beautiful geiko performances.

There are countless cultural festivals this time of year, depending on traveler interests, but the majority of people enjoy Sakura festivals in April.

The first ten days of April are one of the busiest times for tourism in Kyoto due to the blooming cherry blossoms’ big appeal for tourists. Spring is an excellent time to visit the old capital of Japan due to its rich history and the large part it plays in preserving Japanese culture. Travelers looking to immerse themselves in Japanese culture will be in luck if they visit Kyoto. Some of the most popular things to see during April include the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kinkaku-Ji (or Golden Pavilion), Nijo Castle, and Fushimi Inari Taisha.

Maruyama Park is a nice area where travelers can explore Kyoto. During April, which falls in the Japanese Cherry Blossom season, a weeping cherry tree is lit up there at night.

Overall, April is one of the best times for travelers to visit Japan. It has ideal weather and plenty for tourists to do across the country. During that time, travelers can see the Japanese cherry blossoms, take part in local culture through engaging events, and enjoy the calming atmosphere.

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A s a travel enthusiast starts planning a 2024 travel itinerary, Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun, ticks all the boxes. It is the ultimate travel destination thanks to its historic streets of Kyoto, savoring delicious street food in Osaka, exploring the religious shrines, or staying at the ryokans . From the age-old cherry fields to the peaceful country roads, this place is a feast for the senses.

Springtime being this place's truly magical venture, Japan comes alive with color and energy, and visitors are feasted on a lot of enjoyable destinations to explore. Its rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty offers an array of adventures for every travel enthusiast.

Disclaimer: This is purely the writer's opinion, and might have missed some favorite destinations.

The top activities to experience in Japan in 2024

Whether the avid traveler is a history buff, a food enthusiast, or a nature lover, Japan is the perfect place for their visit in 2024.

Ahead, Team Sportskeeda has thoughtfully created a list of the seven best things to do in Japan in 2024 and make the most of their visit.

• Explore Kinkaku-ji at Kyoto
• Enjoy Hanami in Tokyo
• Feed the deer at Nara
• Learn about the city's history at Hiroshima
• River cruise at Osaka
• Ski at Hokkaido
• Sun-bask on the shorelines of Okinawa

1) Explore Kinkaku-ji at Kyoto

Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan , is a must-visit spring destination for avid travelers. Considering that the best time to travel is in late March to early April, this holiday and sightseeing place is well-known for its cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Sight-seers should not miss the spectacular Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and the traditional Gion District. For lodging, one should consider staying at a classic ryokan to experience the hospitality at its best. Kansai International Airport, the nearest airport, can be easily commuted to thanks to local transportation.

Once in Kyoto, one should also make sure to try out the local cuisines, like kaiseki (a multicourse feast) and various matcha confectionaries. Noted diners like Nishiki Market and Pontocho Alley also rule the culinary delight list.

2) Enjoy Hanami in Tokyo

Be it the onset of autumn or spring, the metropolis of Tokyo, Japan, is always bustling with a unique blend of modernity and ritual. Including Senso-ji Temple and Meiji Shrine, this metropolis' main attractions are decorated with cherry blossoms, catering to a panoramic view.

Once in Tokyo, tourists can enjoy activities like hanami (flower viewing) picnics in Ueno Park and boat or yacht cruises along the Sumida River. For an unforgettable stay, visitors can select a hotel in the vibrant Shibuya or Shinjuku districts and indulge in a wide variety of delectable local cuisines, like sushi tempura and ramen at Tsukiji Outer Market, and the food stalls at Ameyoko Market.

Read more: 6 Best European countries to visit in Summer 2024

3) Feed the deer at Nara

Nara, well-known for its friendly deer and ancient religious shrines, it is always the perfect time for any travel enthusiast to visit this charming destination.

Visitors can engage in activities like feeding deer and exploring the picturesque Isuien Garden at Nara Park and Todai-ji Temple, the main attractions they shouldn't miss. Once here, a holiday enthusiast can stay at cozy homestays or ryokans for an authentic lodging experience. There are also sample local delicacies, like Kakinoha sushi and persimmon leaf sushi, at the best diners in the Nara-machi district.

4) Learn about the city's history at Hiroshima

Hiroshima, a Japan metropolis with a resilient spirit and a profound history, is best visited in early April. From the local Hiroshima Airport, courtesy of its travel-friendly communication, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Shukkeien Garden are the main places of interest that offer serene beauty. Here, tourists can engage in activities like visiting the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum to learn about the city's history.

One can also plan their stay at comfortable hotels and savor local cuisines like okonomiyaki and oysters from the best diners like Okonomimura and Mitaki-en.

5) River cruise at Osaka

Considered one of the most vibrant cities, Osaka is famed for its lively environment and mouthwatering delicacies. The best time to visit is late March or early April. Once landing at the Kansai International Airport, a vacationer can enjoy their holiday by visiting the main attractions, like Osaka Castle and Dotonbori.

Thanks to its panoramic view, travelers can enjoy local activities like exploring the bustling Kuromon Ichiba Market and river cruising along the Okawa River. Planning a 2 to 3-day trip to Osaka, a vacationer can book their stay at downtown's trendy hotels and indulge in local cuisines like takoyaki , okonomiyaki , and kushikatsu at street food stalls, and best-eating joints like Mizuno and Kani Doraku.

Read more: 6 Best treks in the world

6) Ski at Hokkaido

Hokkaido, the northernmost island, is a must-see spring holiday destination in Japan, courtesy of its spectacular natural attractions. When hiring local transportation or pre-paid cabs from New Chitose Airport, the best time to visit is late April or early May. During this time, tourists can enjoy the main attractions, such as the vast fields of Shikisai-no-Oka and the majestic beauty of Shikisai Hill.

They can engage in activities like exploring Biei's charming beauty, skiing, Onsen (hot springs), enjoying a relaxing soak in the famous Noboribetsu hot springs, or staying at comfortable ryokans or motels with stunning mountain views. They can also savor these gastronomical delights in local delicacies like fresh seafood , spicy ramen, and tasty dairy products at the best diners like Ramen Yokocho and Nijo Market.

7) Sun-bask on the shorelines of Okinawa

Off-boarding at the Naha airport, Okinawa's gorgeous shorelines and rich history welcome avid travelers, making it an excellent destination year-round for all travel enthusiasts visiting Japan. Once here, travelers can explore the lively marine life at the Churaumi Aquarium and the Ryukyu culture of historical Shuri Castle.

They can rest and recoup at beachfront resorts like the Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa, or Halekulani, Okinawa, to experience the true essence of Okinawa, Japan. Visitors can also spoil their tastebuds with the local flavors of sample Okinawan soba, agu pork , goya champuru, and rafute pork.

Read more: 6 best Spring destinations in the world to take a family vacation

These are the seven best things to do in Japan in 2024 that promise an array of unforgettable experiences for travel enthusiasts. So, avid travelers can start backpacking to enjoy their adventure-packed holiday.