10 Best Things to Do in Japan in April

April is a month for early-bird cherry blossom revelers in Japan, whose blooming season runs from late March to early May. But, if you frequently visit Japan and cherry blossoms only look like the Hollywood sign has become boring for someone who has visited the United States countless times, what are the other things to do?

Well, April month is also all about attending cultural festivals, maybe some hiking, enjoying themed events at Disneyland Tokyo and Universal Studios, and so much more. As Snoop Dogg says it in a Katy Perry song, “Let’s take a journey!”

1. Go for the Classic: Relax Under the Cherry Blossoms

Actually, even if you’ve called Japan your second home since you’ve been in this country several times, the joys of seeing cherry blossoms won’t dull you. One of the reasons being is that there is an endless number of sports where you can go hanami-watching. You can even relax and set up a picnic under the trees. Nothing compares to enjoying your authentic packed Japanese lunch under the shade of these fragrant blossoms. 

2. Or, Experience Hanami at Night

Go out of the convention and experience cherry blossoms at night. Aside from the impeccable beauty of the surroundings with the trees lit up like Christmas, the yozakura is even more relaxing and beneficial for the health, according to medical experts, since illuminated flowers create a peaceful and romantic atmosphere. The best places for cherry blossom viewing at night are at Takada Castle Site Park in Niigata and at the Hirosaki Park in Aomori. 

ALSO READ: BEST THINGS TO DO IN JAPAN IN MARCH

3. Beyond Hanami: Other Flower Events in Japan

While there is the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival which holds the reputation as one of the top sakura events in the country, you may find these repetitive so you’d want to experience festivals that celebrate other types of flowers. These include the Tochigi Prefecture’s Ashikaga Flower Park featuring wisteria-viewing, and the Tonami Tulip Park in the Toyama Prefecture, featuring tulips of various colors. Certainly unforgettable. 

4. Hike ‘Til You Sweat

Sakura is more for the uplifting of the soul, so if you want the complete invigoration of your mind, body, and spirit, you can go hiking in April in Japan. The skiing season has passed, but the alpine mountains in the country are open for the warmer months to offer a grand spectacle and background to work on your feet and limbs.

ALSO READ: BEST THINGS TO DO IN TOKYO

5. Attend the Takayama Spring Festival

Lots of cultural festivals in Japan during April, but if you only have one room for one festival, it’s the Takayama Spring Festival you should attend. This will be like watching the Macy’s Parade, except that it happens at night and in spring, as well as features historical floats. A dazzling array of antique floats are illuminated. It’s like the synergy of that Macy’s event and Singapore’s teamLab exhibit. 

6. Seek Pleasure from Fun Sun Activities

The cold, dull months are over, and though it isn’t summer yet, Japan has several destinations where you can enjoy fun sun activities, such as kayaking and paddleboarding at Tassha Bay or Lake Kamo. Otherwise, if you’re less of a thrillseeker, head to historical sites, such as the Sado Gold Mine and the Medieval port town of Shukunegi.

ALSO READ: BEST THINGS TO DO IN TOKYO IN WINTER

7. Visit the Romantic Paradise That Is Okinawa

Are you traveling April in Japan with your special someone? Travel geeks agree that Okinawa is the perfect destination for couples during this month. This romantic paradise sets the proper temperature and scenery for both of you to create lasting memories with each other. The nearby islands are spots for hanami experiences, or you can enjoy underwater adventures such as diving and snorkeling. If Capri in Italy is too expensive for you, there’s Cape Manzamo here that will make you feel you want to stay in the moment together.

8. Eat Spring-Inspired Food

April is also the perfect month to explore various tastes. Of course, several restaurants will offer cherry blossom-themed selections this time, but this is also the most ideal time to enjoy Japanese cakes, mochi, sweets, biscuits, and maybe, some high tea, too. Women, cheer with your tea cup while your pinky finger is raised. 

9. Explore Hakone

Bringing your kids to Japan in April? You can introduce these first-timers to Hakone, not a popular pick, meaning to say, like Tokyo Disneyland, but a unique family-friendly destination that offers unforgettable experiences. 

Kids can try bathing in onsen or hot springs, or enjoy scenic boat rides on Lake Ashi, or hike with them on Mount Fuji. To introduce kids to historic shrines, temples, and traditional Japanese gardens before taking them to the trendy theme parks is also a great choice to invest in.

ALSO READ: BES THINGS TO DO IN JAPAN IN WINTER

10. Witness April Events in Disneyland and Universal Studios

Without a doubt, of course, theme parks like Tokyo Disneyland and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Osaka are at their peak seasons during the holidays, but it won’t be a waste of time to revisit them even in other months like April. As you know, these theme parks hold April-exclusive events that won’t be present during the rest of the year. 

Over at Tokyo Disneyland, there’s “it’s a small world with Groot” and “Star Tours: The Adventures Continue,” featuring Star Wars. Then, at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, there will be lots of activities and events beginning this April that will give tribute to “The Goblet of Fire,” which is celebrating its 20th year. 

What an experience for travelers in Japan for this month. From the reason why tourists will visit the country this month – sakura – to how its historic streets appear during this season, to the tropical beaches of Okinawa that will make Phuket cringe, to the April events at Disneyland, to spend your April in Japan is pure magic.

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