Japan in Spring – Weather, Cherry Blossoms & Costs

Spring isn’t just about cherry blossoms in Japan but also about the timing, comfort, and value. Here are some of the major reasons why you should book your Japan trip during the Spring season:

• Pleasant weather: Temperatures range between 5°C and 24°C, making it ideal for city walks, temple visits, and day trips.
• Seasonal beauty: Parks, riversides, and historic streets bloom with sakura and fresh greenery.
• Festivals & culture: Spring hosts some of Japan’s most traditional festivals and local celebrations.
• Balanced travel costs: While April is peak season, May offers better flight deals and fewer crowds, especially after Golden Week.

For Indian travellers, spring is also a welcome break from rising summer temperatures back home.

• Easy travel timing: Indian travellers often prefer May due to school holidays and calmer attractions. May matches Indian school holidays and post, financial year leave calendars, making longer international trips easier to plan.
• Pleasant weather change: Japan is a great escape compared to the hot climate in India, at  5°C-24 °C.
• E-Visa for Indians: Most Indian travellers can apply online without embassy visits, with approval typically in 4–6 working days.

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Japan in Spring weather is pleasant and settled. Cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto enjoy clear skies, low humidity, and mild temperatures, making it an ideal time to visit Japan for exploring cities, the countryside, and cultural landmarks.

Japan in Spring: Month-Wise Overview

Tip: Early mornings are perfect for temple visits and gardens, while late afternoons are ideal for neighbourhood walks, shopping streets, and scenic viewpoints.

• Tokyo –Tokyo in spring turns parks, like Ueno or a river, such as Meguro, into a cherry orchard. Mild weather makes neighbourhood walks, outdoor cafés, and sightseeing especially enjoyable.
• Kyoto – Kyoto is one of the most scenic places to visit in Japan in spring, with cherry blossoms framing ancient temples, shrines, and historic paths like the Philosopher’s Path. The season adds the traditional beauty of the city of Japan in April.
• Osaka – Known for its food scene and lively atmosphere, Osaka shines in spring with cherry blossoms around Osaka Castle and riverside areas, paired with comfortable sightseeing weather.
• Mount Fuji – Spring offers clear views of Mount Fuji, with snow still on the peak and cherry blossoms blooming around Lake Kawaguchi, creating one of Japan’s most iconic landscapes.
• Hokkaido – Spring arrives later here, allowing travellers to catch cherry blossoms in Japan in May, along with cooler temperatures, wide open spaces, and fewer crowds.

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• Cherry Blossom Viewing (Hanami): Join locals for picnics under blooming sakura trees in parks, riversides, and temple grounds. Spring is the perfect season to see cherry blossoms in Japan. 
• Temple & Garden Exploration: Walk through historic temples, shrines, and Japanese gardens enhanced by spring flowers and soft daylight.
• Scenic Day Trips: Enjoy clear spring views of Mount Fuji with cherry blossoms and greenery in the foreground.
• Spring Festivals (Matsuri): Experience the cultural festivals in Japan, such as traditional parades, shrine rituals, music, and seasonal celebrations across cities and towns.
• Seasonal Food Tasting: Taste sakura-flavoured sweets, bamboo shoots, fresh spring vegetables and beautifully set bento boxes.
• Relaxing Onsen Visits: Soak in hot springs in Japan during cool spring mornings or evenings for a calming experience.

Going to Japan during mid‑/late May can indeed be cheaper than late March–early April, but around Golden Week, prices and crowds spike. 

• Flights: India to Japan flights tend to experience a price reduction in May compared to late March and April. Round-trip economy fares typically range between ₹45,000–₹65,000 when booked early, with May often cheaper than late March and April.
• Hotels: Spring prices remain stable. Well-located 3-star hotels in Tokyo and Kyoto usually cost ₹8,000–₹12,000 per night.
• Overall value: May offers the best balance of weather, pricing, and availability—except during Golden Week.

Knowing the estimated budget before visiting a country during a specific time adds a lot of value to how you want to spend your vacation. Here is an estimated budget for a Japan trip during the Spring season: 

Note: Booking a Japan tour package saves a lot of time and money for the travellers as these packages are tailor-made as per your budget and style of travelling!

Spring is among the most comfortable and easy seasons to navigate in Japan due to the pleasant weather, clear timetable, and transport efficiency of the world.

• By Rail: Japan’s rail network operates smoothly in spring, with punctual trains and comfortable coaches. Scenic routes are especially enjoyable during cherry blossom season, and intercity travel by Japan’s Shinkansen remains fast, reliable, and stress-free even for first-time visitors.
• City Transport: Metro and bus systems in major cities are easy to navigate, clearly signposted in English, and less tiring in mild spring weather. 
• Walking: Spring is ideal for walking in Japan. Pleasant temperatures, blooming streets, and pedestrian-friendly paths allow travellers to explore neighbourhoods, parks, and historic areas on foot without fatigue.

Note: A seven-day Japan Rail Pass costs approximately INR 28,000–30,000 and offers excellent value for multi-city itineraries.

• Light layers: T-shirts, long-sleeve tops and a light sweater for changing temperatures.
• Jacket or cardigan: Essential for cool mornings and evenings, especially in March
• Comfortable walking shoes: Japan involves a lot of walking during sightseeing
• Universal power adapter: Japan uses Type A/B plugs
• Basic medicines & sunscreen: Mild sun exposure increases in April and May

• Visa process: The majority of Indian passport holders may obtain an e-Visa to Japan without having to go to the embassy.  Apply at least a week in advance.
• Flights & planning: Book flights and hotels early for spring, especially April, as cherry blossom season sells out fast.
• Food comfort: Vegetarian and Indian-friendly options are available in major cities, but learning a few food-related Japanese terms helps.
• Cash & payments: Credit cards are accepted in cities, but keep cash for small shops, temples, and rural areas.
• Transport efficiency: Use trains and metros; they’re punctual, easy to navigate, and cost-effective compared to taxis.
• Cultural etiquette: Respect queues, keep public spaces clean, and follow temple and shrine customs.

Spring in Japan is an ideal choice for Indian travellers seeking pleasant weather, scenic beauty, and rich cultural experiences. With comfortable temperatures, iconic cherry blossoms, and well-planned infrastructure, spring offers the perfect balance of sightseeing, festivals, and smooth travel for a memorable Japan holiday.  Compared to autumn, spring offers better festival experiences but higher demand.