A Grand Comparison of Cherry Blossoms in Taiwan, Japan, and Korea: The Rankings of the Most Beloved Blossom-Spotting Destinations Are Out!

▲ Japan’s cherry blossom tourism is highly developed(Photo / PAKUTAS).

Tourism Center / Comprehensive Report

As the Spring Festival approaches, along with the exciting season of cherry blossoms in full bloom, the beautiful sight of pink petals falling like soft snow is beloved by many. However, Taiwan, Japan, and Korea all offer fantastic cherry blossom viewing spots,on the 22nd, Daily View Network Temperature Gauge released the “Top 10 Cherry Blossom Spots in Taiwan, Japan, and Korea” with the highest online discussion— which one makes you the most excited?

No. 1: Ueno Park, Tokyo
Conveniently located, just a 2-minute walk from the JR Ueno Park exit. Every cherry blossom season, thousands of Somei Yoshino and other cherry trees burst into bloom, creating a magnificent “cherry blossom avenue” within the park. At night, thousands of lanterns light up the sky, offering breathtaking views both day and night. Being ranked No. 1, however, means large crowds are inevitable, so be prepared for a packed experience.

No. 2: Nara Park, Nara
In addition to getting up close with deer, Nara Park is also a prime cherry blossom destination. Spanning 660 hectares, the area includes landmarks such as Todai-ji and Kofuku-ji temples. With varieties like Nara’s eight-petal and nine-petal cherry blossoms, the vast space helps avoid overcrowding, making cherry blossom viewing a more relaxing experience.

▲ You can play with deer and enjoy cherry blossoms in Nara Park. (Photo / Unnamed)

No. 3: Alishan
Alishan’s cherry blossoms are widely known. Every year when the blooming season begins in March, crowds flock to the area. One must-see is the famed “Alishan Cherry King,” a Somei Yoshino cherry tree. Traffic control is enforced during this period, so it’s wise to check the routes in advance before setting off.

▲ Alishan’s cherry blossoms are the most famous in Taiwan. (Photo / Reporter You T-Ru)

No. 4: Kyung Hee University, Seoul
Established in 1949, Kyung Hee University’s campus is filled with Gothic-style buildings that make you feel like you’re in Europe — extremely picturesque and perfect for photos. When cherry blossom season arrives at the end of March, the pink blossoms complement the Gothic structures, offering diverse scenic views from every angle. The dreamy atmosphere is off the charts, making girls snap photos non-stop.

▲ Kyung Hee University in Seoul, Korea. (Photo / Screenshot from Wiki)

No. 5: Tamsui Tianyuan Temple
Located in Tamsui, Tianyuan Temple has long been a popular cherry blossom spot. The “Cherry King” Somei Yoshino tree, which was dubbed as such, suddenly died last November, much to the dismay of visitors. In response, the temple has planted new cherry trees. Everyone is eagerly awaiting when the second “Cherry King” will mature and officially greet guests.

▲ Last year, the death of Tianyuan Temple’s Cherry King drew many visitors. (Photo / Eastern TV News)

No. 6: Wuling Farm
Due to its high-altitude location, Wuling Farm’s cherry blossom season arrives earlier, from February 11 to 28 this year. During this period, daily visitor numbers are limited to 6,000, and all vehicles must obtain a pre-approved pass. Additionally, there are six cherry blossom shuttle bus routes, with advance ticket sales opening on January 24.

▲ Wuling Farm’s cherry blossom season has begun. (Photo / Provided by the Highway Bureau)

No. 7: Yangmingshan
Known as the “Back Garden of Taipei,” Yangmingshan’s cherry blossom season starts on February 10 this year. Beyond specific hotspots, even the Pingjing Street cherry blossom trail sees blooms bursting from residential areas. Due to its convenient transport, crowds are unavoidable, so pay attention to traffic controls and consider taking a bus up on weekdays.

▲ Cherry blossoms on Pingjing Street, Yangmingshan (Photo / Provided by netizen iceolai, please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

No. 8: Ji’an Township, Hualien
Ji’an Township in Hualien features four major cherry blossom trails: Maple Forest, Sunshine, White Cloud, and Sunny. The trails are covered with mountain cherry blossoms, whose beauty rivals that of Wuling Farm and Yangmingshan. Compared to the crowded west, the tranquility of the east is even more alluring, making it a great cherry blossom escape away from the concrete jungle.

No. 9: Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is beautiful in all seasons. It’s a popular spot for autumn foliage, and in spring, you can enjoy cherry blossoms. When night falls, the cherry blossoms are also illuminated by spotlights, highlighting the different views between day and night and captivating all who see them.

▲ Night illumination at Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto (Photo / from Kiyomizu-dera’s Facebook page.)

No. 10: Heian Shrine in Kyoto
Heian Shrine boasts Kyoto’s largest torii gate. The shrine’s gardens, known as Heian Shrine Garden, are planted with numerous weeping double-petal cherry blossoms and are one of Japan’s famous cherry blossom viewing spots. A Night Cherry Blossom Concert is held every year. Though tickets are required and dates are limited, visitors who have attended highly recommend it for the breathtaking night scene where music and cherry blossoms intertwine.

▲ Weeping cherry blossoms at Heian Shrine in Kyoto, Japan (Photo / Provided by Jean.)