Top 5 Best Spots to See Cherry Blossoms in Japan

One of the best places to see cherry blossoms in all of Japan is Ueno Park in Tokyo. Every spring, over 1,000 cherry trees bloom around the park, creating a stunning canopy of pink. Ueno Park is perfect for hanami (flower viewing). Here locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy picnics under the blossoms and soak up the beauty of spring. The park is also home to museums and Ueno Zoo, making it a perfect family-friendly spot in the bustling city.  

Kyoto is known for its traditional beauty, so it’s no surprise that the historic Maruyama Park is one of the top places to experience cherry blossoms in the city. Located near the famous Yasaka Shrine, Maruyama Park is home to a beautiful weeping cherry tree (shidare-zakura) that becomes the star of the park when it blooms. The peaceful atmosphere here makes it a perfect spot to enjoy a quiet afternoon among the blossoms. Plus, the park comes alive in the evening with enchanting lights illuminating the sakura trees.

If you're looking for a cherry blossom experience with a twist, head to Nara Park. Famous for its friendly, free-roaming deer, Nara Park also boasts over 1,000 cherry trees that bloom during sakura season. The combination of the cherry blossoms with the sacred deer and the impressive Nara Todaiji Temple makes for a stunning scene. It’s a peaceful, enchanting spot that combines nature, history, and wildlife for a memorable cherry blossom experience.

Osaka Castle Park is another amazing cherry blossom spot in Japan. The park around Osaka Castle is home to over 4,000 cherry trees, which bloom beautifully in the spring, creating a picturesque scene with the historic castle in the background. Whether you’re strolling around the park or enjoying a boat ride along the moat, the sakura here are a sight to behold. It’s an excellent location to take in the natural beauty and historical grandeur of Japan.

For something a little different, Moerenuma Park in Sapporo, Hokkaido, offers a unique cherry blossom experience. Designed by artist Isamu Noguchi, the park blends art and nature beautifully. The Sakura trees bloom slightly later in Hokkaido, typically around late April to early May, giving you the chance to enjoy cherry blossoms after the season has passed in other parts of Japan. The vast open space and mountain views provide a serene setting for hanami lovers.