Is April a good month to visit Japan? Here’s everything you need to know

Japan in April is cherry blossoms month! Here’s everything you need to know about traveling to Japan this month.

April is one of the best months to visit Japan, primarily because it falls within the cherry blossom season (sakura), which is a significant and beautiful time of year in the country.

The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from cool to comfortably warm, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

I visit Japan every April for the sakura cherry blossoms so here’s what you need to know about the weather in Japan in April:

🗼 Reasons to visit Japan in April

Here are a few reasons why April is a great time to visit Japan:

Cherry Blossom Viewing (Hanami)

The cherry blossoms, symbolizing the beauty and transience of life, bloom across the country from late March to early May, with peak blooms in many areas occurring in April. This is a time for both locals and tourists to enjoy hanami, or cherry blossom viewing parties, in parks and along riversides.

Pleasant Weather

April provides mild and comfortable weather, with average temperatures that make it ideal for exploring the outdoors. It’s a refreshing change from the cold of winter, yet not as hot and humid as the summer months.

Festivals and Events

Numerous festivals and events take place in Japan in April, celebrating the spring season, cherry blossoms, and cultural traditions. This includes the Takayama Spring Festival, one of Japan’s most beautiful float festivals, and the Kanamara Matsuri.

Travel and Scenery

Besides the cherry blossoms, spring brings fresh greenery and flowers to Japan’s landscapes, making it a beautiful time for travel and photography. The parks and gardens are especially vibrant, and many temples and shrines have gardens that are meticulously maintained to reflect the season’s beauty.

🌸 Japan in April is cherry blossoms month!

Experiencing the cherry blossoms in Japan in April is a unique and unforgettable experience for several compelling reasons.

The cherry blossom, or sakura, holds profound cultural significance in Japan, symbolizing the beauty and transient nature of life. This perspective is deeply ingrained in Japanese philosophy and aesthetics.

Participating in hanami (cherry blossom viewing) allows you to immerse yourself in a tradition that dates back hundreds of years, offering a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and society.

The sight of cherry blossoms in full bloom is truly breathtaking. Parks, riversides, temples, and castles across Japan are blanketed in shades of pink and white, creating picturesque landscapes.

This natural beauty provides a perfect backdrop for photography, picnics, and leisurely walks, making it an ideal setting for both relaxation and exploration.

Many regions host cherry blossom festivals (sakura matsuri) during the peak blooming season. These festivals often feature traditional music, dance performances, food stalls, and night illuminations of cherry blossom trees.

April’s mild weather provides the perfect opportunity to be outdoors and enjoy the transition from winter to spring. The comfortable temperatures make it ideal for exploring cities, historic sites, and natural landscapes that are enhanced by the cherry blossom’s fleeting beauty.

While cherry blossoms can be found in many parts of the world, the widespread celebration and appreciation across the entire country make Japan unique.

💴 Is April in Japan expensive?

Yes, April is an expensive month to visit Japan. April coincides with the cherry blossom season, which is a significant attraction for both domestic and international tourists.

Although it starts at the end of April and extends into the first week of May, Golden Week is one of Japan’s busiest holiday seasons. This period includes several national holidays, and many Japanese take time off to travel, visit family, or enjoy leisure activities.

Accommodation Costs in Japan in April

Hotel and other lodging prices tend to increase significantly in April, especially in popular tourist destinations and cities known for their cherry blossoms, such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Early booking is recommended to secure better rates and availability.

• Luxury Hotels: High-end hotels in major cities or tourist destinations offer world-class amenities and services. Prices can start from around 20,000 JPY (approximately $150 USD) per night and can go much higher for premium options.
• Business Hotels: Catering to business travelers but also a good option for tourists, these hotels offer clean, efficient accommodations at moderate prices. Rates range from 6,000 to 15,000 JPY (approximately 45-115 USD) per night.
• Ryokan (Traditional Japanese Inns): Basic ryokan might start around 10,000 JPY (approximately 75 USD) per person, per night, including meals. Luxurious options can exceed 30,000 JPY (approximately 225 USD) per person, per night.
• Minshuku (Family-run Guesthouses): Similar to ryokan but more home-like and less expensive, prices for minshuku are typically between 5,000 and 10,000 JPY (approximately 37-75 USD) per person, per night, often including breakfast and dinner.
• Capsule Hotels: Known for their compact, pod-like sleeping areas, capsule hotels are a budget-friendly option mainly found in cities. Prices range from 2,000 to 5,000 JPY (approximately 15-37 USD) per night. They offer shared bathrooms and common areas.
• Hostels: Hostels in Japan are clean and efficient, providing both dormitory-style and private rooms. They’re a popular choice among budget travelers, with prices from 2,500 to 4,000 JPY (approximately 19-30 USD) per night for a dorm bed.
• Love Hotels: Designed for couples seeking privacy, love hotels offer rooms for short stays (a few hours) or overnight. Rates for overnight stays can range from 6,000 to 12,000 JPY (approximately 45-90 USD), varying by location and room quality.

Transportation Costs in Japan in April

The cost of domestic travel, including trains, buses, and flights within Japan, may also rise due to the higher demand. Purchasing a Japan Rail Pass in advance can help mitigate some transportation costs, especially if planning to travel between multiple cities.

• Shinkansen (Bullet Trains): The most efficient way to travel long distances in Japan. Fares depend on distance and class (Ordinary, Green Car, or Gran Class). For example, a one-way ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours) in Ordinary Class can cost around 13,000 JPY to 14,000 JPY (approximately 100-105 USD).
• JR Pass: For tourists, the Japan Rail Pass offers unlimited travel on most JR trains (including many shinkansen) for 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days. Prices start at around 29,650 JPY (approximately 220 USD) for a 7-day Ordinary Class pass, which can be a cost-effective option for those planning extensive travel.
• Local and Regional Trains: Costs vary by distance but are generally affordable for short to medium distances. For example, a one-way trip within a city or to nearby suburbs might cost from 200 JPY to 1,500 JPY (approximately 1.50-11 USD).
• :ong-Distance Buses: An economical alternative to trains for intercity travel. Overnight buses from Tokyo to Kyoto, for example, can range from 4,500 JPY to 10,000 JPY (approximately 34-75 USD), depending on the level of comfort.
• Local Buses: In cities and rural areas, local buses are a cost-effective way to get around. Fares typically range from 200 JPY to 500 JPY (approximately 1.50-3.75 USD) per ride.
• Taxi Starting Fare: Taxis in Japan start at around 410-730 JPY (approximately 3-5.50 USD) for the first kilometer, with additional charges accruing by distance and time. Taxis can be expensive for long distances but are convenient for short rides or when public transportation is not available.
• Rental Car Daily Rates: Rental car prices start at around 5,000 JPY (approximately 37 USD) per day for a small car, not including fuel and tolls. Renting a car can be a good option for exploring regions of Japan where public transportation is less convenient.
• Domestic flights varied by destination: For travel between islands or across long distances quickly, domestic flights can be competitive, especially with low-cost carriers. Fares vary widely but can start from around 5,000 JPY (approximately 37 USD) for promotional fares to over 20,000 JPY (approximately 150 USD) for regular fares, depending on the route and booking timing.

Tourist Attraction Prices in Japan in April

While entrance fees to most temples, shrines, and public gardens remain constant throughout the year, the cost of guided tours and special events might be higher during the peak season.

• Temples and Shrines: Many temples and shrines in Japan are free to enter, though some may charge an entrance fee for accessing certain buildings or gardens within the complex. These fees typically range from 300 JPY to 1,000 JPY (about 2.25 USD to 7.50 USD).
• Castles: Entrance fees for famous castles like Himeji Castle or Matsumoto Castle can range from 600 JPY to 1,000 JPY (about 4.50 USD to 7.50 USD).
• General Admission: Prices vary widely but generally fall between 400 JPY and 2,000 JPY (about 3 USD to 15 USD), depending on the museum’s prominence and the type of exhibitions available.
• Universal Studios Japan: A 1-day studio pass typically ranges from about 7,800 JPY to 8,800 JPY (about 58 USD to 66 USD) for adults, varying by season.
• Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea: A 1-day passport costs around 8,200 JPY (about 61 USD) for adults. Prices are subject to change, especially during peak seasons like the cherry blossom season in April.
• Kenrokuen in Kanazawa, Korakuen in Okayama, and Kairakuen in Mito: While some gardens are free, others, especially the famous ones, may charge an admission fee of around 300 JPY to 500 JPY (about 2.25 USD to 3.75 USD).
• Public Onsen: Entrance fees for public onsen baths typically range from 500 JPY to 2,500 JPY (about 3.75 USD to 18.75 USD), depending on the facilities and location. Private onsen experiences can be significantly more expensive.
• Most natural parks and hiking trails in Japan are free to access, but certain national parks or protected areas may charge a small fee for maintenance and conservation efforts.
• Cultural Workshops and Guided Tours: Prices for these experiences can vary greatly depending on the activity, duration, and group size. For example, a tea ceremony experience could cost anywhere from 2,000 JPY to 10,000 JPY (about 15 USD to 75 USD), while guided tours can range from 5,000 JPY to 20,000 JPY (about 37 USD to 150 USD) per person.

🥶 Is it still cold in Japan in April?

In Japan, April generally marks the transition from the cooler temperatures of winter to the milder, more pleasant weather of spring.

However, the temperature can vary significantly across the country due to its geographical diversity. Here’s a general overview of what to expect weather-wise in Japan in April:

Northern Japan in April (Hokkaido)

In Hokkaido, April can still be quite cool, with temperatures often ranging from about 3°C (37°F) to 11°C (52°F). Snow is less common in April, but there can still be some chilly days, especially at the beginning of the month or in higher elevations.

Central and Eastern Japan in April (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka)

In these regions, April is typically mild and pleasant. Average temperatures range from about 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F), with warmer days becoming more common as the month progresses. This is ideal weather for outdoor activities, including cherry blossom viewing.

Southern Japan in April (Okinawa)

Okinawa experiences warmer temperatures earlier in the year compared to the rest of Japan. In April, temperatures in Okinawa usually range from 18°C (64°F) to 23°C (73°F), making it comfortably warm and suitable for beach visits and other outdoor activities.

Western Japan in April (Hiroshima, Fukuoka)

Similar to central Japan, western Japan enjoys mild and pleasant weather in April, with average temperatures ranging from 11°C (52°F) to 19°C (66°F). This makes it a great time for sightseeing and exploring the outdoors.

🎎 Is Japan too crowded in April?

Yes, especially in popular tourist destinations and cities known for their cherry blossom spots, such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. April is one of the most popular times to visit Japan, primarily because of the cherry blossom season.

Prime locations for cherry blossom viewing can become particularly crowded, especially on weekends and during the evenings when the blossoms are lit up for night viewing. Parks, riversides, and gardens attract large numbers of visitors looking to enjoy hanami (flower viewing) parties.

Besides cherry blossom spots, other popular tourist attractions and landmarks can also see an uptick in visitors. This includes historical sites, temples, shrines, and museums.

The end of April and the beginning of May marks Golden Week, one of Japan’s busiest holiday seasons. During this period, many Japanese people take time off to travel, visit family, or partake in leisure activities, adding to the number of domestic tourists.

While April is a busy time in Japan, with careful planning, you can still enjoy the many wonders and beauty this season has to offer.

⛩️ Which part of Japan is best to visit in April?

In April, much of Japan is at its most beautiful, thanks to the mild spring weather and the spectacular cherry blossoms that bloom throughout the country.

The best part of Japan to visit in April largely depends on your interests, whether they be cultural events, natural beauty, or less crowded destinations.

Here are recommendations for various regions and what they offer in April:

Tokyo in April

Visiting Tokyo, Japan in April is an experience filled with the vibrant colors of cherry blossoms and the lively energy of spring. Which makes this city super busy during April!

April in Tokyo is synonymous with cherry blossom season, and the city’s numerous parks, such as Ueno Park and Shinjuku Gyoen, become bustling hubs of hanami (flower viewing) parties.

Beyond the blossoms, Tokyo offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions, including ancient temples, cutting-edge technology museums, and world-class dining.

The weather is comfortably mild in Tokyo in April, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 19°C (50°F to 66°F), perfect for exploring the city.

Kyoto in April

As Kyoto is a popular destination in Japan, expect Kyoto to be crowded in April. The city’s April weather, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 19°C (46°F to 66°F), creates an inviting backdrop for exploring its historic streets.

Kyoto, the heart of Japan in April, is adorned with cherry blossoms, framing iconic sites like Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the Philosopher’s Path in soft pinks and whites. The month is packed with cultural events and festivals celebrating the season.

Osaka in April

Osaka, known for its outgoing spirit and flavorful street food, transforms into a lively spring spectacle in Japan in April. With temperatures comfortably between 12°C and 20°C (54°F to 68°F), the city’s streets and parks come alive under a canopy of cherry blossoms.

Osaka Castle, set against the bloom-laden trees, offers a breathtaking sight and a perfect picnic spot for hanami. The city’s culinary scene, already renowned for its takoyaki and okonomiyaki, embraces the season with special sakura-themed dishes.

Nightlife in Osaka remains vibrant, with the Dotonbori district offering illuminated evenings by the river. Visitors to Osaka in April can expect a mix of splendid natural beauty, bustling urban life, and the warmth of Osakan hospitality.

Hiroshima and Miyajima in April

Hiroshima and its nearby sacred island Miyajima offer a profound and picturesque experience for visitors to Japan in April. Hiroshima, with April temperatures ranging from 11°C to 19°C (52°F to 66°F), presents a poignant history amidst the renewal of spring.

Hokkaido in April

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, offers a distinct spring experience compared to the rest of Japan in April. The weather is cooler here, with temperatures ranging from 3°C to 11°C (37°F to 52°F), signaling the slow embrace of spring.

This delay means cherry blossoms bloom later, providing visitors a unique opportunity to catch the sakura season in late April to early May. Hokkaido’s vast landscapes, from the pristine waters of Lake Toya to the dramatic cliffs of Cape Kamui, are slowly waking from winter, offering breathtaking natural scenery with fewer crowds.

The region’s renowned hot springs, or onsens, are particularly inviting during the cooler spring days. Hokkaido’s culinary scene, famous for its fresh seafood and dairy products, adds another layer of allure.

☔ Is April a rainy month in Japan?

April is generally NOT considered a rainy month in Japan. It falls between the end of winter and the beginning of the rainy season, which typically starts in late May or early June.

April is characterized by relatively dry and mild weather, making it one of the best times to visit for outdoor activities and cherry blossom viewing. However, like any season, occasional rain showers can occur, so it’s wise to carry an umbrella or raincoat just in case.

🧥 What do you wear in Japan in April?

In Japan, April’s weather is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from cool to comfortably warm. Here’s a packing list for Japan in April: