Top Sakura Spots in Japan Most Popular Among Japanese in 2015 for Your Japan Trip

    When the gentle spring breeze greets your face, the cherry blossom season has quietly arrived. In the long, north-to-south stretch of Japan, from late March to mid-May, cherry blossoms are in full bloom everywhere. The Japanese call this the "cherry blossom front," a much-anticipated spring event. Japan has countless cherry trees and hundreds of flower-viewing spots, but only certain places offer the most exquisite sakura sights. Some centuries-old, dreamlike single cherry trees are also full of charm. So today, we’re introducing Japan’s latest sakura hotspots — the most popular among Japanese locals in 2015. Friends planning a Japan trip, be sure to save these spots for your journey!

    Every cherry blossom season, Tokyo — the “capital of fashion” — becomes even more romantic under the blanket of pink blooms. Against such a beautiful backdrop, you might just find yourself living out a truly picturesque “Tokyo Love Story.”

    When it comes to cherry blossoms in Tokyo, Chidorigafuchi Greenway is the most lively spot. It refers to the scenic street lined with beautiful cherry trees along the moat west of the Imperial Palace in central Tokyo. You can also take a boat ride on the moat and admire the blossoms from the water — a uniquely charming experience. During the sakura season, locals gather under the trees, sitting on the ground to enjoy the flowers while chatting, drinking, and singing karaoke — an experience you won’t want to miss.

 

TIPS: [Transportation] Take the Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo for about 3 hours and 20 minutes to reach Aomori, then transfer to the Tsugaru limited express train for about 30 minutes to arrive at Hirosaki Station

Cherry Blossom Viewing Tips

[Weather] Spring is warm and dry, with temperatures around 15–19°C. Travelers should bring skincare products. On sunny days, apply sunscreen when going out.

[Cherry Blossom Festivals] From April 1 to 30 every year, the famous Miyako Odori dance performances are held by Kyoto geisha at the Gion district’s Kamogawa Odori performance hall on Hanami Lane.

[Clothing] Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking. Bring sweaters and jackets for spring, and a travel windbreaker is both convenient and practical.

[Booking Flights] By mid-March, you should have a good idea of when the cherry blossoms will bloom. But waiting to see before booking flights may make it hard to get one. If the weather is unusual and the blossoms bloom too early or too late, there is some flexibility. To ensure you see them, it’s best to book flights a bit later (from April 1 onward).

[Itinerary Planning] Choose accommodations with internet access so you can check the blooming updates anytime. Being flexible with your schedule is important. Train stations often post notices showing the cherry blossom conditions at various spots.