The Cherry Blossom season, also known as Sakura Season is a magical time of year that transforms the entire country. Filled with flourishing blossoms resembling pink popcorn, from Tokyo to Hokkaido, there are endless spots to view the amazing blossoms. The season generally begins in early April, but can sometimes start in late March, and may even last into early May. The forecast changes each year and depends on temperatures and overall climate.
The cherry blossom season moves across the country, heading north away from the Okinawa region towards Hokkaido, meaning some visitors and locals plan their visit according to the bloom forecast. While there are many amazing spots to view the Sakura blossoms, here are the best places in Japan to see cherry blossoms.
Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is a beautiful destination year-round, but during the Sakura season is one of the best places to see the blossoms. Visiting the Fuji Five Lake Region which surrounds the iconic peak offers some of the most breathtaking scenery. For those able to hike, there are wonderful vantage points, as well as visiting the Chureito Pagoda for one of the most memorable views. Joining a Mount Fuji Tour is one of the best ways to visit the Five Lake Region and take in the cherry blossoms.
Ueno Park
Ueno Park is one of Tokyo’s best outdoor green spaces and while it is a special place to enjoy scenery year-round, it is particularly popular during the cherry blossom season. Locals in the area come to visit the park and enjoy picnics and parties surrounded by the pink blossoms. Most notably, Ueno Park is known for some 1000 cherry blossom trees that surround the Shinobazu Pond, and lead up to the nearby National Museum. Viewing the blossoms in Ueno Park is a great way to mingle among the locals and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty during Sakura Season.
5-20 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007, Japan
Himeji Castle
One of the most popular locations to enjoy the cherry blossoms, Himeji Castle refers to the entire complex, found on the hilltop in Himeji, situated in the Hyōgo Prefecture of Japan. Himeji Castle is surrounded by 1000 cherry blossom trees which create a stunning juxtaposition to the building structure and surrounding complex of white wooden walls. Locals and tourists alike flock to Himeji Castle as one of the best places in Japan to see cherry blossoms. Many visitors enjoy picnic, gatherings, walks or a boat trip to view the Sakura season.
68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0012, Japan
Meguro River
Approximately 800 Sakura trees line the Meguro River, and the walk along this section of the river is breathtakingly beautiful, and one of the best places in Japan to see cherry blossoms. The area between the bridge near Ikejiri Ohashi Station and approximately 4 kilometers towards Meguro Station are where the trees are situated. Walking Meguro River is both special during the day, and in the evening, as the area is lit up. The trees in bloom create a tunnel-like phenomenon over the river, and during the Hanami Festival, the river is filled with lanterns which illuminate the trees and create a magical experience.
Tokyo, Precture. Easily accessible via Nakameguro Station
Asukayama Park
Asukayama Park in Kita, Tokyo is not only one of the best places in Japan to see cherry blossoms, but also one of the oldest. A popular favorite among locals of all ages, Asukayama Park holds some 600 Sakura trees and during the bloom season, the park is filled creating a fantastical view. Many visitors to the park enjoy picnics or family gatherings to view the cherry blossoms. Additionally, the park is open at night when the trees are lit-up creating a different, but equally beautiful look.
1-1-3 Oji, Kita 114-0002, Tokyo Prefecture
