Shirakawa-go Weather in April

 Season: Spring 

 Overview: 

1. Shirakawa-go’s weather in April gets warmer, and you feel warm at noon but a bit chilly at night.
2. The total rainfall is low, and you can see thick accumulated snow in early April. 
3. Mid-April steps into the cherry flower season, and late April sees a minor travel peak.

Warming up

With the arrival of April, spring comes into Shirakawa-go. The climate becomes warmer, as the average temperature rises by 13 degrees Celsius (55.4 degrees Fahrenheit). In the beginning of the month, it is a bit chilly, but by middle and late April, the maximum temperature is usually around 15 - 20℃ (59 - 68℉). Even in some warmer years, it can reach as high as 25℃ (77℉) or above. As the temperature increases, blooming cherry flowers scatter around the village from the middle to last of the month. However, Shirakawa-go experiences the temperature plunge in the evenings, even if daytime is pleasantly warm.

Low Rainfall

During this month, the average precipitation of Shirakawa-go is about 197mm (7.8 in), distributed over 13 rainy days. Most rainfall is drizzle and light rain, whose duration is basically no more than 6 hours, but it may rain several times throughout a day. Do note that the rain brings a sudden drop in temperature.

Is there snow in Shirakawa-go in April?

Yes, but the probability is very low. Even though it snows, sleet is more common, possibly occurring in the first half of the month. In early April, there is thick accumulated snow, looking a tad dirty; in the second half of the month, it mostly melts away in the village, apart from the summits in the distance.

Daylight Hours/ Sunshine Hours

The sun rises at 5:00 - 5:40 and sets at 18:15 - 18:41, leading to the daytime length of 12.5 - 13.5 hours on average per day. Although overcast skies take up much of time in April, sunny conditions still increase and daily sunshine hours average 7.4 hours, meaning that you have more time to capture beautiful landscapes under enough sunlight. 

Meanwhile, the sunshine is more intense, with the maximum UV Index of 9, so avoid your exposure to the sun during outdoor sightseeing, if you decide to visit Shirikawa-go in this time of 2026.

Top Sites to Admire Cherry Blossoms

Gasshozukuri Minkaen Outdoor Museum

Gasshozukuri Minkaen Outdoor Museum is home to lots of cherry trees. In middle April, historic gassho-style farmhouses are interweaved with elegant cherry flowers in full bloom, forming an awe-inspiring natural wonder. Seseragi Park Parking, not far from the museum, is also a good viewing place. 

Bonus tips: Starting in this month, the museum opens every day, so you can choose any day to go here. 

Myozenji Temple Museum

At the same time, a cherry tree nearby the entrance of Myozenji Temple Museum is in blossom. Then go inside, stand at the area just in front of Shoromon Gate, raise your camera or mobile phone, and take such a stunning picture: the thatched roof of the gate, the ancient bell with historic charm and pink cherry flowers perfectly blend together.

Recommended Outfits in Shirakawa-go in April

 Clothes: You’re advised to wear medium-weight hoodies, light down jackets or padded coats, and thin fleece-lined jeans or sweatpants. At warm midday with strong sunlight, take off your outer clothes to stay comfortable; as early mornings, evenings and rainy days get much cooler, ladies should add a long shawl and men a vest, respectively. 

 Shoes: Given long walking time in Shirakawa-go, pack comfy casual shoes or hiking shoes you often wear. Non-slip and waterproof ones are more advised. 

 Others: Raingear and UV-protective items like sunblock and sunglasses are indispensable in this month. There are plenty of cedar and cypress pollen in the air, remember to wear facial masks for individuals with a sensitive nose. Plus, shoes and pants may be soiled by muddy snowmelt, so cleaning wipes are very useful to remove dirt.

Travel Suggestions for Shirakawa-go in April

1. April is a good time to visit Shirakawa-go, because the busiest tourism season passes. The number of travelers decreases and the prices of hotels and airline tickets become cheaper, giving you a quieter environment and budget-friendly travel experience. Even during the cherry blossom season, partially coinciding with Japanese Golden Week, when locals have a week-long vacation from late April, visitors here are far fewer than in Kyoto, Aomori and other popular viewing spots. However, due to limited hotels and restaurants, early reservation is still needed.

2. Since the specific flowering period of cherry blossoms changes with temperature, it’s better to continuously check related information and flexibly arrange your travel plan.

Shirakawa-go Weather by Month