Overview

March in Japan marks the transition from winter to spring, bringing beautiful cherry blossoms, historic festivals, and traditional celebrations. As the weather begins to warm, visitors can enjoy the vibrant mix of seasonal events, from lively parades to flower viewings. Whether you’re drawn to ancient rituals or nature’s renewal, March is a fantastic time to explore Japan.

Top 5 Events

1. Omizutori – Sacred Water-Drawing Ceremony

Where: Tōdai-ji Temple, Nara

When: 1–14 March (main event on the night of 12 March)

• A 1,250-year-old Buddhist ritual marking the arrival of spring
• Giant flaming torches are carried across the temple’s Nigatsu-dō Hall
• The ceremony climaxes as sacred water is drawn from a temple well at midnight

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2. Kyoto Higashiyama Hanatoro – Lantern Festival

Where: Higashiyama district, Kyoto

When: Mid-March

• Thousands of lanterns illuminate Kyoto’s historic streets
• Night-time illuminations of temples, shrines, and gardens
• Special performances and art exhibitions along the walking route

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3. Nagasaki Lantern Festival

Where: Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture

When: Lunar New Year period (often lasting into early March)

• Thousands of colourful Chinese lanterns light up the city
• Features dragon dances, cultural performances, and fireworks
• Celebrates Nagasaki’s historic Chinese heritage

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4. Kumamoto Castle Cherry Blossom Festival

Where: Kumamoto Castle, Kumamoto Prefecture

When: Late March

• Cherry blossoms frame one of Japan’s most beautiful castles
• Evening illuminations create a magical hanami experience
• Street stalls serve seasonal festival food like yakitori and sakura mochi

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5. Taketa Bamboo Lantern Festival

Where: Taketa, Oita Prefecture

When: Late March

• Thousands of handcrafted bamboo lanterns light up streets and riversides
• A mesmerising blend of light, tradition, and nature
• Accompanied by local performances and cultural displays

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Additional Events

Hinamatsuri – Doll Festival

Where: Nationwide (notable displays at Meiji Shrine, Tokyo & Shimogamo Shrine, Kyoto)

When: 3 March

• Celebrates girls’ growth and happiness
• Features elaborate hina doll displays and special foods like chirashizushi and hishimochi
• Some regions host public exhibitions of rare historical dolls

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Shunbun no Hi – Spring Equinox Day

Where: Nationwide (especially at temples and cemeteries)

When: Around 20–21 March

• A national holiday celebrating the beginning of spring
• Families visit graves to honour ancestors
• A reflective time for seasonal appreciation and outdoor enjoyment

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Fuji Kawaguchiko Fire Festival

Where: Lake Kawaguchi, Yamanashi Prefecture

When: Early March

• Bonfires lit to symbolise winter’s end, with Mount Fuji in the background
• Local food stalls and crafts add to the festive atmosphere

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Sawara Grand Festival (Spring Edition)

Where: Sawara, Chiba Prefecture

When: Mid to late March

• Multi-tiered floats parade through a historic canal town
• Accompanied by traditional music and dance

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Plum Blossom Festivals (Ume Matsuri)

Where: Kairakuen, Kitano Tenmangū, Atami Baien

When: Early to mid-March

• Celebrates early-blooming plum blossoms with tea, food, and music
• A peaceful alternative to the busy cherry blossom season

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Matsue Dandan Cherry Blossom Festival

Where: Matsue Castle, Shimane Prefecture

When: Late March to early April

• Hundreds of cherry trees bloom around the historic castle
• Night-time lighting and traditional events highlight the setting

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Additional Tips

• Book accommodation early, especially in Kyoto and Tokyo during cherry blossom season
• Check sakura forecasts, as blossom timing varies by region
• Layer your clothing – early March can still be chilly, but it warms up by month’s end
• Respect religious customs, especially at sites like Tōdai-ji during Omizutori
• Try seasonal foods – such as sakura mochi, sanshoku dango, and fresh matcha

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