Cherry blossoms, or sakura, are a beloved part of Japanese culture, turning the islands into a breathtaking display of pink each spring. With their deep roots in traditional Japanese art, there are countless beautiful spots across the country to enjoy these blooms.
Hanami, the practice of viewing cherry blossoms, is a major event in Japan. During this time, locals throw parties to eat, drink, and soak in the beauty of the fleeting blossoms. Here are some of the best places in Japan where you can join in on this delightful tradition.
Himeji Castle
One of Japan's most stunning and impressive castles, Himeji Castle is especially breathtaking in the spring when it’s framed by cherry blossoms. The sakura season here typically begins a bit earlier than in Tokyo, with full bloom arriving from late March to early April. The castle grounds are surrounded by about 1,000 cherry blossom trees, creating a magical setting that’s perfect for appreciating the beauty of these flowers.
Mount Yoshino
If you want to be amazed by some of the most breathtaking cherry blossom scenery on earth, Mount Yoshino is the place to go. Located south of Nara, this mountain is covered in thousands of cherry trees, making it the most densely packed cherry blossom area in Japan. From the viewpoint, you’ll get an incredible view of the landscape dotted with a stunning mix of pink hues. It’s a fantastic spot to fully enjoy the beauty of cherry blossoms.
Shinjuku Gyoen Park
In the heart of Tokyo, Shinjuku Gyoen is one of the few parks with an entrance fee, but it’s definitely worth it, especially in the spring when the cherry trees start to bloom. With the city's skyscrapers as a backdrop, the park is stunning year-round, showcasing some of Tokyo's most picturesque traditional gardens. However, if you’re seeking a bit of peace and quiet, hanami season might not be ideal, as the cherry blossoms attract crowds of people enjoying picnics and drinks under the blooming trees.
Fuji Five Lakes
With the iconic Mount Fuji as its backdrop, it’s no surprise that the "Five Lakes" area boasts some of the best cherry blossom views in Japan. One of the most famous spots is Chureito Pagoda, situated on a mountain near Kawaguchi Lake. From here, you can take in a stunning view of the pagoda with Mount Fuji in the background, along with a sea of cherry blossoms all around. You’ll also find cherry trees lining the shores of the lake, adding to the area’s picturesque charm.
Meguro River
One of Tokyo’s favorite spots for cherry blossoms is along the Meguro River, which flows from Shibuya to Meguro. Both sides of the river are lined with cherry trees, creating a stunning pink tunnel. Since it's right in the heart of Tokyo, it can get pretty busy, especially during peak bloom and on weekends. For the best photos, head to the stretch of the river closest to Naka-Meguro Station as it winds towards Ebisu.
Hirosaki Castle
Another spot renowned for its cherry blossom views is Hirosaki Castle, where the grounds are adorned with beautiful sakura trees. One of the highlights is the moat around the castle, which becomes a stunning sight when the petals begin to fall. While Hirosaki is a bit of a trek—located in Aomori, Japan’s northernmost prefecture—the journey is definitely worth it for the incredible scenery. Because it's further north, the cherry blossom season here starts a bit later, typically from late April to early May.
Takato Joshi Park
In the southern part of Nagano Prefecture, Takato Joshi Park might be small, but it offers a spectacular cluster of cherry trees set against a stunning mountain backdrop. The park’s compact size makes it feel cozy and intimate, perfect for taking in the breathtaking views and vibrant cherry blossoms.
Conclusion: Best Places to View Cherry Blossoms in Japan for 2021
If you're planning a trip to Japan earlier in the year but still want to see cherry blossoms, head to Okinawa. Thanks to its southern location, sakura season starts much earlier here. While there might not be as many cherry trees as on the mainland, you can still enjoy the blossoms from late January to early February.