Updated 9 Feb 2023: We’ve acquired new flowering dates from Japan Meteorological Corporation, and a recent listing of handpicked day excursions that may improve your hanami expertise!
For these planning to catch the Sakura in the course of the annual Hanami festivals (花見, “flower viewing”) this coming spring, it’s not too late to arm your self with the one Cherry Blossom Japan Guide you’ll EVER want. From insider recommendations on maximising your probabilities of sakura recognizing to guided excursions to one of the best viewing spots, listed here are some hacks to getting probably the most out of your 2023 cherry blossom expertise.
Photo credit score: Insider Journeys
Catching the Cherry Blossoms in Japan is difficult. With a median flowering to finish of bloom interval of as much as 14 days, you’d should plan your journey very well. Even in case your journey interval coincides with the blooming interval, there are nonetheless tons of issues to think about. Not to say locals and vacationers to jostle with for one of the best views.
Thankfully with a variety of good planning, it’s nonetheless doable to catch this once-a-year affair. After all, you’ll be able to’t say you’ve actually skilled Japan till you’ve seen the cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Photo credit score: Backyard Travel
To provide help to out, I’ve break up this Ultimate 2020 Cherry Blossom Japan Guide into three predominant sections: Pre-trip Planning, Cherry Blossom Viewing Day Guide, and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ). Pay particular consideration to the 2023 cherry blossom blooming dates!
Note: Will strive updating this steadily so this could keep related!
Pre-Trip Cherry Blossom Season Planning
Step 1: Know Japan’s Cherry Blossom Forecast
While the blooming season normally begins on mainland Japan from March to April, correct forecasts are usually solely launched in February. If you’re planning forward, it’s necessary to make use of the cherry blossom blooming patterns of the earlier years as a information. Regardless, right here is probably the most up to date forecast for 2023.
Latest 2023 Cherry Blossom Forecast — Updated 9 February 2023
Tokyo: Flowering date March 21, Full Bloom date March 29
Osaka: Flowering date March 28, Full Bloom date April 4
Kyoto: Flowering date March 27, Full Bloom date April 3
Nara: Flowering date March 28, Full Bloom date April 4
Wakayama: Flowering date March 27, Full Bloom date April 3
Nagoya: Flowering date March 24, Full Bloom date April 2
Hiroshima: Flowering date March 26, Full Bloom date April 4
Nagano: Flowering date April 6, Full Bloom date April 11
Niigata: Flowering date April 6, Full Bloom date April 11
Yamagata: Flowering date April 11, Full Bloom date April 14
Fukuoka: Flowering date March 23, Full Bloom date April 1
Hakodate – Hokkaido: Flowering date April 29, Full Bloom date April 30
Sapporo – Hokkaido: Flowering date April 29, Full Bloom date May 2
Weather modifications can simply have an effect on the blooming interval, so regardless of following the final forecast, it’s necessary to remain up to date with the newest forecast as your journey approaches. Here’s a useful cherry blossom blooming meter in Japan for monitoring.
Step 2: Decide on journey dates and areas to go to
Photo credit score: Kishou
It could seem apparent, however making a call can be a lot more durable. As you’ll be able to inform from the forecast, the blooming typically follows a sample from the south to the north, which implies there are many dates and choices for Japanese cities you’ll be able to go to. Here are a few ideas.
Pro-tip 1: Skip Okinawa
Being to this point south, Okinawa is the earliest Japanese area the place Cherry Blossoms bloom. Often, it’s additionally used as an indicator for the forecasts on mainland Japan. If you actually need to maximise your probabilities, you’d need to be in an space the place you’ll be able to simply transfer round. Flying to Okinawa means you might be caught there to your total trip, because it doesn’t make sense to take one other flight elsewhere to catch the sakura.
Pro-tip 2: Pick areas throughout the principle cherry blossom season
Therefore probably the most versatile plan is to resolve on a date and placement simply earlier than the center of the season. Based on the 2023 Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast, Osaka is a fairly good entry level because the flowering is slated to begin across the twenty eighth of March and full bloom on the 4th of April.
Other than being hub for worldwide flights, Osaka could be very well-connected to different Japanese cities by rail. This means you’ll be able to simply go cherry blossom searching in numerous cities even in case you miss the precise blooming interval in Osaka. Sakura apart, Osaka is a fairly superior metropolis to discover! Check out the brand new Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan or the brand new Instagram spot, teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka.
Check out our 7-Day Kansai itinerary beneath S$1.3k for enjoyable issues to do in and round Osaka!
Best Japanese cities and prefectures to catch the cherry blossoms
If you continue to can’t make up your thoughts, listed here are a few Japanese cities that will help you out.
Tokyo
Photo credit score: TokyoCheapo
Best cherry blossom viewing spots: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Ueno Park, Chidorigafuchi, Sumida Park in Taito-ku, Inokashira Park, Megurogawa, Yoyogi Park, Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens.
Our favorite capital metropolis can be probably the most attention-grabbing with a myriad of subcultures. If you’re after a mixture of the normal and new, Tokyo’s the place to be. Check out our newest 7D6N Tokyo street journey itinerary to seek out a few of our favorite issues to do, see and eat in and round Tokyo!
Mount Fuji (Fuji Five Lakes Region)
Mt. Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes (Fujigoko) area are gaining traction as cherry blossom viewing spots. Photo credit score: Midori on Wikimedia Commons
Best cherry blossom viewing spots: Chureito Pagoda, Eastern and Northern Shores of Kawaguchiko, Ubuyagasaki Peninsula, Iyashi no Sato, Oshino Hakkai
The most iconic mountain in Japan turns into much more picturesque throughout spring when close by cherry timber bloom. Mount Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes area are slightly below two hours away from Tokyo on a direct practice, making it an ideal day-trip location for travellers based mostly in Tokyo.
Read additionally: 3D2N Road Trip Itinerary from Tokyo to Mount Fuji Itinerary Under S$570
Nagoya
Best cherry blossom viewing spots: Kanazawa Castle, Yamazaki Riverside, Inuyama Castle, Tsuruma Park, Nagoya Peace Park, Nabana no Sato Botanical Garden
Located between Tokyo and Osaka, Nagoya is considered one of Japan’s outstanding citadel cities. Today, it is usually residence to automaking giants resembling Toyota, Honda, and Mitsubishi Motors. Other than the economic merchandise that it’s recognized for, Nagoya’s restored citadel, historic shrine and parks are additionally stunning scenic spots for stunning cherry blossom viewing.
Read additionally: Day journeys from Nagoya: Gateway to the Hidden Gems of Mie and Gifu Prefectures
Osaka
Photo credit score: QuickJapan
Best cherry blossom viewing spots: Kema Sakuranomiya Park, Osaka Castle Park, Expo 70 Commemorative Park, Osaka Mint, Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park, Nagai park, Shirokita Park, Osaka Gokoku Shrine
The unofficial meals capital of Japan and residential to the magnificent Universal Studios Japan and Osaka Castle, Osaka is one other excellent place to base your Cherry Blossom adventures as a result of quite a few connections to all elements of Japan.
Read additionally: Osaka Transport Guide — Maximising Your Transport Passes for Travelling In And Around Osaka
Kyoto
Photo credit score: Wicked Tourism
Best cherry blossom viewing spots: Philosophers Walk, Maruyama Park, Heian Jingu Shrine, Arashiyama space, Toji Temple, Kiyomizudera Temple, Kamo Shrine, Hirano Shrine.
From the crimson torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine to towering bamboo at Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto will not be shy of photogenic and culturally wealthy spots. It’s near Osaka and it’ll be nice to cowl each locations collectively.
Read additionally: Kyoto Budget Guide
Hiroshima
Photo credit score: imgur
Best cherry blossom viewing spots: Hiroshima Peace Park, Hiroshima Castle, Shukkeien Garden, Hijiyama, Miyajima, Senkoji Park, Kintaikyo Bridge Iwakuni, Chuo Beach.
Hiroshima has come a great distance for the reason that dropping of the atomic bomb throughout WWII. Other than serving as a reminder to humanity, there are many parks and memorials the place you’ll be able to benefit from the magnificence and serenity of the cherry blossoms.
Read additionally – Japan Budget Itinerary: 8 Days, 9 Cities, Hiroshima to Osaka for beneath $1.1k together with flights and lodging
Niigata/Nagano Prefecture
Photo credit score: GoNagao.web
Best cherry blossom viewing spots: Takato Castle Ruins, Takada Park, Koboyama Koen, Komoro Kaikoen, Hakusan Park, Shinanogawa Yasuragitei Ryokuchi Park, Former Niigata Customs House, Shinano River Water Shuttle
Often ignored of many itineraries, the areas of Niigata and Nagano will attraction anybody prepared to step out of the principle cities. Home to probably the most well-known Zenkoji Temple for pilgrims, there are lots of hidden gems ready to be explored. Not to overlook the onsen-soaking snow monkeys!
Read additionally: Niigata Nagano Travel Guide through the JR Pass
Tohoku/Yamagata Prefecture
Photo credit score: Yamagatakanko
Best cherry blossom viewing spots: Miharu Takizakura, Kajo Castle, Hirosaki Park, Kitakami Tenshochi Park, Okitama Sakura Corridor
Japan’s best-kept secret. Blessed with surreal surroundings, good meals, and a chilled-out vibe, Tohoku and Yamagata are underrated areas excellent for these wanting to flee town life.
Read additionally: – Yamagata Guide: Japan’s secret winter wonderland
Hokkaido Prefecture
Photo credit score: Princehotels
Photo credit score: Hirokatsu Seki
Best cherry blossom viewing spots: Matsumae Park, Goryokaku Hakodate, Noboribetsu Onsen Flower Tunnel, Maruyama Park, Nakajima Park, Asahiyama Park, Seiryuji Temple
Much greater than a winter vacation spot, the northernmost area of Japan can be recognized for its volcanos and sizzling springs. Hokkaido can be among the finest locations in Japan to go on a street journey between Spring and Autumn.
Read additionally: 6D Hokkaido Under S$1k — Must-Eat, See and Dos in Sapporo, Otaru, Asahikawa and Biei
Still undecided the place to go? Check out our full listing of Japan guides for inspiration!
Step 3: Book your flights & lodging early
It’s the height season, so try to settle these big-ticket objects like flights and lodging early to maintain prices low. If you need extra flexibility, many airways additionally permit you to change your journey dates for a small payment. Of course, the sooner you resolve the higher it’s because the dates you would possibly need to change could be full or have a surcharge!
For lodging, ebook early to safe your area however search for locations with a 14-30 days cancellation coverage in case it is advisable change your journey dates.
Step 4: Figure out the place the particular festivals & occasions are and both
Avoid them in any respect prices
If jostling with folks for area isn’t your factor, search for different viewing spots within the metropolis you might be visiting. I do know pals preferring having their very own area to take photographs and benefit from the surroundings. Simply google “[city you are visiting] cherry blossom festival”, and you’ll simply get the knowledge you want.
Or go on a pre-booked tour
For those that need to go to common spots with out the fuss, contemplate occurring a pre-booked cherry blossom viewing tour to ensure one of the best expertise. Book a day journey from Tokyo to Lake Kawaguchi beside Mount Fuji for probably the most iconic views of the nation.
Other cherry blossom viewing day excursions you would possibly discover helpful or complementary to your journey:
Tokyo
1) Hitachi National Seaside Park and Ashikaga Flower Park/Mito Kairakuen Park Trip: S$121
2) Miura & Yokohama One Day Tour from Tokyo: S$80.65
Mt. Fuji (from Tokyo)
1) Mt. Fuji Flower Festival Tour with Mt. Kachi Kachi Ropeway Experience from Tokyo: S$116.19
2) Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi Scenic Spots Day Tour from Tokyo: S$82.65
3) Mt. Fuji, Panoramic Ropeway & Seasonal Fruits Picking Day Tour from Tokyo: S$110.95
Tohoku
1) Zao’s Snow Wall, Kokeshi Museum, Hitome Senbonzakura Tour from Sendai: S$169.70
Nagoya
1) Nagoya Castle & Shirotori Park with Beautiful SAKURA Views: S$101.50
Osaka & Kyoto
1) Miyama Thatched Village, Ine Bay & Amanohashidate Tour from Osaka: S$129.30
2) Three Sakura Viewing Spots in Kyoto One Day Tour from Osaka: S$87.80
3) Kyoto Sagano Romantic Train, Arashiyama, Kiyomizudera & Fushimi Inari-taisha Day Tour: S$70.75
*MOST IMPORTANT*
Step 5: Get an inner transport cross (JR Pass) and be versatile
For the last word flexibility to extend your probabilities of a cherry blossom viewing expertise, contemplate getting a JR Pass. For a hard and fast value, the JR Pass permits you limitless journey alongside all JR strains — the principle intercity transport all through Japan.
For instance, getting the 7D Whole Japan JR Pass offers you the pliability to journey to nearly anyplace in Japan with a JR line, whereas the 5D Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass will permit you to journey between Hiroshima and Kansai areas simply.
Based on the realm chosen in Step 2, choose an acceptable JR Pass and plan your itinerary across the area. Do be versatile as soon as the detailed forecast is out.
Check out our Ultimate JR Pass information to seek out out extra concerning the totally different passes and one of the best methods to make use of them.
JR Passes provide good worth, and we discovered ourselves saving about S$72 every throughout our newest journey round Osaka and the area. Sure provides as much as lots in case you’re travelling in a gaggle!
Step 6: Fit in different highlights
Torri Gate at Hakone, a day journey from Tokyo.
While the Cherry Blossoms is the principle attraction, it’s solely one of many many issues Japan has to supply. From a fun-filled day trip at Disneyland or DisneySea Tokyo to recognizing iconic anime areas, there are tons of issues to discover.
Photo credit score: Tom Bricker
Here’s an inventory of useful Japanese itineraries and guides that may assist.
Cherry Blossom Viewing Day Guide
Step 7: Start the day early
And I do imply early. Not solely do you keep away from the principle vacationer crowds (the tour buses), you get to order a primary viewing spot for the following few hours. Natural mild for images can be one of the best in the course of the golden hour simply after dawn. Light is gentler and also you get that additional softness to your photographs.
Starting the day early additionally means you will have extra time to discover earlier than dusk!
Step 8: Pack some meals for a picnic
For locals, considered one of their favorite cherry blossom actions is to take pleasure in a picnic with pals. Blend in and pack a mat with some meals to your personal picnic. Do examine if consuming is allowed within the place you might be visiting although. Some parks have a strict no-food and drink coverage.
Step 9: Dress Up in a Kimono
If you actually need to get into the festive temper, strive renting a Kimono or Yukata in cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Fukuoka! It’s a great deal of enjoyable and also you’ll get to up your Instagram images sport.
Many of them even provide hair companies for these going for the right look.
Transport, WiFi, Activities!
Before you allow for Japan, be sure to safe your journey necessities!
1) Tokyo Subway Ticket (72 hours): S$15.15
2) Osaka Amazing Pass: From S$28.29
3) Airport Skyliner, one-way: S$26
4) Unlimited 4G Data SIM Card (8 Days): S$40.40
5) Hakone Free Pass (2-Day Pass): S$61.65
If you’re in a gaggle or with children? Book a non-public automotive constitution to avoid wasting the trouble:
1) Tokyo Private Car Charter: from S$526 per automotive
2) Mt. Fuji and Surrounding Private Car Charter: from S$624 per automotive
Frequently Asked Questions about Cherry Blossoms in Japan
Why are the cherry blossoms in Japan so common?
More than simply fairly flowers, cherry blossoms symbolise lots of Japan’s deep-rooted cultural beliefs. The brief flowering interval displays the fleeting nature of life, as embodied by many different zen traditions resembling tea ceremonies. This is why even the Japanese in huge cities decelerate a bit to affix the sakura hanami. While many issues in Japan appeal to both vacationers or locals, cherry blossom viewing attracts everybody!
Cherry Blossom, Sakura or Hanami?
Often used to explain the identical factor, Hanami truly means ‘flower viewing’, whereas cherry blossoms (English) and sakura (Japanese) describe the flower. Cherry Blossoms are flowers from any tree of the genus Prunus, however the most typical one in Japan is the Japanese Cherry.
What’s a Hanami competition like?
Photo credit score: Gurunavi
While they differ, count on plenty of music, sakura-themed meals (READ: pink), sake, and good vibes. There’ll be extra folks across the parks, and a great deal of retailers tapping on this yearly affair. As in the event that they aren’t pleasant sufficient, locals seem like even friendlier throughout this era!
Hope you discovered our Ultimate Cherry Blossom Guide helpful. Do examine again as we are going to frequently replace this web page yearly!
Got a tip we missed out on? Let us know within the feedback beneath. ????
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