18 Breathtaking Places That Make Japan Worth Visiting in March
Ready to catch Japan at its most captivating? March brings mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and the first hints of spring across the country.
Our list of 18 destinations reveals hidden gems and iconic spots that shine especially bright this month!
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1. Miyajima Island
Miyajima Island impresses visitors with its iconic floating torii gate, which appears to hover magically on the water during high tide.
The island bursts into life in March when cherry trees start blooming around the historic Tahoto Pagoda, creating perfect photo opportunities against the backdrop of ancient temples.
Wild deer roam freely through the streets, and it’s the perfect time to hike Mount Misen, where you’ll catch panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Insider Tip: Time your visit for sunset when the floating torii casts golden reflections on the water.
Where to Stay: Sekitei – A traditional ryokan where every room offers a private open-air bath overlooking the sea.
2. Hitachi Seaside Park
Hitachi Seaside Park puts on a spectacular show in March when millions of daffodils carpet the rolling hills in waves of yellow.
Rent a bicycle to cruise along the winding paths, stopping at scenic spots for impromptu photoshoots or peaceful moments of reflection.
Insider Tip: Visit early morning to catch the sunrise over the flower fields – the morning dew makes everything sparkle.
Where to Stay: Terrace Inn Katsuta is just a minute’s walk from JR Katsuta Station with a convenient 20-minute bus ride to Hitachi Seaside Park’s stunning seasonal flower displays.
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3. Kamikochi Valley
As winter’s grip loosens, Kamikochi Valley awakens in March with crystal-clear mountain streams and snow-capped peaks reflecting in Taisho Pond.
Walking trails range from easy riverside strolls to challenging mountain hikes, each offering unique perspectives of the Japanese Alps.
Insider Tip: Pack layers – mountain weather can change quickly, even in spring.
Where to Stay: Kamikochi Imperial Hotel – A historic mountain lodge where you can soak in the outdoor onsen while watching the sunset paint the Alps pink.
4. Himeji Castle
March sees Himeji Castle at its most magnificent, when hundreds of cherry trees frame this pristine white fortress in delicate pink blooms.
The castle’s brilliant white exterior earned it the nickname “White Heron Castle,” and its imposing silhouette against the spring sky creates unforgettable views.
Wander through the castle’s maze-like interior, discovering hidden defensive features and architectural marvels.
Where to Stay: Hotel Monterey Himeji – A European-style hotel with castle views from its rooftop garden.
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5. Kanazawa
Kanazawa shines in March as plum blossoms perfume the air in the famous Kenroku-en Garden.
The city’s preserved samurai and geisha districts take on an ethereal quality in the spring light, while contemporary art at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art provides a striking contrast to traditional architecture.
Insider Tip: Book a morning tea ceremony in one of the garden’s historic teahouses for an authentic cultural immersion.
Where to Stay: Mitsui Garden Hotel Kanazawa – A boutique hotel featuring rooms decorated with local Kaga Yuzen textiles.
6. Mount Yoshino
Mount Yoshino stands as Japan’s most celebrated cherry blossom viewing spot, with over 30,000 cherry trees blooming in waves up the mountainside.
The trees, first planted over 1,300 years ago, create a gradient of pink hues against the mountain’s slopes.
Ancient temples and shrines dot the landscape, offering peaceful retreats and cultural discoveries.
Insider Tip: Take the shuttle bus to Naka Senbon for the most impressive cherry blossom views without the steep climb.
Where to Stay: Yoshinoso Yukawaya is a 300-year-old pilgrim’s inn where traditional Japanese hospitality meets the timeless charm of Mt. Yoshino’s World Heritage surroundings.
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7. Naoshima Island
Naoshima Island is Japan’s coolest art destination, where contemporary masterpieces meet stunning coastal views.
The island’s crown jewel, the Chichu Art Museum, sits beautifully carved into the hillside, creating an unforgettable blend of art and architecture.
Snap incredible photos with Yayoi Kusama’s famous Yellow Pumpkin sculpture sitting pretty against the sparkling Seto Sea.
Or the Red Pumpkin welcomes you at the port with its playful polka-dot design that you can actually walk inside.
Insider Tip: Book your Chichu Museum time slot well in advance – it’s the hottest ticket on the island.
Where to Stay: Benesse House – A museum-hotel hybrid where you can wake up surrounded by world-class art.
8. Okinawa
Okinawa springs to life in March with perfect beach weather and endless possibilities for fun under the sun.
The island buzzes with exciting events like the Okinawa Zen-jima Yachimun Market, where you can watch local potters work their magic, and the vibrant Azalea Festival.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss the fresh mozuku seaweed and shima rakkyo – they’re at their peak deliciousness in March2.
Where to Stay: Hotel Moon Beach – A beachfront paradise hosting the famous pottery market right on its doorstep.
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9. Inokashira Park
Inokashira Park transforms in March when its 500 cherry trees burst into bloom around the romantic central pond.
The park’s star attraction is the world-famous Ghibli Museum, but the real magic happens on the water, where you can rent a rowboat and glide under cherry blossom tunnels.
Just watch out for the local legend – couples who boat together might face the wrath of the jealous goddess Benzaiten!
Where to Stay: Kichijoji Tokyu REI Hotel – Just steps away from the park’s famous cherry blossom spots.
10. Arashiyama
Arashiyama captivates visitors with its iconic bamboo grove, where towering green stalks create nature’s most stunning corridor.
The district comes alive in March when plum blossoms add splashes of color to the landscape, and the famous Togetsukyo Bridge offers picture-perfect views of the surrounding mountains.
Insider Tip: Visit the bamboo grove at sunrise for the most magical photos without the crowds.
Where to Stay: Suiran Luxury Collection – A riverside retreat offering spectacular views of the Arashiyama mountains.
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11. Mifuneyama Rakuen
Mifuneyama Rakuen explodes with color in March as 2,000 cherry trees paint the 123-acre garden in delicate pink hues.
This spectacular garden, built by a samurai lord in 1845, features a stunning 170-year-old wisteria with flower clusters reaching up to 150cm long.
The cherry blossoms are illuminated at night, creating Kyushu’s biggest springtime light show.
Where to Stay: Takeo Onsen Hotel – A traditional hot spring hotel just minutes from the garden’s entrance.
12. Chidorigafuchi Park
Chidorigafuchi Park dazzles visitors with its 700-meter cherry blossom tunnel along the Imperial Palace moat.
Over a million people flock here each spring to see hundreds of sakura trees create a pink canopy over the water.
The magic doubles after sunset when illuminations transform the scene into a glowing wonderland until 10 PM.
Insider Tip: Rent a boat for 800 yen during sakura season to paddle through a shower of pink petals.
Where to Stay: Palace Hotel Tokyo – Offering front-row views of the illuminated cherry blossoms.
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13. Lake Kawaguchiko
Lake Kawaguchiko welcomes visitors with jaw-dropping views of Mount Fuji reflecting in its crystal-clear waters.
The lake’s shores come alive in March with early cherry blossoms, creating picture-perfect moments against Japan’s most famous peak.
You can hop on a swan boat for a dreamy paddle across the water, or take the Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway for some of the most incredible mountain views in the prefecture.
Insider Tip: Try the local fusion dishes at La Luce restaurant, where Italian cuisine meets fresh Yamanashi ingredients.
Where to Stay: Shuhokaku Kogetsu is a serene lakeside sanctuary where traditional Japanese luxury meets breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, complete with private kaiseki dining and soothing outdoor hot springs.
14. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park stretches across 120,000 square meters of serene green space in the heart of the city.
In March, the park’s cherry blossoms create a poignant contrast against the preserved ruins, offering a message of hope and renewal.
The park features walking paths, lawns, and memorial facilities that tell the city’s powerful story.
Where to Stay: Hotel Granvia Hiroshima – Located steps from the park with panoramic views of the city.
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15. Farm Tomita
Farm Tomita opens its gates in March to showcase over 80 different flower varieties across 13 stunning gardens.
While the famous lavender fields are still sleeping, early spring brings beautiful displays in the Spring Field and Greenhouse Garden.
This free-admission wonderland has been delighting visitors since 1908, and even in early spring, you’ll find plenty of colorful blooms and aromatic treats.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss the farm’s famous melon bread and fresh-cut flowers at the Hanabito House.
Where to Stay: Furano Prince Hotel – Offering panoramic views of the surrounding flower fields.
16. Takayama
Takayama charms visitors with its perfectly preserved old town, where traditional wooden buildings line ancient streets.
March brings the famous morning markets along the Miyagawa River, where you can sample hot taiyaki and sip coffee from edible cookie cups.
The city’s newest attraction, the Gyojin Bridge, shows off stunning traditional woodwork that Takayama is famous for.
Where to Stay: Honjin Hiranoya Bekkan – A historic inn offering traditional hospitality in the heart of old town.
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17. Ueno Park
Ueno Park bursts into life in March with its famous cherry blossom festival, featuring 1,200 cherry trees that date back 400 years.
The festival brings the park alive with food stalls, traditional music, and magical evening illuminations that transform the cherry blossom tunnels.
Where to Stay: Ueno Hotel – Just steps away from the park’s famous cherry blossom spots.
18. Ashikaga Flower Park
Ashikaga Flower Park impresses visitors in March with its Spring Flower Festival, featuring 30,000 colorful tulips arranged in stunning patterns.
As the month progresses, snow willows and early cherry blossoms join the show, creating a magical spring atmosphere.
The park’s creative seasonal displays make it a year-round attraction, with each month bringing new colors and varieties.
Where to Stay: The Toyoko Inn Tochigi Ashikaga-eki Kita-guchi offers a perfect blend of convenience and comfort, nestled close to the enchanting Ashikaga Flower Park.
