Japan's Cherry Blossom: When and Where to See Them

If you are planning on travelling to Japan in the near future, you may be wondering when and where to see the cherry blossoms.

The cherry blossom season in Japan varies depending on the location but typically runs from late March to early May. In this blog post, we will give you an overview of when and where to see Japan’s cherry blossoms!

When do cherry blossoms bloom in Japan?

Every year, millions of people travel to Japan to see the cherry blossoms. These delicate flowers have been revered in Japanese culture for centuries, and their annual blooming is now an international event. The exact timing of the blossoming depends on the weather, but it typically occurs in late March or early April. In Japan, the arrival of the cherry blossoms is often celebrated with a hanami or flower-viewing party. Friends and family gather beneath the trees to enjoy picnics and sake, surrounded by the beauty of the pink and white blossoms. For many people, hanami is a cherished tradition that heralds the arrival of spring.

When does the cherry blossom festival start?

The cherry blossom festival is one of the most anticipated events of the year. People from all over the world travel to Japan to see the brilliantly pink blossoms in full bloom. The festival typically starts in early April, when the trees begin to flower. However, the exact date can vary depending on the weather. In warm years, the blossoms may appear as early as March, while in cooler years they may not appear until April or May. Regardless of when it starts, the festival is always a beautiful sight to behold.

What does hanami involve exactly?

Hanami, or “flower viewing,” is a traditional Japanese pastime that revolves around the appreciation of beautiful flowers. The most common type of hanami is cherry blossom viewing, which takes place during the short window of time when cherry trees are in bloom. People often gather beneath the blossoming branches to picnic and drink sake, enjoying the transient beauty of the flowers. In recent years, hanami has become increasingly popular with tourists, who come from all over the world to experience this unique aspect of Japanese culture. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely stroll through a park or gathered beneath a blossoming tree with friends, hanami is sure to be a memorable experience.

Where is the best place to see cherry blossoms in Japan?
 

Tokyo

The best place to see cherry blossoms in Japan is undoubtedly Tokyo. Every year, the city comes alive with blooming flowers, and visitors from all over the world come to admire the fragile beauty of the blossoms. While there are many places to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo, one of the most popular spots is Ueno Park. The park is home to over a thousand cherry trees, and during peak bloom, the trees are illuminated at night, creating a magical scene. Another popular spot for viewing cherry blossoms is Yasukuni Shrine. The shrine is particularly beautiful in April when the blossoms contrast sharply with the shrine's red torii gates.

Fuji Five Lakes, Chubu

While there are many beautiful places to view these delicate flowers, Fuji Five Lakes is one of the most scenic. The lakes - Kawaguchi, Sai, Motosu, Shojiko and Yamanakako - are located at the base of Mount Fuji, and during cherry blossom season, they are surrounded by blossoming trees. The contrast of the pink and white flowers against the backdrop of Mount Fuji is truly breathtaking. In addition to being a popular tourist destination, Fuji Five Lakes is also home to a number of hot springs, making it the perfect place to relax and take in the natural beauty of Japan.

Yoshino, Kansai

People from all across Japan flock to the city of Yoshino to see the magnificent Kansai cherry blossoms. The Yoshino cherry trees are famed for their large, fluffy blossoms, which bloom in late April or early May. Visitors can enjoy the views from a variety of vantage points, including Mount Yoshino Ropeway and the Yoshino Cherry Blossom Road. In addition to the beauty of the blossoms themselves, the experience of seeing them is enhanced by the many other visitors who come to admire them. The atmosphere is one of joy and excitement, as people from all walks of life come together to appreciate nature's fleeting beauty. For many, a visit to Yoshino is a cherished annual tradition.

Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle is a must-see on any trip to Japan. The imposing structure, with its intricate network of white walls and towering turrets, has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the finest examples of traditional Japanese architecture. The castle is situated in the city of Himeji, in the Kansai region of Japan, and is surrounded by beautiful cherry blossoms. Every spring, the trees burst into bloom, attracting visitors from all over the world. The contrast between the delicate pink blossoms and the imposing castle walls is truly stunning and makes for a truly unforgettable experience.

If you would like to visit the cherry blossoms in Japan please get in touch with us. Our knowledgeable team will be happy to help you plan your trip and ensure you have an unforgettable experience.