What kind of season is Asahikawa in March?

March is spring according to the calendar, and in many areas, including Honshu, cherry blossoms begin to bloom at the end of the month.
We are often asked, “Doesn’t Hokkaido have any more snow during spring break?”
However, March in Hokkaido is still the season of winter.
Especially from the beginning to the middle of March, there is as much snow as in the middle of winter, and it is not possible to take a picture under a cherry tree at a graduation ceremony.

Asahikawa is one of the cities in Hokkaido with the largest amount of snowfall in addition to having the most extreme temperature differences in Japan.
By the end of March, it starts to feel a little bit like spring, but for those who come to Asahikawa for sightseeing, it is still very cold with snow on the roads, giving the impression that it is still winter.

The average temperature in Asahikawa in March is -1.8 °C.
The highest temperature is said to be 2.6 degrees Celsius, and the lowest -6.3 °C.
As one would expect from Asahikawa, which is said to be the coldest city in Japan, the temperature is still below freezing.
On the other hand, you can continue to enjoy winter activities that make you feel a little bit sorry for yourself!
If you are not a fan of Hokkaido in the middle of winter because of its coldness, but would like to enjoy the snow and experience Hokkaido in winter, this is the perfect time to visit.

Weather in Asahikawa in March

Although the peak of the coldest season has passed and blizzards are rare, the average temperature in Asahikawa in March is -1.8 °C, which is still very cold for most people.
Asahikawa is also characterized by a large daily temperature difference, and while it may feel like early spring during the day when the weather is fine, at night you often find yourself still without a down jacket.
The difference in temperature makes it easy to catch a cold.

However, compared to January and February, there is not as much snow, and the snow begins to melt gradually from mid to late March, so on warm days, the road surfaces are wet with melting snow.
The snow is then piled on top of it, and it is possible to get into a puddle the moment you take a step thinking you are on snow.
However, there is still a lot of snow on the sidewalks, and if you go to Asahikawa for sightseeing, you may want to prepare for the cold morning and evening temperatures as if you were going to Hokkaido in the middle of winter.

What to wear and bring in Asahikawa in March

In midwinter in Hokkaido, it is essential to wear full winter gear such as down jackets, heavy winter coats, scarves, gloves, and knit hats.
In March, the temperature is a bit milder, so you may not need to bring ear protection or a pocket warmer, but it is best to dress as you would in “winter”.

Since there is still snow on the sidewalks, be sure to wear waterproof winter boots, rain boots, or shoes with non-slip soles.
As we mentioned earlier, we recommend that you avoid wearing mouton boots if you are going after the middle of the season when the snow begins to melt.

It is now spring, so it is time to wear spring-colored boots, pumps, or sneakers…but safety is more important than fashion!
High heeled boots are not recommended in March, especially if you are not used to winter in Hokkaido.
Especially with sneakers and pumps, there is a very high possibility that your shoes will get wet from the snow.
One of the most common things that happens in Hokkaido in winter is that snow gets inside your shoes and your socks get wet!
This is the same problem even for locals.
This is not a problem if you walk on well-compacted snow, but there will be times when this is not possible while sightseeing.
Therefore, we recommend that you bring a few extra pairs of socks to replace your socks for the number of days you will be traveling.

Major Events in Asahikawa in March

March is the time when winter events are just coming to an end.
Depending on what time of the year you visit Asahikawa in March, the events you can enjoy will vary.
If you want to enjoy winter sightseeing, we recommend that you visit Asahikawa in early March.

You can’t miss this place! Asahiyama Zoo, a classic zoo that everyone can enjoy, whether you are a family or a couple

If you are planning to visit Asahikawa in March, you should definitely visit Asahiyama Zoo in winter!
There are only a few zoos that are open during winter in snowy areas like Asahikawa, and Asahiyama Zoo is full of animals that become more energetic in winter!

The penguin walk is one of the most popular events at Asahiyama Zoo in winter.
This is a very popular event where you can watch the penguins walk about 500 meters for about 30 minutes right in front of your eyes.
However, this walk is only held during the snow season and usually lasts until mid-March.
If you are planning to visit Asahikawa in early to mid March, we recommend that you check the zoo’s website before you go.
Speaking of penguins, you can see them not only strolling but also jumping around in the snow on their stomachs, called “tobogganing” at the toboggan square!
This is only set up during the snowy season, so if you want to see it, be sure to get there early.

Quoted：Paradizoo

The attraction of Asahiyama Zoo in winter is that you can see more than 30 kinds of winter hardy Hokkaido animals outside, including polar bears, red-crowned cranes, and Ezo sika deer.
The area around the zoo is colder than the city center, and there is still snow on the ground, so please make sure to take warm clothing.

For those who say skiing and Snowboarding in March

Many people think of skiing and snowboarding until February, but winter sports enthusiasts want to ski in March as well.
Of course, Asahikawa is also a great place to enjoy skiing in March.
Kamui Ski Rinks, the best ski resort in Asahikawa, is usually open until March 31st (this may change depending on snow conditions), so if you want to enjoy the last skiing of the winter, go there in March!

Basho trip also offers a flat-rate cab service from hotels in Asahikawa to Kamui Ski Rinks!

In Asahikawa and other ski resorts in Hokkaido, you can enjoy powder snow that people from overseas love to call JAPOW.
The snow quality is world class, so if you visit Asahikawa in March, please enjoy the JAPOW!

Recommended Activities in Asahikawa in March

Asahikawa in March is full of other winter activities that you can enjoy only at this time of the year.
Asahikawa is still covered with snow, so there are some activities that are recommended in March.
Here are some of the activities you can enjoy in Asahikawa because it is not as cold as in January and February, but there is still a lot of “snow” left!

Stroll with a horse in a silver-world forest! Winter Horseback Riding Experience

Another activity you should try in Asahikawa in March is winter horseback riding!
Horseback riding is an activity that can be enjoyed all year round, but why not try it in winter as a unique Hokkaido experience?
You will first receive a lecture by an experienced rider on a wooden horse in a room, and then you will practice on a small round stable to get used to riding a horse.
So even beginners can have a safe experience!
Above all, the experience of riding a horse in a winter forest, which is difficult to visit by yourself, is a unique winter memory of Hokkaido that is hard to experience anywhere else!
After riding, you can warm up in the café and enjoy delicious cakes and coffee while taking a breather.

Summary : Things to do in Asahikawa March (weather, clothes and activities)

Asahikawa in March is not yet a warm spring day, but it is still a good time for those who are not used to the cold weather.
That said, the mornings and evenings can get quite chilly, so be sure to take precautions against the cold!
It is still the season for delicious ramen, so come to Asahikawa in March to enjoy both winter fun and delicious ramen!

For Hokkaido activity experiences visit Basho Trip