Springtime in Japan means one thing: cherry blossom.
The entire country eagerly anticipates the first sakura (cherry) trees to burst into bloom. Once they do, people flock to parks and squares for hanami, or flower viewing. The romance is passionate yet fleeting, lasting only a week or two.
Cherry blossom viewing has been a tradition in Japan for over a millennium. The delicate blooms symbolize the transience of beauty and serve as a representation of fresh starts, coinciding perfectly with the new school and fiscal year that begins in April.
Choose Your Timings Carefully
The best time to visit Japan for cherry blossoms is during the spring months. Starting in Kyūshū in March, regular blossom forecasts keep the public updated as the sakura zensen (cherry-tree blossom line) advances northward, typically passing through the Kansai and Kantō regions of Honshū in late March or early April. Latecomers can catch the blossoms in late April and sometimes early May in Tōhoku, the northernmost region of Honshū.
There are countless parks, gardens, and picturesque waterways across the country where you can admire the beautiful blooms. This guide highlights Japan’s top cherry-blossom viewing spots.
1. Yoshino, Kansai: Japan’s Most Famous Cherry-Blossom Destination
The blossoms of thousands of cherry trees form a floral carpet gradually ascending the mountainsides of Yoshino in Kansai. This breathtaking sight draws many visitors each year, leading to crowded narrow streets. If you plan to visit, aim for a day trip from nearby cities unless accommodations are secured well in advance. After the blossoms fall, Yoshino reverts to a tranquil village atmosphere with a few shrines and temples.
Best Time to Visit Yoshino for Cherry Blossoms: Blooms typically appear early to mid-April and last for a few weeks.
2. Hirosaki-kōen, Tōhoku: A Less Crowded Experience
Hirosaki-kōen is a vast park covering nearly 50 hectares, formerly the grounds of Hirosaki Castle. Although only the 200-year-old keep remains, the park is adorned with over 2500 cherry trees, making it a striking location for viewing sakura away from the hustle and bustle. Rent a paddle boat to drift among the pink petals adorning the moats.
Best Time to Visit Hirosaki-kōen for Cherry Blossoms: Late April to early May is ideal for enjoying the sakura in bloom.
3. Fuji Five Lakes, Yamanashi: Best Blossom Photos
The view from the Churei-tō Pagoda in the Fuji Five Lakes area offers an iconic cherry blossom photo opportunity where a classic five-story pagoda is framed by a sea of cherry blossoms and Mt. Fuji in the backdrop. While the pagoda itself is a recent structure, the park is home to many sakura trees and is perfect for photography lovers.
Best Time to Visit Fuji Five Lakes for Cherry Blossoms: Expect blooms to peak in mid-April.
4. Maruyama-kōen (Maruyama Park), Kyoto: The Top Hanami Spot
Kyoto boasts numerous fantastic cherry blossom viewing locations, but Maruyama-kōen is a standout. Here, visitors can admire the iconic Gion Shidare-zakura, a magnificent weeping cherry tree illuminated at night. The park is filled with other cherry trees making it a popular picnic destination, especially in early April.
Best Time to Visit Maruyama-kōen for Cherry Blossoms: Early April is ideal for capturing the blooms.
5. Yoyogi-kōen (Yoyogi Park), Tokyo: The Party Atmosphere
Tokyo offers many popular cherry blossom spots, but Yoyogi-kōen stands out for its vibrant atmosphere. As a sprawling park with ample space for picnics and celebrations, it attracts festivity seekers who set up barbecues and celebrate beneath the blooming sakura. Expect a lively atmosphere, especially in late March to early April.
Best Time to Visit Yoyogi-kōen for Cherry Blossoms: Late March to early April is perfect for experiencing the celebrations under the blossoms.
