This year, head here for cherry blossom viewing! A lazy guide to Japan’s famous cherry blossom spots

By / MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

Cherry blossom season is an annual floral highlight, with many people traveling specifically to Japan to enjoy the romantic ambiance of the pink blooms. Below is a curated list of top cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan that travelers may want to consider when planning their trips. Japanese meteorological agencies are also continuously updating their forecasts, and due to the heavy snowfall this year, blooming dates will be slightly delayed.

Kanto Region: Meguro River, Ueno Park, Asukayama Park, Sensoji Temple, Fujikawaguchiko Monument
The Kanto region generally sees blossoms from late March to early April, with Tokyo’s blooming date around March 27 and full bloom on April 3.

Kansai Region: Osaka Castle Park, Mint Bureau, Momijidani Park, Expo '70 Commemorative Park, Katsuoji Temple

The Kansai and Kinki regions typically see blossoms from late March to early April, with Osaka blooming on March 28 and reaching full bloom on April 3, while Kobe blooms on March 30 and reaches full bloom on April 5.

Kyoto: Yodogawa Riverside Park Back Dike in Yawata City, both banks of the Kamo River, Heian Shrine, Hirano Shrine, Arashiyama, Daigoji Temple, yG Garden, Himeji Castle

Cherry blossoms in Kyoto bloom around March 29 and reach full bloom on April 5.

Kyushu Region: Fukuoka – Maizuru Park, Nagasaki – Omura Park, Kumamoto – Suizenji Garden, Saga – Ogura Park, Miyazaki – Motegi Park, Kagoshima – Senganen Garden, Oita – Okayama Castle Ruins

Kyushu sees cherry blossoms earlier, around late March, with Kumamoto blooming on March 22 and reaching full bloom on March 30, and Fukuoka blooming on March 24 and reaching full bloom on March 31.