Kyoto March — cherry blossom tree canopy forming a tunnel over a temple pathway in early spring

Kyoto · Japan

March

Spring begins — warming temperatures and early cherry blossoms, with crowds building toward month end.

Best match

#2 of 12 months

March is one of the best times to visit Kyoto.

Climate

High

14.3°C

Low

6.7°C

Rain

89mm

Sun

5.5hrs/day

30-year climate normals · Open Meteo ERA5

How March scores in Kyoto

Weather
Very good
Value
Good
Crowds
Good
Events
Very good
Atmosphere
Excellent

What you gain in March

  • Early cherry blossoms arrive late March at Maruyama Park and the Philosopher's Path — one of the great sights in Japan
  • Higashiyama Hanatoro lantern festival mid-March: stone-paved lanes lit at night, before the peak crowds arrive
  • Temperatures comfortable for all-day walking: 14°C highs without summer humidity

What you sacrifice

  • Prices rising sharply from mid-March as cherry blossom season approaches
  • Accommodation books out weeks ahead for late March — advance planning essential
  • Spring rain days common; 89mm across the month means waterproof layers are necessary

How March compares to October (best month)

FactorMarchOctober
Weather
7
8
Value
6
6
Crowds
6
5

March in other destinations

Climate data: 30-year normals (1991–2020) from Open Meteo ERA5 reanalysis. Scores compare months within Kyoto, not across destinations. Methodology →