The warm spring sunshine spills over the gardens, accompanied by the chirping of insects and birds—it’s a beautiful March scene indeed. Those in the know all understand that the top priority every spring is to go cherry blossom viewing in Japan. Whether you’re with your besties, your sweetheart, or the whole family, just pick a popular cherry blossom spot in Japan, plan a four-day-three-night trip, grab a cheap flight, book a hotel, and this super girly pink dream will be absolutely unforgettable!
Haven’t had a good relaxation in a while?? Time for a trip?
Join TravelCafe membership and enjoy exclusive perks? Get 500 travel credits instantly upon joining?
nbsp;
nbsp;
Cherry Blossom Update Alert！Top 7 Popular Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan
Starting from January or February each year, the Japan Meteorological Agency updates cherry blossom forecasts (see the image below for the 2018 predictions). Generally speaking, if the climate is warmer, the blooming period of cherry blossoms will be delayed. Take an early look at the latest 2018 predictions—have you already planned your cherry blossom trip? Below, let’s take a look at seven of the most popular cherry blossom spots in Japan. If you haven’t planned your itinerary yet, why not follow this guide?
Haven’t had a good relaxation in a while?? Time for a trip?
Join TravelCafe membership and enjoy exclusive perks? Get 500 travel credits instantly upon joining?
nbsp;
01. Tokyo: Ueno Park
- Cherry Blossom Variety: Somei Yoshino
- Nearby Attractions: The Ueno Royal Museum, The National Museum of Nature and Science, Tokyo National Museum
Originally owned by the Japanese Imperial Family, Ueno Park was designated as Japan's first public park in 1873, covering an area of about 530,000 square meters. In 1924, it was gifted by Emperor Taishō to Tokyo City for management, hence the name "Ueno Park" (恩賜, meaning "imperial gift"). Visiting this park in early spring for a stroll or a picnic, you can also explore nearby shrines, Tōshō-gū, museums, and a zoo. With its deep cultural ambiance and public facilities suitable for all ages, Ueno Park is a great choice for family outings.
Haven’t had a good relaxation in a while?? Time for a trip?
Join TravelCafe membership and enjoy exclusive perks? Get 500 travel credits instantly upon joining?
nbsp;
02. Tokyo: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
- Cherry Blossom Varieties: Somei Yoshino, Kanzan, Yamazakura
Originally a noble residence during the Edo period, Shinjuku Gyoen was converted into an agricultural experiment station during the Meiji Emperor’s reign, covering 580,000 square meters. It later became imperial property and was developed into a royal garden in 1906. After WWII, it was opened to the public. The garden includes Japanese, French, and English landscape styles, offering not only the elegance of traditional Japanese aesthetics but also a taste of Western beauty. It’s ideal for enjoying cherry blossoms in spring and maple leaves in autumn, with convenient transport—perfect for family trips. But note: alcohol and recreational equipment are prohibited inside the garden.
Haven’t had a good relaxation in a while?? Time for a trip?
Join TravelCafe membership and enjoy exclusive perks? Get 500 travel credits instantly upon joining?
nbsp;
03. Tokyo: Yasukuni Shrine & Chidorigafuchi
- Cherry Blossom Variety: Somei Yoshino
- Nearby Attractions: Kitanomaru Park, Tokyo Dome, Zenkokuji Temple
Established in 1869, Yasukuni Shrine holds immense significance in Japanese national history. It enshrines over two million Japanese soldiers who died from the end of the Edo period to the Greater East Asia War, displaying their relics and historical records, giving off a solemn atmosphere. Complementing this is the approximately 500 cherry trees planted in the shrine grounds. The flourishing Somei Yoshino blossoms bloom and fade in spring, embodying Japan’s revered spirit of brilliant death. These blossoms are also the benchmark for the annual cherry blossom forecast released by the Japan Meteorological Agency. Nearby Chidorigafuchi is another famous cherry blossom viewing spot in Tokyo, accessible via the Toei Shinjuku Line or the Hanzomon Line. Originally a moat, you can enjoy cherry blossoms while boating here. At night, Chidorigafuchi becomes even more stunning, with countless lanterns reflecting beautifully alongside the night blooms.
Haven’t had a good relaxation in a while?? Time for a trip?
Join TravelCafe membership and enjoy exclusive perks? Get 500 travel credits instantly upon joining?
nbsp;
04. Osaka: Osaka Castle Park
- Cherry Blossom Variety: Somei Yoshino
- Nearby Attractions: Osaka Castle Keep, Nishinomaru Garden, Toyokuni Shrine
Established in 1931, Osaka Castle Park spans a total area of 106.7 hectares and is home to 4,300 cherry trees of over 95 varieties, including Nishinomaru Garden, Plum Grove, Peach Grove, and Remembrance Grove. Every spring, the spectacular sight of falling petals never fails to enchant visitors. It’s a perfect place for family outings on holidays—climb up to the observation deck of the castle keep for a panoramic view of Osaka, enjoy live band performances, observe waterfowl, or head to the Sun Plaza, rugby field, or soccer field for sports and leisure. It’s a destination that offers both activity and tranquility.
Haven’t had a good relaxation in a while? It’s time for a trip!
Join HowToTrip’s Travel Enthusiast Membership and enjoy exclusive perks. Sign up now to get 500 travel credits!
nbsp;
05. Kyoto: Arashiyama
- Cherry blossom varieties: Weeping cherry, Yoshino cherry, Native cherry
- Nearby attractions: Tenryu-ji Temple, Horin-ji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge
Located in the western part of Kyoto city, Arashiyama boasts gentle, elegant natural landscapes and a humanistic charm. Its century-old temples and buildings exude a sense of antiquity, which is the very essence of this place. In early spring, you can admire vast seas of cherry blossoms along the Katsura River banks. The blossoms are rich in variety and splendidly beautiful. You can stroll around Nakanoshima Island and along the Katsura River, or take the Sagano Romantic Train and follow the sightseeing route to visit shrines and nationally designated important temples, immersing yourself in the poetic beauty of the ancient capital.
Haven’t had a good relaxation in a while? It’s time for a trip!
Join HowToTrip’s Travel Enthusiast Membership and enjoy exclusive perks. Sign up now to get 500 travel credits!
nbsp;
06. Kyoto: Philosopher’s Path
- Cherry blossom varieties: Yoshino cherry, Sekiyama cherry
- Nearby attractions: Sanjusangendo Hall, Kiyomizu-dera Temple (under renovation in 2017), Chion-in Temple, Hanamikoji Street
Located in Eastern Kyoto, around Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the Philosopher’s Path is one of Kyoto’s most renowned attractions. It is a stone-paved path that starts at Ginkaku-ji Temple and ends at Silver Pavilion, lined with antique shops, gift stores, tea houses, and shrines that carry a humanistic touch. With over 300 cherry trees lining the path, the atmosphere is serene and elegant. It’s also a great spot for autumn foliage viewing, making it a quintessential Kyoto destination that captures the city’s unique ambiance.
Haven’t had a good relaxation in a while? It’s time for a trip!
Join HowToTrip’s Travel Enthusiast Membership and enjoy exclusive perks. Sign up now to get 500 travel credits!
nbsp;
07. Nara: Nara Park
- Cherry blossom variety: Double-flowered cherry
- Nearby attractions: Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Todai-ji Temple, Nara Prefectural Museum of Art
Opened in 1880 (Meiji 13), Nara Park was selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots due to its abundant spring blooms. Covering a vast area, if you include nearby landmarks such as Kofuku-ji Temple, Todai-ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and the Nara National Museum, the total area reaches 660 hectares. Thanks to its expansive grounds, it’s often less crowded than other popular sites. Under the pink cherry blossoms, you can freely interact with the adorable deer, and also visit many designated national treasures within the park, such as the Great Buddha of Nara. Here, you can not only enjoy the brilliant spring scenery but also experience the profound cultural heritage amidst historic sites.
Haven’t had a good relaxation in a while? It’s time for a trip!
Join HowToTrip’s Travel Enthusiast Membership and enjoy exclusive perks. Sign up now to get 500 travel credits!
nbsp;
08. Tokyo: Inokashira Onshi Park
- Cherry blossom variety: Yoshino cherry
- Nearby attractions: Inokashira Nature Culture Park, Inokashira Park Station, Kichijoji
Inokashira Onshi Park opened in 1917 and will celebrate its 100th anniversary this year (2017). Currently a green space adjacent to a residential area, it is quite precious in the modern urban landscape. The name “Inokashira” is said to have been given by Tokugawa Ieyasu, originally meaning “a well with no better-tasting water.” Before 1898, it served as the source of the Kanda water supply, providing drinking water for the people. The park is now divided into four areas, featuring large mixed woodlands, shrubbery, elevated grounds, and cherry blossom groves. The varied topography allows visitors to enjoy diverse natural landscapes.
Haven’t had a good relaxation in a while? It’s time for a trip!
Join HowToTrip’s Travel Enthusiast Membership and enjoy exclusive perks. Sign up now to get 500 travel credits!
nbsp;
Want more inspiration for overseas trips?
?Must-read for winter vacation, Chinese New Year, and Spring Festival travel abroad—spend wisely during peak seasons and still have a blast!
?Think group tours only go to touristy spots? Discover 5 unique group tour destinations that’ll satisfy your adventurous spirit!
Have lots of questions about joining your first group tour? Head to ?HowToTrip’s Group Tour Q&A Hub