Nara Weather in April

The weather in April in Nara is generally pleasant. The temperature is in a significantly increasing trend and stays at a warm level, making everything come back to life. It doesn’t rain much this month, guaranteeing a relatively convenient trip for you. Besides, it’s exciting that early April is the prime time to admire cherry blossoms in Nara. These favorable conditions make April one of the best visiting times, but also lead to crowded attractions. You can see if any of our Japan Tours meet your needs if you have decided to travel to Nara in April 2026.

See also: Japan Weather in April

Sakura in Todaiji Temple in April

Temperature

Generally speaking, daytime in Nara during April is quite warm, with the temperature hovering around 20-25 degrees Celsius (68-77 degrees Fahrenheit). On certain days early in the month or during rainy days, the daily high may be only about 15℃ (59℉), when you might feel slightly cool. On clear days toward the end of the month, temperatures can climb to around 27-28℃ (81-82℉).

The temperature difference between day and night is significant, typically around 10℃ (18℉). Consequently, nighttime lows during this month generally range from 10 to 15℃ (50-59℉). Of course, as daytime highs increase over 25℃ (77℉) toward the end of the month, nighttime lows may rise to around 17-18℃ (63-64℉).

Rainfall

Nara doesn’t rain much in April. The average rainfall is about 126 mm. On the possible 10 rainy days on average, intermittent light rain occurs frequently, while heavy intensity rain is rare. So, the rain usually doesn’t interrupt your trip, but you are recommended to always check the weather forecast and bring rain gear during your trip. Besides, as a reminder, compared with mid- and late April, early April sees fewer rainy days.

The humidity is 59% on average, and the air is quite fresh after rain this month.

Sunny Nara in April

Daylight Hours / Sunshine Hours

Traveling to Nara in April, you can get ample daylight hours. At the beginning of the month, the daytime is about 12.3 hours from 05:42 to 18:18. By the end of the month, the sun comes out as early as around 05:07 and sets at 18:40, contributing to around 13.3 hours of daytime. More importantly, attractions begin to extend their opening hours accordingly.

You can also enjoy much sunshine this month: there are about 6 hours of sunshine per day on average, the longest level of the year. However, at the same time, the sunshine gets somewhat intense, with the maximum UV index of 8. When visiting outdoors, especially during the period from 12:00 to 14:00, remember to take some necessary sun-protective measures.

Why Visit Nara in April?

For a trip to Nara, April is one of the best months for the following reasons:

1. Pleasant climate: April boasts mild temperatures, not much rain, and long daylight and sunshine hours, all of which are suitable for outdoor visiting.
2. Wonderful natural scenery: April gains more greenery scenery, including grasslands and trees. Moreover, early April is the best time to admire cherry blossoms.

Mountain Wakakusa View in April

Crowds and Costs of Nara in April

April is absolutely the peak season of Nara. Early in the month, Nara is at its peak cherry blossom season, drawing large crowds of domestic and international tourists. During peak visiting hours from around 10:00 to 16:00, attractions like Nara Park and Kasuga Taisha Shrine become extremely crowded. At the same time, hotels and flights become difficult to book, and their prices skyrocket. The end of the month presents a similar situation, as Japan’s “Golden Week” begins, causing a surge in domestic tourists. 

Crowded Sakura Season

Mid-month may see slightly fewer people, but due to the pleasant weather, don’t expect Nara to be quiet during this time either.

What to Wear when Visiting Nara in April?

Clothes: For the first few days of April, it’s still advisable to dress a bit warmer. During midday, when temperatures are mild, you can wear knitwear or a thin sweater paired with sweatpants or jeans. However, due to significant temperature fluctuations between morning and evening, you will also need a trench coat or windbreaker.

By mid-to-late April, during warm daytime hours, you can wear a short-sleeved T-shirt, a shirt, and jeans; a long-sleeved T-shirt with sweatpants; or a long skirt with knitwear. To avoid feeling cold in the mornings and evenings, it’s best to bring a light jacket. It is also advisable for you to wear bright-colored clothes to fit the lively and vibrant spring scenery.

Shoes: It is important to wear a pair of comfortable casual shoes. 

Accessories: You will need sunglasses, sunhats, and sunscreen during the midday hours of sunny days. Besides, you are recommended to bring umbrellas or raincoats just in case.

Special Recommendation: Kimono is the traditional Japanese clothing. During the sakura season, wearing a kimono and taking photos under the Sakura trees can provide you with a more complete travel experience.

Peak Time of Cherry Blossoms

Early April marks the peak of Nara’s cherry blossom season, when the flowers are at their most abundant. At that time, pink and white blossoms line roadsides, riverbanks, and temple walls, painting a vivid spring landscape.

Nara Park will definitely provide you with a good cherry blossom viewing experience, with trees predominantly clustered around Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Additionally, adorable deer can be seen leisurely strolling across the grassy areas beneath the blossoms.

Stunning Cherry Blossoms

The banks of the Sahogawa River are also a prime spot for cherry blossom viewing. Thousands of cherry trees line both sides of the river, and when they bloom in full splendor during April, the entire river is enveloped in pink. In the evening, lanterns along the shore light up, illuminating the blossoms.

For a more spectacular cherry blossom view, head to Mount Yoshino, home to over 30,000 cherry trees. Throughout April, the blossoms bloom gradually from the base to the summit, blanketing the slopes in layers of flowers and transforming the landscape into a world of pink.

Tips for Nara Trips in April

1. In 2026, cherry blossoms in Nara are expected to reach full bloom around April 2, lasting for approximately 7 to 10 days before beginning to fall in mid-April. See also: Japan Cherry Blossom Dates Forecast in 2026.
2. If you are allergic to pollen, please wear a mask before appreciating the Sakura.
3. As mentioned above, April is definitely a peak traveling time, so, if you plan to visit Nara this month, be sure to make related reservations in advance and prepare for crowds and higher costs. Besides, you are recommended to visit the famous attractions before 9:00 and after 17:00 on weekdays, the less crowded periods.

Nara Weather by Month