Hanami (flower viewing) is Japan's most beloved tradition. When cherry blossoms bloom each spring, the entire nation celebrates with picnics under pink canopies. Here is how to plan the perfect sakura viewing trip.
When Do Cherry Blossoms Bloom?
The cherry blossom front (sakura zensen) moves north from late January through mid-May:
- Okinawa: Late January - February
- Kyushu (Fukuoka): Late March
- Osaka & Kyoto: Late March - early April
- Tokyo: Late March - early April
- Tohoku (Sendai): Mid-April
- Hokkaido (Sapporo): Early-mid May
Peak bloom (mankai) typically lasts only 1-2 weeks, so timing is crucial. Check the Japan Meteorological Corporation's forecasts which are updated weekly from January.
Best Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots
Tokyo
Shinjuku Gyoen: The most famous spot with 1,000+ trees of 65 varieties. Ueno Park: The most popular hanami party spot - lively and festive. Chidorigafuchi: Rent a rowing boat along the imperial moat lined with weeping cherry trees.
Kyoto
Philosopher's Path: A canal-side walk lined with hundreds of cherry trees. Maruyama Park: Home to a magnificent weeping cherry tree illuminated at night. Kiyomizu-dera: Temple views framed by cherry blossoms with Kyoto's skyline beyond.
Osaka
Osaka Castle Park: Over 3,000 cherry trees surround the iconic castle - stunning by day and illuminated at night.
Hanami Etiquette
- Arrive early to secure a good spot in popular parks
- Bring a blue tarp or blanket to sit on
- Pack your own food and drinks (convenience stores have great bento boxes)
- Clean up everything when you leave - leave no trace
- Do not shake or climb the trees!
See Japan's Cherry Blossoms with China Royale
Our Japan Highlights tour (10 days, from $3,499) can be timed for cherry blossom season. Book early - spring departures sell out fast!
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