The sakura (cherry blossom) season in Japan typically occurs in spring, usually between late March and early May, depending on the location and the weather conditions. The timing can vary each year, and it is influenced by factors such as temperature and climate. In Tokyo and Kyoto, for example, cherry blossoms often bloom in late March to early April. However, in more northern regions like Hokkaido, cherry blossoms may bloom as late as May, while in southern parts of Japan, such as Okinawa and southern Kyushu, they may bloom in early March. It’s always a good idea to check updated forecasts closer to the time you plan to visit to get more accurate information about when the cherry blossoms will be in full bloom.
2024 Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast
The government organization, Japan Meteorological Agency, and a private business, Japan Meteorological Corporation, issue forecasts on when cherry blossoms across Japan would reach their peak blooming and they generally release such forecasts soon after the New Year’s Day holiday. According to Japan Meteorological Corporation, their first forecast for 2024 Sakura season would be announced in January 2024.
If you plan to visit Japan for the first time and want to combine Sakura viewing with Japan’s most popular tourist destinations on Honshu (Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Hiroshima, Kanazawa etc), your best bet is late March and the first week of April. Understandably, this is also the time of year when hotels cost the most because all the Japanese cities famous for cherry blossom viewing are overrun with domestic and international tourists.
Best Spots for Sakura/Cherry Blossom Viewing in Japan
Japan is renowned for its beautiful cherry blossoms, and there are numerous famous spots across the country for Sakura viewing. Here are some of the most popular cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan:
Ueno Park (Tokyo): Ueno Park in Tokyo is one of the most popular spots for cherry blossom viewing. There are over a thousand cherry trees of different varieties lining the paths, and the park takes on a vibrant and festive atmosphere during Sakura season.
Chidorigafuchi (Tokyo): This area, especially the Chidorigafuchi (chidori-ga-fuchi) Moat near the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, is famous for its picturesque cherry blossoms. You can also enjoy boat rides along the moat during this season, but the long queue for boat rental can push your patience to the limit.
Himeji Castle (Hyogo): Himeji Castle, also known as the White Heron Castle, is stunning when surrounded by cherry blossoms. The combination of the historic castle and the pink blossoms is a classic view. You can easily reach Himeji Castle from Tokyo, Kyoto or Osaka by bullet – from the train station, the castle is a 20-minute easy walk on flat terrain.
Philosopher’s Path (Kyoto): This scenic canal-side path in Kyoto is lined with hundreds of cherry trees. It’s particularly beautiful in spring when the blossoms create a tunnel-like effect.
Maruyama Park (Kyoto): Maruyama Park is Kyoto’s oldest park and is famous for its massive weeping cherry tree (shidarezakura) illuminated at night. The park becomes lively with food stalls and traditional lanterns during Sakura season.
Hirosaki Castle (Aomori): Hirosaki Castle in northern Japan is surrounded by a large park with over 2,500 cherry trees. The castle’s grounds are especially beautiful when the blossoms are in full bloom.
Arashiyama (Kyoto): The Arashiyama district, known for its bamboo groves and the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, is also a great spot for cherry blossom viewing. The area around the Katsura River is particularly beautiful during Sakura season.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (Tokyo): This spacious and well-maintained garden in the heart of Tokyo features various types of cherry trees, making it a diverse and delightful place for hanami (flower viewing).
Kiyomizu-dera (Kyoto): The wooden terrace of Kiyomizu-dera offers panoramic views of Kyoto, and when surrounded by cherry blossoms, it’s a breathtaking sight.
Miyajima Island (Hiroshima): The iconic “floating” torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island is even more enchanting when framed by cherry blossoms. The combination of the traditional architecture and natural beauty is truly memorable.
These are just a few examples, and there are many other stunning locations throughout Japan where you can experience the beauty of cherry blossoms during the Sakura season. Keep in mind that the timing of the bloom can vary from year to year, so it’s advisable to check forecasts and plan your visit accordingly.
Are you planning a 2024 trip to Japan? Check out our Japan tours including departures during Sakura/cherry blossom season.
