Japan, Asia
Hokkaido in March
Spring skiing is good and prices drop. Drift ice usually lingers into early March on the Okhotsk coast, varies by year.
The straight answer
March is a quiet, good-value month to visit Hokkaido. Spring skiing is good and prices drop. Drift ice usually lingers into early March on the Okhotsk coast, varies by year.
- Weather
- Still wintry, highs near 39F (4C)
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What March is like in Hokkaido
March is still wintry, with highs near 39F (4C). Spring skiing is good, with sunny days and softer snow, and prices drop from February. Drift ice usually lingers into early March on the Okhotsk coast, varying by year. Crowds thin out after the Snow Festival rush. Some snow remains in the cities, but days are getting longer.
It suits skiers who want good snow at lower prices and families who want a relaxed winter trip. Drift ice fans should come early in the month. If you want spring blossoms, wait until early May.
Make the most of March
What is especially good about Hokkaido this month.
Spring skiing at lower prices
Sunny days and softer snow make March skiing comfortable, and resort prices ease.
Late drift ice
In some years, drift ice still fills the Okhotsk coast in early March, with walks on the ice near Shiretoko.
Quieter onsen towns
Noboribetsu and Jozankei are calmer after the February rush.
What to pack for March
- Ski gear with layers you can shed
- Waterproof boots for slush
- Sunglasses for bright snow
- A warm hat and gloves
Our timing tip
Come in the first week of March if drift ice is on your list, since it usually breaks up soon after.
Book Hokkaido for March.
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- Hotels for March
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in HokkaidoOpens a hotel search for Hokkaido in March, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in HokkaidoWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in HokkaidoTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Hokkaido for March. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in March
Drift ice season
Roughly late January into early March, peaking in February, varies by year
Sea ice from the Sea of Okhotsk reaches Abashiri and Shiretoko. Icebreaker cruises run from Abashiri and Monbetsu.
Things to do in Hokkaido
Sapporo Snow Festival
Giant snow and ice sculptures in Odori Park and Susukino for about a week in early February. Book lodging months ahead.
Niseko and the ski resorts
Niseko is the most international; Furano, Rusutsu, and Kiroro are often quieter. January and February are the powder months.
Furano and Biei lavender
The fields peak in mid to late July. Go early morning to beat tour buses at Farm Tomita and the Blue Pond.
Otaru
Canal town with glassworks and sushi, 30 to 40 minutes from Sapporo. Magical during the Snow Light Path festival in February.
Shiretoko Peninsula
Five Lakes walk and bear-watching boat cruises in summer; drift ice walks in February and early March.
Asahiyama Zoo
Famous for its winter penguin walk and animal viewing design. A great family stop in Asahikawa.
Beat the crowds
- If you want the Snow Festival, book Sapporo hotels three to six months out, or stay in Otaru and commute.
- Ski in early to mid January or March for good snow with fewer people and lower rates than Christmas, Lunar New Year, and February.
- At Farm Tomita and the Blue Pond, arrive before 8am in July. By 10am the tour buses are in.
- Avoid Obon week in mid August for rental cars and lodging, and book summer rental cars early; they sell out.
Know before you go
- Shiretoko Pass (the road across the peninsula) and many mountain roads close in winter, usually from roughly early November to late April.
- Many summer attractions, ropeways, and lodges in national parks close from about November to April; check any specific site.
- Ski resorts generally open in late November or December and close between late March and early May depending on the resort and snow.
- Heavy snowstorms can cancel flights at New Chitose and shut roads and trains for a day. Build a buffer day into any winter itinerary.
Hokkaido in March, quick answers
Is March a good time to visit Hokkaido?
March is a quiet, good-value month to visit Hokkaido. Spring skiing is good and prices drop. Drift ice usually lingers into early March on the Okhotsk coast, varies by year.
What is the weather like in Hokkaido in March?
Still wintry, highs near 39F (4C).
Is Hokkaido crowded in March?
March is one of the quieter months in Hokkaido; most sights can be done without long waits.
What is happening in Hokkaido in March?
Drift ice season (roughly late january into early march, peaking in february, varies by year).
Keep planning Hokkaido.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in March
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