Tokyo in spring attracts visitors from all over the world with its mild weather, beautiful nature, and events that allow visitors to experience Japanese culture as well. It is the best travel season because it is very pleasant.
This article details the highlights of spring travel, from a description of the weather and clothing to the best places to visit in Tokyo in spring.
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Tokyo in Spring
Spring Climate
From March to May, Tokyo is gradually getting rid of the winter cold, and warm and mild days arrive. March is still cold, with rare snowfalls, but as the months of April and May progress, the weather becomes warmer and more comfortable, making it one of the most pleasant months of the year.
Spring Highlights
Spring is also known as “cherry blossom season,” especially from late March to early April, when cherry blossom viewing is held at many cherry blossom viewing spots. Ueno Park, Chidorigafuchi, Yasukuni Shrine, and other beautiful cherry tree-lined areas welcome visitors. The sight of pink and white petals dancing in the air is a symbol of spring in Japan.
Also, as the weather improves, outdoor events and other events increase in number, bringing the city to life. There are many spring festivals and events to enjoy the fresh greenery, and various cultural events are held in various places in Tokyo as the seasons change.
Spring Fashion
One characteristic of Tokyo in March and April, the change of seasons, is that the weather is changeable. Although most days are sunny, there are also sudden light rain and cloudy days. Therefore, layered clothing, a light jacket, and carrying a folding umbrella are recommended.
In May, the weather suddenly becomes hotter. It is recommended to wear a light cardigan or jacket over a T-shirt or blouse during the daytime to cope with the temperature difference between day and night. It is also helpful to bring a scarf or thin stole, as it can feel a little chilly at night and in the mornings and evenings.
Things to do in Tokyo in Spring
Enjoy the cherry blossoms, a springtime tradition in Tokyo
With the arrival of spring, Tokyo is breathtakingly transformed by the beautiful scenery of cherry blossoms. from the end of March through April, the city’s parks and riverside areas are covered with pink petals of cherry blossoms, attracting visitors. Especially famous are Ueno Park, Chidorigafuchi, and the Meguro River, where visitors can enjoy picnics called hanami (cherry blossom viewing) and illumination at night.
There are also many activities that coincide with the cherry blossoms, such as a hanami cruise on a boat to view the cherry blossoms from the river, and a bus tour that takes visitors to famous cherry blossom viewing spots.
Go to the Flower Festival
Cherry blossoms are not the only thing that colors the spring in Tokyo. There are many other attractive flower spots in Tokyo in addition to cherry blossoms. Spring flower festivals are held in various locations, offering colorful scenery.
Experience Japanese customs
Since you have come to Japan, you definitely want to experience some of the unique customs of Japan. Typical springtime customs are Hinamatsuri (Girls’ Festival) on March 3 and Children’s Day on May 5. Each of these events is held to pray for the growth of children, and families with children have the custom of decorating their homes with ohinasama (dolls) and koinobori (carp streamers) according to the time of year.
Girls’ Festival (Ohinasama)
Hinamatsuri is a traditional Japanese festival held annually on March 3 to pray for the growth and happiness of girls in particular. This day is also called Momo-no-Sekku.
In Japanese homes with girls, a traditional set of dolls called hina ningyo is displayed at the time of Hinamatsuri. Hina ningyo are modeled after the prestige of the Japanese imperial court, representing the marriage ceremonies and rituals of the royal family, and are displayed by parents to wish happiness to their daughters.
Not only in houses, but also in shrines, hotels, and other places where large daisies are decorated and interesting events are held.If you are in Tokyo around the 3rd of March, be sure to check out the Hinamatsuri events.
Children’s Day (Koinobori)
On Children’s Day, May 5, a large carp-shaped flag called a “Koinobori” (carp streamer) is hung outside homes to wish for the health and strength of children. The colorful carp streamers swimming in the sky are a well-known springtime tradition in Japan.
In Tokyo, Tokyo Skytree Town is famous for its carp streamers, and the sight of more than 1,000 carp soaring through the sky is breathtaking.
*Events are subject to cancellation without notice.
Participate in spring festivals and events
Spring is a time of increased events and festivals in Tokyo. The Cherry Blossom Festival is held during the cherry blossom season, the Flower Festival during the flower season, and the Sanja Festival in May, which attracts many people to Tokyo. Festivals and events often include food stalls, making it a great time to enjoy the scenery as well as the food.
cherry blossom festival
Sakura Matsuri is a festival that celebrates the beautiful season of cherry blossoms. It is usually held in March or April in various locations when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. This is an event designed to maximize the enjoyment of the beautiful blooming period of cherry blossoms, with food stalls and light-up events taking place. These events are held at various locations around Japan, mainly at famous cherry blossom viewing spots.
Sanja Festival（Sanja Matsuri ）
Sanja Matsuri, held at Asakusa Shrine, is one of the most popular festivals in Japan, attracting approximately 1.8 million people. It is said to be the most lively festival of the year in Asakusa, a downtown area that still retains the atmosphere of Edo (old Tokyo). The festival is held on the third Friday, Saturday, and Sunday of May every year.
The highlight of the Sanja Festival held at Asakusa Shrine is the parade of portable shrines on the second and third days of the festival. 100 portable shrines are brought out from the towns around Asakusa Shrine on the second day and head for Asakusa Shrine. 3 large portable shrines depart from Asakusa Shrine on the third day and go around each town.
Tokyo in March
In Tokyo in March, the cold winter weather eases and signs of spring can be felt. Late in the month, it is the cherry blossom season. There are many cherry blossom viewing spots in Tokyo, and they are crowded with people as the cherry blossoms bloom.
Check here for events in March.
Tokyo in April
April in Tokyo is the season when the warmth of spring is in full swing and new life begins. Cherry blossoms are in full bloom and the city is filled with a festive atmosphere. This is the month when the fresh greenery is beautiful and just walking outside is a pleasant experience.
Check here for events in April.
Tokyo in May
Temperatures in Tokyo in May are mild and comfortable during the daytime and can feel a bit chilly at night. Average maximum temperatures range from about 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, and minimum temperatures range from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius. Although there is relatively little precipitation and most days are sunny, it is a good idea to bring a light jacket or cardigan in case of changeable weather.
Check here for events in May.
