Otaru in Spring

Spring in Otaru shifts from the last of winter to cherry blossom season between March and May. To see cherry blossoms in Otaru, plan for April to May. March still has snow, and you will need the same clothing as in winter.

How spring in Otaru differs across March, April and May

The Otaru Tourism Association defines spring as March to May. Even within “spring,” conditions for walking around town differ between March and May.

Some days in March still call for winter gear. In April the thaw advances and conditions for walking around town change. The timing of the blossoms shifts from year to year, so instead of assuming the blossoms peak on the same date every year, check that year’s bloom updates.

In 2026, the City of Otaru posted updates on the cherry blossoms at the Temiya Green Botanical Garden throughout April and May. As of May 7, it was reported that the blossoms had given way to leaves. This is a 2026 record and does not tell you when the blossoms will peak in 2027.

Where to see cherry blossoms in Otaru

Within the city, some places are within walking distance of the center, and others take a short trip.

Otaru Park is on the downtown side of the city, and the Otaru Tourism Association posts the current year’s cherry blossom information. In 2026, too, the bloom status as of April 27 was published.

The Temiya Green Botanical Garden in Temiya Park is where the City of Otaru posts cherry blossom updates. In 2026, temporary parking was announced for the busy period. Parking arrangements may change from year to year, so if you are driving, check that year’s page.

The Otaru Tourism Association also introduces the cherry blossoms at Tenjoji Temple, Minami-Otaru Station and Sumiyoshi Shrine. You do not need to visit all of them in one day. It is easier to plan if you split them over two days: one walking from the JR Otaru Station area to the canal, and another around Minami-Otaru and Sakaimachi.

Check the official sources for blossom updates

When deciding when to see the blossoms, don’t assume that a date given in a past year’s article will apply the following year.

For the Temiya Green Botanical Garden, check the City of Otaru page; for Otaru Park and other places in the city, check the Otaru Tourism Association’s current-year information. As your travel dates approach, check that year’s official information again.

From 2027 onward, please use that year’s official information.

Spring walks beyond the cherry blossoms

Spring is also a good season for walking around the Otaru Canal, the Former JNR Temiya Line Site and the Sakaimachi area. The Otaru Tourism Association says that, in addition to cherry blossoms, spring is when the season for enjoying the sea and mountains begins.

In the Sakaimachi area, you can combine Kitaichi Glass and the Otaru Music Box Museum. On the Ironai side, there is Otaru Art Base.

If you want walking around town to be an experience in itself, you can also look at Strolling Otaru by Rickshaw or in a Kimono. If you walk in a kimono, plan your time at a comfortable pace for the temperature and weather.

Check opening dates for sea and mountain attractions

Spring is when sea and mountain sightseeing starts, but not all facilities and activities begin at once on March 1.

Cruises, nature trails, outdoor facilities and the like each reopen on different dates after the winter closure. Check the official site of the facility you plan to use for its opening date and closed days.

For sea-side sightseeing, Blue Cave cruises and Otamoi Coast may also be useful. Do not judge sea conditions or access restrictions by the season alone; check the latest information for the day you plan to go.

What to wear in spring

Some days in March are still wintry, so check the weather forecast before deciding to pack only spring clothes. In April and May, too, mornings and evenings can be cold.

For specific temperatures, check the Japan Meteorological Agency’s Otaru observations and normals. Before you travel, it is more practical to look at the forecast for the day as well as the normals.

FAQ

When are the cherry blossoms in Otaru?

It varies from year to year. In 2026, the City of Otaru and the Otaru Tourism Association updated the bloom status from April to May. Please check the official information for the year you travel.

Where can I see cherry blossoms in Otaru?

Official sources introduce Otaru Park, Temiya Park and the Temiya Green Botanical Garden, Tenjoji Temple, Minami-Otaru Station and Sumiyoshi Shrine, among others. They are in different parts of the city, so it is easier to plan if you choose them together with other places you want to visit.

Are spring clothes fine for March in Otaru?

Some days in March still have winter conditions. Check the weather information before you leave, and it is safer not to decide in advance when you can leave your warm clothing at home.