March is a great time to visit Tokyo and see the wonderful plum blossoms or cherry blossoms if you come later in the month. Be careful when visiting for the cherry blossoms as it is very popular with people all over the world and Japan sees many visitors during this time. Taking a day trip outside of the city to lesser traveled areas will give you a chance to break away from the crowds and enjoy your time at your pace.
This guide brings together everything you need to know about the Tokyo area in March. Joining a guided tour is one of the easiest ways to experience the area without the stress of queues or missed connections, letting you focus on the views, the food, and the charm of Japan's largest city.
Weather in March
March days in Tokyo are usually warmer than the surrounding areas, but there can still be some chilly days early in the month. The average temperature high is around 15°C (59°F) and average lows of around 9°C (48°F) but they start to go up as the month goes on towards April. With the warmer weather also comes the blooming of the plum and cherry trees. The cherry blossoms will start blooming in western Japan around the same time as Tokyo and then slowly move up towards Hokkaido.
Festivals and Events
Tokyo has anything and everything for anyone and everyone! Here are some events going on in March that you should check out in the greater Tokyo area:
Cherry Blossoms
Dates: end of March - end of April
Location: Country-wide
Popular Tokyo Area Locations:
- Meguro River
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
- Advance reservations necessary for certain dates during cherry blossom season
- Chidorigafuchi
- Inokashira Park
- Showa Memorial Park
The end of March brings out the world-famous cherry blossoms here in Japan. The above-mentioned locations are popular scenic areas in Tokyo to see the trees, but that also means they will be crowded. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden requires advance reservations on March 22, 23, 29, 30th, and April 5th and 6th during the hours of 10:00 - 16:00. Chidorigafuchi is popular for having pedal boats that you can rent and ride around the moats of the imperial palace. The Showa Memorial Park is a little further out of the city to the west, but it boasts over 1,000 cherry trees spread throughout the park. Feel free to rent a bicycle and cycle around the expansive area while enjoying the "sakura fubuki" (lit. cherry blossom blizzard).
Tokyo Marathon
Dates: March 1st
Location: Tokyo - starting in Shinjuku / ending at Tokyo Station
The Tokyo Marathon for 2026 will be taking place on March 1st this year. It is one of the seven World Marathon Majors and is very important for those who are registered to run. Runners from all over the world come to not only compete, but to also watch and cheer on those who are. Even if you are not a fan or interested in the marathon itself, expect it to have an effect on your plans. There will be road closures and diversions along the route from Shinjuku to Tokyo Station. Be sure to plan accordingly if you are out exploring that day!
Mt. Takao Hiwatari Festival
Dates: March 8th
Location: Mount Takao
The sacred ritual of hiwatari, walking across burning coals, will take place on Mount Takao on March 8th. The act of walking across the burning hot coals is an act of cleansing and purify yourself. It also protects against sickness and disaster. This ritual is open to the public to perform, so if you are feeling brave enough and you have some cold feet, feel free to sign up and take part in walking over the hot coals!
Check out our Mount Takao tour if you would like to hike up the mountain, learn about its history, and get a chance to see some monkeys!
Anime Japan 2026
Dates: March 28th - 29th
Location: Tokyo Big Sight
Anime Japan is one of the year's biggest conventions related to the world of anime. Unlike the similar convention Comiket, this one is more focused on the industry rather than the independent creators. All of the major animation studios have booths, there are appearances by popular voice actors, and have live events across the two days. Tickets are available online as well as at the door, but it will cost more to get tickets the day of. There are also special fast tickets for priority entry and a cosplay ticket for those who wish to dress up as their favorite character.
Are you a fan of anime? Check out our anime related tours!
Baseball Season Starts
Dates: March 27th onwards ~
Location: Tokyo Dome
Japan may not have invented it, but they are the reigning baseball World Champions. Baseball is the biggest sport in Japan, and it doesn't show any signs of slowing down. One of Tokyo's two home teams, the Yomiuri Giants, start their season at Tokyo Dome on March 27th and the other team, the Yakult Swallows, will start their season on March 31st at Meiji Jingu Stadium. Even if you aren't a serious baseball fan, the atmosphere at baseball games in Japan in intoxicating. Why not try something different and take a swing at watching a baseball game while visiting and bring home some great memories!
Featured Tours in March
1 Day Trip to Kamakura and Enoshima: Shrines, Seaside, Temples and Tea
Highlights:
- The opportunity to have a traditional matcha and Japanese sweet experience in a Bamboo forest and temple!
- Feed Japanese Koi in a beautiful Japanese garden and pond!
- See the Great Buddha of Kamakura and go inside this amazing statue!
- Ride the iconic ’Enoden’ train through the picturesque streets and alongside the sea!
- Go to the top of Enoshima Island’s observatory and take in panoramic views of the sea of Japan and the coastline!
Kamakura is a popular day trip to do during your trip to Tokyo as it’s only just over 60 minutes away from Shinjuku station. This tour is a great opportunity to venture out and see a different part of Japan but with the ease of still being close to the city!
Walking Tour in Yanaka, Nezu and Sendagi : Experience Tea Ceremony and ’Yanesen’ Old Tokyo
Highlights:
- Learn all about ’Yanesen’ old Tokyo and Shitamachi style with a local guide
- Experience a traditional tea ceremony and drink from antique tea bowls!
- The opportunity to explore historic hidden gems and trendy neighbourhoods in Tokyo!
- Visit a popular art museum and enjoy views of Tokyo from its rooftop terrace
Take in the sights and experiences of traditional and old Tokyo on this walking tour. Known as ’Yanesen’ in Tokyo, the trio of Yanaka, Nezu and Sendagi make up this area and have retained their old ‘Shitamachi’ (lower city) style, architecture and charm, despite being a stone’s throw away from some of the well-known metropolis areas of Tokyo. If on your trip to Tokyo you want a chance to step off the tourist trail and see a different side to this amazing city, then ’Yanesen’ must be added to your Tokyo itinerary!
Small Group
Walking Tour in Yanaka, Nezu and Sendagi : Experience Tea Ceremony and ’Yanesen’ Old Tokyo
Mount Fuji Day Trip: Adventure around Lake Kawaguchiko
Highlights:
- The opportunity to take a day trip from Tokyo to see Mount Fuji with an English speaking guide!
- Visit three popular vantage points to see Mount Fuji from different perspectives!
- Visit a unique museum and get up close to beautiful kimono!
- Enjoy a ropeway ride and enjoy views of Mount Fuji, and across Lake Kawaguchiko!
This tour has been designed to ensure customers will have opportunities to see Mount Fuji from many impressive locations around the Lake Kawaguchiko area. If you love nature and spending time outdoors, this tour is for you!
Hakone Highlights: Explore Japan’s Mountainous Region
Highlights:
- The opportunity to take a day trip to experience Hakone from Tokyo!
- Enjoy a relaxing pirate ship boat cruise on Hakone’s Lake Ashinoko!
- Visit the beautiful and picturesque Hakone Shrine and see its famous Red Torii Gate in Lake Ashinoko!
- Experience the volcanic valley of Owakudani and try an outdoor footbath!
Experience nature, the lush mountainous landscape and Japan’s most famous and iconic landmarks during your trip to Japan on this day trip from Tokyo! Due to the elevation in Hakone, the foliage starts changing colors a little earlier than in Tokyo, so this spot is perfect from late October onwards!
Mount Takao Adventure: Discover Nature and Tradition in Tokyo
Highlights:
- Climb one of Japan’s most popular mountains!
- See and feed Japanese Snow Monkeys, walk across a suspension bridge and marvel at ancient Cedar trees!
- Try the traditional Japanese snack of Dango freshly made on the mountain!
- Visit one of Tokyo’s most sacred temples and learn all about mountain worship!
- The opportunity to escape the metropolis of Tokyo’s city centre and experience being immersed in nature for the day!
When you think of Tokyo you probably don’t think of mountains and green landscapes. However, Tokyo prefecture is in fact home to many beautiful hiking trails and mountains. Mount Takao is beloved by the residents of Tokyo as the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the Metropolis full of nature and tranquility.
Tips for Visiting & Travel in March
- Large crowds - March is when the non-ski resort areas start gaining steam again so be ready for some crowds at the beginning of the month and then big crowds when the cherry blossoms come out. Make sure to reserve your train tickets in advance, if possible, if you are taking the bullet train or any of the express trains like the Tobu SpaciaX. By joining one of our tours, your transport is reserved in advance, ensuring you won’t miss out on seats or connections.
- What to Wear – March days in Tokyo aren't as cold but a jacket may still be necessary. The average temperature ranges from around 15°C (59°F) during the day to 9°C (48°F) at night.
- Timing Your Visit – Weekends and festival days are very busy. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting locations on weekdays so you don't also collide with local tourists.
Where to Stay
Not sure where to stay during your visit to Tokyo? Check out our article that covers the major areas of the city and what they have to offer.
Plan Your Visit
March is one of the best times of the year to visit Tokyo and experience all it and the surrounding regions have to offer. The city has many events, festivals, and gardens where you can enjoy a nice bowl of matcha and sweets or take in the rows of plum and cherry blossoms on the trees. Don't forget to take a day or two to rest and slow down while exploring a neighborhood or two!
With crowds expected and express trains like the bullet train often selling out, planning ahead is essential. If you're planning on getting out of Tokyo to experience more of Japan, why not check out some of our articles explaining March in other regions on our News page!
