March marks a quiet but transitional period in Takayama, sitting between the depth of winter and the first signs of spring. Snow often still lingers in the surrounding mountains and higher villages, while the town itself begins to feel calmer and more open as winter crowds ease.
This is a good month for travellers who prefer a slower pace. Historic streets are less busy, accommodation availability improves, and sightseeing around the town feels more relaxed. It is also a practical base for visiting nearby areas such as Shirakawa-go, Hida-Furukawa, and the onsen towns of Gero Onsen and Okuhida Onsen, depending on weather and road conditions.
While March is not driven by major festivals, it offers a more atmospheric and flexible way to experience the region, especially for visitors interested in history, food, scenic walks, and regional day trips.
Weather in March
March in Takayama is a transitional month, with conditions gradually shifting from winter toward early spring. Daytime temperatures typically range from around 0°C to 10°C, though mornings and evenings can still feel cold, especially in shaded areas and near rivers.
Snowfall becomes less frequent in town as the month progresses, but snow often remains in the surrounding mountains and higher elevation areas. Nearby destinations such as Shirakawa-go, Okuhida Onsen, and the Shinhotaka Ropeway can still experience winter conditions, particularly early in the month. Road conditions are generally stable, though occasional snow or icy patches are possible after cold nights.
Seasonal Highlights in March
Quiet sightseeing in Takayama
With fewer visitors in town, March is an excellent time to explore the Takayama Historic Old Town at a relaxed pace. The old town streets, traditional merchant houses, and cultural sites can be enjoyed without the congestion seen later in spring.
Late winter scenery in nearby villages & Areas
Higher elevation destinations such as Shirakawa-go, Okuhida and Shinhotaka often retain their winter appearance into March. Snow may still cover rooftops, fields, and mountains, especially earlier in the month, offering a quieter alternative to peak winter travel.
Onsen season continues
March remains a strong month for hot spring visits. Gero Onsen and the onsen towns of Okuhida are especially appealing as temperatures stay cool, making outdoor baths comfortable.
Featured Tours in March
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Explore Scenic Old Japan in Takayama & Shirakawa-go
March is a quieter time to experience Shirakawa-go alongside Takayama’s historic streets. Snow often still lingers in the surrounding mountains and higher villages early in the month, while lighter crowds allow for a more relaxed visit throughout the day.
Highlights:
- Walk through Takayama’s Old Town at a comfortable, unhurried pace
- Visit Shirakawa-go’s gassho-zukuri farmhouses
- Enjoy countryside and village views with fewer seasonal crowds
Best Selling
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Explore Scenic Old Japan in Takayama and Shirakawa-go
- Spots:
- TakayamaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Takayama
- Drop-off:
- KanazawaTakayama
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Hida’s Hidden Gems, Limestone Caves and the Shinhotaka Ropeway
March remains a rewarding time to explore Hida’s alpine landscapes, particularly earlier in the month when winter conditions often linger at higher elevations. Snow can still frame the mountains, adding to the dramatic scenery, while fewer visitors allow for a more relaxed experience compared to peak winter periods.
Highlights:
- Explore the Hida Limestone Caves
- Ride the Shinhotaka Ropeway for panoramic views, weather permitting
- Experience Hida’s rugged mountain scenery during the late winter season
Recommended
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Hida's Hidden Gems - Hida Folk Village, Limestone Caves and the Shinhotaka Ropeway
- Spots:
- TakayamaShinhotaka
- Pick-up:
- Takayama
- Drop-off:
- Takayama
More Ways to Visit Takayama
Alongside our guided tours, we also offer charters and other travel options to Takayama. These are perfect for travellers who prefer private transport, customised itineraries, or more flexibility in planning their day. Whether you’re travelling as a family, a couple, or a group, charters provide comfort and convenience while still letting you experience the best of Takayama and surrounding region.
Local News & Travel Updates
- Festival Crowds & Travel Tips - March is quieter than peak winter and spring festival periods. Sightseeing around the old town, cultural sites, and morning markets feels relaxed, and accommodation availability is generally better than later in spring. Shirakawa-go is also calmer, particularly on weekdays.
- Clothing and packing – Warm clothing is still essential in March, particularly in the mornings and evenings. A winter coat, insulated layers, and waterproof footwear are recommended, especially earlier in the month and when visiting rural areas or higher elevations. Layering allows for comfort as daytime.
- Onsen Towns in Season - March remains an excellent time to visit hot spring resorts such as Gero Onsen and Okuhida. Cooler temperatures make outdoor baths especially comfortable, and the quieter atmosphere allows for a more relaxed stay. Many ryokan continue to offer seasonal kaiseki meals, while lingering winter scenery in the surrounding mountains adds to the onsen experience.
Where to Stay in March
March is a comfortable and flexible time to choose where to stay in Takayama, Shirakawa-go, and the wider Hida region. With winter easing and crowds thinning, travellers have more freedom to shape the kind of experience they want, whether that means staying close to historic streets, enjoying a quieter village atmosphere, or unwinding in a hot spring town. Conditions can still vary between town centres and higher elevation areas, so choosing the right base plays an important role in balancing comfort, travel time, and seasonal atmosphere.
- Takayama City – The most versatile base in March, ideal for exploring the Old Town, morning markets, and cultural sites at a relaxed pace. Staying in the city also provides the easiest access to transport connections for day trips to nearby areas, making it a practical choice.
- Shirakawa-go – For travellers seeking a quieter village experience, Shirakawa-go is noticeably calmer in March, especially on weekdays. An overnight stay allows you to enjoy the historic gassho-zukuri farmhouses early in the morning or after day-trippers have left.
- Onsen Towns (Gero, Okuhida) – March is an excellent time for hot spring stays, with cool temperatures making outdoor baths especially comfortable. Both Gero Onsen and Okuhida offer traditional ryokan, seasonal cuisine, and a slower pace, while mountain areas may still retain traces of winter scenery.
Wherever you choose to stay, March offers a balance of seasonal atmosphere and flexibility that is harder to find during peak periods. For more guidance, see our Best Places to Stay in Takayama.
Plan Your March Visit
March is a good month to plan a visit to Takayama with flexibility in mind. With fewer crowds and improving availability, it is easier to shape an itinerary around personal interests rather than peak season demand. Travellers can enjoy a balanced mix of sightseeing, regional day trips, and relaxed time in town without the pressure of festival schedules.
Takayama works well as a central base, with reliable transport connections to Shirakawa-go, Hida-Furukawa, Gero Onsen, and the alpine areas of Okuhida. Weather conditions can vary, particularly early in the month, so allowing room for adjustment helps ensure a smoother experience.
For visitors who prefer guidance and local insight, joining a tour can help make the most of changing conditions while providing context and access that is difficult to replicate independently. March rewards travellers who plan thoughtfully and remain open to the quieter, transitional character of the season.
If you’re visiting this March, explore our seasonal tours and let us help you experience the highlights of Takayama with ease and comfort.