Top 45 Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan - 2025 Guide

Enjoy Japan's Cherry Blossoms in 2025

The cherry blossom season is one of Japan's most anticipated times of the year.

The sakura (cherry blossom trees) bloom in spring, albeit with varying cycles in different regions. Since the blooming dates shift annually, make sure to check the most recent information ahead of any planned visit.

45 Famous Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan

Tokyo - 6 Must-See Cherry Blossom Spots

1. Meguro River

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Meguro River is located near Nakameguro Station, which is two stops away from Shibuya Station on the Tokyu Toyoko Line. It is a prominent viewing spot in the Tokyo Metropolitan area. The river is 8 kilometers long, running through Setagaya, Meguro and Shinagawa wards, and in the spring, 800 trees bloom on the riverside along 4 kilometers.

The chic area surrounding the Nakameguro Station is home to many cozy cafes, restaurants, and shops. It is also one of the most popular and sought-after areas for people to live in. In spring, visitors can spend all day in this area, as they can enjoy viewing the cherry blossoms, dine, shop and also enjoy the yozakura (night view of the illuminated sakura).

2. Ueno Park

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Shinkansen lines, JR Lines, and subway lines all run through Ueno Station. From the station, it is a three-minute walk to Ueno Park.

The park has been famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot from the Edo Period (1603 -1868), and people enjoying a picnic under the cherry blossoms, with the ubiquitous blue tarps covering the ground, have become a common sight in spring.

The park is illuminated at night, and the visitors can enjoy nighttime sakura. Public lavatories are located in the park too, so there is no need to worry. There are several museums, a zoo, and cafes in this park, making it a great place to spend a pleasant day out in the city.

3. Chidorigafuchi Park

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Situated along the outskirts of the Imperial Palace in Chiyoda City, Tokyo, Chidorifuchi Park is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot that is both spectacular in the day and at night.

Visitors can enjoy the romantic scenery of pink petals gently swaying in the wind and landing upon the glistening waters of the moat as adorable boats pass by, or, witness the beauty of these blossoms from the water surface themselves.

At night the grounds are illuminated, making this the perfect evening stroll after a busy day of exploring Tokyo. In the area, there are many sightseeing spots.

Yasukuni Shrine, in particular, is a must-see in spring due to 600 cherry blossom trees and its famous somei Yoshino tree used by the Japan Meteorological Agency to determine the official day cherry blossoms start blooming in Tokyo each year.

4. Sumida River and Sumida Park in Asakusa

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Asakusa is popular with visitors from abroad as an area where traditional Japanese scenery is still preserved, while Sumida River and Sumida Park, located nearby, are both known as riverside viewing spots.

The cherry blossoms along the Sumida River can be enjoyed by just walking along the riverside, or by looking up from a yakatabune (roofed boat with tatami floors). Tokyo Skytree is also nearby, so visitors can enjoy the view of both the sakura and the tower.

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5. Asukayama Park

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Home to 650 brilliant cherry blossom trees, Asukayama Park, located in Tokyo's Kita ward, is a great place to relax and unwind amongst flowers in a quaint park. A popular spot for over 300 years for Tokyoites, many come to Askayama Park to enjoy Hanami- cherry blossom viewing alongside picnics with loved ones.

The park also has antique steam engine trains that can be viewed, which is great for any train enthusiasts looking for blooms this spring!

6. Ryushuin Temple

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Nestled in the mountains of Akiruno, Tokyo, Otsu Hana-no Sato Flower Garden and Ryushuin Temple offer a stunning view of both Somei Yoshino and weeping cherry trees, alongside vibrant fields of yellow and other seasonal flowers, such as rhododendrons and Mitsuba azaleas.

Adjacent to the garden is the peaceful Ryushuin, a Buddhist temple featuring a charming tea shop—an ideal spot to relax and find serenity amidst the beauty of blooming nature.

Akiruno City is approximately a 50-minute train ride from Shinjuku, making it a wonderful destination to experience seasonal landscapes, hot springs, fishing, art, food, and more.

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Eastern Japan - 5 Must-See Cherry Blossom Spots around Tokyo

7. Sankeien Garden in Yokohama

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Sankeien is an immense Japanese garden located in Yokohama. In spring, the 300 sakura trees blend into the beautiful Japanese landscape. The historic buildings relocated from Kyoto and Kamakura to this garden are also worth a look.

8. Kawazu in Shizuoka

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The Izu area in Shizuoka Prefecture is known as one of the prominent hot springs areas in Japan. Kawazu is especially known as a sakura viewing spot, as well as for hosting the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival.

During the festival, there are places to view the cherry blossoms while enjoying an ashiyu (foot bath) along with nighttime illuminations. Visitors can enjoy the different atmospheres of this place during the day and night.

9. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine in Kamakura

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Kamakura, once the capital of Japan, is a renowned sightseeing destination south of Tokyo, celebrated for its natural beauty and numerous shrines and temples. A highlight is the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, where visitors can admire cherry blossoms that beautifully complement the historic architecture.

The cherry trees line both sides of the dan-kazura (the raised approach to the shrine), creating a picturesque view. Visitors can also wander through the nearby souvenir shops and restaurants, enhancing their experience while taking in the scenery.

10. Lake Kawaguchiko and Mt. Fuji

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Kawaguchiko (Lake Kawaguchiko) in Yamanashi Prefecture is situated at the foot of Mt. Fuji. It takes about two hours by car or train to reach this area, where visitors can enjoy stunning views in every season, including the cherry blossoms in spring.

Many people visit the lakeside park to see the sakura set against the backdrop of Mt. Fuji. This area is at a higher altitude than Tokyo, which means that the sakura typically bloom in late April. Those who missed the cherry blossoms in Tokyo should definitely consider visiting Kawaguchiko.

11. Chureito Pagoda in Fujiyoshida

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The Arakurayama Sengen Park in Fujiyoshida City, located near Mt. Fuji, is famous as a viewing spot boasting 650 sakura trees. It has become popular with visitors from abroad as a spot to enjoy the symbolic view of Mt. Fuji, along with the Chureito Pagoda.

Mt. Fuji, the pagoda, and sakura can all be viewed from the observatory, which is also the perfect spot to take photographs. Walking through the sakura tunnel is also very enjoyable.

Kyoto - 4 Must-See Cherry Blossom Spots

12. Maruyama Park

Photograph courtesy of JAPAN LIBRARY © Y.Shimizu/ © JNTO

Maruyama Park is the oldest garden in Kyoto, showcasing a traditional Japanese landscape where visitors can appreciate the changing scenery throughout the seasons.

As one of the most popular cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyoto, the park features the illuminated shidare-zakura (weeping cherry tree), famously known as the Gion Yozakura.

13. Daigoji Temple

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Daigoji, designated as a World Heritage site, is a temple set on a vast expanse of land. It houses buildings and paintings recognized as national treasures and attracts a large number of visitors year-round.

Daigoji Temple is renowned as a cherry blossom viewing destination, where guests can admire the blossoms framed by the historic architecture.

14. Arashiyama

Arashiyama is an area in the western part of Kyoto, renowned for its numerous traditional buildings, shrines, and temples.

Approximately 1,500 sakura trees can be found in this region, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of cherry blossoms.

The Togetsukyo Bridge, located near Arashiyama Station, is one of the most popular cherry blossom viewing spots. Additionally, this area is famous for its bamboo thickets and vibrant autumn foliage.

15. Heian Jingu Shrine

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Heian Jingu Shrine was built in 1895 to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of the capital's relocation to Heiankyo, which later became Kyoto.

The main shrine is situated next to a beautiful Japanese garden and is renowned as a cherry blossom viewing spot. Visitors are welcomed by the deep pink blooms of a rare cherry blossom variety known as "yae-benishidare-zakura."

In early April, the sakura trees are illuminated at night, allowing visitors to enjoy the enchanting sight of nighttime cherry blossoms.

Western Japan: 5 Must-See Cherry Blossom Spots in Osaka and Nara

16. Nara Park

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Nara Park is a symbolic site in Nara City, home to famous temples and shrines designated as World Heritage Sites, such as Todaiji Temple. The park is also well-known for its wild deer and squirrels that roam freely.

Within the park, visitors can find a smaller variety of cherry blossom known as 'nara-no-yaezakura.' Here, guests can enjoy both the beautiful cherry blossoms and the playful wildlife, creating a perfect experience to welcome the arrival of spring.

17. Mt. Yoshino in Nara

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Mt. Yoshino is the place where the tradition of viewing cherry blossoms started. The beauty of this mountain covered by sakura trees in full bloom has been sung in poems from the Nara (710-784) and Heian (794-1185) periods.

Mt. Yoshino is also known as a sacred peak that serves as a training ground for shugendo ascetics. Kinpusenji Temple, located on this mountain, has been designated a World Heritage site.

From Osaka, Yoshino can be easily reached by a limited express train from Abenohashi Station (Kintetsu Line). If you depart from Nara, take the Kintetsu Line limited express and change trains at Saidaiji - Kashiharajingu-Mae Station (the ride takes about one hour and 5 minutes).

18. Koriyama Castle in Nara

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Koriyama Castle, located at Yamatokoriyama City in the northern area of Nara prefecture, is one of the best sakura viewing spots in the prefecture. The castle was built in 1580 and has been famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot for more than 400 years.

It is also known as the gotenzakura (sakura area of the palace), as there are more than 1000 sakura trees here. The Yamatokoriyama Castle Festival is held every year, from late March to early April.

19. Okawa Riverside in Osaka

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Okawa runs along the borders of Miyakojima and Kita wards in Osaka. The Kema-Sakuranomiya Park on the Miyakojima side and the Zohei-kyoku (Mint Bureau) on the Kita side are both famous cherry blossom viewing spots.

Kema-Sakuranomiya Park stretches for 4.2 kilometers along both sides of the Okawa River. Nearby, you can find buildings from the early Meiji period, including the Zohei-kyoku and the Sempukan (the former guesthouse of the Mint Bureau).

In spring, 4,800 cherry trees bloom in the park, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenic riverside views, as well as nighttime cruises on the Okawa River.

20. Osaka Castle

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Osaka Castle, located in Osaka City, was built by Hideyoshi Toyotomi, one of Japan's prominent leaders during the Sengoku period, and later renovated by shogun Ieyasu Tokugawa (1543 - 1616). It is considered one of the three best castles in Japan, featuring an impressive architectural presence.

The Nishinomaru Garden, designated as an important cultural asset by Osaka City, is renowned as a cherry blossom viewing spot, featuring 300 sakura trees. Additionally, there is an ume (Japanese plum) grove, allowing visitors to enjoy a wide variety of flowers.

For more cherry blossom viewing spots in western Japan (Kansai), refer to the following article.

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Southern Japan - 10 Recommended Cherry Blossom Spots

21. Hiroshima - Senkoji Park

Photograph provided by Onomichi Tourist Association

Onomichi is a popular sightseeing destination in Hiroshima Prefecture. Senkoji Park, located near the Seto Inland Sea, is a prominent cherry blossom spot in Onomichi. Rising about 100 meters above the sea, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city and the surrounding islands.

Onomichi is home to various shrines, temples, and historic monuments. It also serves as the entrance to the Shimanami Kaido, a highway that connects the islands in the Seto Inland Sea and is popular among cyclists. Visitors can take a ropeway to reach the top of the park.

22. Hiroshima - Ueno Park

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Ueno Park, located in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot nestled around Ueno Pond. In spring, sakura trees bloom along the two-kilometer circumference of the pond, creating a vibrant and picturesque setting.

Each year in April, the Shobara-Ueno Cherry Blossoms Festival takes place, featuring a nighttime view of the red bridge over the pond that is beautifully illuminated, enhancing the charm of the yozakura (nighttime cherry blossom light-ups).

It takes about 90 minutes by car from Hiroshima City to Shobara, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone visiting Hiroshima.

23. Tottori - Utsubuki Park

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Utsubuki Park, located in Kurayoshi City in Tottori Prefecture, is situated at the foot of Mt. Utsubuki, a local symbol. In spring, various types of flowers bloom, attracting many visitors to enjoy the cherry blossoms.

Mt. Utsubuki has been recognized as one of the 100 forests in Japan ideal for Shinrin-yoku (a therapeutic forest walk), offering a peaceful atmosphere. At night, 500 bonbori (*1) of various sizes illuminate the cherry blossoms, creating a magical view of the yozakura.

*1 Bonbori: Illuminations with paper or silk shades.

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24. Ehime - Hirakiyama Park

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Hirakiyama Park, located in Imabari City in Ehime Prefecture, sits 149 meters above sea level atop Mt. Hirakiyama. In spring, approximately 1,000 sakura trees bloom, creating a beautiful display.

From the observatory in the park, visitors can enjoy views of nearby attractions, including Hakata Island, Ohshima Bridge, Omishima Bridge, and Tatara Bridge, all framed by the cherry blossoms. The park also features a slide and a jungle gym, making it an excellent destination for families.

25. Kagawa - Ritsurin Park

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Ritsurin Park, located in Takamatsu City, is a historic garden established during the Edo period (1603-1868). It is a cultural asset designated as the only "special place of scenic beauty" in the Shikoku region by the Japanese Government. In 2009, the guidebook "Le Guide Vert Japon" awarded Ritsurin Park three stars, attracting the attention of international visitors.

In spring, 290 sakura trees bloom within the park, enhancing the beauty of the six ponds and thirteen mounds that are thoughtfully arranged throughout the garden. There is also a restaurant that offers Japanese-style lunches and matcha tea, allowing visitors to spend a full day enjoying the garden.

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26. Kumamoto Castle

Photograph courtesy of Kumamoto Castle Office

Kumamoto Castle, located in Kumamoto City, is a local symbol and is widely regarded as one of the three best castles in Japan. Built around 400 years ago, the impressive black exterior of the castle makes a striking visual statement.

In spring, the sakura trees on the castle grounds bloom, creating a beautiful contrast between the monochromatic castle and the delicate pink flowers. The sakura trees are illuminated at night, making an evening visit particularly worthwhile.

27. Nagasaki - Ohmura Park

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Ohmura Park is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot located in Ohmura City, Nagasaki Prefecture. The park features 21 varieties of sakura, with a total of 2,100 trees.

One of its highlights is the Ohmura-zakura, which has been designated as a natural monument by the Japanese government. This rare type of cherry blossom has more petals than ordinary sakura and boasts a flamboyant appearance akin to that of a rose. Most Japanese citizens have yet to see it, so if you have the opportunity, be sure to visit the park.

28. Saga - Mifuneyama Rakuen Park

Mifuneyama Rakuen (The Paradise of Mt. Mifune), located in Takeo, Saga Prefecture, is a magnificent park where visitors can appreciate the seasonal transformations of the landscape. In spring, over 2,000 sakura trees and 20,000 azaleas bloom, creating a vibrant and enchanting scene.

During the Hanamatsuri (flower festival), which begins in late March, the sakura trees are beautifully illuminated at night. The park also features restaurants and tea houses, allowing visitors to enjoy a leisurely time amidst the stunning natural beauty.

29. Miyazaki - Saitobaru Kofun District

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Saitobaru Kofungun (burial mounds), located in Saito, Miyazaki Prefecture, is a park set amidst historic remains. In spring, both sakura and colza flowers bloom, adding vibrant colors to the landscape, while cosmos flowers bloom in autumn.

At Goryohakamae, situated within the cluster of burial mounds, visitors are greeted by 2,000 sakura trees and 300,000 colza plants. The striking contrast between the pink cherry blossoms and the bright yellow colza creates a captivating display that attracts many visitors.

30. Fukuoka - Maizuru Park

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Maizuru Park, located in Fukuoka City, is situated on the former site of Fukuoka Castle, which has a history spanning 400 years. In spring, the park becomes a popular cherry blossom viewing spot.

During the cherry blossom season, the "Fukuoka Castle Sakura Matsuri" is held, featuring various events such as nighttime illuminations and open-air stalls throughout the grounds. This festive atmosphere makes it an ideal place to enjoy the cherry blossoms.

For more information on beautiful cherry blossom spots in Kyushu, read the following article:

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Northern Japan - 10 Recommended Cherry Blossom Spots

31. Iwate - Koiwai Farm

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Koiwai Farm is situated in the hills of Mt. Iwate in Iwate Prefecture. Visitors can take in the breathtaking views of the mountain while observing sheep roaming the pastures. The farm also features a cow barn and various recreational facilities, making it an ideal destination for visitors of all ages.

One of the most striking sights at Koiwai Farm is the solitary sakura tree, which stands nobly against the backdrop of Mt. Iwate. The combination of the lush green pasture, the majestic mountain, and the single cherry blossom tree creates a truly picturesque viewing spot.

32. Akita - Kakunodate

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Kakunodate, located in Senboku City in Akita Prefecture, is an elegant historic town known for its rows of traditional samurai houses. A portion of the town has been designated as a cultural asset by the Japanese government, allowing visitors to enjoy scenic views framed by the surrounding mountains.

The town is renowned for its famous 300-year-old weeping cherry trees, which are beautifully illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere for evening visitors.

33. Yamagata - Matsugasaki Park

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Matsugasaki Park, located in Yonezawa, Yamagata Prefecture, is situated on the former site of Yonezawa Castle. In spring, 200 sakura trees lining the moat bloom, drawing many visitors to the park.

The reflection of the cherry blossoms on the surface of the moat, along with the petals gently floating on it, creates a stunning visual spectacle that is truly a sight to behold.

34. Fukushima - Natsui Senbonzakura

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At Onomachi in Tamura, Fukushima Prefecture, there is a cherry blossom viewing spot known as Natsui Senbonzakura (the Thousand Cherry Trees of Natsui). Approximately 1,000 cherry trees line both sides of the Natsui River, extending for five kilometers.

Visitors can also enjoy the sight of koinobori (carp streamers) alongside the sakura. Since the cherry blossoms bloom later in the Tohoku region, the unique combination of koinobori and cherry blossoms can only be experienced in this area.

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35. Aomori - Towada City, Kancho-gai Avenue

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Kancho-gai Dori (the public agencies district) is a cherry blossom viewing spot located in Towada City, Aomori Prefecture. In spring, 150 sakura trees bloom along the street, creating a beautiful soft pink hue.

In Towada, visitors can appreciate the striking contrast between the green pine trees and the pink cherry blossoms. After full bloom, the streets are beautifully adorned with a pink carpet of scattered petals.

36. Nishi Park in Sendai

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Nishi Park, located in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, is a renowned cherry blossom viewing spot where visitors enjoy food and drinks while sitting on blue tarpaulins spread out on the ground.

Although reservations are required in advance, air-conditioned tents equipped with cushions are also available, making this park a favored cherry blossom destination for the people of Sendai.

37. Matsumae Park

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Matsumae Park, located in Matsumae, southern Hokkaido, is situated on the former site of Matsumae Castle. As the only jokamachi (*2) in Hokkaido, the park is known as a "sakura village," featuring 250 different types and a total of ten thousand cherry trees that bloom in spring.

During the cherry blossom season, the Matsumae Sakura Festival takes place, offering attractions such as musha (warrior) parades and dance performances. Each type of sakura blooms according to its own schedule, allowing visitors to enjoy the flowers for over a month.

*2 Jokamachi: A town that developed around a castle, with remnants such as stone walls and moats.

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38. Hidaka - Shizunai Nijukken Road

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Shizunai Nijukken Road, located in the Hidaka district of Hokkaido, is a renowned cherry blossom viewing spot that stretches along a straight road. The sakura trees, transplanted from nearby mountains, line the road for approximately seven kilometers.

Designated as a Hokkaido Heritage site, Shizunai Nijukken Road is recognized for its significance and is valued as an asset to be preserved for future generations. It has become a prominent cherry blossom viewing destination in Japan, attracting around 200,000 visitors who come to appreciate the rows of cherry trees in early May.

39. Hakodate - Goryokaku Tower

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Goryokaku Tower is an observatory located in Hakodate, offering stunning views of the star-shaped Goryokaku Park below. The park is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot, where 1,600 sakura trees bloom every spring.

During this season, the view from the tower is particularly captivating, as it reveals a landscape painted in shades of pink. Visitors can enjoy this unique perspective from the tower, which features a transparent floor made of reinforced glass.

Additionally, the facility includes a restaurant and café, allowing visitors to relax and savor the scenery at their leisure.

40. Sapporo - Moerenuma Park

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Moerenuma Park is a large park located in Sapporo, Hokkaido, designed by the renowned sculptor Isamu Noguchi. The park features a unique design with geometric-shaped hills, fountains, and playground equipment scattered throughout the area.

The Sakura Forest, where 2,300 sakura trees bloom in spring, serves as the park's cherry blossom viewing spot. In this space, visitors can appreciate the beautiful harmony of nature and art.

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Central Japan - 5 Great Cherry Blossom Spots

41. Niigata - Takada Park

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Takada Park is a renowned cherry blossom viewing spot located in Joetsu, Niigata Prefecture. The park is built on the former site of Takada Castle, which was constructed during the Edo Period. Visitors can explore the remnants of the town that once flourished around the castle.

Takada Park is recognized as one of the top three locations in Japan to view yozakura (night cherry blossoms), as the entire park—including the row of sakura trees known as Sakura Road—is beautifully illuminated at night. This makes it a must-visit destination after sunset.

42. Nagano - Takato Joshi Park

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Takato Joshi Park in Nagano Prefecture is situated on the former site of Takato Castle. It is renowned as a cherry blossom viewing spot and is listed among the top three viewing locations in Japan.

The local sakura, known as Takato kohigan-zakura, is a smaller variety with reddish flowers. This charming flower has been hailed as the best in the world, and the trees in the park are designated as natural monuments by Nagano Prefecture. This unique type of sakura can only be appreciated at Takato Joshi Park.

43. Nagano - Matsumoto Castle

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Matsumoto Castle in Nagano Prefecture is designated as a national treasure and is one of the few castles in Japan with its original tower still intact. Often referred to as "Kurosagi" (black reef heron) castle due to its striking black exterior, it attracts many visitors in spring who come to enjoy the cherry blossoms.

The castle grounds feature 300 sakura trees, and the view of the blossoms against the backdrop of the black castle is particularly popular among visitors. Additionally, the cherry blossoms are beautifully illuminated at night, further enhancing the appeal of this scenic location.

44. Kanazawa - Kenrokuen Garden

Kenrokuen, located in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, is one of Japan's top gardens, established during the Edo Period. It is ranked among the three best Japanese gardens in the country and features over 400 sakura trees.

The garden is home to many historic sakura trees, including a rare variety known as Kenrokuen Kikuzakura, which can only be found in this garden. In early April, the sakura trees are beautifully illuminated at night, and Kenrokuen is open to the public for free, allowing visitors to appreciate its beauty at any time.

45. Nagoya: Nagoya Castle

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Nagoya Castle was built during the Edo Period and is considered one of the three best castles in Japan. The castle is famously topped with a golden shachihoko, a mythical creature with a lion-like head, which has become a symbol of Nagoya.

The castle grounds feature around 1,000 sakura trees, and the breathtaking view of the cherry blossoms coupled with the castle tower creates a stunning sight. Visitors can enjoy a variety of perspectives on the cherry blossoms and the castle throughout the site.

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Cherry Blossoms in Japanese Culture

The cherry tree is a deciduous tree belonging to the rose family, found in the temperate zones of the northern hemisphere, including regions of East Asia, Europe, and North America. In spring, pink and white flowers bloom, primarily for decorative purposes.

Cherry blossoms have been regarded as a symbol of spring in Japan since the Heian era (794 - 1185), becoming deeply ingrained in the cultural consciousness of the country. They typically bloom in April, marking the beginning of a new year in terms of business and academics. The cherry blossoms symbolize new beginnings, such as graduations, entering new schools, or starting new jobs, making them truly special flowers in Japan.

In the language of flowers, cherry blossoms represent innocence and the spirit of beauty, as they bloom quickly, live for a short time, and then fall away. This fleeting nature adds to their allure, while their life cycle resonates with the concept of bushido, or the warrior spirit, in Japanese culture.

Currently, Japan boasts over 600 types of sakura, with the Somei-Yoshino—popularized after the Meiji Period (1868 - 1912)—being the most prevalent. Exploring the various types of cherry blossoms across the country can be an enjoyable experience, offering insights into their unique characteristics.

Cherry Blossom Viewing Parties: Hanami

In Japan, there is an event called hanami or 'cherry blossom viewing party' in spring, where people gather to enjoy the sakura in full bloom. This section explores its history and the etiquette one should observe at hanami parties.

History - Cherry Blossom Viewing Began in the Heian Period

Hanami is believed to have originated during the Heian era, when aristocrats would gather under the cherry blossoms to compose poetry.

The Tale of Genji, recognized as the oldest novel in Japan, contains accounts of hanami parties, illustrating this custom among the nobility.

Over the years, cherry blossom viewing parties gained popularity among the common people. Today, hanami is cherished as an opportunity to enjoy picnics while admiring the beautiful flowers, bringing together friends and families to celebrate the arrival of spring.

What You Need for a Cherry Blossom Viewing Party

The general idea of hanami is to find a suitable spot to view the cherry blossoms, spread a tarpaulin sheet on the ground, and sit down to appreciate the flowers. Participants typically bring their own food and drinks, along with disposable paper cups and plates, to enjoy a picnic beneath the blooming sakura.

This gathering under the cherry blossoms fosters a sense of community and celebration, as friends and family come together to delight in nature's beauty and the arrival of spring.

Important Manners during Cherry Blossom Viewing

Many people come to view the beautiful sakura, and the proper manners of hanami have become an issue. The following are some points to watch out for.

Don't Leave Your Trash Behind, Sort It Out

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At cherry blossom viewing parties, people gather to enjoy meals with friends and family in public parks and similar locations. As the number of participants increases, so does the amount of trash generated; however, it is essential to avoid leaving any litter behind or simply discarding it carelessly.

Major viewing spots are equipped with trash bins, so it’s important to utilize these facilities. When disposing of your waste, make sure to sort it into appropriate categories, such as burnable waste, non-burnable garbage, and recyclable items like plastics, cans, and bottles.

This practice ensures that the beauty of the natural surroundings is preserved for everyone to enjoy.

Do Not Harm the Cherry Blossoms

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At hanami parties, participants can appreciate the cherry blossoms up close. However, some may be tempted to break off a branch to take home or shake the tree to watch the petals fall. It's important to remember that sakura are delicate plants, and such actions can harm the trees, potentially preventing them from blooming in the future.

When attending a hanami party, it is best to avoid touching the trees and instead focus on enjoying the beautiful view. This respectful approach helps preserve the cherry blossoms for everyone to enjoy and ensures that they continue to thrive for future generations.

Bonus! Enjoy Spring with Cherry Blossom Flavored Sweets

The brief period when the sakura is in bloom is a truly special season in Japan, and locals celebrate the joy of witnessing the beautiful cherry blossoms in various ways. Participating in hanami parties is one of these traditions.

Another delightful way to embrace the arrival of spring is by enjoying sakura-flavored sweets and drinks, often beautifully decorated with cherry blossom motifs.

In supermarkets, you will find an array of sakura-flavored chocolates, sweets, and beverages, all available for a limited time. If you have the opportunity, be sure to try them!

Famous confectionery stores in Japan create special sakura sweets during this season, which are typically exquisite pastries worth exploring. For a selection of spring-limited ice cream, parfaits, and cakes inspired by cherry blossoms, please check out this article:

One of the traditional sweets you simply have to try during the cherry blossom season is sakura mochi. This delightful treat is made with sweet mochi rice and a red bean paste filling, all wrapped in a pickled sakura leaf. The unique combination of the sweet filling and the salty-sour flavor of the leaf creates a truly memorable taste experience.

Sakura mochi has been cherished in Japan for centuries, and there are even regional variations. It’s highly recommended to try both the Kanto and Kansai versions, as they each offer distinct flavors and preparations that reflect their cultural influences.

During the cherry blossom season, convenience stores and supermarkets feature a delightful selection of sakura-flavored or sakura-inspired drinks available for a limited time.

There is a wide variety of delicious non-alcoholic beverages, allowing everyone to partake in the celebration and enjoy the seasonal flavors!

Moreover, at restaurants like Ginza Sushi Ojima or Akasaka Kinryu, which specialize in kaiseki cuisine (Japan's refined traditional cuisine), you can savor sophisticated dishes adorned with cherry blossoms or featuring sakura-inspired motifs.

During the cherry blossom season, dishes made with high-quality sakura shrimp also gain immense popularity, showcasing the flavors of spring.

We highly recommend taking full advantage of this unique season by indulging in dishes, sweets, and drinks that celebrate or are inspired by cherry blossoms. This culinary experience enhances the enjoyment of the beautiful surroundings and the spirit of hanami.

Enjoy the Cherry Blossom Season in Japan!

Cherry blossoms are a unique and cherished aspect of spring in Japan, embodying a cultural significance that is difficult to capture in just a single word. If you have the opportunity to visit Japan during this enchanting season, use this article as a guide to enhance your experience.

Main image by Pixta