Key Takeaways
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The best time to see cherry blossoms in Japan is from late March to early April. During this time, parks, temples, and streets fill with beautiful pink and white flowers known as sakura.
The Japanese celebrate the cherry blossom season because it represents renewal, beauty, and the temporary nature of life. It follows the Buddhist concept of “Mono no aware,” meaning “the pathos of things.” In simple terms, they believe the short-lived beauty should be enjoyed.
Not just Japanese, every spring, millions of people visit Japan to enjoy the hanami season. This is the long-standing tradition of gathering under blooming cherry trees.
During hanami, people have picnics, attend festivals, and taste seasonal treats.
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, experiencing the cherry blossoms is one of the most magical things you can do, but only if you visit during the best time.
It is a short event that lasts only a week in each place, making it rare and special. It is a true “bucket list” experience for any tourist.
Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC) Prediction for Cherry Blossom 2026
The Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC) is one of the most trusted sources for cherry blossom (sakura) forecasts in Japan and is widely followed for trip planning.
18th December, 2025 News Highlights
JMC’s first official forecast, released on December 18, says that cherry blossoms are likely to bloom earlier than usual in 2026 due to warmer spring temperatures.
The cherry blossom season moves from south to north in Japan. This journey is called the Cherry Blossom Front. It starts in the south and gradually travels north.
- It starts in southern Japan, mainly in Kyushu (and Okinawa blooms even earlier with a different variety).
- It then moves through western and central Japan, including Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, and Tokyo.
- After that, it reaches northern Japan (Tohoku region).
- It ends in Hokkaido, which is the last place to see cherry blossoms, usually from late April to early May.
Cherry blossoms typically peak for only 7 to 10 days, making accurate timing essential for travellers.
Quick Facts: Japan Cherry Blossom Season 2026
|
Fact |
Details |
|
Best Time to Visit |
Late March- Early April (varies by region) |
|
Peak Bloom Duration |
About 7- 10 days in each city |
| Famous Spots |
Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Hokkaido |
|
Cultural Significance |
Symbol of renewal and beauty; celebrated with Hanami (flower viewing) |
|
Average Trip Length |
7-10 days recommended |
|
Must-Try Experiences |
Hanami picnics, night light-ups (Yozakura), and sakura-themed foods |
The Beauty of Cherry Blossom
Standing under a blooming sakura tree feels like a dream. You can smell the sweet fragrance in the air and see sunlight shining through the blossoms. You hear families and friends laughing and enjoying picnics nearby.
Imagine walking down a quiet path lined with cherry blossom trees. Their branches form a pink tunnel overhead. As the breeze blows, petals fall around you like soft snow, lightly touching your shoulders and covering the ground.
Isn’t it amazing? Indeed, it is.
It’s peaceful, magical, and lively all at once- a moment where time almost stops, allowing you to relax and take it all in.
When & Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Japan 2026
One of the most exciting and slightly tricky parts of planning a cherry blossom trip to Japan is timing. As you know, the sakura don’t bloom everywhere at once; they start in the south and gradually move north. But don’t worry, here’s a breakdown
Late March to Early April
Most of central Japan, including Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Kochi, Nagoya, Fukuoka and Hiroshima, reaches full bloom during this time. So, here’s your list of the best places to see cherry blossoms in each city this year-
|
Tokyo |
Kyoto | Osaka | Kochi | Nagoya |
Hiroshima |
|
Ueno Park |
Arashiyama | Osaka Castle Park | Kochi Castle | Nagoya Castle | Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park |
|
Shinjuku Gyoen |
Maruyama Park | Kema Sakuranomiya Park | Kagamigawa Riverside | Tsuruma Park | Hiroshima Castle |
|
Chidorigafuchi |
Kiyomizu-dera | Expo ’70 Commemorative Park | Nishigawa Flower Park | Yamazaki River | Shukkeien Garden |
|
Meguro River |
Heian Shrine | Shitennoji Temple | Makino Botanical Garden | Higashiyama Zoo & Botanical Gardens |
Onomichi Temple Walk |
|
Yoyogi Park |
Philosopher’s Path | Nakanoshima Park | Haruno Sports Park | Meijo Park | Miyajima Island |
Mid to Late April
Blossoms spread to northern regions like Wakayama, Kagoshima, Kanazawa, Sendai, Nagano, and Aomori. Check out the places given below, which you should plan to visit for the cherry blossom
|
Wakayama |
Kagoshima | Kanazawa | Sendai | Nagano |
Aomori |
|
Hirahara Shrine |
Yoshino Park | Asano River | Nishi Park | Obuse Town | Ashino Park |
|
Kimiidera Temple |
Shiroyama Park | Utatsuyama Park | Aoba Castle Ruins | Zenko-ji Temple |
Gappo Park |
|
Wakayama Castle |
Sengan-en Garden | Saigawa Riverside | Shiogama Shrine | Ueda Castle Park |
Moheji Park |
|
Negoro-ji Temple |
Tsurumaru Castle Site | Kenrokuen Garden | Mikamine Park | Matsumoto Castle |
Hirosaki Castle Park |
|
Kinokawa Riverside |
Kagoshima Castle Ruins | Kanazawa Castle Park | Tsutsujigaoka Park | Takato Castle Ruins Park |
Sannai-Maruyama Site |
Early to Mid-May
The final wave blooms in Hokkaido (Sapporo and Hakodate), being the best spots to experience it. Below given are the list of places you can visit to experience cherry blossoms
|
Hakodate |
Sapporo |
|
Mt. Hakodate |
Hiraoka Park |
| Goryokaku Tower |
Nakajima Park |
|
Goryokaku Park |
Moerenuma Park |
|
Hakodate Park |
Asahiyama Memorial Park |
| Trappistine Monastery |
Maruyama Park & Hokkaido Shrine |
Note: Each city typically experiences a peak bloom of about a week, although cooler weather can extend the season slightly. Because the window is so short, many tourists check the official cherry blossom forecast published each year by the Japan Meteorological Agency before finalising their itinerary.
Japan Temperature During Cherry Blossom Season
Japan’s cherry blossom season happens from late March to early April in big cities. During this time, the weather is mild, with temperatures between 10°C and 20°C. Warmer temperatures after winter help flowers bloom faster, while colder temperatures slow them down.
During the peak bloom time, from late March to early April, the weather is mild in cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Daytime temperatures usually range from 13°C to 18°C, but it gets cooler at night.
In southern cities like Fukuoka, the weather is warmer, with highs around 19°C. In contrast, northern areas such as Sapporo are cooler, with temperatures between 2°C and 10°C.
So, if you are wondering, is going to Japan during the cherry blossom season worth it? The answer is an absolute yes. In fact, that’s what Japan is known for.
It’s not just about seeing flowers- it’s about experiencing Japan at its most festive and beautiful. Locals gather for hanami picnics, seasonal foods appear in cafés and markets, and the entire country feels alive with celebration. For many, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime travel moment, just mark my words.
What to do in Japan during the Cherry Blossom Season?
One of the top things to do in Japan at night during cherry blossom season include enjoying hanami picnics under the trees, experiencing nighttime light-ups (yozakura), trying sakura-themed foods and drinks, and joining seasonal festivals like the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival.
Check out the top things to do in 2026 below
Hanami Picnics
Picnics are a central part of enjoying cherry blossoms. Families, friends, and coworkers come together under the blooming trees. They spread picnic blankets, share food, and enjoy drinks. This gathering creates a joyful mix of nature and community.
Yozakura (Night Viewing)
Many parks and temples shine lights on cherry blossoms at night, creating a magical glow. Walking under the lit sakura feels almost divine.
Seasonal Foods & Drinks
Try sakura mochi (sweet rice cakes wrapped in cherry leaves), sakura lattes, sakura-themed KitKats, and even cherry blossom beer.
Festivals & Parades
Events like the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival and Takato Castle Park Festival feature lanterns, performances, and food stalls.
Boat Rides
Some spots, like Chidorigafuchi in Tokyo, let you row under cherry blossom tunnels for a romantic view.
List of the Cherry Blossom (Sakura) Festivals in Japan
The Hanami tradition was once celebrated only by the aristocrats, but during the Edo period, it spread from the nobility to commoners. It became a popular event across Japan for people of all backgrounds and doubled the enjoyment of cherry blossoms with picnics, sake, and food.
Fuji Kawaguchiko Cherry Blossom Festival (Yamanashi)
This festival takes place on the northern shore of Lake Kawaguchiko, with hundreds of trees lining the shore against the backdrop of Mount Fuji. Checkout the Fuji Kawaguchiko tourist information for more details.
Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival (Aomori)
In the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival (Aomori), tourists can find 2600 trees with over 50 varieties of cherry blossom in Hirosaki Park. Not just these, there are many must-see places in this park; learn about it in detail before visiting.
Kitakami Tenshochi Festival (Iwate)
The beauty of this festival and location is that tourists can walk under the tunnel of pink, with branches extending from both sides of the trees. The best part is located near the river, and you can take a river cruise to enjoy it.
Edo Fukagawa Sakura Festival (Tokyo)
The Edo Fukagawa Sakura Festival happens in Monzen-Nakacho, which is a very calm and peaceful area. Tourists can take motorboat rides, and at night, the cherry blossoms will be illuminated, creating an incredible sight to behold.
Kema Sakuranomiya (Osaka)
This festival is held at Kema Sakuranomiya Park, along the Ogawa River. The highlight of the festival is the fireworks show , which tourists can enjoy beneath the sakura trees.
Hanami marks the start of spring and the new fiscal year. It symbolizes hope, togetherness, and the beauty of life’s fleeting moments. So, you must attend the cherry blossom festivals when you are in Japan.
Authentic Japanese Events to Attend During Sakura Season
There are several traditional festivals in Japan that run from late February through March and are celebrated across the country. So, if you are visiting during the cherry blossom season, you must experience it.
Hinamatsuri
Hinamatsuri is an authentic Japanese festival celebrated on 3rd March. It celebrates the daughters. Families across Japan pray for the good health, prosperity, success and longevity of their daughters. It is also known as Dolls’ Festival, Girls’ or Peach Festival.
It features beautiful displays of Hina dolls depicting the imperial court of the Heian period. These dolls are arranged on tiered platforms. The celebration symbolizes wishes for girls’ health and happiness.
Plum Blossom Festival
The Plum Blossom Festival (Ume Matsuri) marks the arrival of spring with blooming pink and white plum trees. It is most famous in Japan at Mito’s Kairakuen Garden and places like Yushima Tenjin.
The festival features lights, food, and cultural events from late winter to early spring (February to March). Visitors can see thousands of plum trees and enjoy the beauty and symbolism of the season.
The White Day
White Day is a tradition in Japan that takes place on March 14th, one month after Valentine’s Day. On this day, men give gifts in return for the gifts they received from women. Common gifts include white chocolate, marshmallows, jewellery, or flowers.
These gifts represent purity and gratitude. This tradition began as a way for the candy industry to increase sales.
Also, “Sanbai Kaeshi” is the custom that says the return gift should be worth two to three times the value of the original gift.
How to Plan a Cherry Blossom Trip to Japan?
To plan a cherry blossom trip to Japan, you must first know the Japan trip cost, then check the bloom forecast, choose destinations that match your travel dates, and book flights and hotels at least months early. A 7-10 day itinerary covering Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka is ideal, and a Japan Rail Pass makes travel easier. Visit parks early to avoid crowds.
Here are some essentials to keep in mind
Timing is Everything
The cherry blossoms bloom at different times across Japan. Decide your destinations based on the forecast- Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka usually bloom late March to early April, while Hokkaido peaks in May.
Book Early
Flights and hotels fill up quickly, often six months in advance. Booking in advance ensures secure pricing and availability near popular parks.
Ideal Trip Length
A 7-10 day itinerary allows you to see multiple cities and catch the blossoms at their best.
Getting Around
The Japan Rail Pass is perfect for covering long distances between cities, while local trains and buses are best for short trips.
Crowd Tips
Visit parks early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a quieter hanami.
Budgeting
Expect slightly higher prices during this season, but consider it part of the experience.
Cherry blossom season is the busiest time of year for travel in Japan, so planning ahead is key.
7-Day Cherry Blossom Itinerary in Japan
A 7-day cherry blossom trip in Japan can cover Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. Spend 2 days in Tokyo (Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen), 2 days in Kyoto (Philosopher’s Path, Maruyama Park), take a day trip to Nara or Osaka, visit Miyajima Island in Hiroshima on Day 6, and return to Tokyo on Day 7 for shopping and a final hanami picnic.
Day 1-2: Tokyo
- Visit Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Chidorigafuchi.
- Enjoy hanami picnics and yozakura (night viewing).
- Try sakura-themed street food and desserts.
Not just these, you find many great places to visit and things to do in Tokyo, so have a blast!
Note: Plan for the best place to stay in Tokyo and book your accommodation prior to avoid extra charges.
Day 3-4: Kyoto
- Walk the Philosopher’s Path and visit Maruyama Park.
- Explore Kiyomizudera Temple with cherry blossoms in the backdrop.
- Experience traditional tea ceremonies under blooming trees.
While staying for two days in Kyoto, find the best place to stay that is near the cherry blossom area. After visiting the blossoms, explore other things to do to truly experience what Kyoto has to offer!
Day 5: Nara or Osaka (Day Trip)
- Nara Park: deer + sakura magic.
- Osaka Castle Park: Blossoms with a Historic Castle View.
Osaka is a beautiful city that provides you with endless things to do and see its unique side. Stay and find the best area and explore to the fullest!
Day 6: Hiroshima (Miyajima Island)
- See cherry blossoms alongside Itsukushima Shrine’s famous red torii gate.
You know Hiroshima city carries a wound, and the great places tell its tragic story. But apart from that, it shows its charm in cherry blossoms.
Day 7: Return to Tokyo
- Last-minute shopping for sakura souvenirs.
- Relax in Shinjuku or Yoyogi Park for a farewell hanami.
Note: If travelling later in the season, consider replacing Hiroshima with Kanazawa or Hokkaido, where blossoms bloom in late April to May. But if you want to spend time in Tokyo, then here’s your 7-day Tokyo Itinerary.
Tips for First-Time Visitors to Japan During Cherry Blossom Season
First-time visitors should arrive early at popular parks, respect hanami etiquette, dress in layers, and carry a picnic sheet, snacks, and rubbish bags. For the best photos, visit at sunrise or sunset, and check sakura forecast apps to plan around peak bloom.
Visiting Japan during cherry blossom season is magical, but knowing a few insider tips can make the experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Respect Hanami Etiquette
Don’t shake branches, pick flowers, or leave trash behind. Bring your own picnic sheet and clean up after yourself.
Arrive Early
Popular spots like Ueno Park or Maruyama Park get crowded fast. Early mornings are peaceful and perfect for photography.
Dress in Layers
Spring weather can shift quickly between warm afternoons and chilly evenings.
Bring Essentials
Pack a picnic mat, snacks, drinks, and a small bag for rubbish. Many locals also bring warm tea or sake.
Photography Tips
Sunrise and sunset offer the softest light. For yozakura, adjust your camera for low light conditions or consider bringing a tripod.
Use Helpful Apps
Sakura forecast apps, Google Maps, and translation tools make navigating and planning easier.
Quick Cherry Blossom Bloom Calendar 2026 by Region
|
Major Cities |
Estimated Bloom Period |
Peak Viewing |
|
Fukuoka, Nagasaki |
Mid-Late March |
Late March |
|
Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe |
Late March to Early April | End of March to Early April |
|
Tokyo, Yokohama |
Late March to Early April |
Early April |
|
Kanazawa, Nagoya, Takayama |
Early to Mid April |
Mid April |
|
Sendai, Aomori |
Mid-Late April |
Late April |
|
Sapporo, Hakodate |
Early-Mid May |
Mid May |
Conclusion
Cherry blossom season in Japan isn’t only about seeing the flowers-it’s about celebrating life. The entire country comes alive with festivals, food, and unique traditions that make this time of year unforgettable.
Japan’s cherry blossom season offers incredible vistas, cultural hanami picnics, and festive events, making it the most magical time of year to visit. The blooms last just a week in each city, so timing your trip is key.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to see the blossoms again, planning ahead ensures you catch peak bloom and enjoy the best spots without stress.
Ready to see Japan in full bloom? Start planning your cherry blossom trip now with Dimaak Tours because nothing compares to standing under a sky of soft pink petals and walking through a pink tunnel…
Frequently Asked Questions About Cherry Blossom Season in Japan
When is the best time to see cherry blossoms in Japan?
The best time is usually late March to early April, though bloom dates vary by region. Hokkaido blooms later, in late April to May.
How long do cherry blossoms stay in full bloom?
Cherry blossoms peak for about 7-10 days once in full bloom. Weather conditions like rain and wind can shorten this period.
Which city is best for cherry blossoms in Japan?
Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are the most popular, but Hiroshima, Kanazawa, Nara, and Hokkaido are also top spots.
Do I need to book hotels early for the cherry blossom season?
Yes- cherry blossom season is peak travel time. It’s best to book 3-6 months in advance for hotels, trains, and tours.
Can I do a cherry blossom trip on a budget?
Absolutely. Opt for free public parks, use regional rail passes, stay in hostels or business hotels, and enjoy convenience-store hanami picnics.
What should I wear during cherry blossom season?
Wear layers, as spring weather shifts quickly. A light jacket, scarf, and comfortable shoes are ideal for long walks and cool evenings.
Are there nighttime cherry blossom events?
Yes- called Yozakura. Parks like Tokyo’s Ueno and Kyoto’s Maruyama Park illuminate trees at night, creating a magical atmosphere.
