Chiba in April
April weather, activities, events & insider tips
April Weather in Chiba
Is April Right for You?
Advantages
- Cherry blossom season extends into early April - Chiba's parks like Chiba Koen and Mobara still have blooms through April 8-10, with significantly fewer crowds than Tokyo's famous spots just 40 km (25 miles) away
- Perfect hiking weather with comfortable temperatures averaging 21°C (69°F) during the day - ideal for exploring the Boso Peninsula's coastal trails and mountain paths without summer's oppressive humidity
- Strawberry picking season peaks in April - Chiba produces 30% of Japan's strawberries, with farms offering all-you-can-eat experiences for ¥1,500-2,200 ($10-15) during the sweetest harvest period
- Golden Week (April 29-May 5) hasn't started yet, meaning significantly lower accommodation prices and crowd levels at major attractions like Tokyo Disney Resort, which is technically in Chiba
Considerations
- Unpredictable spring weather brings sudden rain showers on 10 out of 31 days, often arriving without warning and lasting 1-2 hours, disrupting outdoor plans
- High humidity at 70% makes temperatures feel warmer than they are, causing discomfort for visitors from drier climates and requiring frequent clothing changes
- Some coastal activities like surfing face inconsistent conditions due to changing weather patterns, with offshore winds varying dramatically day to day
Best Activities in April
Boso Peninsula Coastal Hiking
April's mild temperatures make this the perfect time to explore Chiba's 320 km (199 miles) of coastline. The peninsula offers dramatic cliff walks, lighthouse trails, and beach-to-mountain routes with spring wildflowers in bloom. Morning hikes (7-10am) are ideal before afternoon humidity peaks. Trails range from easy 2-hour coastal walks to challenging 6-hour mountain traverses.
Strawberry Farm Experiences
April is peak strawberry season in Chiba, the prefecture that produces nearly one-third of Japan's strawberries. All-you-can-eat strawberry picking combines cultural experience with seasonal timing. Farms typically open 9am-3pm, with morning visits offering the sweetest berries. Many farms also offer strawberry-making workshops and fresh strawberry desserts.
Naritasan Temple Complex Cultural Tours
April's comfortable walking weather is ideal for exploring this 1,000-year-old temple complex with spring gardens in bloom. The complex spans 22 hectares (54 acres) with multiple buildings, traditional gardens, and cultural demonstrations. Spring flowers frame temple photography, and comfortable temperatures allow for the traditional 2-3 hour full exploration without summer heat exhaustion.
Tokyo Bay Fishing Charters
April marks excellent fishing conditions in Tokyo Bay as water temperatures stabilize and spring fish migration begins. Half-day charters target sea bass, flounder, and seasonal catches. Moderate weather means comfortable time on deck, and April fish are particularly active feeding after winter. Morning charters (6am-12pm) typically see best results.
Choshi Coastal Train and Lighthouse Tours
The historic Choshi Electric Railway offers scenic coastal views that are spectacular in April's clear spring weather. The 6.4 km (4 mile) railway line connects to Inubosaki Lighthouse, Japan's second-tallest lighthouse at 31.3 m (103 ft). April's moderate temperatures make the lighthouse climb comfortable, and spring weather provides excellent Pacific Ocean views.
Mother Farm Agricultural Theme Park
April is prime time at this 250-hectare (618-acre) working farm with baby animals born in spring, flower fields in bloom, and comfortable weather for outdoor activities. Sheep shearing demonstrations, fruit picking, and traditional farming experiences benefit from April's moderate temperatures. Family-friendly activities span 4-6 hours comfortably in spring weather.
April Events & Festivals
Mobara Cherry Blossom Festival
One of Chiba's most spectacular hanami spots extends into early April with over 2,850 cherry trees around Mobara Park's lake. Evening illuminations create magical reflections on the water, and traditional food stalls line the pathways. Less crowded than Tokyo alternatives but equally beautiful.
Chiba Prefectural Museum Spring Special Exhibitions
Annual spring exhibitions typically focus on local natural history and cultural heritage, perfect for rainy day activities. Interactive displays and seasonal programming often coincide with school holidays, making April ideal timing for cultural exploration with comfortable indoor alternatives.