Japan in April: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, & More

April can be an excellent time to visit Japan for the scenery, but it is also one of the most popular periods for national and international travel. Cherry blossom season reaches its peak in many parts of the country and the weather is generally mild and pleasant. April also features numerous festivals and events, including the beloved cherry blossom viewing parties. The spring month also marks the beginning of Golden Week holidays, which can give you a unique opportunity to experience traditional festivals and events across Japan, but also results in larger crowds in the big cities, reducing accommodation, transport, and tour options.

Japan's temperature in April varies by region. In Tokyo, average temperatures range from 50°F to 64°F. Northern regions like Hokkaido are cooler, with temperatures dipping to 39°F at night. Southern areas such as Okinawa enjoy warmer weather, with temperatures reaching as high as 75°F. April marks a transition from spring to early summer, with temperatures gradually warming throughout the month. While rainfall is generally moderate, occasional showers do occur, but overall, Japan has mild and pleasant weather.

Kyoto • Best Place for Sightseeing

Kyoto shines as Japan's premier sightseeing destination in April. The city bursts with cherry blossoms at iconic spots like Maruyama Park, the Philosopher's Path, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. History enthusiasts can enjoy UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Kinkaku-ji temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha, offering rich cultural experiences. For a unique glimpse into Japanese tradition, attend the Miyako Odori, a captivating geisha dance performance. With its blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural events, Kyoto provides an unparalleled sightseeing experience during the height of cherry blossom season.

Shikoku • Best Place for Great Weather

Shikoku offers ideal spring weather in April, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 55°F to 68°F. This mild climate creates perfect conditions for outdoor exploration of the island's scenic landscapes. Nature enthusiasts can venture into the picturesque Iya Valley or stroll through the beautiful Ritsurin Garden. For cycling aficionados, the Shimanami Kaido route presents a unique opportunity to pedal across bridges connecting islands while enjoying stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea. Shikoku's comfortable temperatures and diverse outdoor attractions make it an excellent choice for travelers seeking great weather and natural beauty in April.

Hakone • Best Place for Families with Children

Hakone stands out as a family-friendly destination in April, offering a mix of relaxation and adventure. The area is famous for its onsen, or hot springs, with many facilities catering to families, including private baths. Outdoor activities abound, such as scenic boat rides on Lake Ashi and exploring the interactive Hakone Open-Air Museum. Families can also enjoy hiking trails with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. Cultural experiences are plentiful, with opportunities to visit historic shrines, temples, and traditional Japanese gardens. Hakone's blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions provides an ideal setting for memorable family vacations.

Sado Island • Best Place to Avoid the Crowds

Sado Island rests off the coast of Niigata Prefecture and offers a perfect escape from the crowds in April. This remote location, Japan's sixth-largest island, provides ample space for exploration along its 174-mile coastline. Visitors can enjoy peaceful kayaking and paddleboarding at Tassha Bay or Lake Kamo. The island's unique historical sites, like the Sado Gold Mine and the medieval port town of Shukunegi, offer uncrowded alternatives to mainland attractions. Nature lovers can observe rare wildlife, including the Japanese crested ibis, in serene settings. Traditional experiences like riding in a tarai-bune tub boat and diverse natural landscapes ensure a tranquil, crowd-free vacation.

Okinawa • Best Place for Romantic Scenery

Okinawa emerges as a romantic paradise for couples in April, with its tropical climate and average temperatures of 73°F. The island's stunning coastline includes Emerald Beach and Manza Beach, which provide picturesque settings for romantic walks and breathtaking sunsets. You can explore nearby islands for intimate experiences away from crowds or take the chance to see Okinawa's unique Hikanzakura cherry blossoms. The clear waters invite couples to share underwater adventures through snorkeling and diving. Cultural experiences at sites like Shurijo Castle add depth to the romantic getaway, while scenic spots such as Cape Manzamo offer unforgettable views for you and your partner to enjoy.

Celebrate Cherry Blossom Season

April is the peak of Japan's beloved cherry blossom season, with most regions experiencing full bloom in early to mid-month. This natural spectacle transforms the country into a pink and white wonderland, inspiring the traditional hanami flower viewing parties in parks and along riverbanks. Cities across Japan embrace the season with cherry blossom festivals featuring food stalls and enchanting nighttime illuminations of the blooming trees. The ephemeral beauty of the blossoms creates a majestic atmosphere, drawing visitors and locals to participate in this quintessential Japanese experience that celebrates the fleeting nature of spring's allure.

Attend the Takayama Spring Festival

The Takayama Spring Festival is held on April 14 and 15 in Takayama, Gifu Prefecture. Recognized as one of Japan's three most beautiful festivals, it showcases the region's rich heritage and exceptional craftsmanship. The festival's highlights include elaborate floats parading through the streets, traditional performances that bring history to life, and stunning illuminations that cast an ethereal glow over the town at night. You can immerse yourself in the local culture, enjoying the intricate details of the floats and the lively atmosphere that permeates the historic city during this special time.

Visit the Kawachi Wisteria Garden

For a truly enchanting experience, the Kawachi Wisteria Garden in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture, offers a spectacular display of nature's beauty in late April. The garden's crown jewels are two 328-foot-long wisteria tunnels in full bloom, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere with cascading purple flowers. As you walk through these living tunnels, you’re enveloped in a fragrant canopy of wisteria blossoms, providing countless photo opportunities. The garden's breathtaking beauty makes it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers seeking to capture the essence of spring in Japan.

Hike the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

Opening in mid-April, the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route offers an inspiring journey through the Japanese Alps between Toyama and Nagano prefectures. The route's most famous attraction is the massive "Snow Wall”, where snow can reach an astonishing 65 feet high. You can walk between these towering walls of snow, experiencing a unique winter wonderland even as spring arrives in the lowlands. The route provides spectacular views of snow corridors and alpine landscapes, offering a dramatic contrast to the cherry blossoms blooming in other parts of Japan.

April in Japan offers a truly magical experience, combining the breathtaking beauty of cherry blossoms with pleasant weather and rich cultural events. From the historic streets of Kyoto to the tropical beaches of Okinawa, visitors can explore diverse landscapes and immerse themselves in unique traditions. The mild temperatures and festive atmosphere make it an ideal time for outdoor adventures and cultural exploration.

For more inspiration and detailed information on planning your trip, explore our comprehensive Japan travel guide or ideas for your Japan tour.