By MOOK Scenic Spots Home Travel Life Network Editorial Team
As spring approaches, the most beautiful cherry blossoms will gradually bloom. Japan, the top cherry blossom destination for Taiwanese travelers, typically sees its cherry blossom season begin from late March to early April. However, some places can enjoy cherry blossoms as early as January and February, along with events such as cherry blossom festivals. Don’t miss out if you want to see these early spring blooms.
Motobu Yaedake Cherry Blossom Festival. (Image source / Okinawa Tourism Website)
The earliest place in Japan where cherry blossoms bloom is Okinawa, starting progressively from around late January, progressing from north to south across the main island. The cherry blossoms in Okinawa are of the Beni-shidare variety (also known as Kanhi-zakura), which have bell-shaped flowers that bloom downward, with colors ranging from light peach pink to deep pink. For cherry blossoms to bloom, a certain level of cold is required, so the blossoms in Okinawa first appear on the mountains in the north, then spread southward within about one to two weeks. During this time, cherry blossom festivals are held across various regions. Unlike the common Japanese custom of enjoying cherry blossoms under the trees with friends while drinking, in Okinawa, it’s customary to stroll and admire the flowers under the blossoming trees.
The earliest place in Japan where cherry blossoms bloom is Okinawa. (Image source / Okinawa Convention & Visitors Bureau Visit Okinawa TW)
● Kin Town Gyokusendo Cherry Blossom Festival
Dates: January 23, 2016 – February 7, 2016
Location: Kin Town Ruins
Kin Town Gyokusendo Cherry Blossom Festival. (Image source / Okinawa Tourism Website)
● Motobu Yaedake Cherry Blossom Festival
Dates: January 23, 2016 – February 7, 2017
Illumination Hours: January 23, 2016 – February 7, 2017, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Yaedake Sakura no Mori Park
● Yaese Park Cherry Blossom Festival
Date: February 7, 2016
Illumination Hours: January 22, 2016 – February 7, 2016, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Yaese Park
Yaese Cherry Blossom Festival. (Image source / Okinawa Tourism Website)
● Nago Cherry Blossom Festival
Dates: January 30, 2016 – January 31, 2016
Location: Around Nago Castle 0??な?致芳坝；ü?凹/span>
● Naha Cherry Blossom Festival
Dates: February 10, 2016 – February 14, 2016
Location: Yogi Park, Naha City
Kawazu-zakura. (Image source / Kawazu Town Tourism Association)
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