Wakayama Weather in March

Season: Winter
In short: cool with a chill; 16 wet days with frequent light or moderate rain; Sakura Season from late March

Quite Cool

Overall, March in Wakayama is cool with a chill, bringing the averaging temperature of 7-14℃ (44.6-57.2℉). But as the end of March is approaching, there are more pleasant and warm periods, for which Wakayama comes into its Sakura season when cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

Note that three features of Wakayama weather in March: Firstly, the temperature fluctuates up and down - daytime highs are 20℃ (68℉) or above on milder days, while may drop to 10-11℃ (50-51.8℉) on cooler days. Secondly, early mornings and late evenings are somewhat chilly, with the lowest temperatures ranging from 3℃ (37.4℉) to 8℃ (46.4℉). Therefore, wearing in layers makes you more cozy throughout the day. Thirdly, besides the coast, the wind is relatively strong in other regions, so the perceived temperature gets much lower.

Rainfall & Humidity

Wakayama receives more rainfall with an average of 110 mm (4.3 in) spreading across 16 rainy days. During your stay, you are more likely to encounter light or moderate rain, not lasting too long, though there are two or three days when it rains in snatches for a 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

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

The Recommended Sites to Admire Cherry Flowers

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 observe the flowering period for 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

The greyish walls of the castle tower and pale pink cherry blossoms form a delightful contrast, making a beautiful and an unforgettable photograph. Each Sakura season, Wakayama Castle not only hosts illumination shows after nightfall from late March, but also has lots of food stands selling local snacks.

Negoro-ji Temple

The poolside here is full of elegant cherry blossoms, making for an excellent spot to appreciate the reflection of them. Moreover, you may see tea ceremony performances, a good way to deeply explore Japanese traditional culture.

What to Wear in Wakayama in March

Upper & Lower: 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 add a sense of fashion.

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, people with a sensitive nose had better wear a facial mask. Plus, take a shawl or a vest, especially when you plan to visit coastal regions in March 2026.

Other Highlights for Wakayama in March

Peach Blossoms

Kinokawa City is home to Arakawa no Momo, a peach variety well-known throughout the nation. The orchard along the southern bank of the Kinokawa River is a paradise to see peach flowers. From late March to early April, 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 or Osaka, you might as well spend a relaxing getaway in Wakayama. Even in Sakura season, you may not see large groups of tourists. So, there’s no need to worry about problems such as difficulty in booking hotels and long waiting time, allowing your trip to be more leisurely and carefree.
2. Lower temperatures may delay the flowering date of cherry blossoms. To ensure you can enjoy their prime, please regularly keep an eye on the weather forecast and make a flexible schedule.