Japan's Cherry Blossom Forecast 2024: Where and When to See Sakura in Tokyo, Osaka & More
Spring is almost here and one of our favourite things about spring in Japan is definitely getting to see the gorgeous cherry blossoms! 🌸 But before you book your flight - don't forget to first check out our trusty guide on Japan's cherry blossom 2024 forecast for predicted sakura blooming times for Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and more!
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Spring in Japan
Heading to Japan in spring to see the sakura has definitely got to be on the travel bucket list for many - and it's not hard to see why.
From March to May, many flock to the country to partake in hanami (or cherry blossom viewing), revel in the breathtaking sight of streets covered in a sea of sakura, and enjoy views of iconic landmarks (like Mt Fuji or the Osaka Castle!) made even more spectacular against the pretty pink blooms 😍
Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast 2024
Dates accurate as of forecast announced on 15 Feb 2024
For 2024, cherry blossoms are expected to reach peak bloom earliest in Kochi (late March) and the latest in Sapporo (early May).
For more information on flowering and full bloom prediction dates in all the prefectures, check out the Japan Meteorological Corporation website.
*All dates accurate at time of publishing, please check the relevant websites for the most updated information.
16 Best Places to Enjoy Sakura in Japan
Tokyo
1. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is an iconic must-do during hanami season - so you definitely shouldn't miss a pitstop at this park while in Tokyo!
With three distinct gardens within the garden grounds (the Japanese Garden, British Garden, and French Garden), you can actually spend a whole day here just taking in the amazing views at every turn and corner!
Address: 11 Naitomachi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0014, Japan
2. Ueno Park
Ueno Park is a well known and loved park in Tokyo, and offers a quick retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. It may be one of Japan's oldest parks but it is truly anything but boring. Ueno Park is home to temples, art, science, and history museums and even a zoo!
However among so many gems, its cherry trees are its most prized possessions - many flock here for hanami and enjoy leisurely picnics under the beautiful pink and white blooms.
Address: Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007, Japan
3. Meguro River
Meguro River offers a pretty sight of pale pink blooms against the bright blue skies on a clear sunny day in spring. However nightfall is where the real magic happens.
For a unique way to enjoy sakura at Meguro River, come when the sun has set for the Nakameguro Sakura Festival. Join the locals on picnic mats - grab a beer or snack from the roadside stalls and admire the night illuminations and views of the cherry blossoms above.
Address: Walk from Meguro Station or Nakameguro Station
More Tokyo Inspo:
Kyoto
4. Sagano Romantic Train
Image credit: Sagano Romantic Train website
Hop aboard the Sagano Romantic Train, that will take you on a leisurely 25-minute ride around the Arashiyama district. As you glide past landscapes blanketed in fluffy pink blooms, you’ll understand why it’s reputed as one of the most well-loved trails especially for all the hopeless romantics.
For a comprehensive tour, check out the Kyoto Sagano Romantic Train, Arashiyama, Kiyomizudera & Fushimi Inari-taisha Day Tour, which includes a buffet lunch or beef shabu lunch depending on your choosing.
Address: Arashiyama Station (via the JR Pass)
5. Maruyama-Koen Park
Image Credit: @ryuzo__photo on Instagram
Offering a calm oasis of nature away from the bustling city centre, the Maruyama-Koen Park is one of Kyoto's most famed cherry blossom spots. One unique feature that the park has is its towering shidarezakura (weeping cherry tree), which is also illuminated in the evenings.
The park is also a short walk away from another iconic Kyoto attraction, the Yasaka Shrine, which has a 1,350 year history.
Address: Maruyamacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0071, Japan
6. Philosopher's Path
Image credit: @livingin.nihon on Instagram
One of the most enchanting sights awaits you at Kyoto's famous Philosopher's Path (also known as Tetsugaku No Michi). The path follows a canal lined by hundreds of cherry trees which, not surprisingly, attract flocks of locals and tourists alike to admire its beauty during springtime.
Image credit: @oniwastagram on Instagram
This path got its name from Nishida Kitaro, one of Japan's most famous philosophers, who was said to practice meditation while walking this route on his daily commute to Kyoto University. Walk in the steps of Nishida Kitaro on your next trip, and who knows you might seek some answers or enlightenment while you're there 😉
Address: From Kyoto Station catch Bus 5 or 17 to the stop called ‘Ginkakuji-michi. This stop is just a short walk from Ginkaku-ji near the northern end of the Philosopher’s Path.
Osaka
7. Osaka Castle
Image credit: @daiki442 on Instagram
Osaka Castle is probably the most iconic spot for cherry blossom watching in Osaka. This heritage site has long been a popular picnic spot and especially so during spring and fall, when the leaves turn into a beautiful fiery red.
And who wouldn't want to capture that IG-worthy shot of the grand castle draped in enchanting pink hues?
#KlookTip: The Osaka Castle Museum is an included activity in the Osaka Amazing Pass. This pass allows you to have:
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Get the pass and save money on transport and attractions on your Osaka adventures!
Address: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan
8. Okawa River
Enjoy the breathtaking view of over 4,000 cherry trees blooming along the Okawa River (or Kyū-Yodo River)! The best way to take in the splendid dight is on the Okawa River Sakura Cruise which allows you to enjoy the view from a different perspective.
If you have time to spare, other popular spots for hanami around the area include the Kema Sakuranomiya Park and the Japan Mint (which boasts 350 trees of about 130 varieties!).
#KlookTip: The Okawa River Cruise is an included activity in the Osaka Amazing Pass. This pass allows you to have:
- Unlimited trips on the Osaka subway, tramway, and bus
- Gain free entry to more than 50 iconic Osaka tourist sites
Get the pass and save money on transport and attractions on your Osaka adventures!
9. Expo 70 Commemorative Park
Image credit: @expo70park on Instagram
The Expo 70 Commemorative Park is a sprawling park that hosted the Japan World Exposition in 1970, which exhibited over 75 pavilions done by countries and corporations around the world.
Image credit: @expo70park on Instagram
Today, the garden grounds have become a popular destination for locals to soak in the sun and enjoy nature and sports. It is also home to around 5,000 cherry trees, so get ready to behold a magnificent sight like no other!
Address: Senribanpakukoen, Suita, Osaka 565-0826, Japan
Others
10. Nara Park
Image credit: @s_a_0_8_0_2 ・on Instagram
If spending a day in Nara Park surrounded by cherry blossom trees and polite deer that will bow for their crackers doesn’t sound like the perfect hanami to you, we don’t know what else will!
With about 1,700 sakura trees, head southeast from the Todai-ji Temple main hall and you’ll find a large lawn encircled by cherry trees, perfect for a scenic picnic!
Where: Nara
Address: Nara Park is a short walk east of Kintetsu-Nara Station
If you're looking for a day tour, this Kyoto & Nara Day Tour from Osaka takes you to visit the emerald Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, hop on a scenic ride aboard the Randen tram to see the cherry blossoms as well as to Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park.
11. Arakurayama Sengen park
Image credit: @dvd.ring
With its unbeatable, iconic view of the Arakura Fuji Sengen-jinja Shrine and its five story-pagoda and Mt. Fuji in the backdrop, the Arakurayama Sengen Park offers spectacular views all year round - made even more pretty in pink during spring.
Needless to say, this spot is extremely famous for its sakura views, so come as early as possible if you want to get a shot without the crowd! However, if you're looking to come in the evening, do stay for the night light up to see the pagoda and cherry blossoms in a different light.
Where: Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Prefecture
Address: 2-chome-4-1 Asama, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0011, Japan
12. Yamazaki River
Image credit: @bluesnow_aom on Instagram
Yamazaki River in Nagoya is ranked as one of the top 100 places in Japan for hanami. Here you will find 600 blooming cherry trees flanking the river banks, promising a glorious walk to remember.
Although this spot is most popular in spring, it also makes for a beautiful stroll anytime of the year, hence also its name Shikinomichi which translates to the 'Path of Four Seasons'.
Where: Nagoya
Address: 4 Chome-1 Otodomachi, Mizuho Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture 467-0007, Japan
13. Mt Fuji Views from Susono City Cultural Centre
Image Credit: @nobuyuki0123 on Instagram
Can't go to Japan in spring and not search for a perfect spot to see cherry blossoms against the grandeur of Mt. Fuji, right?
Image Credit: @nobuyuki0123 on Instagram
Check out this amazing shot taken from the Susono City Cultural Centre, which is in the eastern part of Shizuoka Prefecture. The image of the Kise River in the foreground framed by cherry blossoms and of course, Mt Fuji itself - now that's a postcard-perfect shot for sure.
Where: Shizuoka Prefecture, about halfway between Tokyo and Nagoya
Address: 586 Ishiwaki, Susono, Shizuoka 410-1117, Japan
14. Himeji Castle
Image credit: @cony_viajando on Instagram
Also referred to as the 'White Heron Castle', Himeji Castle is both a Japanese National Treasure as well as a World Heritage site. This carefully preserved castle is also one of Japan's 12 remaining original castles - with over 600 years of history! Definitely a must-visit even beyond spring, we say!
Come cherry blossom season, the castle is embellished by blooms from over 1,000 cherry trees on the castle's grounds! Get ready for a spectacular sight 😍
Where: Himeji, Kansai region
Address: 68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0012, Japan
15. Hokkaido-jingu Shrine
Image credit: Sapporo Tourism website
Touted as one of the best places to view cherry blossoms in northern Japan, the Hokkaido-jingu Shrine is home to four guardian deities and a deeply spiritual place for locals to come and pray and pay respects. There are also two tea and sweet shops in the area where you can stop by and have a rest before continuing on your cherry blossom adventures.
Where: Hokkaido
Address: 474 Miyagaoka, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 064-8505, Japan
16. Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park
Image credit: Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park website
Besides the gorgeous cherry blossom trees, Hokkaido is also famous for its breathtaking flower fields and parks, which see rolling hills carpeted with vibrant pink blooms, thanks to the shibazakura flowers (moss phlox). The best places to see them? Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park!
There's also the Higashimokoto Shibazakura Festival to look out for where you can enjoy themed snacks and enjoy the views via go-kart or even a helicopter ride!
Where: Hokkaido
Address: 393 Higashimokotosuehiro, Ozora, Abashiri District, Hokkaido 099-3232, Japan
BONUS: Where to Stay to See Cherry Blossoms in Japan
1. Shuhoukaku Kogetsu Ryokan
Apart from going to nature parks and other attractions to see cherry blossoms in Japan, you can also book your stay at a ryokan that's close to nature to see the beautiful pink trees. Here at Shuhoukaku Kogetsu Ryokan, you won't only enjoy the stunning views of cherry blossoms, but also of Mount Fuji that will greet you all day long! And to make your stay here even better, they recently renovated their Mount Fuji view bath terrace — a guaranteed front seat to the best spring views!
And hey, your booking is inclusive of two meals already — a seasonal Japanese banquet dinner and a Western buffet breakfast.
Address: 2312 Kawaguchi, 401-0304 Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
2. Ubuya Ryokan
Another ryokan that promises beautiful spring views is Ubuya Ryokan. Here, you get to wake up to the views of Mount Fuji right from your room! If you can't get enough of the views of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi, you can also sightsee while taking a dip in their relaxing hot springs.
Whichever package option you choose is inclusive of two meals — a Japanese-style breakfast and a Shabu-Shabu dinner or a Japanese Kaiseki Course dinner. 🤤
Address: 10 Asakawa, Fuji-Kawaguchiko, Japan, 401-0303
3. Kukuna Ryokan
This last ryokan on our list is Kukuna Ryokan where all rooms come with a private balcony overlooking Mount Fuji. Booking your stay here is ideal for spring since it is during spring that the weather is just right (you can definitely go out to enjoy your balcony without freezing). Feel free to sightsee the pretty pink trees, snack, or just lounge on your balcony with Mount Fuji as your backdrop!
All package options available are inclusive of two meals — a Western buffet breakfast and a Teppanyaki Dinner or a 4-course Western Cuisine & Buffet Dinner.
Address: 70 Asakawa, Fujikawaguchiko-cho, Yamanashi Prefecture 401-0303
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