Japan Weather in April, 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...

Japan Weather in April: Averages

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

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!

6 Best Places to Visit in Japan in April

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 >>>

What to Pack in April

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.