Store Locator
Message Us On WhatsApp 24/7
Help Centre
Find A Store
Activation Guides
Travel eSIM Explained
eSIM Compatible Handsets
Phone Unlocking
Contact Us
Sim Local Logo
Unlimited eSIM Plans
eSIM Plans with Calls & Texts
eSIM Promotions
United Kingdom
United States
Europe
Thailand
Japan
Global Plans
See All Destinations
About Sim Local
Why Choose Sim Local
Our Networks
Testimonials
Careers
Refer A Friend
Affiliates
Partners
Press
Blog
EN$
Language
Currency
  • Destinations
  • About Us
  • Help
  • Log In

Everything You Need to Know About Japan’s Cherry Blossoms Season

Every spring, from the southern islands of Okinawa to the snowy mountains of Hokkaido, cherry trees bloom in waves, drawing millions of people outdoors to celebrate. And it’s not just about flowers, it’s about community, beauty, food, and a reminder to pause and appreciate what’s here today, gone tomorrow.

If you want front-row seats to Japan’s most magical season, start planning now, sakura waits for no one.

What is the Cherry Blossom Season?

Cherry blossom season, known as sakura zensen, is a national celebration in Japan. For centuries, the pink and white flowers have been representing new beginnings, beauty that doesn’t last long, and the sadness of time passing.

When is Cherry Blossom Season in Japan?

In Japan, cherry blossom season usually runs from late March to early May, but the timing can vary a lot depending on the region.

General Timeline:

  • Okinawa: Mid-January to February
  • Tokyo & Kyoto: Late March to early April
  • Hokkaido: Late April to early May

The exact bloom dates shift each year depending on the weather, so keep an eye on Japan’s cherry blossom forecast to see them at their best.

Where to See the Best Cherry Blossoms in Japan

Some places in Japan feel made for cherry blossom season. Here are the best spots:👇

Tokyo:

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Right in the middle of Tokyo, this peaceful spot has over 1,500 cherry trees in lots of different forms, so the blooms last longer, usually into early April. It’s one of the city’s most popular places to see cherry blossoms, with wide lawns, pretty bridges, and plenty of space for a picnic.

Nakameguro Canal

A must-see when the cherry blossoms are at their peak. The trees arch beautifully over the canal, and at sunset, lanterns light up the water for a magical evening view. Go early or on a weekday to avoid the crowds.

Ueno Park

A classic hanami hotspot, and one of the oldest public parks in Japan. Lined with over 1,000 cherry blossom trees, Ueno Park transforms into a full-blown cherry blossom festival each spring, with food stalls and boat rentals.

Yoyogi Park and Inokashira Park are great for a quieter, more relaxed cherry blossom day.

Kyoto:

Maruyama Park

One of Kyoto’s oldest and most famous cherry blossom spots. The weeping cherry trees light up at night, creating a magical, fairytale-like scene. Located near Yasaka Shrine, it’s a great place to enjoy both the blossoms and Japanese culture.

Philosopher’s Path

Walk along a calm canal lined with cherry trees, with small shrines and temples along the way. In early April, the petals fall like snow, making it a magical spot for making memories and taking photos.

Kamo River

Perfect for a relaxed cherry blossom day. People sit along the riverbanks, enjoy the view, and share snacks under the trees. Great if you want to avoid the busy tourist spots.

Other Standout Cherry Blossom Destinations:

Himeji Castle (Western Japan)

In early April, the white walls of Japan’s most beautiful castle are covered with soft pink petals. About 1,000 cherry trees surround it, making it one of the best spots for a perfect cherry blossom photo.

Mount Yoshino (Nara Prefecture)

One of Japan’s most famous cherry blossom mountains, with over 30,000 trees spread across different heights. You can see blooms from early to late April depending on how high you go.

Tohoku Region (Northern Japan)

In places like Hirosaki Park in Aomori, cherry blossoms come later, usually late April to early May. With fewer tourists and beautiful scenery, it’s a more relaxed way to enjoy the blooms. Hirosaki also hosts a top-rated cherry blossom festival, with petals floating in the moats and castles in the background.

Fuji Five Lakes (Eastern Japan)

For iconic views, the Fuji Five Lakes area is perfect, with cherry blossoms and Mount Fuji in the background. Visit during peak bloom, and you might see the trees reflected perfectly in the water.

What is Hanami?

Hanami is the Japanese tradition of enjoying the beauty of flowers, especially cherry blossoms (sakura). During hanami, people gather in parks or gardens to look at the blooming trees, have picnics, and spend time with family and friends. It’s both a celebration of spring and a way to appreciate the fleeting beauty of nature.

Must-Try Hanami Foods

  • Dango: Sweet rice balls on a stick, chewy, colourful, and addictive.
  • Sakura mochi: Pink rice cakes wrapped in salted cherry leaves.
  • Sakura sake or tea: Delicately floral and perfect for sipping under the trees.

How Long Does Cherry Blossom Season in Japan Last?

Here’s the heartbreaker💔sakura only last for about one to two weeks in each location. One minute it’s peak bloom, the next the petals are floating down like confetti in the wind. This petal fall, called sakura fubuki, is breathtaking in its own right, like standing in a snow globe of spring.

Your best bet? Stay flexible, follow the forecast, and don’t wait to get outside once they start blooming.

Top Cherry Blossom Festivals in Japan

  • Hirosaki Castle (Aomori): Over 2,500 cherry trees and a moat filled with petals, absolutely dreamy.
  • Takato Castle Park (Nagano): Famous for its deep pink “Kohigan” sakura and panoramic mountain views.
  • Osaka’s Kema Sakuranomiya Park: A river of sakura stretching for several kilometres with over 5,000 trees.

Need an eSIM for Japan? We’re the only place in Europe where you can get AU Japan eSIM plans.👇

Travel Tips for Cherry Blossom Season

Book Early

Sakura season is Japan’s busiest time for travel. Hotels near top hanami spots can book out 6 to 12 months in advance. Want that dream ryokan in Kyoto or riverside room in Tokyo? Lock it in early.

Beat the Crowds

  • Arrive early in the morning for quieter moments.
  • Visit on weekdays if you can.
  • Explore lesser-known parks and cities, they’re just as beautiful and way more peaceful.

Watch the Forecast

Keep an eye on bloom reports. The Japan Sakura Forecast app or Japan Meteorological Agency are your best friends. Timing your trip right is the difference between full bloom and bare branches.

What to Pack

  • Layers: Spring in Japan can be sunny and chilly in the same day.
  • A picnic mat or blanket.
  • A portable charger, because you’ll burn through your battery snapping blossoms all day.

Start planning your spring escape today, because once the petals fall, you’ll be counting down the days ‘til next year.

Plan your cherry blossom adventure

Ready to experience cherry blossom season in Japan? Browse our Japan travel plans to stay connected stress-free during your trip.

Or visit one of our Sim Local stores to get travel-ready in person.

FAQs about cherry blossoms season in Japan

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

Late March to early April is usually best.

Is May too late for cherry blossoms in Japan?

It’s usually too late for most of Japan, but northern areas like Hokkaido can still have blossoms in early May.

What is the cheapest month to go to Japan?

The cheapest months to visit Japan are usually from December to February, and sometimes late May after Golden Week.

What is the unspoken rule in Japan?

  • Not talking loudly on trains.
  • Not eating while walking.
  • Queuing patiently.
  • Taking trash home if there aren’t bins.
Related Articles

Get your Japan eSIM today!