Spring happens over a three month period in Japan. It normally begins late March and ends in May. Usually what signifies the start of spring in Japan is the cherry blossom season.
This season is very exciting for both the locals and those who travel to Japan during this time. Sakura (cherry blossom) is blooming from the trees in pink and white hues.
There are also many different spring festivities happening around this time, as well as better weather on the horizon.
Read on to find out more about springtime in Japan and why it is such a wonderful time to visit the country on your next trip.
When Does Spring Begin In Japan?
Spring begins at the end of March and the beginning of April, and signifies the start of a new year for many. During this time, children begin a new year at school.
The feeling of renewal for the year ahead also plays a huge role during the cherry blossom season too, which happens during this time of year. As the pink petals bloom, everyone knows that a fresh new year has begun and that warmer weather is ahead.
What Is Spring Weather Like In Japan?
Japan is a country that, just like the USA, experiences all of the four seasons. However, how long certain seasons last and at what temperature all depends on where you are in Japan.
For example, Okinawa (in the south) tends to be hotter in the month of March compared to Hokkaido (in the north). Having said that, generally in spring most places in Japan will experience cooler evenings and warmer days.
In general, somewhere like Tokyo may experience an average temperature of 55 degrees Fahrenheit in the morning and afternoon, and 41 degrees Fahrenheit in the evening going into the night.
Once mid-April time hits, this changes to 65 degrees Fahrenheit in the afternoon and 51 degrees Fahrenheit in the evening.
Unsurprisingly, May is the warmest spring month. By now the afternoon temperature average in Tokyo is 73 degrees Fahrenheit and 59 degrees Fahrenheit in the evening.
When Is Cherry Blossom Season In Japan?
Springtime in Japan evokes images of spring blossoms blooming. It is no surprise that a lot of foreign travelers go to Japan during spring just to see it too.
That’s why you will always get a mixture of locals and foreigners gazing up at the wonderful sakura in places such as Yoyogi Park and Kyoto. You can also venture out to Ueno Park which is situated in Tokyo to celebrate Hanami.
Hanami (cherry blossom viewing) is a celebration during cherry blossom season that involves sitting under the pink petals or viewing them with loved ones, drinking and eating, and enjoying the present.
You can also enjoy sakura flavored tea and treats too. They are in abundance during this time of year.
If you want to see the cherry blossoms, then you will need to book your trip around the dates of end of March to early April. The phenomenon itself only lasts for around two weeks.
What Japanese Festivals Are There In Spring?
There are many festivals during spring that the locals celebrate. Some of these include:
Hina Matsuri
Also known as Girls’ Day, it dates back to the pre-17th century when straw figurines were created and floated down a river to ward off any evil spirits. It would also bring prosperity and good health.
However, only those households who had young daughters did this.
During the 17 century, Empress Meisho made the day into a national holiday due to having the straw figurines as a child. The dolls were displayed on this date instead of sent down the river.
These days, it is celebrated for girls under ten years old. The families pray for both success and happiness for their own daughters. They also make a special dish too which has meaning.
For example, hina-arare which are sweet rice puffs in the colors of green, yellow, white and pink. They represent the seasons in Japan, and are to provide happiness for the year ahead.
Kodomo no Hi
Also known as Children’s Day, and was once known as Boys’ Day. It happens on May 5th when you will see lots of places decorated with colorful koi streamers which are known as koi no bori.
The koi fish are hung up as the day approaches. Once Children’s Day arrives, samurai dolls are put out to display. These signify happiness and strength. This also happens during Golden Week (April 29th to May 6th) when children are off school.
Why Do People Wear Masks In Spring In Japan?
During springtime in Japan you may notice a rise in surgical masks. While you may think this is to do with the recent pandemic, it is actually related to allergies.
As the flowers begin to bloom and release pollen into the air, those with hayfever and other related allergies may want to take steps to avoid having the ‘sniffles’ during their time in Japan.
Another reason you may see Japanese people wearing surgical masks is that it is commonplace for locals to wear them when they have a cold. This is to help avoid the spread of the cold as they go about their day.
Final Thoughts
Spring is a great time to visit Japan. There are not only a lot of things going on – including the wonderful hanami – but the weather is great too.
During springtime it isn’t too hot or too cold. Unlike somewhere like South Korea which has ‘two seasons’, Japan has a mild spring. While the days can be warm, the temperatures can drop in the evening and overnight.
The temperature may even fool you in the morning into thinking the day will be cold. Come noon, and you may need to remove your coat.
Spring is a wonderful time to take a trip to Japan – especially Tokyo. You will find that the weather is pleasant enough to spend time on your feet exploring the city and beyond.
Hi, I’m Jason Patrick, and for as long as I have been alive, I have been obsessed with Japanese culture. From the sights and sounds of Japan’s many cities to its culinary delights that have become famous worldwide, I simply cannot get enough of this wonderful nation!
I hope that, by exploring this website, you all will develop a much deeper appreciation for Japan, and that it may even influence you to pay it a visit yourself eventually! It is definitely a trip of a lifetime, and whether you experience it firsthand, or through my own website, I’m sure you will become just as passionate as I always have been!
