Wakayama Weather in March

Season: Winter
In short: a bit cold with a chill; 16 wet days with frequent light or moderate rain; Sakura blossoms in late March

A Bit Cold, But Get Warm Gradually

Average Temperature: 7-14℃ (45-57℉)

Overall, March in Wakayama is still a little cold with a chill. But the temperature is as a whole on a rise and you feel warm spring air in some sunny days. By the end of March, there are more pleasant and warm periods, and Sakura starts to bloom one after another.

In addition to the overall warming-up temperature, there are three features of Wakayama weather in March you need to know: Firstly, the temperature fluctuates a lot - daytime highs are 20℃(68℉) or above on sunny days, while may drop to 10-11℃ (50-52℉) on cloudy or rainy days. Secondly, early mornings and late evenings are somewhat chilly, with the lowest temperatures ranging from 3-8℃ (37-46℉). Therefore, you may need to wear several layers to cope with the changeable temperature. Thirdly, besides the coast, the wind is also relatively strong in other regions, so the perceived temperature gets much lower.

Rainfall & Humidity

On average, Wakayama receives 110 mm (4.3 in) rainfall in March, spreading across 16 rainy days. During your stay, you are more likely to encounter light or moderate rain, which generally does not last too long. But there are two or three days when it rains in snatches for a whole day.

Relative humidity averages 65% in this month, the level that is favorable for outdoor sightseeing.

Daylight Hours & Sunshine Hours

Sunrise Time: 5:47 - 6:28
Sunset Time: 17:55 - 18:19
Daily Sunshine Hours: around 8 hours on average
Daylight Hours: 11 hours 27 minutes - 12 hours 32 minutes

Your travel experience will be completely different in different weather conditions, especially at the seaside. On overcast or rainy days, the sea looks pitch-black with dark clouds enveloping the whole sky; in sunny days under the blue sky, it turns into a vibrant hue of sapphire. As sunny, cloudy and rainy days each account for roughly a third of the month, if the weather forecast predicts that it will be sunny, be sure to seize the opportunity to go for seashore scenic spots such as Bandoko Garden and Shirahama Beach.

What to Wear in Wakayama in March

Clothes: Hoodies, light down coats or medium-thick cotton jackets and jeans are enough to cope with the climate of Wakayama in March. If girls would like to wear a dress, besides pairing it with leggings, leg warmers can also be considered, because they both keep you warm and stylish.

Shoes: Given large areas of some attractions, sneakers with soft insoles are the best. If your shoes are not waterproof, lightweight shoe covers are advised.

Accessories:

Remember to bring along raingear.
As there are lots of pollen in the air, especially by month end, people with a sensitive nose should better wear a facial mask.
Plus, take a shawl or a vest, especially when you plan to visit coastal regions in March 2026.

Recommended Sites to Admire Cherry Flowers in Wakayama

Kimiidera Temple

The temple has been noted as a superb site for early-blooming cherry flowers in Kansai. Particularly, the Somei Yoshino tree, standing in front of the main hall, is designated as a benchmark to tell the flowering period in Wakayama Prefecture. At the end of the month, the temple is immersed in a sea of white blossoms. Along with bright orange torrii gates in a neat row, the whole landscape is nothing short of stunning.

Wakayama Castle

Pale pink cherry blossoms against the white-and-grey Main Keep makes for many beautiful, unforgettable photos. Each Sakura season, Wakayama Castle not only hosts illumination shows after nightfall, but also has lots of food stands selling local snacks.

Negoro-ji Temple

The poolside here is full of elegant cherry blossom trees, making it an excellent spot to appreciate the reflection of these lovely flowers. Moreover, you may see tea ceremony performances, a good way to deeply explore Japanese traditional culture.

Other Highlights for Wakayama Trip in March

Peach Blossoms

Wakayama is home to Arakawa no Momo, a peach variety well-known throughout the country. The orchard along the southern bank of the Kinokawa River is a paradise to see peach flowers from late March to early April, when the riverside is dressed in a pink cloak and the fresh and sweet fragrance fills the air.

Hina Festival

March 3 is Japan’s Doll Festival to pray for girls’ healthy growth and happiness. On this day, Awashima-jinja Shrine holds the Hina Nagashi ceremony: people write their wishes on the hida dolls, and put them on the evil-expelling boats to drift out to the ocean.

Travel Suggestions & Tips

1. Instead of jostling with crowds in the hot destinations like Tokyo and Kyoto, you might spend a relaxing getaway in Wakayama. Even in Sakura season, you may not see large groups of tourists. So, you don’t have to waste much time lining up, ensuring you to enjoy a more leisurely and carefree trip.
2. Lower temperatures may delay the flowering of cherry blossoms. To ensure you can enjoy their prime, please regularly keep an eye on the flowering forecast and make a flexible schedule.