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.
Travel Tip:
- 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.
Travel Tip:
- 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.
Travel Tip:
- 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.
Travel Tip:
- 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.
Travel Tip:
- 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.
Disneyland
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.
Travel Tip:
- 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
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.
Travel Tip:
- 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.
Travel Tip:
- There are countless cultural festivals this time of year, depending on traveler interests, but the majority of people enjoy Sakura festivals in April.
Kyoto
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.
Travel Tip:
- 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.