Weather | 6–15°C (43–59°F) | 11–20°C (52–68°F) | 16–25°C (61–77°F) |
Crowds | Build quickly in the second half as sakura starts | High in early April, calmer mid-month, busy again from Apr 29 | Very busy during Golden Week, then easier after May 6 |
Atmosphere | First-bloom energy, cooler evenings, more jacket weather | Peak spring mood, picnic parks, flower-lined walks, longer days | Warmer, greener, more festival-heavy, less blossom-focused |
Key events | Cherry blossoms begin, Ueno Sakura Matsuri, AnimeJapan 2026 | Hanami peak, yaezakura, Kameido Tenjin Wisteria Festival, Meiji Jingu Spring Grand Festival | Sanja Matsuri, May Grand Sumo Tournament, Golden Week spillover |
Public holidays | Vernal Equinox Day on Mar 20, 2026 | Showa Day on Apr 29, 2026 | Constitution Memorial Day, Greenery Day, Children's Day |
Budget | Prices rise sharply near full bloom | Highest around Apr 1–6 and from Apr 29 onward | Expensive during May 3–6, then softer mid-month |
Best for | Early sakura chasers and cooler sightseeing | First-time spring visitors, photographers, walkers, garden lovers | Festivals, warmer weather, and post-holiday city breaks |
Book early? | Yes for late March stays | Yes for Apr 1–6 and Apr 29–May 6 | Yes for Golden Week; less urgent after May 6 |
Transport tips | Blossom hotspots get crowded after 10am | Use subway early for parks and riversides; avoid Apr 29 evening departures | Expect station congestion during Golden Week and festival weekends |