When is the best time to visit the cherry blossoms in Japan?

Japan is renowned for its sakura flowers, also known as cherry blossoms. Throughout the country there are dedicated cherry blossom festivals and enjoy hanami (flower viewing) where people gather in parks, gardens, or other outdoor spaces where cherry blossoms are abundant. They be can found all over Japan in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka to name a few. Depending on the climate in the year, cherry blossoms begin blooming between March and April and is in full bloom at the beginning of May. The festivals take place through out the months of March and April. However, dates vary depending on weather conditions but becomes available later on in the year in order to determine when the best time is.

So if you were considering not missing this once-in-a-year natural phenomenon, don't forget to start early. So find some of the best fares to Japan by scrolling down. Read more about the 2024 cherry blossom forecast for Japan!

Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo

Two of the most popular view spots in Tokyo are the sakura blooms around the Meguro River and at Inokashira Park. The Cherry Blossom Festival in Tokyo are also normally planned during March through the month of April.

Meguro River

Located near in Nakameguro Station, a trip to the Meguro River is an accessible trip and a worthwile stop. The river is lined with over 1,200 cherry blosssom trees and is beautiful during the day but is especially beautiful when lit up with lanterns at night.

Inokashira Park

Just a train ride away, in the Inokashira Park lies a huge pond that is filled with fallen cherry blossom petals. It is a beautiful sight to see at any time of day but is also illuminated by lights at night. If you want, you can even get a closer look by renting a boat and enjoy paddling around the pond.

Cherry Blossoms in Osaka

Two of the most popular view spots in Osaka are the sakura blooms at the Osaka Castle and Mount Yoshino.

Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing from late March to early April. The castle's grounds are adorned with cherry blossoms, creating a picturesque setting. Locals and tourists gather for hanami picnics beneath the blooming trees, making the sight of the castle surrounded by cherry blossoms enchanting. To witness the trees in full bloom, it's recommended to check the cherry blossom forecast and plan your visit accordingly.

Mount Yoshino

Mount Yoshino is broken into 3 different sections: lower, middle, and upper. The lower you start the eariler they will bloom due to the elevation so visit accordingly. Once you are there, you will find youself overlooking a gorgeous sea of cherry blossoms. Take a stroll through the mountain or go off to a quiet area and have a picnic amongst the trees.

Cherry Blossoms in Kyoto

Beautiful cherry blossoms can be seen around the ancient capital of Kyoto, which is not too far from Osaka by train. Two of the most popular view spots in Kyoto in the Arashiyama District and walk the Philosopher’s Path.

Arashiyama District

On the outskirts of Kyoto lies the Arashiyama District. It is a booming touristy area surrounded by nature and is especially popular during the cherry blossom season. This is yet another spot you can rent a boat to cruise along or walk along the bridge that stretches across the river.

Philosopher’s Path

Also known as Tetsugaku-no-Michi, the Philosopher’s Path is located between two temples in Kyoto and surrounded by hundreds of cherry blossom trees and is known as Kyoto's best walking trail. It is a walking path paved with stone where you can walk along the entire path of cherry blossoms for 30 minutes. Afterwards, go explore some temples and shrines nearby.

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Where should I go to Japan for cherry blossoms?

Japan offers a many more picturesque locations, other than the mainstream Tokyo and Osaka areas. Considering travelling around Japan and visit the other places to consider visiting during the beautiful cherry blossom season. Book your

• Aomori: Every year, this famous city is a renowned cherry blossom spot. The iconic Hirosaki Castle is one reason to visit, but the 2000+ cherry trees in Hirosaki Castle Park is what transforms this park in a sea of soft pink and while colours. If you're considering exploring, consider going during the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival and enjoy both the beauty of the landscape during the day and later in the evening with their night illuminations.

• Himeji: Here you can find over 1,000 cherry blossom trees that surround the Himeji Castle. The white castle is a wonderful contrast to the pink flowers of the cherry blossoms. To enter there is a small fee that you need to pay, but you will be able to not only see the beautiful cherry blossoms, but will also get to explore the castle itself!

• Hiroshima: This historical city also a popular 'hanami (flower viewing)' destination if you want to enjoy the sakura blossoms. Walk around the area the famous Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, along the grounds of the Hiroshima Castle, visit Miyajima Island, or take a glimpse of the city from above at Hijiyama Park and enjoy the panoramic view of the city and the Seto Inland Sea.

• Hakodate: Being on the northern island of Hokkaido, the cherry blossoms bloom later (end of April into early May). Famous for it's star-shaped fortress, the Goryokaku is one of Hakodate's most iconic landmark and is surrounded by over 1,600 cherry trees. Especially if you think that you're going to miss the peak cherry blossom season in other parts of Japan, this is a nice alternative.

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