Updated 11 Jan 2024: Sakura season is back! We’ve got new flowering dates from Japan Meteorological Corporation, and a fresh list of handpicked day tours that can enhance your cherry blossom experience.
Summary
For those planning to catch the sakura during the annual Hanami festivals (flower viewing) this coming spring, it’s not too late to arm yourself with the only Cherry Blossom Japan Guide you’ll EVERneed.
From insider tips on maximising your chances of sakura-spotting to guided tours to the best viewing spots across Japan, here are some hacks to getting the most out of your 2024 Japan cherry blossom experience.
Catching the cherry blossoms in Japan can be tricky. With an average flowering to end-of-bloom period of up to 14 days, you’d have to plan your trip really well. Even if your travel period coincides with the blooming period, there are still tons of things to consider. Not to mention jostling with locals and tourists for the best views!
Thankfully with a lot ofgood planning, it’s still possible to catch this once-a-year affair. After all, you can’t say you’ve truly experienced Japan until you’ve seen the cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Photo credit: @ajny via Unsplash
To help you out, we’ve organised our Ultimate 2024 Cherry Blossom Japan Guide into three main sections: Pre-trip Planning, Cherry Blossom Viewing Day Guide, and Frequently AskedQuestions (FAQ). Pay special attention to the 2024 cherry blossom blooming dates!
Note: We’ll try our best to update this frequently as more forecasts get released.
Pre-Trip Cherry Blossom Season Planning
Step 1: Know Japan’s Cherry Blossom Forecast
While the blooming season usually starts on mainland Japan from March to April, accurate forecasts are typically only released in February. If you’re planning ahead, it’s important to use the cherry blossom blooming patterns of previous years as a guide. Regardless, here is the most updated forecast for 2024!
Latest Cherry Blossom Forecast — Updated 11 Jan 2024
Note: Dates shown on the map are flowering dates, not full bloom dates.
Sapporo:Flowering date 2 May, Full Bloom date 6 May
Aomori: Flowering date 21 April, Full Bloom date 25 April
Sendai: Flowering date 8 April, Full Bloom date 12 April
Tokyo: Flowering date 23 March, Full Bloom date 30 March
Kanazawa: Flowering date 1 April, Full Bloom date 7 April
Nagano:Flowering date 6 April, Full Bloom date 12 April
Nagoya:Flowering date 21 March, Full Bloom date 31 March
Kyoto:Flowering date 23 March, Full Bloom date 1 April
Osaka:Flowering date 25 March, Full Bloom date 1 April
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Wakayama:Flowering date 23 March, Full Bloom date 31 March
Hiroshima:Flowering date 22 March, Full Bloom date 1 April
Kochi: Flowering date 18 March, Full Bloom date 26 March
f*ckuoka:Flowering date 21 March, Full Bloom date 30 March
Kagoshima:Flowering date 22 March, Full Bloom date 3 April
Weather changescan easily affect the blooming period, so despite following the general forecast, it’s important to stay updated with the latest forecast as your trip approaches. Here’s a handy cherry blossom blooming meter in Japan for monitoring.
Step 2: Decide on travel dates and locations to visit
Photo credit: Kishou
Japan’s sakura season generally follows a pattern from the south (earliest blooming) to the north (latest blooming), which means there are plenty of dates and options for Japanese cities you can visit. Here are a couple of tips!
Pro-tip 1: Skip Okinawa
Being so far south,Okinawa is the earliest Japanese region where Cherry Blossoms bloom. Often, it’s also used as an indicator for the forecasts on mainland Japan. If you really want to maximise your chances, you’d want to be in an area where you can easily move around. Flying to Okinawa means you’re stuck there for your entire vacation, as it doesn’t make sense to take another flight elsewhere to catch the sakura.
Pro-tip 2: Pick regions during the main cherry blossom season
Therefore the most flexible plan is to decide on a date and location just before the middle of the season. Based on the 2024 Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast, Osaka is a pretty good entry point as the flowering is slated to start around 25 March and full bloom on 1 April.
Besides being a good hub for international flights, Osaka is very well-connected to other Japanese cities by rail. This means you can easily go cherry blossom hunting in different cities even if you miss the actual blooming period in Osaka. Sakura aside, Osaka is a pretty awesome city to explore! Check out the new Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan or the new Instagram-worthy spot, teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka.
Check out our 7-Day Kansai itinerary under S$1.3k for fun things to do in and around Osaka!
Best Japanese cities and prefectures to catch the cherry blossoms
If you still can’t make up your mind, here are a couple of popular Japanese cities for sakura viewing:
Tokyo
Tokyo Tower during springtime. Photo credit: @haroldwainwright via Unsplash
Best cherry blossom viewing spots in Tokyo: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Ueno Park, Chidorigafuchi, Sumida Park in Taito-ku, Inokashira Park, Megurogawa, Yoyogi Park, Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens, Iwamotoyama Park
If you’re heading to Tokyo for this year’s hanami, don’t miss the Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival. It’s home to over 1,000 cherry trees and one of the largest-scale sakura festivals in all of Japan.
Photo credit: @thedlkr via Unsplash
With over a thousand cherry trees planted along Main Street that runs for 500m, Ueno Park sees about a million visitors during cherry blossom season. Stay on through the night for gorgeous lantern illuminations along the street for an even more magical sakura experience at Ueno Park.
If you’re after a mix of the traditional and new, Tokyo’s the place to be. Check out our latest 7D6N Tokyo road trip itinerary to find some of our favourite things to do, see and eat in and around Tokyo!
Mount Fuji (Fuji Five Lakes Region)
Mt. Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes (Fujigoko) region are gaining traction as cherry blossom viewing spots. Photo credit: Midori on Wikimedia Commons
Best cherry blossom viewing spots in Fuji: Chureito Pagoda, Eastern and Northern Shores ofKawaguchiko, Ubuyagasaki Peninsula, Iyashi noSato, OshinoHakkai
The most iconic mountain in Japan becomes even more picturesque during spring when nearby cherry trees bloom. Mount Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes region are just under two hours away from Tokyo via direct train, making it a perfect day-trip location for travellers based in Tokyo.
Another popular cherry blossom festival in the Tokyo-Fujiyoshida area is the Fuji Kawaguchiko Cherry Blossom Festival. During the blooming season, locals celebrate with food, drinks and craft stalls. Visitors can also expect night illumination that happens after sunset till 9PM.
Read also: 3D2N Road Trip Itinerary from Tokyo to Mount Fuji Itinerary Under S$570
Nagoya
Nagoya Castle during springtime. Photo credit: 名古屋太郎 on Wikimedia Commons
Cherry trees in full bloom at Nagoya Shrine. Photo credit: Gryffindor on Wikimedia Commons
Best cherry blossom viewing spots in Nagoya: Kanazawa Castle, Yamazaki Riverside, Inuyama Castle, Tsuruma Park, Nagoya Peace Park, Nabana no Sato Botanical Garden
Located between Tokyo and Osaka, Nagoya isone of Japan’s prominent castle towns. Today, it’s also home to automaking giants such as Toyota, Honda, and Mitsubishi Motors. Other than industrial products it is known for, Nagoya’s restored castle, ancient shrine and parks are also beautiful scenic spots for beautiful cherry blossom viewing.
Photo credit: Visit Nagoya
If you’re in Nagoya during springtime, do catch the Weeping Plum Tree Festival (dates to be announced). Although they’re not cherry trees, there are 12 kinds of plum trees in bloom at the Nagoya City Agricultural Center dela Farm. The festival usually features morning market and an outdoor market.
Read also: Day trips from Nagoya: Gateway to the Hidden Gems of Mie and Gifu Prefectures
Osaka
Osaka Castle Park. Photo credit: FastJapan
Best cherry blossom viewing spots:Kema Sakuranomiya Park, Osaka Castle Park,Expo 70 Commemorative Park,Osaka Mint,Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park, Nagai Park, Shirokita Park, Osaka Gokoku Shrine, Settsukyo Gorge
The unofficial food capital of Japan and home to the magnificent Universal Studios Japan and Osaka Castle, Osaka is another great place to catch the cherry blossoms due to its numerous connections to all parts of Japan.
And in Osaka itself, sakura festivals are held in multiple locations — including Osaka Castle Park, Expo 70 Commemorative Park and Settsukyo Gorge. There’ll be performances, local food and drinks stalls set up, plus nightly illuminations.
Read also: Osaka Transport Guide — Maximising Your Transport Passes for Travelling In And Around Osaka
Kyoto
Sannenzaka Street in Kyoto.
Best cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyoto: Philosopher’s Path, Maruyama Park, Heian Jingu Shrine, Arashiyama area, Toji Temple, Kiyomizudera Temple, Kamo Shrine, Hirano Shrine, Nijo Castle
Fushimi Inari
From the red torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine to towering bamboo at Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto is not shy of photogenic and culturally rich spots. It’s just 1hr via express train from Kansai Airport in Osaka — so most people cover Kyoto and Osaka in one trip!
Night flower experience art exhibition “NAKED FLOWERS 2024 Sakura World Heritage Nijo-jo Castle” at Nijo Castle. Photo credit: NAKED, INC
Located at the heart of Kyoto, Nijo Castle hosts various festivals throughout the year. And during the sakura season, the castle offers nighttime admission for the Nijo-jo Castle Sakura Festival 2024 (dates to be announced) which sees about 300 cherry trees illuminated against the Kara-mon Gate and other historic buildings.
Read also: 6D5N Kyoto-Based Japan Itinerary — Things to do Beyond Fushimi Inari Shrine and Nara Deer Park
Hiroshima
Hiroshima Castle. Photo credit: imgur
Itsukushima Jinja, city of Hatsukaichi in Hiroshima.
Best cherry blossom viewing spots in Hiroshima: Hiroshima Peace Park, Hiroshima Castle, Shukkeien Garden, Hijiyama, Miyajima, Senkoji Park,Kintaikyo Bridge Iwakuni, Chuo Beach
Hiroshima has come a long way since the dropping of the atomic bomb during WWII. Hiroshima today has grown to become a food haven and home to some of the best okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake), with plenty of parks and memorials that make excellent cherry blossom viewing spots.
Hatsukaichi city hosts its yearly sakura festival on Sunday in early April. There’ll be food stalls and a centre stage set up where visitors can enjoy performances while admiring the sakura blooms!
Read also: 8-Day Japan Itinerary: 9 Cities in Kansai for Under S$900
Niigata and Nagano
Takato Joshi Park, Nagano. Photo credit: GoNagao.net
Lake Okushima, Nakanojo.
Best cherry blossom viewing spots in Niigata and Nagano:Takato Castle Ruins,Takada Park,Koboyama Koen, Komoro Kaikoen, Hakusan Park,Shinanogawa Yasuragitei Ryokuchi Park, Former Niigata Customs House,Shinano River Water Shuttle
Often left out of many itineraries, the underrated regions of Niigata and Nagano offer a whole different experience from Japan’s main cities. Home to the most famous Zenkoji Temple for pilgrims, there are many hidden gems waiting to be explored. Not to forget the onsen-soaking snow monkeys!
Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, Nagano.
With over 1,500 cherry trees in bloom, the annual Takato Cherry Blossom Festival (typically April, exact dates to be announced) is one of Japan’s most popular hanami spots. If you’re in Nagano during the season, this event is not to be missed. Stay on for the light-up that happens after sunset too!
Read also: Niigata Nagano Travel Guide via the JR Pass and 5D4N Japan Itinerary — Niigata and Sado Island
Tohoku and Yamagata
Uesugi Shrine, Yamagata. Photo credit: Yamagatakanko
Mount Zao, Yamagata.
Best cherry blossom viewing spots in Tohoku and Yamagata:Miharu Takizakura, Kajo Castle,Hirosaki Park, Kitakami Tenshochi Park,Okitama Sakura Corridor
Blessed with surreal scenery, good food, and a chilled-out vibe, Tohoku and Yamagata are Japan’s best-kept secrets.
At Yamagata, hanami is celebrated at the famous Yamagata Cherry Festival. Yamagata is known for fresh cherries — the prefecture produces 70 percent of Japan’s cherries! The festival even features an all-you-can-eat cherry-picking, plus cherry-flavoured drinks and desserts. 🍒
Zao Fox Village, Miyagi.
Read also: Yamagata Guide: Japan’s Secret Winter Wonderland
Hokkaido
Sakuragaoka Street.
Best cherry blossom viewing spots in Hokkaido:Matsumae Park, Goryokaku Park in Hakodate, Noboribetsu Onsen Flower Tunnel, Maruyama Park, Nakajima Park, Asahiyama Park, Seiryuji Temple, Sakuragaoka Street
Goryokaku Park is one of Hokkaido’s top cherry blossom viewing spots. Not only does the park look beautiful in pink during the daytime, it’s pretty stunning when lit up with illuminations at night.
Goryokaku Park in Hakodate.
Hokkaido is a stunner during the autumn months too.
Much more than a winter destination, the northernmost region of Japan is also known for its volcanos and hot springs. Hokkaido is also one of the best places in Japan to go on a road trip between spring and autumn.
Read also: 6D Hokkaido Under S$1k — Must-Eat, See and Dos in Sapporo, Otaru, Asahikawa and Biei
Still not sure where to go? Check out our full list of Japan guides for inspiration!
Step 3: Book your flights and accommodations early
Cherry blossom season is Japan’s peak travel season, so make sure you settle big-ticket items like flights and accommodation early to keep costs low. If you want more flexibility, many airlines also allow you to change your travel dates for a small fee. Of course, the earlier you decide the better, as the dates you might want to change to could be full or have a surcharge!
For accommodation, book early to secure your space but look for places with a 14 to 30-day cancellation policy in case you need to change your travel dates.
Step 4: Figure out where the special festivals and events are, and either
Avoid them at all costs
If jostling with people for space isn’t your thing, look for alternative viewing spots in the city you’re visiting. I know friends who prefer having their own space to take photos and enjoy the scenery. Simply google “[city you are visiting] cherry blossom festival”, and you can easily get the information you need.
Or go on a pre-booked tour
For those who want to visit popular spots without the fuss, consider going on a pre-booked cherry blossom viewing tour to guarantee the best experience. Book a day trip from Tokyo to Lake Kawaguchi beside Mount Fuji for the most iconic views of the country.
Other cherry blossom viewing day tours you might find useful or complementary to your trip:
Tokyo
1) Hitachi National Seaside Park and Ashikaga Flower Park/Mito Kairakuen Park Trip (~S$121)
Mt. Fuji (from Tokyo)
1) Mt. Fuji Flower Festival Tour with Mt. Kachi Kachi Ropeway Experience from Tokyo (~S$118)
2) Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi Scenic Spots Day Tour from Tokyo: (~S$92)
3) Mt. Fuji, Panoramic Ropeway and Seasonal Fruits Picking Day Tour from Tokyo (~S$107)
Osaka and Kyoto
1) Miyama Thatched Village, Ine Bay and Amanohashidate Tour from Osaka (S$121)
2) Three Sakura Viewing Spots in Kyoto One Day Tour from Osaka (currently unavailable)
3) Kyoto Sagano Romantic Train, Arashiyama, Kiyomizudera and Fushimi Inari-taisha Day Tour (~S$85)
Step 5: Get a transport pass (JR Pass) and be flexible *MOST IMPORTANT*
For the ultimate flexibility to increase your chances of a cherry blossom viewing experience, consider getting a JR Pass. The JR Pass allows you unlimited travel along all JR lines — the main intercity transport throughout Japan for a fixed price.
Getting the 7D Whole Japan JR Passgives you the flexibility to travel to almost anywhere in Japan with a JR line, while the 5D Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass will allow you to travel between Hiroshima and Kansai regions easily.
Based on the area selected in Step 2, pick a suitable JR Pass and plan your itinerary around the region. Be flexible once the latest forecast is out. Check out our Ultimate JR Pass Guide to find out more about the different passes and the best ways to use them!
Step 6: Fit in other highlights in Japan
Snap pics at Tokyo’s teamLab exhibition!
While Cherry Blossoms are the main attraction, they’re only one of the many things Japan has to offer. From a fun-filled day out at Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea to taking photos at teamLab or popular anime locations, there are tons of things to explore in Japan.
Go on an anime location hunt around Japan!
Browse our list of Japanese itineraries and guides — you’re bound to find a trip you’ll love. And don’t miss out on exclusive deals for Japan travel essentials, cherry blossom tours and other must-do activities! Check out Klook’s curated list of deals and experiences to save ahead of your trip.
Cherry Blossom Viewing Day Guide
Step 7: Start the day early
And we do mean real early — 8:30AM is considered late when visiting famous tourist spots in Japan. Showing up early means you avoid the main tourist crowds (especially the tour buses) plus you get to reserve a prime viewing spot for the next few hours. Natural light for photography is also the best during the golden hour just after sunrise. Light is gentler and you get that extra softness to your photos!
Starting the day early also means you have more time to explore before nightfall — you did travel all this way, after all.
Step 8: Pack some food for a picnic
For locals, one of their favourite cherry blossom activities is toenjoy a picnic with friends. Experience this local tradition by packing a yummy bento lunch and a mat for a fun picnic!
Step 9: Dress up in a kimono
If you really want to get into the festive mood, rent a kimono or yukata in cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and f*ckuoka! Many kimono rental places also offer makeup and hair-styling services if you wanna go all out. ✨
Transport, WiFi and Activities
Before you leave for Japan, make sure to secure your travel essentials:
1) Tokyo Subway Ticket (~S$14 for a 72hr ticket)
2) Osaka Amazing Pass (From ~S$18 for a 1-day ticket)
3) Airport Skyliner, one-way (From ~S$21 one-way)
4) Unlimited 4G Data SIM Card (From ~S$31 for 5 days)
5) Hakone Free Pass (From ~S$56 for a 2-day pass)
Travelling in a group or with kids? Book a private car charter to save the hassle:
1)Tokyo Private Car Charter (From ~S$534 per car)
2) Mt. Fuji and Surrounding Private Car Charter (From ~S$585 per car)
Frequently Asked Questions about Cherry Blossoms in Japan
Why are the cherry blossoms in Japan so popular?
More than just pretty flowers, cherry blossoms are a symbol of Japan’s history and cultural beliefs. The short flowering period reflects the fleeting nature of life and represents a time of hope and revival! While many things in Japan attract either tourists or locals, cherry blossom viewing appeals to everyone!
Cherry Blossom, Sakura or Hanami?
Often used to describe the same thing, hanami actually means ‘flower viewing’, while cherry blossoms (English) and sakura (Japanese) refer to the flower. Cherry Blossoms are flowers from any tree of the genus Prunus, but the most common one in Japan is the Japanese Cherry.
What’s a Hanami festival like?
Photo credit: Gurunavi
While they vary, expect lots of music, sakura-themed food (read: PINK), sake, and good vibes. There’ll be more people around the parks, and loads of merchants tapping on this yearly affair. As if they aren’t friendly enough, locals appear to be even friendlier during this period!
Hope you found our Ultimate Cherry Blossom Japan Guide useful. Do check back as we will continually update this page every year!
Any Japan cherry blossom tips we missed out on? Let us know in the comments below! 🙂
This post was brought to you byKlook.
