Hokkaido Weather in March

Season: winter
In short: cold, snowfall changing into rainfall, melting snow cover

March is the last month of winter in Hokkaido, when the severe cold and heavy snowfall are gradually disappearing. The temperature during the day is above 0℃ (32℉) but does not exceed 10℃ (50℉), making people feel not warm but cold still; at night, it drops back to below freezing temperature. It is likely to snow in early to mid this month; by the end, snow changes into rain, falling sometimes, with the total precipitation of 82mm (3.2in). The vast snow cover accumulated in winter adorns Hokkaido until around mid-March. In late this month, it begins to melt, which forebodes the arrival of spring. The sunrise is earlier, increasing the duration of sunshine. 

 See also: Japan Weather in March

What to Wear & Pack in Hokkaido in March

Clothes: Warm winter clothes are needed this month. It is recommended to wear thick or wool sweaters, winterpants and padded overcoat or jacket on urban tours. When going outdoors in the morning and evening, adding a thermal shirt inside would be better, and the padded jacket need to be replaced with downcoat to make yourself warmer.

Shoes: Waterproof boots can protect your feet from snow and moisture invasion when snow begins to melt. 
Necessities: Wear scarves, gloves and winter hats during the outdoor journey to get full protection.

Recommend Things to Do in Hokkaido in March

Tourism Rate: 

Skiing in Niseko

Skiing is a must-do activity for every visitor to Hokkaido in winter. Entering March, the number of tourists at ski resorts is decreasing, therefore you can have a leisurely ski trip. Niseko, with an incredible amount of powder snow, is a popular ski resort in Hokkaido. If you fall down when skiing, it doesn’t hurt too much. The ski slopes in the Annupuri area are very wide and gentle, offering opportunities for beginners. If you are an experienced skier, Grand Hirafu with steeper slopes is more suitable. You can also experience mobile riding, hiking, and other activities in snow here.

Mountain Snow Scene of Hokkaido in March

Drift Ice Walk in Shiretoko

Shiretoko enjoys a glorious drift ice scene every winter. It is recommended to seize the end of the drift ice season in early March. In Shiretoko, you can experience walking on the frozen sea in a dry suit and special boots under the guidance of a professional guide. If you have a PADI certification card, you can also dive to appreciate the drift ice and marine creatures in the water. It is worth mentioning that acting alone on ice is strictly forbidden for security reasons.

Appreciating Snow in Otaru

If you just want to have a relaxing snow tour in cities, Otaru with thick snow cover and a few tourists in March is a good choice. It is a charming port city, with the Otaru Canal as a landmark. You can stroll to appreciate the buildings along the canal shore in snow, all of which are lit by colorful lights after night falls. To see the whole city in snow, you can take the ropeway to the top of Mount Tenguyama on sunny days. It has a thick clean snow cover where you can take beautiful photos and have fun. 

Tips:
1. It is advised to walk slowly in urban areas with ice everywhere.
2. Be sure to check the real-time weather condition before going to Mt. Tenguyama. In winter, heavy snow and strong winds may lead to the ropeway shutting down.

Snow Scene of Otaru

Soaking in Onsens and Watching Hot-Tubbing Monkeys in Yunokawa

Warm Onsen Hotel in Hokkaido

Yunokawa, one of the three major hot spring towns in Hokkaido, boasts abundant hot springs featuring sparkling and transparent water. After having fun outside for a long time in March’s cold weather, you can choose from numerous hotels with well-equipped facilities at Yunokawa’s onsen street and have a relaxing soaking experience to warm yourself. 

Saruyama Onsen is a famous attraction in the Tropical Botanical Garden on the onsen street. Visiting here in March 2025, you will see that about 100 monkeys comfortably soak in hot springs, which is a winter limited scene. You can also experience feeding them with special food purchased in the garden.

March Weather for Other Cities in Japan:

• Tokyo Weather in March
• Kyoto Weather in March
• Osaka Weather in March
• Nara Weather in March
• Nagoya Weather in March
• Hiroshima Weather in March
• Fukuoka Weather in March

Hokkaido Weather by Month