Misty Fujii is a Canadian DJ and writer who came to Japan seeking adventure and stuck around for love. Living life as a bucket list in progress, she’s as passionate about sharing her stories as she is experiencing them. She gets excited about collecting vintage vinyl records, food from all countries, travelling, and renovating her traditional Japanese house. She can be found on Instagram @djmisty
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Spring is arriving in Japan, and with it comes lots of things to do! March is the perfect bridge between winter’s cozy charm and spring’s vibrant bloom. Whether you’re squeezing in those last few snowy adventures or itching to embrace the first blossoms, this month is packed with incredible experiences. Get ready to celebrate the best of both worlds as we explore the 10 best events and things to do in Japan this March!
- 1. Strawberry Picking
- 2. Cherry Blossom Viewing
- 3. White Day
- 4. Hinamatsuri
- 5. Grand Sumo Tournament
- 6. End of Season Skiing
- 7. Huis Ten Bosch Tulip Festival 2025
- 8. Maruyama Park Weeping Cherry Tree Illumination
- 9. Lake Akan Ice Fireworks Festival
- 10. Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival
- Japan Wonder Travel Tours
- Other Articles You Might Be Interested In
1. Strawberry Picking
Japan is famous for its perfect-looking and tasting fruit. Strawberries are no exception! In fact, Japanese strawberries are some of Japan’s tastiest produce, and they are sweet, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Strawberry season in Japan runs from January to May, and March is prime time for these delicious treats and the only thing better than buying them from a grocery store is picking them yourself! Loads of farms, both in the countryside and closer to the city, offer strawberry-picking experiences, and it’s usually all-you-can-eat. It’s a popular family activity, but if you love strawberries, strawberry picking is amazing no matter who you’re with. So, if you’re visiting Japan in March, make sure to carve out some time for this sweet activity!
2. Cherry Blossom Viewing
We HAVE to mention hanami, also known as cherry blossom viewing. After all, it’s cherry blossom season, and that’s kind of a big deal! In Tokyo, you can usually catch the blooms from the last week of March through the first week of April. But here’s the catch: these delicate flowers are only at their peak for about a week which can really bring out the FOMO. No wonder everyone gets so excited! Whether you join the crowds at the famous hanami spots or venture off the beaten path to find your own secret blossoms, you don’t want to miss the mesmerizing beauty of these pink blooms if you’re coming to Japan in March (or early April).
Explore in a kimono
Sakura season in Japan is pure magic, a truly special experience connecting you to the heart of Japanese culture. Want to make that experience even more magical? Stroll beneath the blooming cherry trees wearing a beautiful kimono! Don’t worry if you’ve never worn a kimono before – rental shops are everywhere, and the friendly staff will help you dress so you look perfect. Twirling and posing under the cherry blossoms in a kimono is an unforgettable experience!
3. White Day
Valentine’s Day in Japan is about ladies showering the guys with chocolate. But in Japan (and other parts of Asia), the story doesn’t end in February! A month later, it’s the men’s turn to return the favor on White Day. So, what kind of goodies do guys give? White chocolate is a classic, but you’ll also see yummy cookies, candies, gorgeous white roses, and even thoughtful gifts like jewelry. Basically, it’s a chance for guys to show their appreciation, whether for a romantic interest or a cherished friend. And just like Valentine’s Day, White Day is a big deal in Japan! Shops and department stores get into the spirit, with special White Day displays popping up everywhere. If you’re in Japan on March 14th, it’s definitely a fun tradition to experience. And if you were lucky enough to receive chocolates on Valentine’s Day, why not join in the fun and give a little something back? It’s a lovely way to show you care!
When: March 14
4. Hinamatsuri
Every year on March 3rd, Japan comes alive with Hinamatsuri, also known as Girl’s Day or the Doll Festival. It’s a heartwarming tradition where families pray for their young girls’ health, happiness, and bright futures. While many celebrate at home with beautiful displays of hina dolls, you can also find some truly spectacular public displays and festivals. Some of the most famous celebrations include the Katsuura Big Hinamatsuri Festival at Tomisaki Shrine in Chiba and the various delightful doll festivals in Ibaraki. Hinamatsuri is the counterpart to Children’s Day (May 5th), which celebrates boys and both festivals are all about wishing the best for the next generation!
When: March 3
5. Grand Sumo Tournament
Want to experience a truly unique slice of Japanese culture? Look no further than sumo! It’s not just a sport here, it’s the national sport, offering a fascinating glimpse into Japanese heritage and athleticism. Six times a year, the Japan Sumo Association puts on a Grand Sumo Tournament (that’s a honbasho in sumo-speak!), each one a 15-day showdown of epic sizes. Luckily, one of these incredible tournaments makes its way to Osaka’s EDION Arena in March! A few weeks before the matches, the sumo rankings are released, building the excitement and giving you a sneak peek at who’s who in the ring. This is your chance to see this incredible sport up close and personal, so grab your tickets and prepare to be amazed!
Check the official website for more details about tickets and the schedule.
When: March 9 – 23
For those of you who won’t be able to make it to Osaka for the tournament in March, or are unable to get tickets but still want to see sumo, we have an amazing sumo stable morning training tour in Tokyo! Have a look at the link below if you are interested.
▼Tour to Sumo Stable and Watch Sumo Morning Training with audio guide!
6. End of Season Skiing
It’s well known that Japan is a snowy paradise for skiers and snowboarders, with incredible resorts sprinkled across Hokkaido and Honshu’s northern and central regions. While peak season runs from late December to early April, don’t think you’ve missed the boat if you’re visiting in March. Sure, it’s technically the tail end of the season, but honestly, I think it’s the best time to go! Everyone flocks to Japan for the epic powder in January and February, meaning March is often less crowded. You’ll still find tons of high-quality snow, but with way more room to carve those turns. You can expect shorter lift lines, more space to practice your tricks, and a generally more relaxed vibe.
7. Huis Ten Bosch Tulip Festival 2025
Japan’s cherry blossoms are legendary and steal the scene this time of year, but they aren’t the only thing blooming in March! A weekend trip to Nagasaki offers something truly special. Head to the Huis Ten Bosch theme park, with its Dutch charm, because from early February to April, it morphs into a breathtaking tulip paradise. Wander through the fragrant Flower Road, indulge in some delicious ice cream in Flower Square, explore the palace, and behold the tulips bathed in a luminous glow as dusk settles.
When: February 7 – April 6
8. Maruyama Park Weeping Cherry Tree Illumination
I know we already gave cherry blossom viewing its own heading, but this really stands out! Nestled in the charming Higashiyama district, close to many of Kyoto’s top attractions, Maruyama Park comes alive during sakura season. Every year, it transforms into a giant, joyous picnic party, making it one of the most popular hanami spots in Kyoto. You’ll find a lively, bustling scene as tourists and locals gather to celebrate the blossoms. And as the sun goes down, don’t miss the magic of the park’s weeping cherry tree. Grown from the seed of its 200-year-old predecessor, this magnificent tree is illuminated from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., creating an enchanting and truly stunning sight.
When: Late March – Early April
9. Lake Akan Ice Fireworks Festival
Looking for a unique early spring experience? Journey to Hokkaido in March and witness fireworks that light up the night! The Lake Akan Ice Festival offers a unique twist on Japanese fireworks, lighting up the crisp, clear night sky with bursts of vibrant color. This festival is a true spectacle, held annually from early February to early March right on the frozen lake’s surface. Every night at 7:30 p.m., around 300 fireworks explode across the sky, offering bold colors and crystal-clear viewing without the distractions of city lights or crowds. Beyond the breathtaking pyrotechnics, the Lake Akan Ice Festival is a fantastic opportunity to connect with the rich culture of the indigenous Ainu people. With special programs showcasing traditional Ainu music, dance, and food, you can delve into the fascinating heritage of this land.
When: February – Early March
10. Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival
If you’re still not ready to fully embrace spring, escape to a winter wonderland at the Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival, a magical celebration of light and snow held annually from late January to early March. Deep within the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture, just an hour north of Nikko lies the remote onsen town of Yunishigawa Onsen, home of the festival. Here, hundreds of miniature kamakura (snow houses) twinkle to life, illuminating the main venue, Heike no Sato, and the Sawaguchi riverbed. For a unique dining experience, you can even rent a larger snow hut and enjoy a cozy dinner inside! Beyond the captivating lights, the festival offers a range of activities, from kamakura-making workshops and snow sliding to delicious local cuisine and other dazzling nighttime illuminations.
When: January 31 – March 2
As you can see, there are plenty of reasons to come to Japan in March! If you prefer to avoid the bigger crowds, we recommend visiting during the first three weeks of March before the sakura-fever sets in. If you want to have a high chance of seeing the cherry blossoms in the Tokyo region, your best bet is to visit during the last week of March.
Japan Wonder Travel Tours
Japan Wonder Travel is a travel agency that offers guided tours throughout Japan.
From private walking tours to delicious Food and Drink tours, we can help you organize the best tours just for you! If you want to explore Japan and learn more about the history and backstories of each area you are visiting, our knowledgeable and friendly English speaking guides will happily take you to the best spots!
In addition, we can provide you with any assistance you may need for your upcoming trip to Japan, so please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need some help!
▶Tokyo Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Drink Tour
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▶Tokyo 1–Day Highlights Private Walking Tour (8 Hours)
There’s no better way to explore an area than taking a tour with a knowledgeable local guide. You will have the chance to learn about the history and interesting background stories of Tokyo, as well as discover some hidden gems which can be hard to do without a guide.
▶Mt. Fuji Day Trip Bus Tour from Tokyo
Experience the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji by visiting the highlights of the area on our guided sightseeing bus tour! Departing from Shinjuku in central Tokyo, you can travel comfortably to all of the best spots in the area by bus.
▶Kyoto Private Full Day Walking Tour
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