Every spring, Japan transforms into a breathtaking canvas of pink and white as cherry blossoms bloom across the country. Known as “hanami,” the tradition of cherry blossom viewing is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and attracts millions of visitors every year. Whether you’re planning your first trip or looking for hidden gems, this guide highlights the top cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan and the best times to visit them.
Best Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Japan by Region
From late March to early May, Japan comes alive with soft pink hues as cherry blossoms bloom from south to north. This natural progression means you can chase the blossoms through different regions over several weeks. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most beloved and scenic spots by region to help you plan your perfect hanami getaway.
Kanto Region: Tokyo and Surrounding Areas
In Tokyo, Ueno Park is a classic cherry blossom destination. With over 1,000 trees lining its paths and the edge of Shinobazu Pond, it offers a lively, festive atmosphere complete with food vendors and evening lanterns. The trees typically bloom between late March and early April.
The Meguro River is another favorite, especially for its romantic nighttime illuminations. Over 800 trees arch gracefully over a narrow canal, making it a favorite spot for strolls and photography. For something a bit quieter, Chidorigafuchi near the Imperial Palace offers rowboat rentals under cherry-covered banks. Inokashira Park in Kichijoji is a peaceful alternative with beautiful reflections over the pond and plenty of space to spread out.
Kansai Region: Kyoto, Osaka, Nara
In Kyoto, Maruyama Park draws visitors with its giant shidare-zakura (weeping cherry tree), which is beautifully illuminated at night. Located next to Yasaka Shrine and near Gion, it blends nature with old-world charm. The peak season here is generally early April.
Osaka Castle Park showcases cherry blossoms alongside one of Japan’s most iconic castles. With over 3,000 trees and wide open spaces, it’s ideal for both picnics and photos.
Further south in Nara, Yoshinoyama is famous for its 30,000 cherry trees blanketing the mountainside. With trees planted at different elevations, visitors can enjoy a longer viewing season—from the base to the peak—typically between early and mid-April.
Tohoku Region: Northern Honshu’s Late Blooms
For those who arrive in Japan after the peak season in Tokyo or Kyoto, Tohoku offers a second chance to catch the blooms.
Hirosaki Park in Aomori is often considered one of the top hanami spots in Japan. The park features a historic castle, hundreds of lantern-lit trees, and moats filled with pink petals. Blooms here usually arrive from late April into early May.
In Iwate, Kitakami Tenshochi Park lines the Kitakami River with around 10,000 cherry trees. Visitors can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides and riverside paths that make for a peaceful, scenic experience.
Chubu and Other Central Regions
Takato Castle Ruins Park in Nagano is home to over 1,500 trees of the unique “kohigan-zakura” variety, creating a delicate, pale pink atmosphere. Because of the higher elevation, blooms appear around early to mid-April.
One of Japan’s most iconic sakura photo spots is Chureito Pagoda near Mount Fuji. From this hilltop pagoda, you can capture cherry blossoms with Fuji in the background—especially striking on a clear spring morning.
Kyushu and Southern Japan
Kyushu often gets the first sakura blooms in the country. In Fukuoka, Maizuru Park, located among the ruins of Fukuoka Castle, offers hundreds of trees and a festive vibe with food stalls and nighttime lights.
In Kumamoto, the grounds of Kumamoto Castle are filled with beautiful trees, offering early blooms usually from mid to late March. It’s a great option for travelers eager to kick off the season.
When is the Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in Japan?
Japan’s cherry blossom season stretches from late January in Okinawa to early May in Hokkaido, moving north as spring progresses. Central Japan—including Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka—tends to reach full bloom between late March and early April.
Here’s a general guide to peak bloom times:
| Region | Typical Peak Bloom |
| Okinawa | Late January |
| Kyushu | Mid to Late March |
| Kansai/Kanto | Late March – Early April |
| Chubu | Early to Mid April |
| Tohoku | Mid to Late April |
| Hokkaido | Late April – Early May |
Always check the latest forecast before finalizing your plans, as bloom times can shift slightly depending on weather conditions.
Hanami Tips for First-Time Visitors
If this is your first cherry blossom season in Japan, a little preparation goes a long way.
- Get there early: Popular spots fill up fast, especially on weekends.
- Bring a picnic mat, snacks, and maybe a thermos of green tea. Many people bring homemade or store-bought bento boxes.
- Be considerate: don’t pick branches or leave trash behind.
- Yozakura (night hanami) offers a different atmosphere with illuminated trees—perfect for a romantic stroll or evening photo shoot.
- Morning visits offer fewer crowds and beautiful soft light.
Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Sakura Spots
For a quieter hanami experience, consider these lesser-known but equally stunning locations:
- Kakunodate in Akita is a former samurai town where cherry trees line the river and traditional homes.
- Miharu Takizakura in Fukushima is a 1,000-year-old cherry tree that looks like a cascading waterfall when in full bloom.
- Gujo Hachiman in Gifu is a riverside town with charming old streets and tranquil blossom views.
- Yame Central Park in Kyushu offers a peaceful setting perfect for families or quiet picnics.
These spots give you a more relaxed and intimate hanami experience, often without the crowds.
Suggested Cherry Blossom Itineraries for Travelers
Classic First-Time Trip (7–10 Days):
Tokyo → Kyoto → Osaka
- Visit Ueno Park, Maruyama Park, and Osaka Castle.
- Use the Japan Rail Pass for fast travel between cities.
- Stay near major stations for easy access to popular hanami locations.
Late Bloom Seeker (Mid-April Onward):
Nagano → Aomori → Hokkaido
- Perfect for those arriving in Japan a little later.
- Explore Takato Castle, Hirosaki Park, and Matsumae Park.
- Use regional rail passes to save money and time.
Hidden Gems Trail:
Tohoku & Rural Areas
- Focus on places like Kakunodate, Gujo Hachiman, and small Kyushu towns.
- A rental car can be helpful in less accessible areas.
Best Cherry Blossom Photo Spots in Japan
Looking to capture the perfect sakura shot? These places are favorites among photographers:
- Chureito Pagoda and Mount Fuji: Iconic and unforgettable, especially at sunrise.
- Meguro River: Beautiful reflections, especially during night illuminations.
- Hirosaki Castle: The combination of cherry blossoms and historic architecture is a photographer’s dream.
Tips:
- Visit early or on weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Use wide-angle lenses for landscapes and zoom lenses for detailed close-ups.
- Tripods are useful but may be restricted in busy areas.
Nighttime Cherry Blossom Viewing (Yozakura) Experiences
Yozakura—cherry blossom viewing at night—adds a magical element to hanami. Lanterns and soft lighting bring a different kind of beauty to the trees.
- Ueno Park in Tokyo offers evening lights and a lively crowd.
- Osaka Mint Bureau opens for one week in spring for a night walk among blooming trees.
- Maruyama Park in Kyoto lights up its famous weeping cherry, creating a romantic setting.
Stay safe:
- Stick to well-lit paths.
- Plan your way back as trains may run less frequently at night.
Conclusion: Planning Your Perfect Cherry Blossom Trip
Cherry blossom season is one of Japan’s most magical times of the year. It’s a celebration of nature, beauty, and new beginnings. Whether you’re catching your first sakura in a Tokyo park or chasing late blooms up north, each place offers something unique. Stay flexible, check forecasts regularly, and give yourself time to simply sit and take it all in. There’s nothing quite like it.
