April in Japan: A Season of New Beginnings and Spring Scenery

A Season of Beginnings: Starting School as a First-Grader

Japan is famous for its four distinct seasons, and April marks the official season of "new beginnings." The Japanese academic and business years both kick off in April. In Japan, compulsory education starts in the first grade of elementary school. Children enter school in April right when the cherry blossoms are in bloom. Entrance ceremonies are typically held in the school gymnasium. Watched over warmly by their parents and guardians, these new first-graders take their very first steps into a bigger world! Out on the streets, you’ll spot students in crisp new uniforms and office workers in fresh suits. Everyone feels a mix of excitement and nervousness as they begin their new journeys.

From Pink Carpets to Fresh Greenery, Colorful Flowers, and Seasonal Bites

As April progresses and the cherry blossoms begin to fall, the sidewalks get covered in petals, creating what looks like a lush pink carpet. Once the sakura season winds down, new buds sprout along city tree-lined avenues, wrapping the town in vibrant, yellowish-green foliage. Along the roadside, you'll also notice azaleas blooming in bright shades of pink, red, and orange, making the streets pop with color! It’s also a wonderful time to enjoy seasonal foods! Local treats include strawberries at peak sweetness and fresh bamboo shoots (takenoko). When cooked with rice, bamboo shoots release a deliciously subtle, savory aroma that truly captures the taste of spring.

Changing Climates, Gentle Spring Breezes, and Hay Fever

Normally, April in Tokyo is wonderfully mild—neither too hot nor too cold. A warm, gentle breeze called "Harukaze" (spring breeze) blows in from the south, making it a delightful time to be outside. However, likely due to global climate changes, many people notice that spring feels shorter these days, with temperatures suddenly jumping straight into summer-like heat! Another spring staple is hay fever (kafunshō), which affects a lot of people in Japan. Because pollen counts are high in April, leading to itchy eyes and runny noses, seeing many locals wearing masks around town is a very common sight this time of year.

Visiting Japan in April? Here’s a Quick Tip!

Because weather in April can swing from suddenly warm to chilly when a cold wind blows, temperatures can vary quite a bit throughout the day. When packing for your trip, layering is definitely the way to go! Choose clothes that are easy to put on and take off so you stay comfortable all day long. Despite the changing weather, April in Japan is packed with fresh energy, beautiful nature, and exciting beginnings. We hope you have an incredible time experiencing Japanese spring!