As days get warmer and the sun shines through clear blue skies, spring in Japan is the perfect time to go back to enjoying the outdoors.
Recommended Outdoor Activities for Spring in Japan
Let’s discover together what the best ways to enjoy spring are around Japan.
Visiting Flower Fields and Seasonal Gardens
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Visiting flower fields and seasonal gardens in spring in Japan offers a stunning display of Japan’s colors and nature’s beauty.
Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki is famous for its baby blue eyes (nemophila) covering the hills from mid-April to early May.
The Fuji Shibazakura Festival in Yamanashi showcases pink moss phlox (shibazakura) – in full bloom the first weeks of May – with Mount Fuji as a backdrop, creating a breathtaking view.
Ashikaga Flower Park in Tochigi is renowned for its massive, centuries-old wisteria trees, forming magical tunnels from late April to mid-May.
From late April to early May, the Tonami Tulip Fair in Toyama presents over 3 million tulips in vibrant patterns, resembling a Dutch flower field.
In Hokkaido, flower season peaks later, with shibazakura in Takinoue Park and tulip fields in Kamiyubetsu Tulip Park blooming from mid-May. The best time to visit varies, with cherry blossoms and rapeseed in March-April, followed by wisteria, tulips, and pink shibazakura in April-May, and late-blooming flowers in Hokkaido from May-June.
These seasonal gardens highlight Japan’s deep appreciation for nature, offering unforgettable sights that blend tradition and seasonal beauty.
Spring Hiking
Spring in Japan is the perfect season for light hikes, with mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re looking for cherry blossoms – typically in bloom during the last weeks of March and the beginning of April – panoramic mountain views, or peaceful nature trails, these easy-to-moderate hikes offer a refreshing way to experience Japan’s seasonal beauty.
Mount Takao (Tokyo)
One of the most accessible hikes from Tokyo, Mount Takao is known for its cherry blossoms, lush greenery, and stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days. The main Trail 1 is well-paved and takes about 90 minutes to reach the summit, passing Takaosan Yakuoin Temple along the way.
Daibutsu Hiking Trail (Kamakura)
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Daibutsu Hiking forest trail in Kamakura connects Kenchō-ji Temple to the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) of Kamakura, offering a mix of historic sites, bamboo groves, and ocean views. The hike takes about 1 hour and is perfect for those looking for a cultural and scenic experience near Tokyo.
Mount Wakakusa (Nara)
A short hike with one of the best views of Nara, Mount Wakakusa, takes about 40 minutes to reach the summit. In spring, the cherry blossoms at the base make for a stunning sight, and from the top, you can see Nara Park, Tōdai-ji Temple, and even Osaka in the distance.
Minoo Park (Osaka)
Located just outside Osaka, Minoo Park offers a relaxing riverside hike leading to the beautiful Minoo Waterfall. The 3km trail (about 45 minutes one way) is lined with spring foliage, and visitors might spot wild deer and monkeys along the way.
Walking and Jogging
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Jogging is a widely enjoyed activity especially in spring in Japan, offering urban and nature-filled routes for runners of all levels. With a strong culture of outdoor exercise, well-maintained parks, and scenic running paths, Japan provides a great environment for both casual and serious joggers.
Popular jogging routes in cities like Tokyo and Osaka include the Imperial Palace Loop, a 5km scenic path around Tokyo’s historic palace grounds, and Osaka Castle Park, which offers wide paths with seasonal cherry blossoms.
For those who prefer waterfront views, the Sumida River in Tokyo or the Yodogawa Riverside Path in Osaka provide relaxing yet spacious routes for a jog or a more relaxed stroll to enjoy the Japanese spring weather.
For nature lovers, places like Kamakura, Kyoto’s Kamo River, and Fukuoka’s Ohori Park offer jogging and walking paths with traditional and serene landscapes.
Many runners also take advantage of trails near Mt. Takao or Arashiyama, where running through forests and shrines creates a unique experience.
For a mix of sakura and other spring flowers, the Mikuni Pass in Hokkaido provides a scenic trail lined with shibazakura by mid-May.
Outdoor Barbecue
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Spring in Tokyo is the perfect time for an outdoor barbecue, with mild temperatures and cherry blossoms creating a picturesque setting. Several parks and riverside spots offer great locations to enjoy grilling with friends and family while taking in the beauty of the season.
One of the most popular BBQ spots is Showa Kinen Park in Tachikawa, which features a dedicated barbecue garden with rental equipment and ingredients available. The park’s spacious greenery and cherry blossoms in spring make it a perfect setting for a relaxing cookout. Since it’s a well-known destination, reservations are recommended, especially during peak hanami season.
For a more casual and budget-friendly option, Tamagawa River BBQ Area offers a scenic riverside location where visitors can set up their own barbecue equipment for free. Stretching along the Tamagawa River, this spot is popular among locals who bring portable grills and enjoy picnicking under the cherry blossoms. Since there are no rental services, it’s best to get everything needed, including food, charcoal, and grilling tools.
Another excellent location is Kasai Rinkai Park, located near Tokyo Bay. This park features a dedicated barbecue area with rental services, so visitors don’t have to bring their own equipment. The coastal breeze and open grassy fields create a refreshing atmosphere, and the park also offers attractions such as an aquarium and a Ferris wheel, making it a great choice for families and groups looking for a full day of activities.
For those seeking a more stylish and urban barbecue experience, THE BBQ BEACH in AQUA CITY ODAIBA provides a rooftop setting with stunning views of the Tokyo skyline and Rainbow Bridge. This spot is perfect for a convenient and stress-free outing, as it offers full-service rentals, including high-quality meat sets and drinks. The modern setting and night-time illumination make it a great choice for both daytime and evening gatherings.
Enjoy Being Outdoors and Embrace the Beauty of Spring in Japan
Spring in Japan offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy nature through hiking, flower viewing, jogging, and outdoor barbecues. Whether you prefer exploring scenic trails, admiring seasonal blooms, running along historic paths, or gathering with friends for a riverside barbecue, there are countless ways to embrace the mild weather and breathtaking landscapes.
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