March is an exciting month as Kyoto transitions from winter calm to spring anticipation. Early-blooming cherry trees start flowering in late March, and temple gardens awaken with fresh greenery.
Weather & Climate
Temperatures climb to highs of 14°C and lows around 4°C. Spring rain is common, and the weather can swing between warm sunny days and cool, damp ones.
Events & Festivals
Higashiyama Hanatoro
A stunning evening illumination event along the paths between Kiyomizu-dera and Maruyama Park in mid-March.
Kyoto Marathon
An annual marathon running past temples, shrines, and the Kamo River in early March.
Spring Equinox
Buddhist temples hold special services, and families visit ancestral graves during the equinox week.
Top Things to Do
Higashiyama Hanatoro Lantern Walk
Thousands of lanterns illuminate the atmospheric streets of eastern Kyoto for a magical evening stroll.
Ninna-ji Cherry Blossoms
This temple has late-blooming Omuro cherry trees that bloom about 2 weeks after other varieties.
Philosopher's Path Preview
Walk this iconic canal-side path as the first buds appear on the hundreds of cherry trees lining it.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
The palace grounds begin showing spring colors and offer free guided tours.
What to Pack
- Medium-weight coat
- Layers for variable weather
- Rain jacket or umbrella
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Allergy medication
- Camera for early blossoms
Where to Stay
Hotel Granvia Kyoto
📍 Kyoto Station
$150-280 /night
Piece Hostel Sanjo
📍 Downtown
$40-80 /night
The Thousand Kyoto
📍 Kyoto Station
$200-400 /night
Read Our Complete Guide
For a comprehensive overview of Kyoto, check out our full travel guide.
Kyoto Full Guide →Frequently Asked Questions
Do cherry blossoms bloom in March in Kyoto?
Early-blooming varieties may open in late March, but full bloom is usually early-to-mid April — slightly later than Tokyo.
Is Higashiyama Hanatoro worth visiting?
Absolutely — the lantern-lit paths between temples are one of Kyoto's most atmospheric nighttime experiences.
How crowded is Kyoto in March?
Moderate and building. Early March is quiet, but crowds grow as cherry blossom forecasts near. Still far less than April.