Best Time to Go to Japan Cherry Blossom Ultimate Guide

Best Time to Japan

Are you wondering when is the best time to go to Japan cherry blossom season?

Many first-time visitors find it challenging to pinpoint the perfect moment for viewing these stunning blooms. You’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed by the various locations and timelines. This article is designed for travelers like you, eager to experience the breathtaking beauty of cherry blossoms. By reading on, you’ll discover the best times for different regions across Japan and explore top viewing spots and festivals. 

Understanding the best time to go to Japan cherry blossom season will help you plan an unforgettable trip, filled with picturesque moments. Let’s dive into the details to ensure your cherry blossom experience is everything you hope for!

Best Time to Go to Japan Cherry Blossom

  • What is the best month to see cherry blossoms in Japan?
  • How long do cherry blossoms last in Japan? What to Expect
  • Cherry blossom season Japan: Timing and tips

What is the best month to see cherry blossoms in Japan?

Best Time to Japan

The best time to view cherry blossoms in Japan varies from region to region, but generally the best time is from late March to early April. Cherry blossoms are in full bloom in most parts of Japan at this time. In Tokyo and Kyoto, famous tourist destinations, the best time to view the cherry blossoms is from late March to early April.


In Okinawa: the best time to view the cherry blossoms is from early January to early February due to its warmer southern location.
In Fukuoka (Kyushu) and Kagawa (Shikoku): cherry blossoms bloom relatively early, from mid to late March.
In Kyoto and Osaka (Kansai), Tokyo (Kanto): cherry blossoms peak in late March to early April.
In Aomori (Tohoku): cherry blossoms are also in full bloom later in the year, usually from mid to late April.
In Hokkaido: the cherry blossoms bloom later than in other parts of Japan due to the cooler temperatures. In most years, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom from late April to early May. Therefore, it is important to consider regional characteristics when making plans to enjoy the cherry blossoms.


The timing of cherry blossom blooms depends on the climate and can vary slightly from year to year. When planning a trip, it is important to check the latest blooming information. In particular, if you wish to travel at the best time of year, do your research in advance so that you don’t miss out on the best time to visit popular tourist attractions.

How long do cherry blossoms last in Japan? What to Expect


Best Time to Japan

Japanese cherry blossoms are known for their short period of time between blooming, full bloom, and beginning to fall. Generally, it takes about one week to ten days for cherry blossoms to reach full bloom. After full bloom, petals gradually begin to fall due to wind and rain.Full bloom usually lasts about a week, after which the petals fall off over the next few days.

Factors that affect the blooming status of cherry trees include temperature and precipitation. In warmer years, blooming tends to be earlier, while in colder years it may be later. When these fluctuations are taken into account, advance preparation becomes even more important.When the cherry blossoms begin to fall, the ground is covered with petals, resembling a carpet of pink. This sight is also attractive to many people. The falling cherry blossoms are also very picturesque and attract many tourists.

Various events and festivals are held during the cherry blossom season. When you enjoy cherry blossom viewing, do not forget to savor the atmosphere with the locals. Don’t miss the food stalls where you can enjoy the local food culture and the illuminated nighttime cherry blossoms.
Cherry blossoms in Japan have an instantaneous beauty.

Cherry blossom season Japan: Timing and tips

We recommend visiting early in the morning or on weekdays to view the cherry blossoms. During these hours, there are fewer people and you can enjoy the cherry blossoms in a quiet environment. The nighttime cherry blossom viewing when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and illuminated is also beautiful and offers a fantastic view that is different from that during the daytime.

It is a good idea to prepare food and drinks in advance when enjoying hanami. *Some facilities and parks do not allow visitors to bring their own food, so it is recommended to check in advance. Many food stalls line the park, where you can also enjoy local specialties. Furthermore, to avoid crowds, we recommend arriving early when visiting popular tourist attractions. In particular, famous cherry blossom spots attract many people early in the morning. Since popular tourist attractions can be crowded, public transportation is a smooth way to get around. It is a good idea to check routes and timetables in advance.

Cherry blossom season can be affected by the weather. Check the weather forecast for rainy or windy days, as the flowers are more likely to fall. By visiting on a sunny day, you can enjoy more beautiful cherry blossoms. Finally, since cherry blossoms are a natural product, conditions will vary from year to year. It is essential to check the blooming forecast, as the timing of blooming and the full blooming season fluctuates. “The Weather Navigator Cherry Blossom Navi“, which provides cherry blossom bloom and full bloom forecasts for around 1,000 locations nationwide, is extremely useful. It can be displayed in English. It is a good idea to visit while checking the latest information. Enjoy the beautiful cherry blossom scenery to the fullest.

Best Time to Go to Japan Cherry Blossom : Top Recommended locations

  • Best time to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo and Beyond
  • Best time to see cherry blossoms in Kyoto and Beyond
  • Best place to see cherry blossoms in Japan other location
  • Best cherry blossom festival in Japan: Events You Can’t Miss

Best time to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo

The best time to view cherry blossoms in Tokyo is usually from late March to early April. The cherry blossoms are often in full bloom at this time of year, and the area is crowded with people who come to view them.

Shinjuku Gyoen

Shinjuku Gyoen is a spacious place where visitors can enjoy a wide variety of cherry blossoms, making it a relaxing place to spend time.

Ueno Park

Ueno Park are particularly popular spots with its approximately 1,000 cherry trees, is known as a cherry blossom viewing spot. Especially during the first week of April, many people visit the park, so an early visit is recommended.

Meguro River

In Tokyo, visitors can also enjoy the cherry blossoms at night. In particular, the rows of cherry trees along the Meguro River are illuminated, creating a fantastic atmosphere. Enjoy the beautiful cherry blossom scenery to the fullest and create unforgettable memories.

Chidori-ga-fuchi Greenway

Chidorigafuchi Greenway will also be illuminated, creating a fantastic atmosphere. The beautiful night view of cherry blossoms seen while riding on a small boat will be an unforgettable memory.

Best time to see cherry blossoms in Kyoto and Beyond

The best time to view cherry blossoms in Kyoto is usually from late March to early April. During this period, beautiful cherry blossoms can be enjoyed at many places of interest in Kyoto. Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the Philosopher’s Path are especially popular among tourists.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is known for its cherry blossoms and the beautiful contrast between the cherry blossoms on the temple grounds and the main hall. Many tourists visit the temple every year, and it is especially crowded when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. It is best to visit early.

Philosopher’s Path

Philosopher’s Path is a quiet strolling path lined with cherry trees, ideal for enjoying the cherry blossoms while strolling. This place is crowded with people, especially on mild spring days. Along with the cherry blossoms, taking a break at one of the local cafes is also recommended.

Arashiyama

The Arashiyama area is also popular for cherry blossom viewing. Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama area offers mountain views along with the cherry blossoms. This beautiful scenery is especially attractive if you like to take photos.

Osaka Castle Park

Osaka Castle Park in Osaka is also famous for its cherry blossoms. About 3,000 cherry trees surround the castle and provide a beautiful view, especially when they are in full bloom. There are also many restaurants around the park, making it the perfect place to enjoy cherry blossom viewing.

Cherry blossoms can also be enjoyed at night in Kyoto. In particular, the illumination of Nijo Castle and Heian Shrine is fantastic and well worth a visit. We recommend that you check event information in advance when enjoying cherry blossoms at night. Cherry blossoms in Kyoto attract many people with their beauty and historical background. Please check the latest blooming information and enjoy the beautiful cherry blossom scenery. It will be a wonderful and memorable experience.

Best place to see cherry blossoms in Japan other location

There are many wonderful cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan besides Tokyo and Kyoto.

Sendai Castle Ruins

Sendai Castle Ruins is a spot where visitors can enjoy the historical scenery along with the cherry blossoms. Every year in mid-April, many cherry trees are in full bloom, creating a beautiful scene.

Hirosaki Park

Hirosaki Park in Hirosaki City is known as one of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in the Tohoku region. About 2,600 cherry trees are planted, and the Hirosaki Sakura Festival is held every year in late April, attracting many tourists. The view of the cherry blossoms with the castle tower in the background is breathtaking.


Tsuruma Park

Tsuruma Park in Nagoya is also not to be missed. About 750 cherry trees bloom here, and the park is crowded with locals, especially during the spring cherry blossom viewing season. It is easily accessible and can be visited easily.


Maizuru Park

Maizuru Park in Fukuoka is a spot where you can feel the history as well as the cherry blossoms. Here, about 1,000 cherry trees spread across the beautiful park. It is a pleasant stroll in the spring weather and is especially popular with families.


Kochi Castle

In Kochi, the cherry blossoms at Kochi Castle are highly recommended. The castle, one of the 100 best castles in Japan, is home to about 200 cherry trees, which are in full bloom from late March to early April, creating a lively atmosphere.


Nago City (Okinawa)

In Okinawa, the scarlet cherry trees that bloom from January to February are particularly popular. Cherry blossoms in Nago City and Motobu-cho have a different charm from those in other areas. Cherry blossoms enjoyed in warmer climates have a truly tropical feel.


These places of interest are a wonderful blend of the beauty of cherry blossoms and local culture. When visiting, be sure to check the blooming forecast to ensure that you do not miss the best time to visit. You will be able to create unforgettable cherry blossom memories.

Best cherry blossom festival in Japan: Events You Can’t Miss

Cherry blossom festivals held in various parts of Japan are beloved by many people as a springtime tradition.

Hirosaki Sakura Festival

Hirosaki Sakura Festival is particularly famous and takes place in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture. Held every year in mid-April, the festival features about 2,600 cherry trees in full bloom. The festival attracts crowds of tourists with the illumination of the cherry blossoms at night and a variety of food stalls. The collaboration between the castle tower and the cherry blossoms is particularly impressive and  if you like to take photos.

The Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival is also held in Tokyo’s Ueno Park. The festival usually takes place from late March to early April, and many events are prepared. Visitors can enjoy eating at local food trucks while viewing the cherry blossoms.

Tsuruma Park in Nagoya also hosts a Cherry Blossom Festival, which is a great opportunity to experience local products and culture. Especially during the peak cherry blossom season in early April, many performances and food stalls create a fun atmosphere.

Osaka Castle Park hosts the “Osaka Castle Spring Festival,” where beautiful cherry blossoms bloom against the backdrop of the castle. Many visitors come every year to enjoy the local events as well as the cherry blossom viewing.

Maizuru Park in Fukuoka also hosts a cherry blossom festival, where visitors can enjoy local food and drink booths and art exhibits. Here, visitors can experience local culture and food along with the cherry blossoms.

Visitors to Okinawa can enjoy the winter cherry blossoms at the Nago Cherry Blossom Festival, which takes place from January to February and allows visitors to experience local traditional arts and food culture in the warm weather.

Cherry blossom festivals in each area are filled with events that make the most of local characteristics. When planning your visit, we recommend that you check the official website of each festival and social networking sites for the latest information. Feel the arrival of spring and create unforgettable memories.

Best Time to Go to Japan Cherry Blossom A Comprehensive Guide

Cherry blossom season is a special time of year for visitors to Japan. The moment when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom is one of the most beautiful sceneries of the year. In previous articles, we have introduced some important points for enjoying the cherry blossoms. Here we summarize these points and provide guidelines for enjoying cherry blossoms to the fullest.

The best time to view cherry blossoms varies by region. The best time to view cherry blossoms in Japan varies from region to region. Generally, in Tokyo and Kyoto, the peak season is from late March to early April. In Hokkaido, on the other hand, the best time to see cherry blossoms is from late April to early May.

Check the bloom forecast.  Cherry blossoms are greatly affected by weather conditions. It is important to check weather information in advance to get an idea of the blooming forecast. This will ensure that you do not miss your chance to visit.

Recommended viewing at famous cherry blossom viewing spots. In addition to Tokyo and Kyoto, there are many other beautiful cherry blossom viewing spots throughout Japan, such as Hirosaki Park, Tsuruma Park, and Osaka Castle Park. By visiting these spots, you can enjoy different cherry blossom scenery.

Experiencing a Cherry Blossom Festival. Cherry blossom festivals held throughout Japan are a great opportunity to experience local culture and food. Many events are available, such as the Hirosaki Sakura Festival and the Ueno Sakura Festival. By participating in these festivals, you can enjoy the cherry blossom season even more.

The charm of cherry blossoms at night. Cherry blossoms during the daytime are beautiful, but cherry blossoms at night have a different charm. The view of the cherry blossoms lit up is especially magical and a special experience.

Enjoy the local food culture. When enjoying hanami, do not forget to taste the local food and drinks. Many of the sights are lined with food stalls where you can enjoy local specialties and cuisine.

Use public transportation. Popular tourist destinations can get crowded, so public transportation is a great way to get around smoothly. It is recommended to check routes and timetables in advance.

Since the cherry blossom season is short, it is important to plan your visit accordingly. By checking the blooming forecast and local information, you can enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms by visiting at the best time. Also, by visiting famous cherry blossom viewing spots, you will be able to experience the local culture and history, which will make your trip more profound. Cherry blossoms in Japan are a symbol of natural beauty and culture. Why not start planning your trip now to create unforgettable cherry blossom memories? Enjoy a special experience as you feel the arrival of spring.

My personal recommendation for cherry blossom sightseeing spots is Shinjuku Gyoen, where you can take your time to appreciate the cherry blossoms.
During the cherry blossom season, all tourist spots are crowded with many people.
However, Shinjuku Gyoen, with its 500 yen entrance fee, is relatively uncrowded compared to other places, and you can appreciate the cherry blossoms at a leisurely pace.
The spot is one of the largest with 1,000 cherry trees, so you will be highly satisfied with the view.

If you don’t mind crowds of people, I recommend Ueno Park.
Many cherry trees are planted on both sides of the road,
The tree-lined avenue, called Sakura-dori, stretches for about 400 meters, and the cherry blossoms that seem to cover the sky overhead are a powerful and breathtaking sight.


Hope you enjoy the cherry blossoms in Japan.

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