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. Continue reading

Hiroshima and the nearby island of Miyajima are fantastic places to enjoy Japan’s famous cherry blossoms. Here is information on timing and a list of the best spots. Continue reading

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 information on timing and a list of the best spots. Continue reading

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. Continue reading

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 information on timing and a list of the best spots. Continue reading

It’s no secret: Kyoto is crowded these days. But with a little planning and effort you can have entire temples and gardens to yourself. Here’s how to escape the crowds in Kyoto. Continue reading

April is the most popular month to visit Kyoto, thanks to the blooming of the world famous cherry blossoms. There’s a whole raft of events to celebrate their arrival, plus special openings of both the Imperial Palace and a stunning subtemple at the Daitoku-ji temple complex. Continue reading

Kyoto in March is spectacular – there’s the blooming of the plum blossoms and, later, the cherry blossoms, both celebrated with “hanami”, karaoke and sake-soaked flower-viewing parties. There’s also the stunning Higashiyama Hanatoro, where the Higashiyama district is lit by lanterns to dramatic effect. Continue reading

Kyoto has some of the most picturesque lanes and streets in all of Asia. The best way to enjoy them with someone special is to follow these three walking routes. Continue reading

Kyoto’s most spectacular cherry blossom spot is little-known Haradani-en Garden. Located in northwest Kyoto, it’s a must-see for serious cherry blossom fans. Continue reading