CrowdFreeViews
The Shibuya and Shinjuku skyline in TokyoYasaka Pagoda above Yasaka-dori in Kyoto, early morning

Tokyo vs Kyoto in March

Tokyo edges it in March. Tokyo averages 5–14°C with moderate-high crowds; Kyoto 4–14°C with moderate-high crowds.

By Daan · Last reviewed October 2026

Tokyo and Kyoto

The verdict for March

  • WeatherTokyo has the better weather8/10 vs 7/10
  • CrowdsVery similarModerate-High vs Moderate-High
  • PricesKyoto is cheaper$$$$ vs $$$$
  • OverallTokyo comes out ahead7/10 vs 6.5/10
The Shibuya and Shinjuku skyline in Tokyo

Tokyo in March

Warming up, filling up

Temperature
5–14°C
Crowds
Moderate-High
Prices
$$$$

+Mild days and the first cherry blossom at the very end of the month.

–Late-March blossom sends prices and crowds up fast.

Early March is quiet and mild; late March is peak sakura.

Tokyo in March
Yasaka Pagoda above Yasaka-dori in Kyoto, early morning

Kyoto in March

Spring arrives, crowds follow

Temperature
4–14°C
Crowds
Moderate-High
Prices
$$$$

+Mild days and early blossoms

–Crowds and prices rise sharply at month's end

Plum blossom gives way to the first cherry trees toward the end of the month. Early March is still quiet and affordable, while the last week gets busy fast. Evenings remain cool.

Kyoto in March

Scores and crowd levels are my own judgement; temperatures are monthly averages. Higher scores are better: quieter, cheaper and more pleasant.

Another month