Osaka edges it in April. Kyoto averages 9–20°C with high crowds; Osaka 11–20°C with extremely high crowds.
By Daan · Last reviewed October 2026
Kyoto and Osaka
The verdict for April
Peak sakura, peak everything
+Beautiful scenery and ideal weather
–Heavy crowds and top prices
Cherry blossom turns the city pink and the weather is nearly perfect. Expect crowds at every famous spot and the highest hotel rates outside autumn. Miyako Odori performances run through the month in Gion.
Sakura at full volume
+Peak cherry blossoms in Osaka Castle Park and along the Okawa — genuinely spectacular.
–The single most crowded, most expensive month of the year; book months ahead.
Peak cherry blossoms in Osaka Castle Park and along the Okawa — genuinely spectacular.
Scores and crowd levels are my own judgement; temperatures are monthly averages. Higher scores are better: quieter, cheaper and more pleasant.
Another month