Japan’s cherry blossom season is a breathtaking event that draws visitors from around the world. Cherry blossoms, also known as sakura, represent a new start as spring takes over from winter. April 1 is also when the new school year and fiscal year begin, so it’s a time of many celebrations in Japan.
This guide will help you plan the perfect trip to witness the beauty of sakura in full bloom. I’ll cover the best time for cherry blossoms in Japan in over 10 places, plus local festivals and events to check out while you’re there!
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When and where are the cherry blossoms in Japan?
Where are the cherry blossoms in Japan?
Cherry blossoms can be seen all across Japan during the spring season, from the Hokkaido region in the north to Kyushu in the south. The most popular areas to visit are Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, but there are many other places to see the cherry blossoms in season. I recommend planning where to visit around other activities and sights you’d like to see.
When do cherry blossoms bloom in Japan?
Japan’s weather and climate vary from the north to the south, so the best time to visit and see cherry blossoms can differ from one region to another. Generally, the best time for cherry blossoms in Japan is from March to early May. I’ll cover the ideal times for each location, but keep in mind that weather conditions can affect blooming times, so check local websites for updates as your trip approaches.
Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo, Japan
The cherry blossoms in Tokyo are best viewed from late March to early April. I’ll list just a few of the best spots, but there are tons of places all over the city to see them in full bloom. You’re likely to encounter them as you go sightseeing (click the link below to see more activities to do in Tokyo!).
Photo Credit: Yuichi Sakuraba
Yoyogi-kōen (Yoyogi Park)
Yoyogi Park is an urban oasis with over 600 cherry trees and ideal spaces for hanami picnics. Hanami is a tradition of enjoying food and drink while admiring the flowers. During sakura season, there are food stalls and performers around the park.
Ueno Park
Home to over 1,200 cherry trees, Ueno Park is one of Tokyo’s most popular hanami spots. The Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival, held from mid-March to early April, attracts around 2 million visitors. For a less crowded experience, visit on weekdays or early mornings. Or enjoy magical, illuminated views of the blossoms in the evenings.
Shinjuku Gyoen
This spacious park has over 1,000 cherry trees of 65 varieties and a longer blooming season from late March to late April. The park’s English, French, and Japanese gardens make for interesting and diverse backdrops for cherry blossom viewing.
Chidorigafuchi Park
Chidorigafuchi Park offers stunning views of cherry blossoms along the moat of the Imperial Palace. The 700-meter-long path is lined with about 260 cherry trees, creating a tunnel of blossoms. Boat rentals are available for a unique and romantic viewing perspective. The Chiyoda Sakura Festival, held in early April, even features evening illuminations.
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Meguro River Promenade
This 3.8-kilometer stretch along the Meguro River features about 800 cherry trees, creating a stunning pink canopy. Walk the promenade in one direction and then take a river cruise back to see the blossoms from below. The annual Nakameguro Cherry Blossom Festival includes evening lantern illuminations. Visit on weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds.
Cherry Blossoms in Kyoto, Japan
The cherry blossoms in Kyoto are generally best viewed in early to mid-April. Kyoto is also famous for its geisha shows, so don’t miss out on this cultural experience (click the link below for more activities to do in Kyoto!).
Maruyama-kōen (Maruyama Park)
Kyoto’s oldest public park, Maruyama-kōen, is central to the city’s hanami tradition. Its centerpiece is an illuminated weeping cherry tree. During peak season, the park transforms with food stalls and lantern-lit paths. You can have a picnic here or enjoy tea ceremonies at Choraku-tei tea house.
The Philosopher’s Path
Take a beautiful stroll down this picturesque 2-kilometer canal path lined with hundreds of cherry trees. Named after philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who meditated here daily, it’s best visited in the early morning before crowds arrive. Then, visit the nearby Ginkaku-ji Temple and Nanzen-ji Temple.
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Kamo River Promenade
Walk the 3.5-kilometer path along the Kamo River for a serene blossom-viewing experience. Lined with cherry trees, it’s particularly picturesque between the Kitaoji and Gojo bridges. Dine amidst the blossoms in one of the riverside restaurants with outdoor terraces. In the evenings, the trees are illuminated for an ethereal glow.
Arashiyama
Arashiyama is a gorgeous district in Kyoto. Ride the Sagano Romantic Train and walk the Togetsukyo Bridge for stunning views of cherry blossoms against forested mountains. Nearby Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO site, features cherry trees in its traditional garden. The Arashiyama Cherry Blossom Festival in early April includes traditional performances and evening illuminations.
Cherry Blossoms in Osaka, Japan
Time your visit for early to mid-April to see the cherry blossoms in Osaka. Osaka is also known as the kitchen of Japan, a popular hot spot for foodies. I highly recommend walking down Dotonbori to try the street food (click the link below for more activities to do in Osaka!).
Osaka Castle
The historic castle provides a stunning contrast to over 3,000 blooming cherry trees. There have been hanami (blossom viewing) parties in this park since the 16th century. Visit during the Osaka Castle Park Cherry Blossom Festival in early April for food stalls, traditional performances, and nighttime illuminations.
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Kema Sakuranomiya Park
This park runs along the Okawa River, with over 4,800 cherry trees lining a 4.2-kilometer riverbank stretch. Blossoms frame Osaka’s skyline, and during peak bloom in early April, the Osaka Mint Bureau hosts an annual viewing. The park features food stalls and special events that embody Osaka’s vibrant hanami culture.
Yoshino (Nara)
Nara Park is fairly close to Osaka and famous for its bowing deer. This is a great place to view the cherry blossoms, but the truly spectacular spot is Yoshino. Renowned as the birthplace of cherry blossom culture in Japan, Mount Yoshino boasts over 30,000 cherry trees planted over centuries. This UNESCO World Heritage site is an easy day trip from Osaka.
Himeji Castle
This UNESCO World Heritage site, built in the 17th century, is surrounded by approximately 1,000 cherry trees. The castle’s white exterior contrasts beautifully with the pink blossoms, typically in full bloom from late March to early April. The Himeji Castle Cherry Blossom Viewing Fair offers special night viewings with illuminated blossoms.
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Other Places in Japan to See the Cherry Blossoms
Hirosaki-kōen (Hirosaki Park) in Aomori
The park around Hirosaki Castle has over 2,600 trees of 50 varieties and features a cherry blossom tunnel. The annual Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival is from late April to early May, when the blooms are at their peak. Enjoy the illuminated night views, boat rides in the castle moat, and the famous ‘petal carpet’ on the water.
Mount Fuji / Kawaguchiko
The iconic Mount Fuji makes a stunning picture with the cherry blossoms. View them from Lake Kawaguchiko’s northern shores, Kawaguchiko Ropeway, and Chureito Pagoda. During the Fuji Shibazakura Festival, enjoy views of pink moss phlox fields with Fuji in the background. Blossom timing varies with altitude, generally from mid-April to early May. Early morning visits often provide the clearest Fuji views.
Hokkaido Shrine in Sapporo
Hokkaido Shrine has about 1,500 cherry trees on its 180,000 square meter grounds. The annual Sapporo Festival in early to mid-May features traditional rituals, food stalls, and evening illuminations. Visit early morning for a tranquil experience. The contrast between the traditional Shinto architecture and the delicate blossoms provides a uniquely Japanese aesthetic.
Kumamoto Castle in Kyushu
This historic castle is surrounded by about 800 cherry trees around the grounds (parts of the castle may be under ongoing reconstruction). The Kumamoto Castle Spring Festival in early April features special viewing areas and evening illuminations. he festival includes traditional performances and cultural exhibitions, providing insight into Kumamoto’s history and the castle’s significance.
Start planning to see the cherry blossoms in Japan!
Witnessing cherry blossoms in Japan in full bloom is a truly unforgettable experience. The delicate pink flowers transform the landscape into a vibrant picture, and spring celebrations are everywhere. Embrace the culture and start learning Japanese with Rosetta Stone to get inspired while planning your trip.
Then, search for flights with Daily Drop Pro and get ready to immerse yourself in Japanese culture and the spirit of hanami!
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