Where to See Japan’s Cherry Blossoms in 2026

Witnessing the cherry blossoms in Japan is a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience. We’re sharing the best places to experience spring in Japan as well as lots of insider tips for planning your trip!

Japan’s famous cherry blossoms paint the country in pink every spring, and the tradition of soaking it all in—called hanami—has been beloved for centuries. 

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly what to expect, the best times and places to see the blooms, and our top tips for planning the perfect cherry blossom adventure. 

And because spring offers so much more than sakura alone, we’ve included plenty of other ways to enjoy the season too.

My Personal Advice

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from visiting Japan several times, it’s this: don’t limit yourself to the most famous spots. 

Crowds during peak bloom can be massive. Locals and travelers alike flock to the big-name parks, so I always make a point to explore a few hidden-gem neighborhoods, quiet riversides, or smaller local parks.

Not only do you get a more peaceful experience, but you often stumble across some of the most memorable and authentic moments of your trip this way. 

Spring in Japan Guide

• Spring weather in Japan
• 2026 cherry blossom forecast
• Why visit Japan in spring
• Where to see cherry blossoms
• Things to do in Japan in spring
• FAQs
• What to pack

---

Spring Weather in Japan

Spring in Japan falls over the months of March, April, and May.

• March: Cool but gradually warming; winter is winding down and the first cherry blossoms start appearing, especially in the Kanto region (Tokyo).
  
• April: Peak cherry blossom season; most famous spots are crowded due to both blooms and Golden Week. Ideal for sakura viewing if you don’t mind the crowds.
  
• May: Warm and sunny, with rare storms; northern areas like Hokkaido see late cherry blossoms, offering a second chance to catch the blooms.

Cherry Blossom Tips

• Bloom times vary by region: Okinawa can see blooms as early as January, Hokkaido as late as May.
• Use cherry blossom forecasts or tracking apps to plan your visit and catch peak bloom dates.

Psst! For an in-depth guide on the seasonal weather patterns and other factors, check out our complete guide on the best time to visit Japan.

Japan cherry blossoms 2026 forecast

Important Note: The official 2026 cherry blossom forecast hasn’t been released yet, but as soon as the new data becomes available, we’ll update this section. For now, the information below reflects the 2025 forecast to help you start planning.

Why visit Japan in the Spring

There are plenty of reasons why spring is a great time to visit Japan:

• Weather is ideal, with comfortable temperatures, blue skies, and little to no humidity.
• The famed sakura, or cherry blossoms, bloom across the country, creating canopies and carpets of delicate pastel pink and white petals.
• In addition to hanami, or flower viewing, the season brings a slew of sakura-themed foods and drinks to try.
• Though sakura take center stage, the country is alive with plenty of other breathtaking blooms, such as wisteria, nemophila, and azaleas.
• Spring in Japan is the beginning of hiking season, when you can hit the trails before the oppressive heat of summer sets in.
  • The Kumano Kodo Trail and the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route are both popular in the spring!

---

Where to see the cherry blossoms in Japan

Cherry blossoms bloom in over 1,000 locations across Japan so there are endless places you can visit to see them. We’ve broken down the best locations below with helpful tips for planning your visit.

Kyoto

When to go: end of March – early April

Kyoto is the cultural and historical heart of Japan and is widely recognized as one of the main epicenters for cherry blossom season. 

What sets Kyoto apart from other places to see sakura in Japan are all the temples, shrines, castles, and 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites that serve as a stunning backdrop for the colors of sakura season.

Check out our bucket list of things to do in Kyoto before you leave!

50 Absolute BEST Things to do in Kyoto

Best places for viewing the cherry blossoms in Kyoto

• Philosopher’s Path: This scenic walking path is lined with cherry trees. During the night, the blooms are illuminated with lanterns.
• Maruyama Park: This is the most popular place in Kyoto during cherry blossom season. Walk among peaceful gardens and ponds surrounded by sakura.
• Kiyomizu-dera Temple: Wander blossom-filled grounds at one of the most significant temples in Japan. Plan your visit during the night to see the evening light ups, a must see during cherry blossom season.
• Keage Incline: This National Historic Site has nearly 100 blooming trees lining a picturesque railway.  
• Haradani-en Garden: Enjoy endless weeping cherry trees in this peaceful garden favored by locals. The trees here tend to bloom a bit later, which is perfect if you missed the first bloom window.

Psst! Looking for more tips? We have a whole article filled with expert tips for visiting Japan!

Osaka

When to go: end of March – early April

The street food capital of Japan celebrates the sakura season with thousands upon thousands of cherry trees planted across the city. 

One of the main draws to head to Osaka for cherry blossoms is all the gourmet street food and Japanese cuisine. Wander the streets of the city and try some of the country’s top dishes while gazing at stunning blooms.

We share all our favorite places in the city in our guide to exciting things to do in Osaka!

30 Exciting Things to Do in Osaka, Japan (+ free map!)

Best places for viewing the cherry blossoms in Osaka

• Osaka Castle: The standing symbol of Osaka is filled with over 3,000 cherry trees, creating one of the best viewing locations in the Kansai region.
• Banpaku Memorial Park: One of the 100 best cherry blossom locations in Japan, you can wander around 5,500 different cherry trees and learn about the relationship between sakura and Japanese culture.
• Kema Sakuranomiya Park: This riverside park follows the Ogawa River through central Osaka. It comprises three different parks that make up the beautiful, 2.6 mile stroll through nearly 5,000 cherry trees.
• Osaka Mint Bureau: The official head office of the Japanese Mint opens the grounds for one week in April to view over 400 famous cherry trees. Note advanced reservations are required.
• Mount Yoshino: View over 30,000 cherry trees bloom in the Kii Mountains at the most popular hanami location in Japan.

Psst! Check out our list of the most beautiful places in Japan you’ll have to see to believe!

Tokyo

When to go: end of March – early April

It’s no secret that Tokyo is one of the best cities in Japan for cherry blossoms. You can venture out into many of the city’s parks and walk through thousands of pink and white blooms.

Even the infamous Ueno Park has been one of the most beloved locations for hanami in the city for centuries. 

From teamLab Borderless to the never-ending list of the best things to do in Tokyo, the urban and edgy atmosphere of this culture-rich city will take your cherry blossom experience to the next level in this beloved metroplex. 

45 Best Things to Do in Tokyo, Japan (+ free map!)

Best places for viewing the cherry blossoms in Tokyo

• Ueno Park: This park has been one of the most famous sakura spots in Tokyo since the 16th century. Pack a picnic or enjoy a ride on the river while you admire some of the earliest blossoms in the city.
• Meguro River: One of the most beautiful spots in Tokyo for hanami. Peruse restaurants and street stalls as you walk along the scenic river. 
• Chidorigafuchi Moat: Hundreds of trees bloom around the moat of what was formerly Edo Castle. Don’t miss a picturesque boat ride through a tunnel of sakura.
• Koishikawa Botanical Gardens: The oldest botanical garden in Japan serves as a peaceful escape from the bustling city to enjoy the cherry blossoms.
• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: 1,100 trees bloom in this massive garden. Many varieties are planted here, so you can enjoy all kinds of blooms as they appear at different times.

Is Tokyo on your Japan itinerary?

Japan’s capital is massive almost beyond comprehension, so we’ve created the following Tokyo-specific guides to help plan your visit without getting too overwhelmed.

• Best time to visit Tokyo
• First-timer’s guide to Tokyo
• 5-Day Tokyo Itinerary
• Things to do in Tokyo at night
• Best day trips from Tokyo

Mount Fuji

When to go: end of March – early April

Spring is one of the best times to visit Mount Fuji, when the iconic peak is framed by cherry blossoms at both famous viewpoints and quieter hidden-gem spots.

Best places for viewing cherry blossoms around Mount Fuji

• Chureito Pagoda: The classic postcard view of the pagoda, sakura, and Fuji all in one. (Beware, this spot gets very crowded.)
• Lake Kawaguchi (Kawaguchiko): Stroll the northern shore for beautiful reflections and long sakura-lined paths.
• Oshino Hakkai: A charming village with ponds, traditional houses, and peaceful cherry blossom walkways.
• Northern Fuji Five Lakes Shores: Quieter stretches around Lakes Saiko and Shojiko offer serene bloom views with far fewer crowds.

Tip: While we’d recommend spending more time in this area (there’s lots to do!), you could also do a day trip to Mt. Fuji from Tokyo.

Nagoya

When to go: end of March – early April

Nestled between many major cities, Nagoya holds a few of the top 100 places to see cherry blossoms in Japan, and is one of the main hubs for hanami in the Aichi Prefecture. 

This shipping and entertainment hub fills with vibrancy as thousands of sakuras bloom across the city. Most notably, the Yamazaki River is one of the most sought-after viewing locations in all of Japan.

Best places for viewing the cherry blossoms in Nagoya

• Nagoya Castle: 1,000 cherry trees of 10 different varieties line the moats of this castle. Each year a festival is held during the sakura season with Japanese games and food stalls.
• Yamazaki River: The Path of Four Seasons is recognized as one of the top 100 cherry blossom locations in Japan with hundreds of trees lining the riverside.
• Inuyama Castle: One of the 12 original castles of Japan looks out on 400 trees blooming along the Kiso River. Take a sightseeing boat ride to admire the castle in a sea of cherry blossoms.
• Tsuruma Park: The most favored park in the city for hanami. Stop at various food stalls and picnic beneath pink and white blooms.
• Nagoya Peace Park: The small orchard of cherry trees and nearby ponds within this park are perfect for a hanami picnic.

Yokohama

When to go: end of March – early April

The second largest city in Japan, and one of the most exciting day trips from Tokyo, holds a handful of exciting cherry blossom locations. Yokohama’s blend of traditional and modern architecture serves as a stunning backdrop to thousands of sakura.

The city is renowned for its cross-border ties of culture and friendship that help create its unique individuality and laid back atmosphere. 

Because it’s close to two major airports, it makes an ideal base camp for getting around to other major cities across Japan for hanami.

Best places for viewing the cherry blossoms in Yokohama

• Mitsuike Park: Three ponds and thousands of cherry trees make up one of Japan’s top 100 places to see cherry blossoms, the only one in Yokohama.
• Kamonyama Park: This hilltop park makes the perfect viewing location for cherry blossoms and the city skyline.
• Sankeien Garden: This traditional Japanese garden is filled with hundreds of cherry trees and a variety of historic buildings that were moved here from across the country. 
• Ookagawa River: Hundreds of cherry blossoms decorate the banks of this scenic river. The boat tours that go through the tunnels of trees are especially beautiful.
• Yamashita Park: This seaside park has the NYK Hikawa Maru and Yokohama Marine Tower as a backdrop to its endless flower beds, seasonal rose gardens, and array of cherry trees.

Fukuoka

When to go: late March – early April

This seaside city is one of the first cities in Japan to welcome the pink and white tidal wave of cherry blossoms. 

As the capital of the southern region, and the 6th largest city in Japan, Fukuoka has prime hanami locations dotted around the city. 

Its ancient temples, beaches, and modern shopping malls make the city an exciting place to explore while searching for cherry blossoms. It’s rumored that some of the best ramen in Japan is in Fukuoka, the perfect way to fuel your hanami sessions!

Best places for viewing the cherry blossoms in Fukuoka

• Nishi Park: Another one of Japan’s top 100 cherry blossom locations, this hillside park is filled with thousands of blossoming cherry trees.
• Maizuru Park: Explore hundreds of cherry trees blanketing the ruins of Fukuoka Castle. Don’t miss the views from the observation platform. 
• Uminonakamichi Seaside Park: Rent a bike and explore over 2,000 cherry trees along this expansive and scenic peninsula.
• Atago Shrine: Follow hundreds of cherry trees lining the steep climb to the hilltop shrine. Take in views over Hakata Bay and the Fukuoka city skyline.
• Nokonoshima Island: Fields of yellow rapeseed and stunning cherry blossoms fill this island just off the coast of Fukuoka. 

Sendai

When to go: mid April

Centuries-old shrines and temples contrasting against the city’s modern skyscrapers and nightlife make Sendai the perfect basecamp for sakura season. 

Sendai is compact, making inner city travel easy and fast to various locations. It also has a little bit of everything from samurai history, nature, cuisine, and culture like many of the other major cities do, but is more low-key and without the floods of tourists. 

Best places for viewing the cherry blossoms in Sendai

• Milkamine Park: Picturesque walkways and open lawns bring many admirers to see the Somei Yoshino and weeping cherry trees in this park.
• Tsutsujigaoka Park: Known as one of the best hanami locations in Sendai, this is the perfect place to have a picnic beneath weeping cherry trees.
• Nishi Park: This park in the heart of the city puts on a festival each year with food stalls and paper lanterns hanging from the trees. At night, the trees are lit up beautifully. 
• Shiroishi Riverside: Gaze out at snow-capped Mt. Zao while walking amongst 1,200 trees planted along the riverside.
• Shiogama Shrine: This rooftop shrine is believed to be almost 1200 years old and features almost 300 cherry trees on the grounds.

Sapporo

When to go: end of April – early May

Located in the northernmost region of Japan, Sapporo experiences some of the latest, and most unique blooms during sakura season. 

The city is in the coldest region of the country, so the climate and plants are much different here than they are in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and the rest of Japan. 

You’ll be able to relish in cherry tree varieties that don’t grow anywhere else in the country along with the region’s vast array of wildflowers and natural beauty.

Best places for viewing the cherry blossoms in Sapporo

• Maruyama Park: This local spot is the most popular in the city during sakura season. A short walk links to the Hokkaido Shrine, with over 1,000 blooming trees. 
• Hokkaido University: A handful of different cherry tree varieties are planted around this campus. Head to the School of Engineering for the best hanami.
• Moerenuma Park: This modern art inspired park has a museum, unique water fountains, and is surrounded by geometric mountains. The park is one massive sculpture filled with nearly 3,000 cherry trees.
• Odori Park: Admire pockets of cherry trees as you explore the most famous park in downtown Sapporo. Head to the Sapporo TV Tower on the park’s eastern edge to view the city blooms from the observation deck.
• Nakajima Park: Explore famous western architecture from the Meiji period while taking a relaxing stroll or setting up a picnic inside the park.    

Things to do in the spring (besides seeing cherry blossoms!)

Spring in Japan offers plenty to experience beyond cherry blossoms. 

Here are some ideas for seasonal foods, outdoor adventures, cultural traditions, and unique nature events worth adding to your spring Japan itinerary.

1. Try sakura-flavored foods & drinks

Spring menus across Japan feature limited-edition sakura treats like lattes, mochi, KitKats, soft-serve, and pastries.

• Where: Nationwide (Starbucks, convenience stores, traditional sweet shops).
• Tip: Look for pink seasonal limited labels.

2. Hike Japan’s classic trails

Japan’s mild spring weather is perfect for exploring historical hiking routes like the Kumano Kodo in Wakayama and the Nakasendo Trail, especially the Magome–Tsumago section.

• Where: Any trails are great, but here are two of our personal favorites:
  • Kumano Kodo trail
  • Nakasendo trail
• Tip: Start early to avoid crowds and pack layers, as spring weather varies quickly.

3. Soak in an onsen

Spring is an ideal time for outdoor hot springs, where crisp air meets warm mineral water for a relaxing soak.

• Where: Hakone, Beppu, Kusatsu, Noboribetsu
• Tip: Be sure to check out our guide to onsen etiquette

4. Visit seasonal flower parks (Wisteria, Nemophila, Tulips)

While cherry blossoms are by far the most famous bloom in Japan, they are far from the only flower worth checking out. 

After cherry blossoms, Japan’s flower season continues with wisteria tunnels, blue “nemophila” hills, colorful tulip fields, and even hydrangeas.

• Where: Ashikaga Flower Park (Tochigi), Hitachi Seaside Park (Ibaraki), Tonami Tulip Park (Toyama)
• Tip: Check each park’s bloom calendar, as exact timing changes year to year

5. Row a boat under spring foliage

Tokyo and Kyoto offer peaceful riverside boat rentals surrounded by fresh greenery. While they are particularly stunning during peak blooms, this is worth a spot on your itinerary even after the flowers are gone.

• Where: Chidorigafuchi (Tokyo), Arashiyama Hozu River (Kyoto)
• Tip: Mornings have the calmest water and weekdays draw the smallest crowds

6. Experience spring festivals (Matsuri)

Japan’s spring festivals celebrate renewal with parades, traditional performances, and street food.

• Where: Takayama Spring Festival (Gifu), Kanda Festival (Tokyo), Hakata Dontaku (Fukuoka)
• Tip: Arrive 30–60 minutes early for the parades because prime viewing spots fill fast.

7. Rent a bike 

Spring temperatures are perfect for cycling, whether along scenic coastlines or through preserved old towns.

• Where: Shimanami Kaido, Kurashiki Bikan District, Lake Kawaguchi 
• Tip: Many routes offer e-bikes, which are helpful for hilly terrain.

8. Go strawberry picking (Ichigo-gari)

Spring is peak strawberry season, and farms across Japan let you pick and eat sweet varieties straight from the vine.

• Where: Chiba, Tochigi, Fukuoka, Shizuoka
• Tip: This often requires reservations. Book early if you plan to go on a weekend, because this is a popular activity with locals.

9. Visit famous waterfalls in snowmelt season

Spring snowmelt makes waterfalls more powerful and scenic.

• Where: Kegon Falls (Nikko), Nachi Falls (Wakayama), Shiraito Falls (Fuji area)
• Tip: Mid-spring offers the best flow without winter closures.

---

FAQs about spring in Japan

Planning a trip to see the cherry blossoms is an art in and of itself. Here are some important things to keep in mind as you plan your visit.

What is so special about cherry blossoms in Japan?

Cherry blossoms, or sakura, have been admired for over 1,000 years, dating back to the Heian period. The tradition of hanami (flower viewing) is a beloved national pastime where friends and families gather under the blooms to celebrate spring.

Beyond their beauty, cherry blossoms symbolize life, death, and renewal. Their short-lived bloom reminds people to appreciate the moment and honor the fleeting nature of life.

How long do cherry blossoms in Japan last?

The cherry blossom season only lasts a few weeks, and peak blooms last only one week.

Once the first blooms appear, called kaika, the full bloom appears over the next week, called mankai. After peak bloom, the blossoms will begin to fall and the season is over.

How far in advance should I book my accommodation for spring in Japan?

Spring is one of the busiest seasons in Japan for both international visitors and domestic travel.

Aim to book accommodation 6–12 months in advance for the best selection and prices.

Grab our free Japan booking timeline to know exactly when to reserve flights, hotels, tours, and more.

Are there any cherry blossom festivals in Japan?

Of course! Here are some of the best cherry blossom festivals in Japan:

• Ueno Park Cherry Blossom Festival Tokyo: One of the largest and busiest celebrations of hanami in Japan. Enjoy local food and crafts, boat rides, and the blossoms illuminated at night.
• Fuji Kawaguchiko Cherry Blossom Festival: The Fuji Five Lakes Area is one of the most spectacular locations for cherry blossoms. Celebrate along the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi.
• Hirosaki Castle Park Cherry Blossom Festival: Millions of travelers flock to this centuries old castle to celebrate the season with traditional Japanese dance, craft stalls, and street food.
• Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival: This February festival welcomes the first blooms of the season from over 8,000 trees of the kawazu-zakura variety, which only grow in this region.

What to pack for spring in Japan

We have a guide where we break down exactly what to wear during spring in Japan (for both women and men!), but here are some essentials:

• Thicker layers if traveling in March
• Light jacket for April and May
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Hiking attire if you plan to hit the trails

Hold up! We created a whole guide to all the things you need to pack for Japan (in addition to clothes!). Plus, we even have a (totally free!) packing list you can download!

This FREE PDF download includes everything you’re going to want to pack for your Japan trip, including what NOT to bring, plus tons of insider tips!

---

Plan your trip to Japan

After 3 trips (and counting!), we’ve fallen head over heels for Japan—and we’ve created TONS of resources to help you plan your dream trip. Start with our Ultimate Japan Travel Guide and be sure to check out these helpful articles:

• First time? Our Japan Trip Planner walks you through everything you need to know.
• Use our Japan Rail Pass guide to determine if getting a train pass is optimal for your trip.
• Here’s our curated list of the best things to do in Japan—from iconic sights to once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
• Not sure where to go? Our Japan itinerary ideas will help you map it all out.
• Foodies, rejoice! This guide to what to eat in Japan will have you drooling before you land.
• This guide to what to wear in Japan (and what not to wear) will help you blend in.
• Use our ultimate Japan Packing List to make sure you don’t forget anything.
• Before you go, brush up on these essential Japan travel tips (including major do’s and don’ts!).
• Avoid awkward moments by brushing up on Japanese etiquette.

Still have questions? Drop us a comment—we LOVE helping travelers plan unforgettable trips to Japan!

Don’t miss your chance to grab our Japan packing list!

Save this article on Pinterest for later!

We want to hear from you!

Are you planning a trip to see the cherry blossoms during spring in Japan? Do you have more questions for us? Leave your comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!