There are numerous places to see Japan’s cherry blossoms throughout the country. Here are my highlights of where to view the cherry blossoms in several of Japan’s most scenic cities.
Kyoto’s Path of Philosophy © kimon
Japan’s cherry blossom season usually runs from late March to mid-April on the main island of Honshu. The season can begin earlier or later if you’re in the far south or north of the country, but for the major sightseeing cities of Kyoto, Tokyo and Osaka, late March to mid-April is the usual cherry blossom season. Unfortunately, it’s impossible to predict exactly when the cherry blossoms will appear each year, and so timing a trip to coincide with their appearance is tricky.
It’s also important to remember that the cherry blossoms are a huge tourist draw for the Japanese themselves, meaning that you need to book accommodation well in advance to make sure you get something reasonably priced – don’t leave it to the last minute!
If all the stars align and you get to see the cherry blossoms, it’s truly magical. Here are my guides about the some of the best places to view Japan’s cherry blossoms across the country’s different cities.
Kyoto Cherry Blossoms
You can see cherry blossoms in bloom all over Kyoto during sakura season but there’s are several particular places which provide stunning cherry blossom panoramas. Here’s my guide to the best spots including detail on off the beaten track spots and ideas for avoiding the crowds.
Nara Cherry Blossoms
Cherry blossoms at Todai-ji Temple © fortherock
Nara is a fantastic place to enjoy Japan’s famous cherry blossoms. The parks, gardens, temples and shrines of the city are studded with cherry trees. Here is my guide on timing and a list of the best spots.
Tokyo Cherry Blossoms
Tokyo cherry blossoms © hwat
Here is my list of the best spots in Tokyo for cherry blossoms. I’ve also included a list of tips for enjoying hanami (cherry blossom viewing). Read the guide here.
Kanazawa Cherry Blossoms
Kanazawa Castle Park with cherry blossoms © norio-nakayama
Kanazawa, with its fantastic gardens and green spaces, is a great place to enjoy Japan’s famous cherry blossoms. Here are the best spots and information on when the cherries bloom.
Osaka Cherry Blossoms
Osaka Castle with cherry blossoms © mssdotnet
Osaka is a surprisingly good place to check out Japan’s famous cherry blossoms. The trees are beautiful and the locals are always up for a party. Here is my guide to the best spots and average blooming dates.
Takayama Cherry Blossoms
Takayama canal with sakura in full bloom © xiffy
Takayama is a good place to enjoy Japan’s famous cherry blossoms. They bloom a bit later here than in Kyoto or Tokyo, so it’s good if you arrive late in Japan. Here is my guide to timing and a list of the best spots.
Hiroshima and Miyajima Cherry Blossoms
Hanami party near Hiroshima Peace Park © 16782093@N03
Hiroshima and the nearby island of Miyajima are fantastic places to enjoy Japan’s famous cherry blossoms. Here is my guide to timing and a list of the best spots.
Kobe Cherry Blossoms
Cherry blossoms in Kobe: QUANGHUNG PHOTOGRAPHY / Shutterstock.com
With lush mountains, public parks, and beautiful gardens, Kobe is a lovely place for enjoying Japan’s famous cherry blossoms. Here is a list of the best spots in the city and information on when the cherries bloom.
Kyoto Cherry Blossoms Guide
- When Do Cherry Blossoms Bloom In Kyoto?
- Where Is The Best Place To See The Cherry Blossoms In Kyoto?
- Where To Stay In Cherry Blossom Season In Kyoto
- Where To Stay If Kyoto Is Fully Booked
- Best Places To See Cherry Blossoms Away From The Crowds
- Best Places For A Cherry Blossom Viewing Party (Hanami Party) In Kyoto
Kyoto Cherry Blossom Itineraries
- Kyoto 2-Day Cherry Blossom Itinerary
- Kyoto One-Day Cherry Blossom Off-The-Beaten-Track Itinerary
- Kyoto Evening Cherry Blossom Itinerary
- Kyoto Romantic Cherry Blossom Itinerary
Cherry Blossoms In Other Japanese Cities
- Japan Cherry Blossoms
- Hiroshima and Miyajima Cherry Blossoms
- Kanazawa Cherry Blossoms
- Kobe Cherry Blossoms
- Nara Cherry Blossoms
- Takayama Cherry Blossoms
Visiting Tokyo or Osaka?
See my guides to viewing cherry blossoms in Tokyo and the best Osaka cherry blossom spots too.
You can check availability of Kyoto hotels during cherry blossom season (mid-March to mid-April) on Agoda.com and Booking.com
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport. You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
