Jonathan Kim
Japan’s ephemeral sakura (cherry blossom) season is one of the most meaningful (and beautiful) times of the year for locals, and increasingly, a growing number of international tourists hoping to catch a glimpse of the blossoming flowers.
But part of what makes the season so significant is how fleeting it is. Fly in to anywhere in the southern parts of Japan prematurely and you’ll be too early, but fly in to the north too late, and you may just miss it. For first-timers, planning your sakura pilgrimage is an art in and of itself. Timing is everything, as is, as they say in real estate, location, location, location.
So, for those scheming their next trip to Japan for cherry blossom season, we’ve put together an easy guide for where and when to go to make sure you actually see the stunning flowers. Plus, where to stay to make the most of the short-lived season.
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What makes cherry blossom season special to Japan?
Sakura motifs are everywhere in Japan, from paintings and poems to fashion and food. Part of what makes cherry blossoms so special to Japan is that they signify newness of life and the arrival of spring. But the other part is an admiration for how transient the season is. Locals clear their schedules for hanami (flower viewing) picnics and outings with friends and family in a bid to cherish the blossoms while they last.
What month is best to visit Japan for cherry blossoms in 2026?
Every year, the Japanese Meteorological Agency (JMC) releases multiple forecasts of the dates when cherry blossoms will start to flower (kaika) and reach full bloom (mankai).
This year, flowering is forecasted to start as early as 20 March in southern prefectures of Japan, such as Fukuoka, and will continue to progress northward to prefectures like Hokkaido. Full bloom is expected For the best accuracy, it’s best to monitor the prediction regularly yourself.
Where are the best areas to see cherry blossoms in Japan?
With the pretty pink blossoms flowering across the country, there are no shortage of hanami vantage points in Japan. We’ve rounded up a couple of our favourites in the main prefectures of Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Hokkaido.
Tokyo
Ueno
If you’ve seen pictures of sakura in Japan, chances are, they were taken in Ueno Park. Home to 1,000 cherry trees, this expansive parkland spans 53 hectares and is recognizable for its showstopping canopies of sakura blooms during spring.
Stay: Nohga Hotel Akihabara Tokyo
A short walk to Ueno Park, each of the 118 rooms at Nohga Hotel Akihabara are fitted with premium bedding so you can get a good night’s rest after a day of hanami. Enjoy dinner or a buffet breakfast at the on-site restaurant to recharge before you set off again.
Go: Late March to early April
Shibuya
One of the most accessible spots for sakura sightings, Sakurazaka (Sakura street) in Sakuragaokacho is located just minutes away from Shibuya station’s west exit. 30 trees form a cherry blossom tunnel which is illuminated in the evenings during cherry blossom season.
Stay: Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel
Situated in the heart of Shibuya, Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel is the ideal vantage point to take in the Tokyo skyline in style. Rooms are spacious and located on the 19th floor and above, inviting you to enjoy panoramic city views from plush bedding. Plus, the hotel is a five-minute walk to Shibuya Station, giving you easy access to the rest of Tokyo.
Too tired to leave the hotel? Unwind at one of eight restaurants offering Japanese, Chinese and French cuisine, and cap off the day with a night cap at the top floor bar.
Go: Late March.
Shinjuku
Shinjuku’s Gyoen National Garden is a local favourite, boasting over 60 sakura varieties, including early-bloom species. Large and generally quieter, the park is popular for hanami picnics – although alcohol is prohibited. After taking in the sights, head over to Kanda River in the Takaido Area for a picture-perfect stroll across quaint bridges.
Stay: Grand Piano Studio House
For those making a group holiday of cherry blossom season, this house in Shinjuku fits the large-group brief, with a sound-proof semi-basement area that includes a music room and grand piano, as well as a large entertainment space and projector for movies.
Within walking distance of trains, shops, dining and the major sakura viewing spots, this is the stay for travellers who love socialising as much as having their own space.
Go: Late March – early April.
Meguro
Stretching almost four kilometres, the Meguro River is lined with the stunning flowers, creating a picturesque tunnel over the water. Similarly to Sakurazaka, the river is illuminated at night, and you can enjoy popular street food while wandering the surrounding streets.
Stay: The Ritz Carlton Tokyo
This grand, 53-storey hotel stands in the Roppongi area in Tokyo’s tallest building, offering luxury with a capital L. Spot Mount Fuji and the Imperial Palace from your room, and enjoy French delicacies from a Michelin-star chef at one of its eight dining options, ranging from French to Japanese cuisine.
Eager to tick off as many hanami spots as you can? The hotel is directly connected to Roppongi station which offers easy access to Shinjuku and Akihabara.
Go: Late March to early April
Kyoto
Higashiyama
The best places to see cherry blossoms in Kyoto are focused around historic temples and scenic walkways.
The top spots include: Maruyama Park, where the famed weeping cherry tree (shidarezakura) is illuminated at night; Philosopher’s Path featuring a pedestrian path flowering with hundreds of cherry trees adjacent to the canal; Kiyomizu-dera Temple which backdrops around 1,000 cherry trees overlooking Kyoto; and Yasaka Shrine next to Maruyama Park.
Stay: 5-star White Machiya Airbnb in Higashiyama Ward
Voted one of the most loved homes on Airbnb by guests, this 70-year old Machiya (traditional, two-storey wooden townhouse) melds traditional Japanese architecture with modern luxury.
Contemporary fixtures, a tranquil garden and light-filled interiors make for a cosy oasis in the Higashiyama ward, while being a stone’s throw from restaurants, konbini and bus or train stations.
Go: Late March to early April
Daigo
In the south of Kyoto, Daigoji Temple is a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site. Located at the base and extending all the way up Mount Daigo, it’s most easily accessed by hopping on the train to Daigo station, followed by a 10-15 minute walk.
During cherry blossom season, it’s known for its five-storey pagoda surrounded by the iconic weeping trees.
Stay: Six Senses Kyoto
Moments from the historic Gion district and the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Japan’s first outpost of the Six Senses brand is our base of choice for hanami purposes and exploring Kyoto’s rich heritage. Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony in the quiet of the garden or relax at its world-class spa.
Go: Late March to early April
Osaka
Osaka Castle
Known for its role in the unification of Japan in the late 16th century, as well as its impressive architecture, moats and spectacular cherry blossoms in spring, Osaka Castle is top of our hanami list.
Stay: DoubleTree by Hilton Osaka Castle
The recently opened Hilton hotel just steps from Osaka Castle Park is a short stroll from Temmabashi Station and a fitting stay for anyone wanting to make the most of sakura season in Osaka. Sleek, clean and modern, it doesn’t get much better (or closer) than this.
Go: Early April
Kema Sakuranomiya Park
Stretching along the Okawa River with close to 5,000 cherry trees, this park is a hotspot for locals and tourists alike. Located near Osaka station and easily accessible by subway and train, it can get overcrowded during peak season.
Stay: Four seasons Hotel Osaka
World-class service combines with refined design for a modern, luxurious city stay. Recharge at the sauna or 36th-floor pool before indulging in Chinese, French or other international cuisines.
Go: Late March – early April.
Hokkaido
Hakodate’s Goryokaku Park transforms into a “star of pink” each spring, with over 1,500 cherry trees blooming around its five-pointed fort from the 19th century. Climb up Goryokaku Tower for aerial views of the stunning reflection of the blooms on the surrounding moats.
Stay: Heiseikan Shiosaitei Hanatsuki
This 5-star ryokan experience offers sea views, hot spring baths and easy access to public onsens. And, it’s only a short trip to Goryokaku Park and the Hakodate Arena. Japanese-style rooms come with their own private open-air baths overlooking the Pacific ocean, and dining options include traditional Japanese restaurants with a tatami floor.
Go: Late April to early May.
Cherry blossom season starts in the southern prefectures of Japan around March and lasts until roughly April. When planning your trip, keep a keen eye on the cherry blossoms forecasts, which are updated regularly, as dates can be subject to change.
Wherever you go in Japan, time it right and you’re bound to catch a glimpse of the beautiful blossoms. Hanami hotspots include Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Hokkaido, with parks being a popular viewing point as they allow for picnics, stunning pictures and plenty of activities. A lot of the main attractions during cherry blossom season boast surrounding food stalls and evening illuminations, so you can get the most out of the short season.
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