Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in Japan (Month-by-City Guide)
Last updated: January 2026
Cherry blossom season — known as sakura — is one of the most magical times to visit Japan. Streets turn pink, parks fill with picnickers, and historic temples become surrounded by blossoms.
If you’re planning a spring trip, timing matters. Bloom periods vary each year, and different regions of Japan peak at different times.
All itineraries on our website are templates. We design private, customized sakura trips based on your group’s pace, interests, and travel style.
🌸 When Is Cherry Blossom Season in Japan?
Most cherry blossoms bloom between late March and mid April, but the season can stretch from late January to early May depending on location.
| Region | Typical Bloom |
|---|---|
| Tokyo | Late March – Early April |
| Kyoto / Osaka | Early – Mid April |
| Hiroshima / Fukuoka | Late March – Early April |
| Kanazawa / Takayama | Early – Mid April |
| Aomori / Tohoku | Mid – Late April |
| Hokkaido (Sapporo / Hakodate) | Late April – Early May |
Because the season moves from south → north, some travelers follow the bloom across regions.
🌸 Month-by-City Cherry Blossom Guide
Late March (Tokyo / Fukuoka)
- Tokyo: Ueno Park, Meguro River, Chidorigafuchi
- Fukuoka: Maizuru Park, Nishi Park
- Hiroshima: Peace Park, Shukkeien
Early April (Kyoto / Osaka)
- Kyoto: Philosopher’s Path, Maruyama Park, Kiyomizu-dera
- Osaka: Osaka Castle Park, Kema Sakuranomiya Park
- Nara: Mount Yoshino
Mid April (Takayama / Kanazawa / Nagano)
- Takayama’s Old Town
- Kenrokuen Garden (Kanazawa)
- Matsumoto Castle (Nagano)
Late April – Early May (Tohoku / Hokkaido)
- Hirosaki Castle (Aomori)
- Kakunodate Samurai District (Akita)
- Hakodate Goryokaku Park
- Sapporo Maruyama Park
For more inspiration, check our Hokkaido Cherry Blossom Tour (6 Days) — a beautiful late-season itinerary.
🌸 How Long Do Cherry Blossoms Last?
After blooming, cherry blossoms last only about 7–10 days depending on weather. Strong rain and wind can shorten the season.
🌸 Should You Follow the Cherry Blossoms?
Some travelers choose a multi-region route to increase bloom chances. Popular examples:
- Tokyo → Kyoto → Osaka (Late March – Early April)
- Kyoto → Kanazawa → Takayama (Early – Mid April)
- Tokyo → Tohoku → Hokkaido (Mid April – Early May)
This works especially well for families, seniors, or photographers who want maximum bloom coverage.
🌸 Planning a Cherry Blossom Trip: Key Tips
We design custom sakura routes for families, seniors, couples, and small private groups. Here’s what matters most:
- Book early: Hotels in Kyoto/Tokyo fill 6–9 months in advance
- Choose pacing: Families & seniors prefer slower itineraries
- Reserve ryokan: Private onsen stays are very popular during sakura
- Consider transport: Private driver makes multi-city travel easier
- Have a back-up: Weather varies year to year
Want to learn more about private onsen stays? Read: Onsen Etiquette for First-Time Visitors.
Not sure how to stay connected during your trip? Compare connectivity options here: Pocket WiFi vs eSIM for Japan.
🌸 Planning a Cherry Blossom Trip to Japan?
All itineraries on Jatravi are templates. We customize pace, hotels, transportation, and experiences for families, seniors, couples, and small private groups.
We do not sell fixed group tours — instead, we design private, fully-customized Japan trips with English-speaking support and flexible pacing.
Check Availability & Request QuoteYou don’t need to decide your full itinerary now — just tell us your travel dates and group details.
🌸 FAQ: Cherry Blossom Season in Japan
When is the best month to see cherry blossoms in Japan?
The best months are late March and early April for most major cities, while northern regions like Tohoku and Hokkaido bloom in late April to early May.
Where are the best cherry blossom spots?
Top spots include Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path, Tokyo’s Ueno Park and Meguro River, Osaka Castle Park, Nara’s Mount Yoshino, and Hokkaido’s Goryokaku Park.
How far in advance should I book?
For sakura season, we advise booking hotels 6–9 months in advance, especially in Kyoto and Tokyo. Private onsen ryokan often fill first.
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