Japan cherry blossom tours have become increasingly popular among travellers from Canada and the United States.
Known as Sakura in Japanese, cheery blossoms hold profound significance in Japanese culture as a symbol of the fleeting nature of life, renewal, and community. Their brief blooming period inspires both awe and melancholy, capturing the Japanese philosophy of appreciating beauty while being mindful of impermanence. This is concept known as “mono no aware”.
Hanami or Sakura viewing is a big deal across Japan. Each year, cherry blossom forecasts are followed closely, with festivals, art, and seasonal foods celebrating their arrival. Schools and businesses often align welcoming ceremonies with the bloom, underscoring new beginnings and unity in society. The cherry blossom continues as a motif in Japanese art, literature, and popular culture, symbolizing hope and the strength to renew after adversity.
Best Time for Cherry Blossom Viewing
The cherry blossom or Sakura season in Japan typically occurs between late March and early May. The exact time depends on the location and the weather conditions. The timing varies each year and 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 February and 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.
Japan Cherry Blossom Tours – Recommended Itinerary
Are you planning a trip to Japan that combines cherry blossom viewing? Laurus Travel runs multiple tours to Japan during cherry blossom season every year. The 14-day best of Japan is highly recommended if you only have two weeks available.
Best of Japan (14 days)
Tokyo – Mt. Fuji – Hakone – Kanazawa – Takayama – Shirakawa-go – Kyoto – Nara – Osaka – Hiroshima – Miyajima – Tokyo
With a focus on history and culture, this premium small-group Japan tour showcases the best of the Land of the Rising Sun. From the present capital of Tokyo to the former imperial seat of Kyoto, Japan’s illustrious blend of ancient traditions with state-of-the-art modernity is on full display. Whether you’re gazing at the majestic Mt. Fuji, savouring fine Japanese cuisine, or discovering centuries-old architectural gems, every moment is designed to awe and inspire.
Important Features
- Small group size – average 16, maximum 20.
- Experienced guides carefully selected by company owners.
- Premium hotel accommodations.
- Quality Japanese & Western cuisines (no cheap tourist food).
- Sushi making lesson.
- Kaiseki dinner with geisha dancer (maiko) performance.
- Yakiniku (BBQ) dinner featuring premium Japanese beef.
- No shopping stops.
Meal Code: B = breakfast / L = lunch / D = dinner
Day 1/Mon: Departing Home City
The journey begins with your transpacific flight departing from a city of your choice. You’ll lose a day upon crossing the International Date Line.
Day 2/Tue: Arrival in Tokyo
Welcome to Tokyo!
Please make your way to the hotel on your own. Detailed up-to-date information on how to get to the hotel will be provided in the final update two weeks before departure. Private transfer can be arranged on request.
Day 3/Wed: Tokyo (B/L/D)
Tokyo, literally meaning “eastern capital” and officially named Tokyo Metropolis, is one of the most populous mega-cities in the world with a population of 14 million.
| “Our 14-Day Best of Japan Land Tour was a trip we will always cherish. Learning about the people, culture, history, and visiting the parks, palaces, shrines and Mt. Fuji met or exceeded our expectations!” | Testimonials |
