Cherry blossom, Ueno park, Tokyo

Japanese cherry blossoms are not only a symbol of the land of the rising sun but also an endless source of inspiration for tourists around the world. Let’s update the blooming schedule and pocket useful experiences to make your trip more complete with 22+ best cities to see cherry blossoms in Japan, best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan, best places to view cherry blossoms in japan and where to see cherry blossoms in Japan below!

Every spring, cherry blossoms bloom throughtout Japan | best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan
| best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan
Cherry blossoms in Ryōan-ji Temple.
Cherry blossoms in Ryōan-ji Temple. | best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan

Read more: Japan cherry blossom 2025 forecast — The dates & top 10 best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan

Every spring, Japan puts on a gentle pink coat of cherry blossoms. It is no coincidence that millions of tourists, both domestic and international, eagerly flock to famous flower viewing spots. The whole country is dyed in a fragile but charming pink color, making anyone fascinated by this fleeting yet delicate beauty.

Traditional festival Hanami – cherry blossom festival | best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan
| best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan

Cherry blossoms are not simply a flower but also have a profound meaning in Japanese culture, symbolizing peace and resilient beauty. That is why this country is also known as the “land of cherry blossoms” – where each blooming season evokes unforgettable emotions.

Japanese Cherry Blossoms Forecast of 2025 (#| best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan)

Cherry blossom, Ueno park, Tokyo | best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan

There are over 200 different species of cherry blossoms found in Japan, from wild ones growing in the mountains to meticulously cultivated ones. Each species has its own unique color and characteristics. If you want to enjoy the beauty of cherry blossoms at their best, don’t miss the 2025 cherry blossom calendar and the list of the best places to see cherry blossoms below from us!

According to the forecast of the Japan Meteorological Agency, cherry blossoms will start blooming earliest in Kochi, Fukuoka in late March, and latest in some other areas in early May. Below is an overview of the expected blooming time and peak splendor at famous locations:

Cherry Blossom Season Japan 2025 Forecast Map | agatetravel.com | best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan
The dates map of cherry blossom in Japan 2025 forecast map and best place to see cherry blossoms in Japan. | livejapan.com
japan major cities cherry blossom forecast 2025 | best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan

Note:

  • This forecast is for reference only, the actual blooming time may change due to factors such as weather and climate.
  • For more detailed information on cherry blossom blooming times in specific locations, please refer to the Japan Meteorological Agency website.

Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Tokyo, Japan

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (#best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan)

Beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden in the heart of Tokyo | best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is an iconic, must-see spot during hanami (cherry blossom viewing) season in Tokyo. This is an ideal stop for you to immerse yourself in the brilliant pink color of cherry blossoms and enjoy the fresh spring air.

| best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan

Shinjuku-Gyoen-Best Places to View Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo1

The large garden grounds include 3 separate gardens: Japanese Garden, English Garden and French Garden. Each garden has its own unique features, creating a diverse and vibrant picture, promising to bring you a wonderful day of relaxation. You can leisurely stroll under the blooming cherry blossoms, take souvenir photos or spread out a picnic blanket with friends and relatives to enjoy a traditional hanami lunch.

  • Address: 11 Naitomachi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0014, Japan

Ueno Park

| best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan

Ueno Park is a peaceful and beloved oasis in the heart of Tokyo, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Despite being one of Japan’s oldest parks, Ueno is anything but boring! Here, you’ll find ancient temples, art, science, and history museums, and even a lively zoo.

| best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan
Ueno Koen Park, Tokyo
| best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan
Uneo park-Best Places to View Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo4
Ueno Park

However, among the park’s many treasures, its rows of blooming cherry trees are Ueno’s pride and joy. Come spring, it becomes the perfect destination for hanami (cherry blossom viewing). You can spread out a tarp under the blooming cherry blossoms, enjoy a picnic lunch with friends and family, or simply stroll and take photos amidst the beautiful romantic scenery.

  • Address: Ueno Park, Taito, Tokyo 110-0007, Japan

Meguro River

Meguro River-Naka Meguro-Best Places to View Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo1
Cherry blossoms along Meguro River, Tokyo

The Meguro River offers an unforgettable romantic scene with the soft pink of cherry blossoms reflecting on the clear blue water on clear spring days. But the real magic only happens when night falls.

Meguro River-Naka Meguro-Best Places to View Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo2
Meguro River-Naka Meguro

For a unique cherry blossom viewing experience at the Meguro River, come here during the Nakameguro Cherry Blossom Festival, when shimmering lights light up the river and the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Join the locals on a picnic, sip a beer or enjoy delicious snacks from the street stalls, and admire the brilliant beauty of the cherry blossoms under the lights shining down from all sides.

Go to Japan to See Cherry Blossoms 2025 – Don’t Miss Kyoto

Sagano Train

@klook

The Sagano Romantic Train is one of the most famous cherry blossom viewing experiences in Kyoto. The train will take you through the streets lined with soft pink cherry blossoms, creating a fairytale-like scene. The train runs for about 25 minutes, starting from Arashiyama Station and ending at Saga-Arashiyama Station. You can buy train tickets at the station or book online in advance.

| best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan

For a more complete experience, you can join the day tour that includes the Sagano Romantic Train, Arashiyama, Kiyomizudera and Fushimi Inari-taisha. This tour will take you to the most famous sightseeing spots in Kyoto, while enjoying a buffet lunch or beef shabu-shabu of your choice.

Maruyama-Koen Park

| best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan

Maruyama-Koen Park is one of the oldest and most famous cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyoto. The park is large, with hundreds of cherry trees in full bloom. A unique feature of the park is the weeping cherry tree, which is up to 20 meters tall. This cherry tree is lit up in the evening, creating an extremely impressive scene. Maruyama-Koen Park is only about a 15-minute walk from Kyoto Station. You can easily get here by subway, bus or taxi.

| best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan
| best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan
Maruyama Park sapporo (1)
Cherry blossoms | sapporo japan guide
Maruyama Park sapporo (1)
Maruyama Park, Sapporo

Philosopher’s Walk in Katsura

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Cherry blossoms along Philosopher’s Walk (Tetsugaku No Michi), Kyoto | best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan

“Philosopher’s Path” is a walkway about 2 km long, running along the Katsura Canal, lined with hundreds of brilliant cherry trees. Every blooming season, this place puts on a romantic and poetic beauty, attracting not only tourists but also locals to enjoy. This path is named after Nishida Kitaro, a famous Japanese philosopher who is said to have often walked here to meditate and seek inspiration.

It can be said that this is a great walking path for Japanese tourists strolling around Kyoto. | best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan
| best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan

You can stroll on the Path of Philosophy, whether alone or with friends and family. This is an ideal place to relax, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and immerse yourself in the beautiful cherry blossom scenery.

Yodogawa Kasen Park

@jw-webmagazine | best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan

Another beautiful cherry blossom viewing spot that is no less beautiful than Tokyo is Kyoto, with Yodogawa Kasen Park. This area has more than 700 cherry blossom trees, planted along the riverbank in the park and around historical sites.

@tokiotours facebook | best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan

The gentle pink color of the cherry blossoms stands out against the blue of the sky, mountains and river, creating a wonderful relaxing space. This place is not too crowded, very suitable for you to enjoy peaceful moments with family and friends.

See Cherry Blossoms in Osaka – Japan

Osaka Castle

osaka castle3
Osaka Castle | best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan

Osaka Castle is one of the most iconic cherry blossom viewing spots in Osaka. With about 3,000 cherry blossom trees of varieties such as Somei Yoshino, Yamazakura and Yaezakura, this area attracts a large number of tourists and locals to enjoy every spring.

| best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan

Osaka Castle, Osaka

In particular, Nishinomaru Garden in the castle grounds has about 300 cherry trees, creating a beautiful scene with the majestic castle in the background. This is an ideal place to take impressive photos, capturing the moment of cherry blossoms blooming next to the unique historical architecture.

  • Address: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan

Okawa River in Osaka – Japan

| best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan

Admire the breathtaking view of more than 4,000 cherry blossom trees blooming along the Okawa River (or Kyū-Yodo River)! The best way to enjoy this beautiful sight is to take a Cherry Blossom Cruise on the Okawa River, which gives you a different perspective on the cherry blossoms.

If you have more time, other popular hanami spots in the area include Kema Sakuranomiya Park and the Japanese Silver Factory (which is home to 350 trees of around 130 varieties!)

Expo 70 Commemorative Park in Japan

Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, located in Osaka, Japan, was the site of the 1970 World Exposition, which attracted around 65 million visitors during the six months it was held. Today, the 264-hectare park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, with its expansive lawns, Japanese gardens, museums and more. In particular, this park is also home to about 5,500 cherry blossom trees of 9 different types, including Somei Yoshino and Yamazakura, creating a magnificent scene every spring.

  • Address: Senribanpakukoen, Suita, Osaka 565-0826, Japan

Other Famous Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Japan

Mount Fuji – Immerse Yourself in the Gentle Melody of Spring

Cherry blossoms in spring with mount Fuji in background

What could be better than admiring the iconic beauty of Japan in one complete trip? A cherry blossom viewing trip to Mount Fuji will give you the opportunity to enjoy the brilliant cherry blossom forest at Arakurayama Sengen Park, where the famous Chureito Shrine is located. The pure pink color of cherry blossoms blends with the majestic nature of the mountains and clear blue lakes, creating an unforgettable beautiful picture.

Cherry blossoms in spring with mount Fuji in background | best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan

Fuji-mountain-japan

Ashikaga Flower Park (Gunma)

Spring is the time when hundreds of flowers bloom, giving Ashikaga Park a completely new look with the pink of cherry blossoms and the purple of wisteria. Another place in Gunma that visitors will regret missing is Watarase Valley. The nostalgic railway nestled among the cherry blossoms will make you admire the poetic beauty it brings. You should not miss the extremely delicious pork cutlet at Mizunuma Onsen Station!

Miura & Yokohama

Late March and early April are the times when Miura and Yokohama are filled with the bright colors of 1,000 cherry trees lining the Keikyu Miura Kaigan Station to Komatsugaike Park. This cherry blossom road stretches for about 1km with a very poetic natural landscape and very pleasant weather, making it a great time for you to take a walk and take beautiful photos.

Odawara Castle

odawara castle
Odawara castle is a must see place when visiting Kanagawa

Odawara Castle is an extremely “hot” place for international tourists when they want to admire Japanese cherry blossoms. The wonderful combination of ancient, solemn features with lush cherry blossoms will erase all the fatigue and worries of modern life. Joining the cherry blossom viewing tour in Odawara, visitors also have the opportunity to look far away to observe Mount Fuji and the peaceful city. Don’t forget to experience taking photos in kimono and enjoy delicious Japanese dishes!

Odawara castle

Kokura Castle

Kokura Castle in the dreamy port town of Mojiko Retro will definitely bring you a wonderful cherry blossom viewing trip. Transform into a local with traditional kimono, walk under the blooming cherry trees and immerse yourself in the ancient atmosphere of Korura Castle. Another “must do” experience that cannot be missed is visiting the ancient buildings with a strong history to learn more about the culture of the Japanese people!

Kyushu Region In Japan

As one of the southernmost islands of Japan, Kyushu is a great place to celebrate hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in the most authentic and least crowded way. There is no more spectacular setting than the grounds of Kumamoto Castle, where hundreds of cherry trees lead to the hilltop gates, blooming around mid-March.

Matsumae Park, Hokkaido

Matsumae Park – home to Japan’s northernmost castle and a great place to view cherry blossoms with your family. With 250 different varieties of the flower, the 10,000 trees are enough to turn this place into an ethereal space. The scene becomes even more romantic when the sun sets over the castle. Because there are many different cherry blossom varieties with different blooming times, whether you arrive a little earlier than the expected blooming date or a little later, you can easily have the opportunity to attend the cherry blossom festival here!

Miharu, Tohoku

From Tokyo, it will take you about 2.5 hours to get to Miharu, but the effort you put in is completely worth it to be able to admire the cherry blossoms in their prime. Not only that, Miharu is also famous for plum blossoms. The white flowers intertwine with the pink of cherry blossoms, making this place a promised land for travel enthusiasts who want to enjoy the wonderful atmosphere of spring.

Himeji Castle, Kansai

The white walls of Himeji Castle, built in the 14th century and classified by UNESCO, will become a perfect setting with thousands of vibrant cherry trees around. The first flowers usually appear from late March and will continue to bloom until early April. Visitors come here not only to see the cherry blossoms but also to learn about traditional carpentry, which has created ancient architecture that has accompanied the Japanese people for thousands of years.

Wakayama Castle

wakayama castle,wakayama travel blog,wakayama travel guide (9)

Wakayama Castle serves as a symbol of Wakayama City with its nostalgic architecture that has been stained by time. Its towers offer a great view of the entire town, where you can feel the vibrant spring atmosphere. With about 600 cherry blossom trees in full bloom, this place is also very popular with visitors from all over to enjoy the cherry blossom festival.

wakayama castle,wakayama travel blog,wakayama travel guide (9)

Wakayama castle in spring-time
Cherry blossoms at Wakayama castle

Nagoya Castle and Shirotori Park

Nagoya castle | zekkei-japan.jp

Shirotori Park is one of the largest parks in central Japan, representing the story of water flowing into the sea. More than 10 different cherry blossom varieties with 1000 cherry blossom trees blooming at the same time on the path on both sides of the road create an extremely romantic cherry blossom tunnel that you will not easily admire in other places. If the romance of autumn has a sad feature, spring at Nagoya Castle brings an extremely vibrant romance.

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Nagoya Castle Spring Festival
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Nagoya Castle in spring season

Yoshino, Kansai

 

If you are an extrovert and do not hesitate to go to crowded festivals, Yoshino, Kansai will definitely be the dream destination for the 2025 cherry blossom festival. More than 30,000 cherry blossom trees create pink clouds covering the entire space here, combined with the clouds, mountains and rivers, it will definitely be the perfect spring travel space for the whole family. If you come to Japan with the purpose of seeing cherry blossoms and enjoying the scenery here, do not miss Yoshino!

Yoshino Chogu Ruins, Nara, Japan
Yoshino Chogu Ruins, Nara, Japan

Notes When Going to See Cherry Blossoms in Japan – 2025

To have a perfect spring trip to the land of cherry blossoms, don’t forget to “pocket” the extremely useful experiences below from us!

Do You Need a Visa to Travel to Japan?

Japan visa | klook

Japan exempts visas for 68 countries in the world to be able to enter this country. However, unfortunately, Vietnam is still one of the countries that require a visa to be able to travel to this country.

Visa application is not too difficult but not too easy. The documents to prepare include: Valid passport, visa application, profile photo, financial proof, hotel booking, air ticket and expected schedule in Japan.

Kyoto cherry blossom

Means of Transportation in Japan

Japanese people love to use public transportation, especially subways and trains. Instead of spending a large sum of money on a taxi, why not prepare a Japan Rail Pass? This “powerful” card allows you to travel unlimitedly on public transport at almost every train station in Japan for 30 days.

In addition, if you want to be picked up at your door and proactively plan your trip, you can also consider renting a self-driving car from Tokyo with a variety of options in terms of price and model.

How to Use the Internet When Traveling to Japan?

philosophers-path-cherry-blossom-sakura-season-kyoto-japan-527 kyoto blog kyoto travel blog
The philosophers path in cherry blossom season in Kyoto.

If this is your first time coming to the land of the rising sun to attend the cherry blossom festival, don’t forget to prepare yourself a Japanese 4G SIM card, delivered to your door in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Preparing a 4G SIM card in advance will help you save time and not be too surprised when you arrive in Japan because most people here will not use English too much!

Tips When Attending Cherry Blossom Festivals in Japan

Enjoying Hanami (Sakura)
Enjoying Hanami at the garden of the castle

Cherry blossoms are not only beautiful flowers but also sacred and noble symbols in Japanese culture. Therefore, when participating in flower viewing festivals, you should only take pictures and admire the beauty of the flowers, instead of picking or touching the branches. Always respect nature and do not litter, as well as limit the use of alcohol or alcoholic beverages to preserve the common space.

hanami fukuoka travel blog
Enjoy Hanami

In addition, the spring weather in Japan is still quite cold, especially in the early morning and late afternoon, so do not forget to bring a thick coat and comfortable shoes for easy movement. And finally, remember to fully charge your phone and camera to capture the most beautiful moments of your journey!

The Meaning of Japanese Cherry Blossoms – Symbol of Impermanence and Rebirth

fukuoka-hanami,fukuoka travel blog
Fukuoka Hanami (Cherry blossoms)

Cherry blossoms are not only a symbol of fragile beauty but also have profound meaning in Japanese culture. The short-lived bloom of the flowers symbolizes impermanence (Mono no Aware) – reminding people of the transience and cherishing every moment in life.

The cherry blossom season also marks a new beginning, accompanying the new school year and fiscal year in Japan, symbolizing hope and opportunity. Not only that, cherry blossoms also represent a resilient spirit, although fragile, they still bloom brilliantly before falling, like the enduring qualities of the Japanese people.

Tsuruma Park,nagoya travel blog (1)
Celebrating Hanami season

The Hanami flower viewing festival also reflects the spirit of solidarity and community cohesion. In addition, the image of cherry blossoms appears commonly in Japanese art, poetry, and fashion, as an indispensable cultural beauty.

Traditional festival Hanami – cherry blossom festival

The above guide may not be completely complete, but we hope that the article has somewhat outlined the most important tips during the cherry blossom season in Japan.

The post first appeared on Klook Vietnam and was translated, more compiled and edited by Living Nomads. If you find any images or text that belong to you, please contact us, so we can credit you or give us permission to use them. Thank you very much!

Cherry blossoms season in Kyoto
Cherry blossoms season in Kyoto

Read more: Japan cherry blossom 2025 forecast — The dates & top 10 best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan

Top Suggestions for Cherry Blossom Tours in Japan

Spring travel to see cherry blossoms in Japan is a poetic pleasure of many you. To make your journey to see cherry blossoms in Japan worry-free, you should pocket the best-selling day tours on Klook.

kyoto blog kyoto travel blog Kiyomizu-dera-Temple-and-cherry-blossom-season-Sakura-spring-time-in-Kyoto-Japan-_1017748132
Kiyomizu-dera-Temple and in cherry blossom season

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