Did You Know Summer Starts in March in Japan? (The “Umi-biraki” Secret)

Last updated: March 20, 2026

Freezing Tokyo
In March, most of Japan is still shivering. People in Tokyo are wearing heavy winter coats, waiting for the cherry blossoms to finally bloom at the end of the month. But did you know that in another part of Japan, people are already swimming in the ocean?

The Long Archipelago
Japan is a surprisingly long country, stretching over 3,000 kilometers from north to south. While the northern island of Hokkaido is still buried in thick snow, the southern islands are already experiencing summer weather.

The “Umi-biraki” Ritual
In these southern tropical regions, March marks the official “Umi-biraki” (Beach Opening) season! It is not just about putting up a volleyball net. Umi-biraki is a traditional Shinto event. A local priest stands on the white sand, waves a sacred wand, and prays to the ocean gods for the safety of swimmers and a prosperous tourist season.

The First Swim
As soon as the priest finishes the prayer, local children and tourists cheer and run into the crystal-clear water, officially kicking off the swimming season months before the rest of the country.

A Tropical Escape
If you visit Japan in March and get tired of the cold city weather, just hop on a domestic flight down south. Within a few hours, you can trade your winter coat for a swimsuit and enjoy an early summer on a stunning white sand beach!

Regional Contrasts & Local Discoveries (Related Articles)
Japan’s long geography means every region has something completely different to offer, from the contrasting beaches to the very streets you walk on!

1. The Freezing Beach While southern Japan is celebrating “Umi-biraki” in the warm sun, the northern island of Hokkaido experiences a completely different, magical winter illusion. Because the temperatures drop so low, the snow aggressively piles up right to the edge of the dark ocean, creating a stunning, pure white beach!
👉 Where does this happen? Check out: “Where Does the Snow Meet the Sea? (The Magical Coast of Hokkaido)”

Where Does the Snow Meet the Sea? (The Magical Coast of Hokkaido)

2. The Secret Art Gallery Whether you visit a tropical southern town or a freezing northern city, don’t forget to look down at the local streets. Japan has turned sewer covers into a massive canvas, with over 12,000 colorful designs showcasing local pride (and even Pokemon!) right under your feet.
👉 Why do they paint manholes? Check out: “Why Should You Look Down When Walking in Japan? (The Secret Art Gallery)”