Japan Weather in April 2025: Travel Tips for First-Timers

April is an ideal time to visit Japan. Except for cold Hokkaido, most of Japan experiences mild conditions with an average temperature of 19°C (66°F) during the daytime.

As for rainfall, the further north you go, the drier it gets. With just a few spring showers to dampen the flowering trees, you could celebrate a trip with an idyllic backdrop of the most loved cherry blossoms in the world.

Discover all the essential information you need for your April trip to Japan in this article. It covers temperatures, what to wear, how to avoid crowds, top activities, and more.

Japan's Weather and Climate in April

April is the spring in Japan. In most parts of the country, it brings warm and sunny days.

Is Japan Cold in April?

In central Japan, including Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, the weather is pleasant, with warm days and cool nights. Cherry blossoms are in full bloom. In Hokkaido to the north, snow begins to melt but it remains cold, with temperatures around 1–11°C (34–52°F). In Okinawa to the south, it is warm, with temperatures around 20–24°C (68–75°F).

How Humid Is Japan in April?

Japan has a dry season in April with only about 30% precipitation. There are about nine rainy days during the month, usually with light rain. Precipitation decreases gradually from the south to the north.

Okinawa experiences the most humid weather in April, with precipitation around 45% and rainfall hitting 140 mm (6 in).

Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka encounter less rainfall in April. The rainfall is 109 mm (4 in).

Hokkaido is the driest region in April. The precipitation is around 25%, with only 46 mm (2 in) of rainfall.

Tokyo Weather in April: Full Cherry Blossom Blooms

April is one of the best times to explore central Japan (Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto). The warmest temperature varies around 20°C (68°F). Spring rainfall usually comes as showers or night rain; therefore, you could enjoy viewing cherry blossoms most of the time without rain.

In major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, the cherry blossoms reach their full bloom from late March to early April. Meanwhile, they usually flower from mid-April in mountainous areas, such as Mount Fuji.

This month is the peak season in Japan, meaning large crowds and higher costs. For a smooth trip during this busy time, you're highly recommended to book at least 3 months in advance to secure great hotels and private guides.

Contact us for a tailor-made trip to Japan to enjoy the cherry blossoms in 2025.

Hokkaido and Northern Japan: Last Skiing Month

Compared with the mild temperatures in central Japan, northern Japan is still cold with daily highs of 11°C (52°F).

The skiing season is coming to an end in April. Most resorts close at some point during this month in Hokkaido while higher mountainous areas, such as Mount Hakodate, are still open. You'd definitely benefit from fewer crowds.

With its colder temperatures, the cherry blossom season usually arrives in late April in Hokkaido. The northernmost part even sees its first cherry blossoms in early May.

Japanese Alps: Hiking Routes Open

In April, cities such as Nagano, Takayama, and Kanazawa in the Japanese Alps region warm up, with daily highs reaching around 16°C (61°F). Cherry blossoms in Takayama and Kanazawa usually reach full bloom in mid-April.

As the snow melts, skiing in this region becomes impossible and there are fewer opportunities to see monkeys soaking in onsens.

By late April, hiking routes, such as Kamikochi or the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, open up, providing lush mountain landscapes.

Okinawa and Southern Japan: Crowd-Free Beaches Open

Okinawa in southern Japan is the warmest region in April. Temperatures could reach a high of 24°C (75°F) but it also receives the highest amount of rainfall in Japan.

April is the best time for a beach vacation in Okinawa. It's before the peak season, meaning fewer crowds and cheaper prices. Resorts are open and you could enjoy water activities, such as snorkeling and surfing.

7 Best Places to Visit in Japan in April

Here are seven top places to explore in Japan in April. Each location features unique seasonal activities, providing experiences you couldn't find at any other time.

1. Lake Kawaguchi: Cherry Blossoms and Mount Fuji Viewing

Enjoying cherry blossoms is a must for many travelers in April. Lake Kawaguchi is one of the popular places to enjoy cherry blossoms, which are usually in full bloom in mid-April.

At Lake Kawaguchi, you could enjoy both cherry blossoms and the view of Mount Fuji at the same time, giving you a true feel of Japan by visiting the two most iconic symbols of the country.

If you're planning a cherry blossom trip in April and can't decide on a date, check out our Plan a Mount Fuji Cherry Blossom Trip for date suggestions and more useful tips.

2. Osaka: Expo 2025 and Cherry Blossoms

The World Expo 2025 in Osaka will begin on April 13th, 2025. There, you could explore special architecture, cutting-edge technology, and diverse cultures from around the world.

In April 2025 in Japan, you would have an exclusive opportunity to enjoy both cherry blossoms and the Expo.

If you're interested in visiting the Expo, read our Expo 2025 Osaka for more ideas.

3. Tokyo: Must-Visit with Cherry Blossoms

With the spring weather, cherry blossoms are breathtaking in Tokyo, making April great for outdoor activities with your loved ones and friends.

If you're celebrating a spring break with your kids, don't miss Tokyo Disneyland for its special "Disney's Easter". You would experience a rich Easter atmosphere: Easter-themed decorations, special parades, egg-hunting games...

4. Kyoto: Medieval Capital City

In addition to ancient gardens and temples, cherry blossoms add a romantic touch to Kyoto in April, and you could effortlessly find them as they are everywhere. You could dress in kimonos to take pictures under the cherry trees.

5. Takayama: the Spring Festival (Sanno Matsuri)

Takayama is famous for its authentic Japanese farmhouses and lifestyle.

The Takayama Spring Festival, held on April 14th and 15th every year, is one of the top traditional events in Japan. The festival boasts a parade with 12 exquisite wooden floats and traditional performances that create a festive and cultural atmosphere.

Moreover, cherry blossoms in Takayama are also in full bloom at this time, allowing you to soak up the beautiful scenery.

6.Nakasendo: Ancient Hiking Route

The Nakasendo is an ancient road that once connected Tokyo and Kyoto during the Edo period.

We suggest hiking between Tsumago-juku and Magome-juku. The terrain is mostly flat, making it suitable for most travelers. It features well-preserved ancient buildings, traditional rural scenery, and tall fir trees. It is particularly charming in April with many cherry blossom trees along the route.

7. Okinawa: Enjoy Water Sports

If you prefer to escape the cold in April, choose Okinawa, the warmest place in Japan.

You could enjoy water sports like surfing, snorkeling, and diving in Okinawa this month. Plus, you could enjoy fewer crowds as the peak beach season has not arrived yet.

If you have other places of interest to explore in Japan in April, just contact us! Our Japan travel advisors will make your dream trip happen based on your preferences.

What to Wear in Japan in April

Since the weather is warm in April in Japan, it's best to pack a jacket, a sweater, a long-sleeved shirt, and trousers.

You're advised to dress in layers to handle the temperature changes from day to night.

• Daytime: long-sleeved shirt
• Evening and early morning: jacket or sweater

How to Avoid Crowds in Japan in April

April is one of the busiest times in Japan due to the cherry blossoms and you would encounter more travelers during this month.

However, with smart planning, you could minimize your contact with crowds as much as possible. Check out our Japan Cherry Blossom Trip for tips on avoiding this peak month's crowds.

Is Japan Expensive in April?

Due to high demand, travel costs would be twice as high as usual during April's two peak periods, especially for hotels and international airfares. For example, a 4-star hotel that normally costs US$180 per night is anticipated to increase to US$290 per night.

April's peak times include:

• The cherry blossom season (before mid-April)
• Golden Week (April 29th to May 5th)

Therefore, you're highly recommended to book your hotels and international flights at least 3 months in advance. This could help you secure the best prices and good locations.

FAQs About Visiting Japan in April

Should I Travel to Japan in April or March?

If you enjoy warm weather, April is better than March.

In April, you could enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom and more lush spring scenery. However, there are fewer crowds in March.

Is April or May Better for Visiting Japan?

April is a better month to visit Japan to view cherry blossoms.

If you prefer fewer crowds and are not particularly interested in cherry blossoms, May is recommended, except during Golden Week from May 1st to 5th.

Are There Any of Japan's National Holidays in April?

Golden Week, one of Japan's most crowded public holidays, is in April, from April 29th to May 5th. Prepare for heavy crowds and increased travel expenses during this time.

If this is your only available time to visit Japan, you could still have a great trip with careful planning. Check out our Japan Golden Week article for advice on avoiding crowds during Golden Week.

Let's Plan Your Japan Trip Now

Excited to explore Japan in April but don't know where to start? No worries! We're here to provide expert advice to help you customize your Japan tour based on your preferences. Contact us now!

Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Japan

Learn about the weather in Japan for 12 months and find out the best places to visit each month.

• Japan in January
• Japan in February
• Japan in March
• Japan in April
• Japan in May
• Japan in June
• Japan in July
• Japan in August
• Japan in September
• Japan in October
• Japan in November
• Japan in December