Spring is a great time to visit Japan, with beautiful flowers, fresh air, and comfortable temperatures. It's no surprise that it's one of the most popular travel seasons! During Golden Week, from late April to early May, locals take a break to enjoy the spring beauty.
It's the perfect time to refresh, create new memories, and enjoy the many activities and destinations. Update your bucket list and discover the top things to do this spring in Japan!
Experience hanami under the blooming cherry blossoms
No matter where you are in Japan, the incredible natural beauty of the pink and white cherry blossoms spreads across cities, temples, towns, and mountains. No trip to Japan in spring is complete without Hanami (cherry blossom viewing). It's a great opportunity to get out there with your friends and family - bring your picnic blankets, BBQ sets, snacks and drinks while relaxing and appreciating this awe-inspiring paradise. Nothing beats making friends with the locals during Hanami!
Japan offers many parks renowned for their stunning floral displays, which shouldn't be missed. These include the wisteria, pink moss, and blue nemophila varieties. Ashikaga Flower Park in Tochigi, Kawachi Wisteria Garden in Fukuoka, Huis Ten Bosch, Hirosaki Park and Isumi Railway are among the locals' favorite destinations. Parks are ideal places to experience nature's beauty, participate in festivals, and enjoy various activities.
Go on a Ski Trip in Hokkaido
Hokkaido, Japan's northern island, remains a winter wonderland even as temperatures rise across most of Japan. Although the japow may have stopped falling, the deep snow base allows for spring skiing with fewer crowds, lower accommodation costs, and longer daylight hours. The abundance of blue skies and breathtaking views make it an ideal time to enjoy the ski slopes. With resorts and properties aplenty, Hokkaido is easily accessible from Sapporo's New Chitose Airport.
Searching for properties in Hokkaido? Learn more here.
Indulge in Japan's strawberry kingdom
The peak of strawberry season in Japan occurs in spring. Tochigi Prefecture, the country's largest cultivator, sees numerous farms overflowing with delicious strawberries as temperatures rise. Both locals and tourists visit this location to pick and eat strawberries while experiencing the abundance of Japan's harvest.
Hike the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, located in central Honshu, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Japan. The route offers breathtaking views of the Japanese Alps, featuring stunning lakes, rivers, and charming villages.
If you're looking to hike from Mount Tateyama in Toyama to Mount Akazawadake in Nagano, plan your trip for April. For those more interested in the impressive snow walls, the end of May is the ideal time to start your trek.
Immerse yourself in the full Japanese experience through festivals and spring delicacies
The best spring experience would not be complete without attending traditional Japanese festivals and enjoying delicious spring snacks, which both locals and tourists love.
Some of the biggest festivals during the season are the following:
- Sanja Matsuri (Tokyo, May) – One of Tokyo’s largest and most energetic shrine festivals.
- Kanda Matsuri (Tokyo, April-May) – A grand festival held only in odd-numbered years.
- Shibazakura Festival (Yamanashi, April-May) – A colorful flower festival with Mount Fuji as the backdrop.
- Aoi Matsuri (Kyoto, May 15) – A traditional imperial procession through Kyoto’s historic sites.
People from across the globe gather to celebrate with a parade and amazing Japanese spring delights like Sakura Mochi(Japanese-style rice cake), Takenoko (Young Bamboo Shoots), and many more Sakura-themed food and drinks.
Enjoy Spring on two wheels!
Cycling is a fantastic way to experience Japan's spring beauty. Imagine renting a bike and pedaling through picturesque landscapes with cherry blossoms in full bloom — it's like something out of a movie! Consider cycling along the Seto Inland Sea Road or exploring Tokyo's charming neighborhoods. With pleasant weather and stunning scenery, cycling is an unforgettable way to enjoy Japan's spring season.
Visit a tea farm and join the tea harvest
Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan's top tea producer, is the perfect place to experience the first tea harvest of the spring season. Visitors can participate in tea-picking tours, traditional chakabuki (tea-tasting) games, and workshops on crafting premium matcha and sencha.
Explore the Wisteria tunnel
The Kawachi Fuji Garden in Northern Kyushu is a must-see destination during spring in Japan. The garden's Wisteria Tunnel, with its cascading blooms, offers a fairytale-like experience, showcasing the beauty of wisteria flowers alongside the iconic cherry blossoms.
Book your beach vacation on Okinawa Island
Escape the cold and head to Japan's southern tropical islands for a perfect spring getaway. With beaches reopening and summer crowds yet to arrive, you'll find affordable prices and exclusive deals. Enjoy peaceful beaches and stunning sunsets in Okinawa, where spectacular beaches, breathtaking scenery, and a tranquil atmosphere offer an idyllic spring break experience.
Explore new property listings this new season!
Japan transforms into a wonderland of stunning scenery, cultural celebrations, and memorable outdoor adventures during spring. Whether you're looking forward to seeing the cherry blossoms, skiing in Hokkaido, or unwinding on Okinawa’s beaches, there’s an abundance of activities to suit all interests this season.
