Japan in April

The 4th month in Japan is one of the most attractive times to visit the Land of the Rising Sun. As the country wakes up from its winter slumber, nature comes to life with a kaleidoscope of flowers, calm weather, and vibrant festivals. Known for its iconic cherry blossom season, this period attracts millions of visitors from around the world. From weather and seasonal highlights to festivals and practical travel tips, let’s dive into what makes April so special in Japan.

Weather in April in Japan

Spring weather in Japan is delightful, making it perfect for sightseeing. Temperatures vary across regions, from the cooler northern areas to the almost summer-like warmth in the south.

Temperature Range:

• Northern Japan (Hokkaido and Tohoku):
  The average temperature in Sapporo is around 7°C, still quite chilly.
• Central Japan (Tokyo and Kyoto):
  Comfortable daytime temperatures of 14–15°C make outings enjoyable.
• Southern Japan (Kyushu and Okinawa):
  Particularly warm, with Okinawa temperatures floating around 21°C.

Rain and Sunlight:

While April isn’t the rainy season, occasional rain is expected. For instance:

• In Honshu (Tokyo, Osaka), the probability of rain is about 30%.
• Sunny days dominate, with 6–7 hours of sunshine on average per day.

What to Wear in April:

Layering is key to staying comfortable throughout the day.

• Light T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, and sweaters for daytime.
• Light jackets for cool evenings.
• A waterproof jacket or umbrella for unexpected rain.
• Scarves or beanies for chilly nights.

Cherry Blossom Season (Sakura)

The highlight of Japan’s 4th month is undoubtedly the cherry blossom season, a fleeting beauty that holds a special place in Japanese culture.

The Charm of the Season:

Cherry blossoms, with their delicate pink and white hues, symbolize rebirth and the transient nature of life. This short but enchanting bloom draws countless visitors who gather for hanami (flower-viewing parties).

Blooming Schedule and Locations:

Blooming times vary by region:

• Tokyo and Kyoto: Late March to early April.
• Osaka and Hiroshima: Early to mid-April.
• Northern Japan (Tohoku and Hokkaido): Late April to early May.

Best Hanami Spots:

• Ueno Park (Tokyo)
• Kiyomizu-dera Temple (Kyoto)
• Osaka Castle Park (Osaka)

Hanami Etiquette:

• Do not pick or damage flowers.
• Use designated areas for picnics.
• Dispose of trash responsibly.

Nighttime Cherry Blossoms:

As night falls, parks and landmarks illuminate the cherry trees with soft lighting, creating a magical atmosphere. Popular spots include:

• Meguro River (Tokyo)
• Nishinomaru Garden (Osaka Castle Park)

Other Flowers Blooming in April

While cherry blossoms are the stars, spring in Japan also showcases other breathtaking flowers.

Wisteria at Ashikaga Flower Park:

Located in Tochigi Prefecture, this park is famous for its wisteria tunnels that form dreamy canopies of purple, white, and pink.

Tulips at Tonami Tulip Park:

In Toyama Prefecture, the Tonami Tulip Fair features over 200 million tulips in dazzling colors and patterns.

Nemophila at Hitachi Seaside Park:

Mid-April transforms Hitachi Seaside Park (Ibaraki Prefecture) into a sea of blue as millions of nemophila bloom across Miharashi-no-oka.

Moss Phlox near Mount Fuji:

The Fuji Shibazakura Festival offers stunning views of moss phlox carpeting the landscape in pink hues, set against the backdrop of majestic Mount Fuji.

Festivals and Events of the 4th Month in Japan

Japan’s rich cultural heritage shines brightly through its numerous traditional festivals and unique celebrations in the 4th month of the year. These events provide travelers with a glimpse into the country’s history, spirituality, and vibrant community life.

Major Festivals and Events

Takayama Spring Festival (Takayama Matsuri)

• Date: April 14–15
• Location: Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture
  One of Japan’s most beautiful festivals, the Takayama Matsuri features ornate wooden floats (yatai) parading through the historic Takayama Old Town. At night, the illuminated floats create a magical atmosphere.

Kanamara Matsuri (Steel Phallus Festival)

• Date: First Sunday of April
• Location: Kawasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture
  This quirky and unique festival celebrates fertility and health. Held at the Kanayama Shrine, the event draws curious visitors from across the globe with its distinctive cultural symbolism.

Beppu Onsen Festival

• Date: April 1–7
• Location: Beppu City, Oita Prefecture
  In Japan’s hot spring capital, this festival offers free access to selected hot springs, vibrant parades, and fiery bonfire rituals on Ogiyama Mountain.

Nemophila Harmony

• Date: Mid-April to Early May
• Location: Hitachi Seaside Park, Ibaraki Prefecture
  Millions of baby blue nemophila flowers bloom on the gentle slopes of Miharashi Hill, creating a stunning landscape perfect for photography and relaxation.

Fuji Shibazakura Festival

• Date: Mid-April to Late May
• Location: Fuji Motosuko Resort, Yamanashi Prefecture
  A breathtaking spectacle of bright pink moss phlox spreads across vast fields with Mount Fuji as a picturesque backdrop.

Golden Week: A Travel Challenge

When April ends, Japan enters Golden Week, one of the country’s busiest travel periods.

What is Golden Week?

Golden Week comprises four national holidays:

• Showa Day (April 29): Celebrating the birthday of Emperor Showa.
• Constitution Day (May 3)
• Greenery Day (May 4)
• Children’s Day (May 5)

Travel Challenges During Golden Week

• High demand: Hotels, transportation, and popular attractions are often fully booked.
• Skyrocketing prices: Airfares and accommodations become significantly more expensive.

Travel Tips During Golden Week

1. Plan in advance: Book accommodations and transportation well ahead of time.
2. Explore lesser-known areas: Avoid major cities and crowded tourist spots.
3. Be flexible: Travel during off-peak hours to dodge heavy crowds.

Practical Tips for Traveling in April

April is one of the most popular months for tourism in Japan due to cherry blossoms and pleasant weather.

Travel Costs

• Higher prices: Airfare and accommodations are more expensive during this peak season.
• Budget-friendly tips: Visit early in the month or opt for less crowded destinations.

Accommodation and Transportation

• Book early: Secure accommodations in major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka well in advance.
• JR Pass: Ideal for extensive train travel across Japan.
• IC cards: Use prepaid transportation cards like Suica or Pasmo for convenience in cities.

Avoiding Crowds

• Visit off-peak hours: Explore attractions early in the morning or late at night.
• Choose quieter spots: For instance, visit the Sagano area instead of the crowded Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto.

Top Travel Destinations in April

1. Tokyo and Surrounding Areas
   Experience the perfect blend of modernity and tradition, from the bustling streets of Shibuya to the serene beauty of Ueno Park. Nearby Kamakura and Hakone offer peaceful day-trip options.
2. Kyoto and its Temples
   Spring transforms Kyoto’s temples, such as Kiyomizu-dera and Arashiyama, into floral paradises. Don’t miss the Philosopher’s Path during cherry blossom season.
3. Osaka
   Renowned for its vibrant food scene, Osaka’s highlights include Osaka Castle and the Dotonbori district. Nearby Nara, with its freely roaming deer, is ideal for a day trip.
4. Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi
   The Fuji Five Lakes region offers stunning views of Mount Fuji, especially during the Fuji Shibazakura Festival. Enjoy tranquil lakeside walks and rejuvenating hot springs.
5. Okinawa
   For a tropical escape, Okinawa boasts warm temperatures, pristine beaches, coral reefs, and the unique Ryukyu culture.

Pros of Visiting in April

• Stunning spring landscapes.
• Comfortable weather.
• Diverse festivals and events.

Cons of Visiting in April

• Higher travel costs.
• Crowds in popular tourist spots.

For a quieter experience, consider visiting Japan in the fall, which offers similarly breathtaking scenery with fewer crowds. Whether it’s the delicate pink of cherry blossoms or the energy of a bustling festival, April in Japan promises memories to last a lifetime.