2025 Cherry Blossoms in Japan

 

Springtime in Japan is renowned for its stunning floral displays. The blooming cherry blossom trees create a picturesque scene, with pink and white sakura petals drifting amongst ancient castles and providing a romantic backdrop. To ensure you can fully experience the cherry blossoms, it is recommended that you stay in the city for at least a week to observe their development. Although it is impossible to predict the exact date of peak bloom, we have selected some ideal locations for cherry blossom viewing and provided approximate opening dates to help you prepare.

 

Before we go deep into the spots for cherry blossom in Japan. Below map provides a general idea of what the Japan cherry blossom season might start in an average year.

 

 

8 Top Destinations for Cherry Blossoms

Kyoto

The Kyoto cherry blossoms are unparalleled in terms of travel experiences. The experience can be enjoyed by walking down the Philosopher’s Path to Higashiyama Sakura spots such as Maruyama Park and Kiyomizu-dera. Enjoy hanami at Arashiyama’s Tenryu-ji before strolling through the mysterious Sagano Bamboo Grove, or simply by having a picnic along the banks of the Kamo River. For an unforgettable night-time experience, visit Shinbashi-dori, where the cherry blossoms are at their most vibrant. The area is illuminated by lanterns that line the riverbank and the cherry trees, creating a romantic atmosphere.

 

 

Mt. Fuji

The Fuji Five Lakes and other regions around Mt. Fuji are famous for their cherry blossom especially the Urui River and the Chureito Pagoda.  On the western shores of Lake Saiko, Iyashi No Sato, an open-air museum and traditional craft village, is a must-see. The main street is lined with weeping cherry trees and offers views of Mount Fuji ad background. On the northwestern side of Oshino Hakkai, you can find the renowned Shibukusa Sengen Shrine, a popular destination for those seeking spiritual enlightenment. The most popular view is from the bridge not far from the Shibokusa Sengen Shrine, where on clear days, Mount Fuji can be seen behind the cherry trees. The blossoming of the cherry trees at Iyashi No Sato typically occurs several days after those at Lake Kawaguchiko, offering a distinct and extended viewing experience.

 

 

Yoshino

The deer in this area are well-known among travellers, but not much of foreigners are aware of the delights to be found in Nara prefecture’s Yoshino. The cherry blossoms in Yoshino are unparalleled in their beauty.  A trail through small mountain villages and thousands of cherry blossoms will lead you to the top of Mt. Yoshino, a view unlike any other in Japan.  The mountain is divided into four areas. The altitude and variety of breeds mean that as you ascend, the blossoms change appearance.

 

 

Himeji

The opportunity to capture iconic images of cherry blossoms, akin to those seen at Himeji Castle, is a highlight for many visitors. The grounds of Himeji Castle feature over 1,000 cherry trees. During spring, the white facade of the castle is set against a backdrop of pink blossoms, creating the perfect setting for enjoying the flowers. The castle’s exterior offers unobstructed views of the blossoms, while a modest fee grants access to the inner grounds. This ticket also grants you access to explore the castle’s interior.

 

 

Tokyo

Although it may not possess the natural beauty of Mt. Fuji or the historical grandeur of Kyoto, Tokyo nevertheless ranks highly on the list of many travelers. Despite being one of the most urbanised cities in the world, Tokyo is one of the best places in Japan to see cherry blossoms. Popular areas such as Chidorigafuchi moat and the Sumida River shores in Asakusa, as well as green spaces like Ueno Park and Koishikawa Koraku-en, offer ample opportunities to view cherry blossoms.

 

 

Osaka

Osaka is widely regarded as one of Japan’s premier destinations for cherry blossom viewing. The grounds of Osaka Castle feature over 4,000 cherry trees, providing a picturesque and expansive location for you to enjoy. Nishinomaru Park, located in the castle’s western citadel, offers a particularly pleasant setting for picnics, with its vast lawns and views of the castle tower. The former site of the 1970 World Exhibition in Osaka has been transformed into a public park, boasting over 5,000 cherry trees along its walkways. Other recommended locations for you to consider include Kema Sakuranomiya Park, the Osaka Mint Bureau and Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park.

 

 

Hiroshima

The Island of Miyajima, in Hiroshima, is a particularly popular destination for cherry blossom viewing. This island is renowned for its iconic Torii gate and the deer that roam freely on the island. The island boasts a variety of cherry trees, including Yamazakura, Somei Yoshino, Shidare and Oshima zakura. You can overlook from higher spots to enjoy the splendid view of the Treasure Pagoda which is surrounded by pink petals and the Great Torii gate which looks as if it were floating in the sea.

 

 

Hokkaido

Hokkaido is renowned not only for its snow in winter but also for its cherry blossom in spring. The star-shaped Goryokaku fort in Hakodate City offers a unique experience, where the scent of cherry blossoms and barbecue draws you in. The park, with its star-shaped moat and observation tower, is widely regarded as the most prominent cherry blossom viewing location in Hakodate. It comes alive in spring, offering you a unique sensory experience, especially at night. The park is a popular destination for friends and families, who gather under the illuminated trees and stroll along the lantern-lit paths, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

 

 

Travel Tips

Q1: Which month is the best time to see cherry blossoms in Japan?

A1: Japan’s cherry blossoms begin to bloom in mid-March in Shikoku and Kyushu islands, as well as in Tokyo. By early April, the flowers reach full bloom in major tourist destinations such as Kyoto, Osaka and Kanazawa. The optimal period for viewing cherry blossoms around Mt. Fuji and in the Tohoku region is mid-to-late April. The cherry blossom season in early May will reach to Hokkaido island in Japan’s far north.

Q2: How long do cherry blossoms last in Japan?

A2: The entire life cycle of the cherry blossom, from bud to leaf, takes approximately a month. However, the full bloom only lasts between one and two weeks, with the fullest and most gorgeous period of blooming sometimes just days in length. Weather conditions, including wind, rain and sudden cold snaps, can influence the duration of the sakura bloom.

Q3: Are there any special activities related to Cherry Blossoms?

A3: There are many activities related to cherry blossoms during the Japanese cherry blossom festival, and the following are some common cherry blossom-related activities: view Cherry Blossoms; light up cherry blossom lanterns; taste cherry blossom meals; hold the cherry blossom Matsuri.

Q4: When should I start to plan my trip?

A4: It is recommended to plan ahead and reserve tickets six months in advance to ensure availability. Cherry blossom is the most popular travel season for both domestic and international visitors. We advise you to book hotels and flights as soon as possible, as this is a peak season for travel around Japan, and prices may increase significantly as the date approaches.

 

Are you planning your next Japan cherry blossom journey? Feel free to chat with our travel constants, they are here to support you!