Spring in Japan is certainly something you want to behold, filled with cultural events and breathtaking beauty. Landscapes brim with cherry blossoms, painting riverbanks, parks, and temple grounds in stunning whites and pinks. There are so many amazing things you can do during spring in Japan that it feels like one trip isn’t enough, and once you arrive there, you will immediately fall in love!

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s something for everyone seeking an unforgettable time during their trip. Check out our top 5 ideas below on what to do in Japan during spring

Experience Hanami

What’s the point of planning a trip to Japan during spring if you won’t venture out to admire the cherry blossoms? This activity is simply quintessential, as the arrival of Sakura or cherry blossoms is celebrated during spring with flower-gazing festivals that happen all over the country – also known as Hanami. Cherry blossom trees are revered as a symbol of the country, with their fleeting beauty marking the beginning of spring. The Hanami tradition started during the Heian Period in Japan when the upper class took the time to admire flowers while writing poetry.

These days, individuals from all walks of life visit temples, parks, and riverbanks to picnic and unwind under cherry blossom trees. Hanami festivals can start in March-April and extend into May, but they differ from location to location. They include traditional food stands, performances, and live music. Tokyo’s Ueno Park is known as a Hanami paradise, as over 1,000 cherry trees line the paths and form a dreamlike flowery hue.

Try strawberry picking

Strawberries are quite special in Japan. But when visiting the country, you don’t want to just indulge your taste buds in these juicy fruits as you would normally, but instead, experience strawberry picking and savor them fresh from the vine. There are plenty of farms in Japan where you can try out this activity, such as Setagaya Strawberry Juku, located in Setagaya, Tokyo, which offers a 30-minute strawberry-picking session. This place is located just a 10-minute walk from Kaminoge Station on the Tokyu Oimachi Line, making it very accessible for city dwellers who want to enjoy this seasonal activity. But remember to check out the operating hours of the farm in advance to know when to plan your visit.

Or, if you prefer a more relaxed, leisurely experience, you can visit Nikkuranoen, a farm owned by a family in western Tokyo that specializes in blueberry and strawberry picking. You have to pay for the berries you pick, but you also get to take your time to enjoy the activity, as there are no time limits. Reservations are required here, so don’t head over before checking availability on their website.

Admire the wisteria flower

The wisteria flower is culturally important to Japanese people, and it’s a must-see during your spring adventure in the country. For a memorable wisteria viewing experience, we recommend going to the Kameido Tenjin Shrine, an annual Wisteria Festival that provides numerous activities as well as delectable culinary delights, creating the ideal backdrop for capturing stunning photos.

Also, make sure to explore Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden, where you will find a majestic wooden wisteria trellis that is over 200 years old. The best viewing period is around late April and early May, so make sure to plan your visit during that time frame. The Imperial Palace East Gardens is another excellent location – although it can get crowded during Golden Week, it provides a serene escape where you can be in awe of the vibrant purple wisteria’s beauty. By the way, if you want to share the beauty of the wisteria flower with your Instagram friends, make sure to get an eSIM before your trip to Japan, as it will ensure you have a fast and reliable Internet connection. There are certainly a lot of questions that you have about a Japan eSIM, and on this website can be found, so make sure to check it out.

Embark on a hiking adventure

Spring is the perfect time to get outdoors as the temperatures get warmer. In recent years, the number of people choosing to go on a weekend hike has been growing, as this helps them combat sedentary lifestyles and enjoy nature’s beauty. One popular hiking destination in Japan is Mt.Takao, located in Hachioji, Tokyo, where there are scenic trails suitable for all hikers, no matter their skill level. Mt. Takao isn’t only very accessible, but it also boasts stunning panoramic views and even novice hikers consider the trails there to be manageable.

However, if you are a more seasoned hiker and want something more of a challenge, Mount Tsukuba is a better choice, as it provides a more exhilarating and longer adventure. There are different routes to choose from, with varying difficulty levels, and the hike takes around 3-4 hours to complete. Known as one of Japan’s top 100 famous mountains, Mount Tsukuba offers breathtaking vistas and stunning landmarks along the way, such as rejuvenating hot springs and breathtaking vistas. Whether you’re looking for tranquility or adventure, going on a hike in Mount Tsukuba will certainly leave a lasting impression.

Feast on seasonal treats

Japan’s spring season means that there are lots of seasonal treats to savor. Freshly caught asari clams are simply a delicacy steamed with spring onions or perfect in miso soup. Once you delight in them, continue your culinary adventure with ichigo daifuku—a delectable treat for everyone with a sweet tooth, made of strawberries and sweet red bean paste wrapped in soft mochi.

And if you’re feeling adventurous during your trip to Japan, you can always cook at home with seasonal ingredients such as maitake mushrooms, butterbur sprouts, and spring onions for tempura. Or, if cooking isn’t your thing, explore restaurants and local cafes for spring-inspired dishes.

The bottom line

There you have it: a list of the best things to do when visiting Japan during spring! Now that you know there are so many activities available, all that you need to do is to start creating your itinerary! So, are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime in Japan?