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Things to do in Japan: March 2026

Mar. 03. 2026

March marks the beginning of spring in Japan as early cherry blossoms begin to appear and the pace of daily life gradually shifts with the season. There’s so much to look forward to as we welcome spring back, with daylight lingering a little longer, the weather starting to warm up, and more events taking place outdoors. On top of that, a new season also means all the spring-themed desserts and snacks we get to enjoy! 🍡

While cherry blossom viewing may be crowned the main event of spring in Japan, there are many other events equally worth looking forward to. Below is a curated mix of exhibitions, markets, and seasonal happenings taking place across the country this month. Be sure to save them to your notes or calendar.

Tokyo

100% Doraemon & Friends in Tokyo

At the 100% Doraemon & Friends in Tokyo Exhibition, get ready to relive a touch of Showa-era nostalgia as it celebrates Japan’s iconic and beloved character Doraemon, a staple of Japanese childhood. It delivers exactly what it promises: 100% Doraemon. Highlights include more than 100 life-size Doraemon figures in a variety of expressions and poses, perfect for photos, as well as screenings of feature-length films. There will also be immersive 3D manga installations that bring iconic scenes to life, inviting visitors to rediscover timeless themes of friendship, family, courage, and hope for the future.

Image courtesy of 100% Doraemon & Friends in Tokyo Production Committee.

📍 TOKYO DREAM PARK 7th floor (EX STUDIO7)

📅 March 27 ~ September 30

💰 from ¥ 2,500 (same-day ticket)

For full details of the event, please check the official website.

Spiral, Spiral: Evolving Human Narratives

“Spiral, Spiral: Evolving Human Narratives” at MoN Takanawa: The Museum of Narratives explores the universal motif of spirals, known as guru guru in Japanese. Spirals are all around us in nature and have been part of human life long before civilization began, evolving across time and cultures to leave a transformative mark on society. The exhibition features a curated collection of spiral narratives from around the world, both past and present, inviting viewers to discover the stories and meanings hidden within this simple yet profound form. The museum is set to unveil its grand opening on March 28, with the “Spiral, Spiral: Evolving Human Narratives” opening to the public on the same day. Be sure to explore MoN Takanawa’s stunning architecture while you’re there!

Image courtesy of MoN Takanawa: The Museum of Narratives

📍 MoN Takanawa: The Museum of Narratives (Box1500)

📅 From March 28 ~ September 23

💰 ¥ 2,500

For full details of the event, please check the official website.

Chiyoda City Sakura Festival

The highly anticipated Chiyoda City Sakura Festival returns this year featuring enchanting cherry blossom views. The festival also offers scenic boat rides along the moat with advance online reservations (subject to availability) and numerous cherry blossom viewing spots. One of the main highlights is Chidori-ga-fuchi Green Way, a 700-meter pathway lined with cherry blossom trees that glow beautifully after dark, creating an ethereal atmosphere. Visitors can also explore Kitanomaru Park, the East Garden of the Imperial Palace, and Sotobori Park. Suggested walking routes are available on the official website to help visitors enjoy a smooth and seamless stroll.

Image courtesy of Chiyoda City Tourism Association.

📍 Chidori-ga-fuchi Green Way and various other locations

📅 March 5 ~ April 22 (Illumination dates TBD)

💰 Free*

*Boat rides are a separate cost and require advance reservations.

For full details of the event, please check the official website.

Tokyo International Antiquarian Book Fair

Bibliophiles, rejoice! The Tokyo International Antiquarian Book Fair is back. Held every two years, this prestigious event has been a cornerstone of the rare book world for over 40 years. What sets it apart is that participation is limited to members of the Antiquarian Booksellers Association of Japan and the International League of Antiquarian Booksellers, including 12 distinguished exhibitors from overseas. This ensures the highest standards of quality and authenticity across the 37 participating bookstores. Visitors can browse an extraordinary selection of rare books, manuscripts, woodblock prints, and other historic materials. As Tokyo is one of the elite global host cities alongside London, Paris, and New York, this is a rare opportunity to experience the fair right here in Japan!

Image courtesy of Antiquarian Booksellers’ Association of Japan.

📍 Tokyo Traffic Hall

📅 March 13 ~ 15

💰 Free entry

For full details of the event, please check the official website.

Kyoto

Jonan-gu Weeping Plum and Camellia Festival

Before cherry blossoms take center stage, early spring in Kyoto is graced by weeping plums and camellias, and the perfect place to see them is Jonan-gu Shrine. Located in the southern part of Kyoto, the shrine is famous for its exorcism rituals and kagura dances, but its gardens are an attraction in their own right. Camellia trees can be seen from the entrance through the Spring Mountain and Heian Garden, where their bright crimson petals begin to fall, creating a stunning contrast with the moss-covered ground. Heading west into the “Spring Mountain,” visitors can admire around 150 weeping plum trees, each stage of bloom offering its own breathtaking beauty. Come and experience the magic of early spring!

Image courtesy of Jonangu Shrine.

📍 Jonangu Shrine

📅 until March 22

💰 ¥ 1,000

For full details of the event, please check the official website.

Kobe

Kobe Book Fair & Market 2026

Held as part of the Kobe Book Culture Promotion Project, Kobe Book Fair & Market aims to promote print books and inspire a new generation of readers. First launched in 2025, the fair returns this year in collaboration with local bookstores and publishers, bringing together around 110 booths featuring independent bookstores, secondhand bookshops, publishers, and creators of zines and self-published works. Beyond browsing books, visitors can also enjoy coffee and food stalls throughout the venue. The event is family-friendly as well, with workshops and storytelling sessions specially designed for children!