The sakura season (cherry blossom season) is one of the most beautiful times of the year to visit Japan. It usually occurs between late March and early April, but the exact dates vary by region. Here are some essential tips to make the most of your trip:
🌸 1. Best Places to See Sakura
Here are some of the best cities and tourist spots to enjoy cherry blossoms:
📍 Tokyo
-
Shinjuku Gyoen – A stunning park with different types of cherry blossoms.
-
Chidorigafuchi – A moat around the Imperial Palace, perfect for boat rides.
-
Ueno Park – One of the most famous spots, with thousands of cherry trees and festivals.
📍 Kyoto
-
Maruyama Park – Home to an iconic weeping cherry tree illuminated at night.
-
Philosopher’s Path (Tetsugaku no Michi) – A romantic walkway along a canal lined with cherry blossoms.
-
Kiyomizudera Temple – Incredible views of cherry blossoms with the historic temple in the background.
📍 Osaka
-
Osaka Castle – A breathtaking view of the castle surrounded by cherry trees.
-
Kema Sakuranomiya Park – A beautiful riverside path lined with thousands of cherry trees.
📍 Hiroshima
-
Peace Memorial Park – A symbolic and emotional site with beautiful cherry blossoms.
📍 Hokkaido (for those traveling in April/May)
-
Goryokaku Park (Hakodate) – A star-shaped fort covered in cherry blossoms.
-
Maruyama Park (Sapporo) – A great spot for hanami (cherry blossom picnics).
🍱 2. Enjoy a Hanami (Cherry Blossom Picnic)
Hanami is the tradition of enjoying cherry blossoms with a picnic. Here are some tips:
✅ Bring a “bento” (Japanese lunch box) – Many stores sell special sakura-themed bentos.
✅ Don’t forget a “blue sheet” – Blue picnic mats are commonly used for sitting on the ground.
✅ Arrive early – Popular spots fill up quickly!
✅ Dispose of trash properly – Many parks don’t have trash bins, so bring garbage bags.
🏯 3. Nighttime Illuminations (Yozakura) and Events
Many parks and temples hold nighttime cherry blossom illuminations, creating a magical atmosphere.
🔹 Rikugien (Tokyo) – One of the most beautiful Japanese gardens with illuminated cherry trees.
🔹 Kiyomizudera (Kyoto) – The illuminated cherry blossoms make the temple even more spectacular.
🔹 Osaka Mint Bureau – A cherry blossom tunnel that opens to the public only during this season.
🚄 4. Transportation and Travel Tips
🚆 Use the Japan Rail Pass – If you’re visiting multiple cities, the JR Pass can save you money.
🚋 Avoid peak hours – Public transport is extra crowded during sakura season.
🎟️ Book accommodations in advance – Hotels fill up quickly during cherry blossom season.
🌸 5. Other Unique Experiences During Sakura Season
🍵 Seasonal treats – Try sakura mochi, sakura lattes, and cherry blossom-infused teas.
🎎 Traditional festivals – In Kyoto and other cities, you can enjoy parades and cultural performances.
🎨 Limited-edition sakura goods – Stores release special sakura-themed products during this time.
