Spring in Japan is a time of celebration and joy. Every year, in March and April, Japan's iconic cherry blossoms arrive, bringing a feeling of renewal and beauty. The stunning flowers have become a symbol of the country, attracting visitors from around the world who come to enjoy the unique experience of this special time of year. Here are some of the best places to take them in.
Omiya Park, Saitama
Omiya is one of the busiest places in Saitama. The city features many restaurants and shopping arcades in and around the station. Omiya Park, adorned with Japanese red pines, magnolia trees, plum trees, and cherry trees, is one of the most visited parks in the area, especially in spring. The park also has large grass fields suitable for activities like picnics with friends or frisbee games. Other places to check out at the park are the Saitama Prefectural Museum of History and Folklore and Hikawa Shrine.
Nearest station: Kita-Omiya Station
Arashiyama, Kyoto
The cherry blossom is one of the most beautiful and highly anticipated sights of the spring season in Kyoto. Each year, thousands of locals and travelers visit Arashiyama which is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms in Kyoto. As the cherry blossoms bloom in springtime, the entire area is covered in a beautiful pink hue. From the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge to the bamboo forest, the cherry blossoms add a magical touch to the scenery. Arishayama has beautiful views and hotels including the infamous Muni Kyoto hotel which is known for its excellent location with stunning views of the river and the bamboo forest.
Nearest station: Arashiyama Station
Maizuru Park, Fukuoka
If you're looking for a peaceful and tranquil spot to appreciate the beauty of spring without crowds, Fukuoka is a perfect choice. Maizuru Park in Fukuoka is the perfect spot for hanami, the Japanese custom of enjoying the beauty of cherry blossoms in the spring. It's easy to see why this park is so popular - the flowers are breathtaking, with thousands of cherry blossoms in full bloom, and it's also a great spot for outdoor activities like picnicking, bird watching, and photography. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby, as well as a wide variety of shops. Even if you're not a fan of cherry blossom viewing, Maizuru Park is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Nearest station: Ohori Koen Subway Station
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Tokyo
Take a break from the hectic city life and relax in the beauty of nature. Shinjuku Gyoen is an oasis of tranquility and beauty in the midst of the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. The park is trendy among locals and tourists when its cherry trees bloom in spring. You can also find a variety of other attractions, such as a Japanese garden and a popular Starbucks. From the terrace of the Starbucks, you can admire the beautiful cherry blossoms that bloom in spring or enjoy the lush green trees in summer and autumn. Shinjuku Gyoen is a great place to experience calm within a busy city.
Nearest station: Shinjuku-Gyoenmae Station
2024 Cherry Blossom Forecast Japan
| Prefecture | Location | Forecasted flowering date | Flowering deviation (days) | Forecasted full bloom date | Full bloom deviation (days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hokkaido | Sapporo | 5/1 | 0 | 5/4 | -2 |
| Aomori | Aomori | 4/17 | -5 | 4/22 | -4 |
| Miyagi | Sendai | 4/3 | -5 | 4/9 | -4 |
| Tokyo | Tokyo | 3/23 | -1 | 3/30 | -1 |
| Ishikawa | Kanazawa | 3/31 | -3 | 4/6 | -2 |
| Nagano | Nagano | 4/5 | -6 | 4/11 | -5 |
| Aichi | Nagoya | 3/20 | -4 | 3/31 | -2 |
| Kyoto | Kyoto | 3/23 | -3 | 4/1 | -3 |
| Osaka | Osaka | 3/25 | -2 | 4/2 | -2 |
| Wakayama | Wakayama | 3/22 | -2 | 3/31 | -3 |
| Hiroshima | Hiroshima | 3/23 | -2 | 4/1 | -2 |
| Kochi | Kochi | 3/19 | -3 | 3/27 | -3 |
| Fukuoka | Fukuoka | 3/21 | -1 | 3/30 | -1 |
| Kagoshima | Kagoshima | 3/29 | 3 | 4/9 | 4 |
Recommended: Spend Your Hanami Weekend in Fukuoka and RV Rental—Onsen, Road Trips, Surfing
Angelinah Maphanga
Content Marketer, Custom Media
