Nikko Weather in March

 Season: Spring 
 Key Points: 
1. Nikko’s weather in March gradually becomes warm, but the mountain area is still cold. 
2. The precipitation this month is moderate, but it rarely impacts your travel plans. Some accumulated snow remains in the suburb. 
3. Early sakura blossom start to bloom by late March, worth a visit. 

Early Sakura Blossom

Temperatures Warming Up

Nikko in March experiences a noticeable rise in temperatures, with averages ranging from -3°C to 6°C (27-43°F). The average low in suburb areas hovers around 0°C (32°F), which is still a bit cold. 

Traces of winter linger in the first half of March, with the average temperatures hovering -5-4°C (23-39°F). Early mornings and evenings remain bitterly cold, with lows plunging to -10°C (14°F). Fortunately, temperatures rebound by midday, rarely dipping below -4°C (25°F). Mountainous regions experience even colder conditions.

In the second half of March, signs of spring emerge, and the average temperatures range 0-10°C (32-50°F). On clear days, daytime temperatures maintain above 0°C (32°F), with midday highs reaching 13 degrees Celsius (55 degrees Fahrenheit). Yet the weather remains changeable: a warm day may be followed immediately by a cold snap and snowfall. Visitors are advised to regularly check weather forecasts and pack appropriate clothing. 

Precipitation 

Nikko in March receives more snowfall or rainfall than in January and February, with the average precipitation of 83 mm across 14 days. Although there are relatively more days with snowfall or rainfall, the large amount of precipitation typically occurs over just one or two days. Based on data from the past five years, the highest daily snowfall recorded reached 65 mm. On other days, the quantity of precipitation is generally light, so your travel plans are unlikely to be significantly impacted. 

Due to lower temperatures in mountainous areas, some snow cover remains there, offering visitors the last chance in the first half of the year to enjoy snowy landscapes.

Lake Chuzenji in March

Humidity 

Nikko enjoys comfortably dry weather in March, with the average humidity level of 67 %, perfect for outdoor explorations. 

Sunshine Hours & Daytime Hours 

Sunshine Hours: about 6 hours
Sunrise: 5:29-6:12
Sunset: 17:35-18:34
Daytime Hours: 11 hours 23 minutes - 12 hours 8 minutes

March in Nikko boasts plenty of sunshine hours and increasing daylight hours, allowing you to have a relaxed and pleasant hiking journey. People who intend to appreciate the sunset or sunrise view, remember to check the exact time and plan your trip accordingly. The maximum UV index reaches 6, so it’s necessary to use sun-protective measures. You are advised to visit Ryuzu Waterfall or the Kegon Falls around 13:30, when the rainbow is most likely to appear over the melting waterfalls.  

God Bridge in Nikko

Is Nikko Good in March?

Of course, March is a lovely time to visit Nikko. 

Nikko’s climate is warming up, not very cold this month. And you can see lingering snow on the mountain. By the end of March, you can totally enjoy the charm of Nikko’s early spring: sakura blossoms start to emerge. Besides, there’s no public holidays this month in Japan, so you’ll have a quiet and cheap travel experience here. 

What to Wear in Nikko in March 

 Upper Clothing: A warm hoodie paired with a thick overcoat is usually enough for your daytime visiting. It’s highly recommended to pack a wind-proof outer jacket like 3-in-1 windbreaker to cope with the lower temperature at night and during rainy or snowy days. 

 Bottom Clothing: A pair of thick hiking trousers is a good option. If you are sensitive to cold, prepare thermal underwear.

 Footwear: Comfy trekking shoes are suitable as Nikko tour requires a lot of walking. 

 Accessories: It’s essential to pack a warm hat, gloves, and scarves to keep warm. Don’t forget to pack sunglasses and sunscreen. 

Travel Recommendations and Advice

1. Usually by late March, you can see sakura blossoms at Nikko Daiyagawa Park, where there are at least 56 types of cherry blossom trees. But the actual blooming time varies year by year and you’d better confirm it before going. 
2. It’s always a good idea to start your trip early and return early too, because it gets really dark after the sunset with very few road lights. 
3. Although March is the shoulder season in Nikko, you are still advised to book the hotel early because of few hotels. 

Stroll among Sakura Blossom

Nikko Weather by Month