8 things to do in Japan in March

If you’re planning to go sightseeing, you’d want to include things that you can only see or experience during that specific time in your itinerary, right? This time, we will introduce the situation, events, and recommended spots in Japan in March for those who are interested.

*Please note that the dates of the events introduced may change. Please check the official websites of the facilities for the latest information.

About Japan in March

March in Japan is a wonderful season where you can feel the transition from winter to spring. The temperature gradually becomes warmer, and beautiful flowers such as cherry blossoms and rapeseed flowers come into full bloom. This time of year is perfect for traveling, allowing you to enjoy many tourist spots and events in comfortable weather.

Cherry Blossom Spots to Visit in March

March is the season when cherry blossoms start to bloom all over Japan. Here, we will introduce three highly recommended cherry blossom spots.

Chiba Prefecture: Isumi Railway

“Isumi Railway” is a local line running through the rich natural countryside of Chiba Prefecture. From mid-March to early April, yellow rapeseed flowers bloom along the railway, followed by cherry blossoms. Especially in late March, the contrast between the rapeseed flowers and cherry blossoms creates a picturesque landscape. You can enjoy the scenery from the train window or get off and take a walk; there are many ways to enjoy it.

Shizuoka Prefecture: Kakegawa Castle

“Kakegawa Castle Park” sees “Kakegawa Sakura” in full bloom in March. The Kakegawa cherry blossoms are a slightly darker pink than the Somei Yoshino variety, and about 300 cherry trees bloom along the Sakawa River. Not only can you enjoy the bright cherry blossoms during the day, but the night cherry blossoms are also enchanting. You can experience an early spring feeling with the illuminated cherry blossoms in the quiet night.

Kagawa Prefecture: Shionoezan

“Shionoezan” is a beautiful mountain located on the Shonai Peninsula in Mitoyo City, Kagawa Prefecture. From late March to early April, the cherry blossoms at the summit reach their peak. From the summit, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the pink cherry blossoms, the blue Seto Inland Sea, and the green islands. The cherry blossoms illuminated by the morning sun are particularly breathtaking.

Special Events and Festivals

In Japan, many events and festivals celebrating spring are held in March. Here, we introduce three especially recommended events.

Okayama Prefecture: Kurashiki Haruyoi Akari

In the “Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter,” the “Kurashiki Haruyoi Akari” is held every March. During this event, traditional Japanese lights illuminate the area at night, creating a magical atmosphere. Along the Kurashiki River, “Wagasa Akari” (traditional Japanese umbrellas made of washi paper) line the area, beautifully lighting up the traditional white-walled storehouses and Namako walls.

Okinawa Prefecture: Yonaguni Island’s Sea Opening

On “Kubura Nama Beach” in “Yonaguni Island,” Okinawa Prefecture, the “Southernmost Sea Opening in Japan! Yaeyama’s Sea Opening” is held on March 26. After a ceremony to pray for the safety of the sea, fun activities such as beach treasure hunts and harvest festivals take place. The calm waves in the bay make it a perfect spot for the first swim of the year.

Seasonal Gourmet

March is the season when many seafood and vegetables are at their peak. Here, we introduce three highly recommended spring gourmet items.

Shizuoka Prefecture: Sakura Shrimp

“Sakura Shrimp” caught in Suruga Bay, Shizuoka Prefecture, is especially famous in “Yui Port.” At “Hama no Kakiageya” in Yui Port, you can enjoy fresh sakura shrimp tempura and boiled sakura shrimp. In spring, you can also see the sakura shrimp drying in the sun with a splendid view of Mount Fuji.

Seto Inland Sea: Sakura Sea Bream

“Sakura Sea Bream” is a red sea bream that spawns in spring, and the Seto Inland Sea is especially famous for it. The sakura sea bream during this season is rich in fat and has firm flesh. You can enjoy it in various dishes such as sashimi, grilled fish, and stews.

Enoshima: Shirasu

The shirasu fishing season, which opens in spring, makes March the perfect time to enjoy fresh shirasu. In Enoshima, especially, shirasu bowls made with freshly caught raw shirasu are popular, attracting many tourists. The fluffy boiled shirasu and raw shirasu are so delicious that you’ll be hooked once you try them.