Have you gone cherry blossom viewing this year? When spring comes, travelers flock to Japan for hanami, and the romantic sight of falling petals is truly enchanting. Every year from January to February, predictions about when cherry blossoms will bloom and reach full bloom are the hottest topics. Cherry blossom enthusiasts eagerly await the buds opening and the spectacular sight of petals scattering during full bloom. Travel experts share with everyone...Don’t worry about the short cherry blossom season in Japan—go for the beauty of full bloom. From March to May across Japan, cherry blossoms gradually reach their peak. If you’re thinking of going cherry blossom viewing in Japan, now is the time to go.
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In 2018, the estimated blooming times for cherry blossoms in western and eastern Japan were similar to the past five-year average. Due to low pressure and cold air in the first half of March, it will be colder than usual, so cherry buds will bloom a bit later. The weather will start warming up after mid-March, so keep an eye on the best times for cherry blossom viewing.
?Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo: Nighttime cherry blossoms are incredibly romantic
Tokyo cherry blossom forecast: Bloom on 3/21, Full bloom on 3/29
Although Yasukuni Shrine has been somewhat controversial due to the enshrinement of Class-A war criminals after World War II—which led to Emperor Showa ceasing visits and the current Emperor also not visiting—it remains a very popular cherry blossom spot in Tokyo. Especially at night, the illuminated cherry blossoms complement the solemn torii gates, and the usual tranquility of the night is shattered by the cherry blossom viewing craze. The approach is lined with various Japanese food stalls, making for a lively atmosphere.
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?Ueno Park in Tokyo: Cherry blossom viewing under the trees
Tokyo cherry blossom forecast: Bloom on 3/23, Full bloom on 3/31
Dreaming of a scene straight out of a Japanese drama, enjoying cherry blossoms under the trees with a picnic blanket? Ueno Park in Tokyo is a great choice for cherry blossom viewing in Japan. Here you can see office workers unwinding after work, college students sharing bentos, and laughter filling the air—it’s truly a lively scene. This renowned cherry blossom spot in Ueno Park hangs 1,000 lanterns during the cherry blossom season, creating a romantic night cherry blossom ambiance, perfect for couples to take a stroll. Additionally, there’s an antique fair nearby—be sure to check it out if you have time.
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?Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto: A regionally iconic cherry blossom spot
Kyoto cherry blossom forecast: Bloom on 3/31, Full bloom on 4/6
For cherry blossom viewing in Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera Temple is the top recommendation. With a history spanning centuries, its shrine architecture is very well-known and it’s a must-visit spot in Kyoto. Conveniently located with many nearby attractions, Kiyomizu-dera Temple is also a highly representative Japanese cherry blossom destination in the Kyoto area during cherry blossom season. On the way to the temple, there are many shops featuring Kyoto specialties, and you can also take a stroll around Yasaka Shrine—it’s a great place for a relaxing cherry blossom experience.
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?Osaka Castle Park: A cherry blossom spot enhanced by lush surroundings
Osaka cherry blossom forecast: Bloom on 3/28, Full bloom on 4/4
Next, we arrived in Osaka, where the most famous cherry blossom spot is none other than the illustrious Osaka Castle. The park is home to as many as 3,000 cherry trees, attracting numerous visitors during the blooming season. For an even denser display of blossoms, head to Nishinomaru Garden, where you can admire Osaka Castle cradled by a sea of cherry blooms. At night, the cherry blossoms are illuminated, creating a truly romantic atmosphere.
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?Goryokaku Park in Hakodate? A cherry blossom spot with a unique charm
Estimated cherry blossom bloom in Hakodate, Hokkaido: flowers open on April 30, full bloom on May 4
When it comes to cherry blossom spots in Hokkaido, Japan, Goryokaku Park in Hakodate is a must-know destination. It’s not only a highly popular tourist attraction in Hakodate but also a beloved urban garden for locals. Moreover, the standard tree that the Hakodate Meteorological Observatory uses to announce the start of the blooming season is located right here in Goryokaku Park. With around 1,600 Somei Yoshino cherry trees planted within the park, when the season arrives, they all bloom simultaneously. From the observation deck of Goryokaku Tower, you can gaze down upon a massive pink star. At night, about 450 lanterns are hung throughout the park, creating a beautiful and romantic night view. One season, two unique faces—this is definitely a Japanese cherry blossom spot worth visiting.
The climate in northern Japan is much colder compared to other regions, so cherry blossoms bloom a little later. For example, Fukushima Prefecture is expected to see blossoms on April 9, while Hokkaido blooms on May 3. If you can’t make it in March, you can still enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms all the way through May.
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?Japanese Cherry Blossom Basics
Every spring, the craze for cherry blossom viewing in Japan reaches a frenzy. But how exactly is the bloom declaration made? It’s actually based on specific cherry blossom trees (sample trees) designated in each prefecture across Japan. When 5–6 blossoms are observed on the sample tree, it’s called the “bloom” stage, while “full bloom” refers to when approximately 80% of the blossoms on the tree have opened.
That’s why Travel Ka recommends visiting during full bloom—you’ll have a great chance to witness the spectacular sight of a pink, romantic sea of blossoms, without worrying about sparse flowers. Don’t wait—head over to Travel Ka now to search for premium group tour packages.
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