When And Where To See Japan's Iconic Cherry Blossoms

The sakura season is almost upon us, and like most Singaporeans, we have our sights set on flying to countries like Japan to catch the cherry blossoms in full bloom. As the chill of winter fades away, the streets of Japan will be filled with a sea of delicate pink and white blooms, making it one of the best attractions in the country and drawing visitors from around the world. However, when it comes to this stunning yet short-lived spectacle, timing is key. The cherry blossoms typically bloom in spring, but the exact timing can vary depending on the region.

BEST WEEKS TO PLAN A TRIP TO JAPAN TO CATCH THE BLOSSOMS IN FULL BLOOM

According to Cyndi Hui, Skyscanner’s Travel Trends and Destination Expert, “The typical sakura season in Japan spans from March to May. The blooming begins in the warmer southern regions such as Kyushu, typically as early as late March, before moving northward.”

In this case, cities like Tokyo and Kyoto will see some of their best blooms in late March and early April. Alternatively, in northern regions such as Hokkaido, visitors can expect to see the sakura season much later, typically from late April to mid-May.

HOW LONG DOES THE CHERRY BLOSSOM SEASON USUALLY LAST?

It’s also important to note that the timing of the blossoms varies each year, as it is easily influenced by the weather patterns leading up to the season. For instance, mild weather in the weeks before the season often results in an earlier bloom, while colder conditions can delay the blossoms. Once the cherry blossoms begin to bloom, they typically last for about two weeks, from the first buds to peak bloom. However, they are vulnerable to the forces of nature, such as strong winds or heavy rain, which can shorten the season.

POPULAR REGIONS IN JAPAN THAT ARE MOST POPULAR FOR VIEWING CHERRY BLOSSOMS

While there are multiple cities to visit for cherry blossom viewing, Cyndi highlights that the most popular regions many travellers tend to visit are Tokyo and Osaka. She says: “The popularity of these two cities is reflected in Skyscanner’s data, which shows that Tokyo and Osaka are the top two trending destinations among Singapore travellers for April 2025, with a search increase of 3,610 per cent for Tokyo and 2,320 per cent for Osaka.”

EARLY AND LATE BLOOMING SEASON IN JAPAN

If you can’t make it during Japan’s peak cherry blossom season, don’t worry – there are other regions where the sakura blooms from as early as January and as late as April.

One destination that’s worth considering if you’re visiting Japan earlier is Kawazu Town, located on the Izu Peninsula, about three hours away from Tokyo. Kawazu is renowned for its unique Kawazu-zakura cherry trees, which bloom approximately a month earlier and showcase a vibrant pink blossom. While you’re there, you can also enjoy the annual Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival along the Kawazu River.

Similarly, in Okinawa, Japan’s southernmost region, cherry blossoms bloom as early as mid-January. Some popular viewing spots in Okinawa include Nakijin Castle and Mt. Yaedake, both of which offer breathtaking views of the blossoms.

Alternatively, for those looking to enjoy late-blooming cherry blossoms, consider visiting Hokkaido. Here, cherry blossoms bloom from late April to mid-May, and cities like Hakodate and Sapporo feature some of the most spectacular viewing locations, such as Goryokaku Park and Maruyama Park.

Another late-blooming destination is the Mount Fuji area, where the Five Lakes region often sees blossoms from early to late April, offering breathtaking views of cherry trees set against the iconic Mount Fuji.

HOW FAR IN ADVANCE SHOULD TRAVELLERS BOOK FLIGHTS AND ACCOMMODATIONS FOR THE SAKURA SEASON?

Since the sakura season is one of the most highly anticipated events in Japan for many tourists, it is advisable for travellers to book flights well in advance. Ideally, you should start planning at least 6 to 12 months ahead to secure better flight deals on platforms like Skyscanner, especially in major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, where cherry blossom viewing spots are iconic and highly sought after.

Cyndi also shares additional tips: “A challenge that many travellers face is navigating the myriad flight and accommodation options and securing the best deals during such an anticipated period. Our tools and hacks help travellers plan their dream trips with ease and confidence. Travellers eyeing different cherry blossom locations can add their desired destinations to a ‘Saved’ list on the Skyscanner app, which enables automatic Price Alerts. This ensures they stay notified during any price drops, allowing them to quickly book when the price is right.”

For some top recommendations on the best regions in Japan to experience cherry blossoms, keep scrolling.

MEGURO RIVER, TOKYO

Tokyo provides a perfect blend of traditional charm and modern vibrancy. The capital city is home to renowned viewing locations like Ueno Park and Shinjuku Gyoen, where cherry blossoms create picturesque scenery against the urban backdrop. For a unique experience, visit the Meguro River at night, where illuminated cherry blossoms reflect off the canal, creating a romantic atmosphere. The city is also well-connected, making it convenient and easily accessible to many Sakura hotspots.

OSAKA CASTLE, OSAKA

Osaka is one of Japan’s best cities for cherry blossom viewing. Historic hotspots such as the iconic Osaka Park Castle, where there are nearly 4,000 cherry trees, add a magical touch to the cherry blossoms. Other popular places are the Kema Sakuranomiya Park, and Expo 70 Commemorative Park.

YOSHINO, KANSAI

Yoshino, Kansai is a picturesque destination for cherry blossom viewing, boasting over 30,000 cherry trees that blanket the mountains in shades of pink and white each spring. There are four blooming zones – Shimo Senbon (lower), Naka Senbon (middle), Kami Senbon (upper), and Oku Senbon (deep), however, for panaromic views, travellers should head to the upper zone. The blooms usually appear from early to mid-April.

HIROSAKI-KOEN, AOMORI

Hirosaki-koen, also known as Hirosaki Park, boasts over 2400 cherry trees of 52 varieties. Nestled in Aomori Prefecture, it is one of the less-known places to view cherry blossoms in Japan. Each year, the park hosts the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival from late April to early May, where travellers can catch the spectacular cherry blossoms at full bloom with Mt. Iwaki as the stunning backdrop.

SHIROTORI GARDEN, NAGOYA

Shirotori Garden offers a serene cherry blossom viewing experience, perfect for those seeking to escape from the large crowds. With blooms starting from late March to early April, the garden features a variety of Sakura, including the shidarezakura (weeping cherry) and mountain cherry trees.

KANNONJI RIVER, FUKUSHIMA

Kannonji River in Fukushima is a charming location to view cherry blossoms. Its riverbanks are lined with hundreds of cherry trees, capturing a stunning pink corridor that as the cherry blossoms are reflected on the waters below. The cherry trees typically bloom in mid to late April.

This story first appeared in Her World