Japan in April 2026: More Than Cherry Blossoms

It is time to get rid of your heavy winter coats in the warm April in Japan, and prepare something light to get ready for outdoor activities with the blooming cherry blossoms in their beautiful pink. From weather tips to the top recommendations, plan your Japan tour in this peak sakura season of April.

Japan's Weather in April

Japan's weather in April is getting warmer and warmer in most areas. Apart from Hokkaido, whose spring is delayed to May, you can expect mild and pleasant spring days (about 9-19℃; 48-66℉) in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, with plenty of sunny and gentle breeze.

The warm weather in April also brings the peak bloom of cherry blossoms in Japan. And the air remains moderate thanks to the night rain, which usually comes fast and goes quickly.

	Temperature in April	Rainy Days
Sapporo	3 to 11℃ (37 to 52℉)	about 17 days
Tokyo	10 to 17℃ (50 to 63℉)	about 16 days
Kyoto	9 to 19℃ (48 to 66℉)	about 14 days
Osaka	11 to 19℃ (52 to 66℉)	about 14 days
Naha	19 to 24℃ (66 to 75℉)	about 19 days

Japan Weather Map in April

Will I See Cherry Blossoms in Japan in April

Yes, you will. April is still one of the peak cherry blossom season in Japan, but making your Japan journey a little bit earlier (around the first or second week in April) would be better if the layered cherry blossom scenery in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka is your main target: those pink petals begin to fall after their full blooms, and the spring showers also shorten the viewing dates of these fragile blossoms.

You can find some plants with stable or late flowers in mid or late April; however, not enough to recreate the dramatic scenery in the first half.

Luckily, there is always a way to meet your sakura viewing request in April: travel to northern Japan with Odynovo and capture those late cherry blossoms in Tohoku and Hokkaido, usually at their peak from late April to early May.

What to Wear in Japan in April

A thin coat (a waterproof one would be better) with layers (light sweater or knitwear) is enough to handle the temperature conditions in April. Also, loose trousers and comfortable shoes are needed if you plan to hike in Japan in April.

Which is Better, March or April

Simply speaking, pick April if you are sensitive to the cold. Compared to March, April enjoys warmer temperatures. Though you can still encounter a significant day-night temperature difference, the weather in April in Japan is much more convenient for outdoor activities, from hiking to cycling. However, choose March if you prefer a quiet environment and relatively affordable prices.

Where to See Cherry Blossoms in April in Japan

• Arakurayama Sengen Park: one of the best places to capture Mt. Fuji, the pagoda, and cherry blossoms
• Chidorigafuchi Park: a popular Tokyo hanami spot ideal for a leisurely boat ride through the sakura-filled river
• Philosopher's Path: best for a relaxing stroll through the cherry blossom tunnel in Kyoto

Where to Go

Tokyo

Strolling on the streets of Tokyo in April, you can see the full decoration with blossoming sakura, from the ancient Sensoji Temple to Shinjuku Gyoen, beneath the brand-new skyscrapers. Make those traditional local street food and family-run restaurants your drop-off point to feel the old and new blend perfectly in this city, both mentally and physically.

Street View of Shinjuku, Tokyo

Kyoto

Kyoto guarantees to show the image of Japan that satisfies your imagination of this country. Classical Japan's ancient architecture, temples, and more than these. Wandering in the Arashiyama Bamboo forest, to share this blissful moment filled with the soft aroma of bamboo and grass with your lover, friends, or family.

Osaka

Osaka is famous for its beautiful Neon and incredible food. You can always be surprised by what you meet around the next corner. Osaka citizen will warmly welcome you with their energetic and hospitable attitude. At night, you can sit in an izakaya to taste Japanese sake with roasted saury, to enjoy your leisure time. Or enjoy live music in those music venues of this city.

Hakone

Beyond the crowds, Hakone is a place where you can treat yourself or spend romantic private time with your love. You can appreciate Mount Fuji with full cherry blossoms when soaking in an outdoor onsen. Strolling around Lake Ashi with the majestic view of Mount Fuji might also be an unforgettable memory.

Lake Ashi With the Majestic View of Mount Fuji

Takayama

Compared with central cities, Takayama is cooler, which means the sakura is blossoming later. Visiting Takayama in mid-April means you may have a chance to experience the traditional Takayama Spring Festival and the vibrant cherry blossoms at the same time.

Hiking in Kamikochi National Park and appreciating the spring flowers and fresh foliage, or wandering on the local streets lined with wooden houses and colorful shops. And don't miss the famous Hida beef for its marbling and rich flavor.

What to See & Do in April

Cherry Blossoms Flourish

April is known as one of the best months to visit Japan, not only because of the mild temperature but also the magnificent full blossoming sakura in early April. Walking in the pouring sakura flower petals along the streets, you may feel the romance of vibrant spring.

The forecast of Japan cherry blossoms shows that the full bloom in Osaka, Kyoto, Kanazawa, and Sendai will be in the first week of April 2026. If you are expecting a Hanami tour in Japan in April, you should book in advance because it is the peak of the peak season for Japan's spring.

Cherry Blossoms Viewing in Japan

Yozakura: Night Cherry Blossoms Viewing

In the hanami season, most of the popular sakura viewing places will be decorated with beautiful lanterns and colorful lights. Unlike the crowds in the daytime, night sakura may provide you with a more private night date with your love. Please do remember to bring your camera to capture the magical moments.

When the moon climbs higher and higher, sit under the cherry trees by the river. Take a sip of Japanese sake, and when the wind suddenly comes, you may see the cherry blossom petals slowly fall around you, just like a flower rain.

Hiking the Kumano Kodo

April is a perfect month for hiking in the Kumano Kodo thanks to the warmer weather. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is not only a hiking trail that provides you with stunning nature views, but also gives you a chance to indulge in the culture of Japan by viewing those centuries-old temples and shrines.

Escape from modern life and dive into the mist of a lush forest. Say bye to busy work and say hi to nature. Taste delicacies made of fresh mountain vegetables, feel serene, and connect with nature.

Hiking the Kumano Kodo

Enjoy Outdoor Onsens and Relax

Enjoy a blissful time with a hot spring (onsen) soaking in the mild temperature of April in Japan. Winter is gone, and temperatures start rising over 15℃ in most of Japan's cities. It is the perfect time for you to plan an onsen getaway!

In Hakone, you can enjoy the unique view of Mount Fuji with blossoming sakura when soaking in an outdoor onsen. Or explore the renowned onsen town, Kusatsu, relax in the unique "yubatake" (steaming water field), and find serenity in the powerful healing water.

Events & Festivals

Takayama Spring Festival

Takayama Spring Festival, also known as Sanno Matsuri, is held on two weekends in April, from 14 to 15 April 2026. During this festival, you can see exquisite floats and parades, and some other traditional performances. See the lively shows and indulge in the traditional culture of Japan, feeling like time-traveling to the historical period of this country. Explore this small town and feel the sereneness of this leisure place.

Easter Festival Celebration in Japan

You won't see many decorations during Easter in Japan. Unlike many other countries, Easter is not a traditional holiday in Japan. However, it is a very unique experience to explore theme parks with Easter decorations and events, such as Disney and Universal Studios. And you can try different flavors and textures of chocolate.

Inuyama Festival

This festival is held on the first weekend of April. In 2026, it is from 4 to 5 April. This is a traditional festival that has been held for over 300 years. You can not only see the exquisite puppets (Karakuri) dance on the extraordinary floats but also appreciate the numerous lanterns that light up together at night. Don't miss this exotic festival if you travel to Japan in April.

Crowds & Costs of Japan in April

Early April is crowded and busy because of the peak cherry blossom season. If you are planning to visit Japan in April and are afraid of crowds, please feel free to contact us to customize your private Japan tour, visit some off-beaten places, or some of the places to appreciate late cherry blossoms.

The costs of traveling to Japan in April may be higher than usual. Hotels and flight tickets are approximately two to three times, and even more. More importantly, it is hard to reserve rooms around those hot spots to view sakura, and other places, such as famous restaurants, are also hard to book. You can make the reservation as early as possible for more reasonable prices. However, once you get there and see the glorious scene of pink cherry blossoms, you will understand why it is hard to reserve and the high prices.

Also, skip Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka to avoid the Japan Golden Week rush during your late April visit.

Travel Tips for Traveling in Japan in April

Tips for Mount Fuji

We recommend you visit Mount Fuji this month, especially to appreciate its whole view from Lake Ashi or other appropriate sites. Because the peak snow is not starting to melt in April. But you are recommended to watch the whole view of Mount Fuji in Hakone and other appropriate spots.

What to Pack for Japan in April

For most cities in Japan, a thin coat is enough to handle most weather conditions. You may need to bring a waterproof jacket when doing outdoor activities. And a pair of comfortable shoes is also needed if you are planning to hike in Japan.

Book in Advance

It is very important to book in advance for traveling to Japan in April. As mentioned before, April is a busy season for traveling. You should book your flight tickets, hotel, and other tickets for museums or galleries as early as possible.

Explore Japan in April with Odynovo

April is one of the best months to visit Japan, and you should not miss it. With the wonderful view of cherry blossoms, magical festivals, mild temperatures, and warm sunshine, everything is so perfect for you to experience. You can directly contact us to design a unique route just for you.