When it comes to tourism locations, Japan is among the most popular in the world. When the cherry blossom season arrives in Japan, however, that popularity goes into overdrive and becomes very popular. The abundance of cherry trees in Japan is a source of white and pink blossoms, and it appears that every traveler wants to experience what it is like to see Japan decked with these flowers.
Consequently, there are high expectations associated with the planning of a vacation to Japan during the cherry blossom season. When it comes to getting the most out of your hanami experience, two of the most important aspects are properly managing those expectations and being aware of where to go. Please allow me to share some information with you that you need to know about the cherry blossoms in Japan, as well as several spots that are worth knowing. You will be able to take pleasure in the experience and depart with very few or no regrets if you do it this way.
Taking a trip to Japan during the cherry blossom
It is important to go over a few things before delving into the specifics and offering advise. This will ensure that everything is crystal clear about what we are discussing.
During the springtime, cherry trees produce blooms that bloom in a variety of colors, including pink and white. These blooms are referred to as sakura in any Japanese language. Hanami is a custom that has developed in Japan as a result of the yearly magical change that occurs throughout the country. Hanami is a ritual that involves visiting parks and having picnics or social gatherings beneath the trees in order to appreciate the cherry blossoms.
When it comes to the season, timing is the most important thing that you need to be mindful of. In the beginning, cherry blossoms appear in the tropical south, and then they gradually make their way to Hokkaido, which is located in the north. The fact that the optimal time to see cherry blossoms in Japan varies from year to year is a challenging aspect of the situation.
Mid-March to mid-April is the normal time window, however there are some years in which it occurs sooner and others in which it occurs later. For a more precise estimate of the timing for that particular year, you could look for a cherry blossom prediction in the days leading up to the season. Upon my arrival in late March, I saw that the trees in the Kanto, Chubu, and Kansai areas had already begun to blossom.
Where to go in Tokyo to observe the cherry blossoms
When traveling to Japan, it is uncommon for people to bypass Tokyo, thus it is likely that you will want to visit Tokyo to view the cherry blossoms. The good news is that Tokyo is home to a multitude of wonderful locations where one may enjoy the sakura season in Japan.
It is likely that the Imperial Palace, with the sakura growing along its moat, is the most well-known and picturesque location in Tokyo for cherry blossom viewing. I regret not going there since it was out of the way for me to get there. Despite the fact that Yoyogi Park, which is located close to the Meiji Jingu, is another popular destination, I was unaware of its existence at the time.
In spite of the fact that I did not do much investigation, I was able to locate a number of cherry blossom locations in Tokyo. During the cherry blossom season in Tokyo, these are some of the most popular sites to visit.
Ueno Park
Ueno Park is widely considered to be among the nicest parks in Tokyo and is a destination that is often visited by visitors. On the other hand, it receives a significant boost during the springtime when its trees unexpectedly burst into blossoms.
On the day that I arrived in Japan, I essentially walked off the airport rail in Ueno Park, and within five minutes, I was surrounded by sakura trees. I was captivated by it at that point in my journey, but even today I can understand why it is such a well-known destination for hanami restaurants in Tokyo.
Due to the vastness of Ueno Park, I suggest beginning your journey at the island that is located in Shinobazuno Pond. There, you will notice a row of trees that runs down the walkways of the lake, and it will be difficult to overlook. Additionally, you will find a large number of sakura trees located behind the Gojoten Shrine, as well as lawns where residents of Tokyo will gather to enjoy picnics beneath the blossoming trees.
Nihombashi
Malls, stores, and commercial buildings make up the majority of the neighborhood, which is located right next to Tokyo Station.
However, because of this, Nihombashi offers a very different background for hanami compared to the majority of the locales featured here. Many of the area’s heavily used roadways are lined with bright white blooms that nearly give the impression that they are filling the space between the buildings. Remember that you are shooting pictures in an inner city location, therefore keep in mind that you should be aware of the traffic.
Meguro River
During the cherry blossom season in Tokyo, the Meguro River is one of the most beautiful places to be. Located in the Meguro Ward, which is located south of Shibuya, it is quite improbable that you would find yourself in this region by chance or for any other purpose save seeing sakura.
On the other hand, the trek out is well worth it since if you stroll along the river, you will witness sakura trees stretching as far as the eye can see. As the river continues to shrink, the sides of the river seem to be a single, continuous, pinkish cloud that appears to expand in size.
Located close to Nakameguro Station and the Sakura Bridge are the most well-known hamani restaurants in this area. Not only are the blooms the most abundant in this area, but you also get to experience the celebrations that are often associated with hanami. You will discover a large number of establishments in the region where you may dine and drink, and where you can take in the sights and feel the vibes of the environment.
At the same time, I would like to bring to your attention the fact that cherry blossoms may be seen all the way from Meguro Station, straight along the river. The landscape there is more open, but it still has a significant influence, yet it is also far less crowded.
Sakurazaka in Akasaka
A neighborhood in Tokyo’s posh midtown sector, Akasaka is located only a short distance away from the bustling Roppongi district. With the exception of a few establishments and companies with a Harry Potter motif, it is a touch subdued for visitors.
On the other hand, Akasaka is home to a number of cherry blossom display locations, one of which is a street located just outside of the Akasaka Biz Tower. In spite of the fact that Sakurazaka wraps up behind the shopping center and is lined with cherry trees, the atmosphere there is a little bit gloomy since there is no one around to enjoy them.
Where to go in Osaka to observe the cherry blossoms
Compared to Tokyo and Kyoto, Osaka seems to have a less number of major green areas. As a consequence of this, it is more difficult to locate cherry blossoms in Osaka, or at least that was my experience. In the event that you are in Osaka and are interested in seeing the sakura, you could discover that you need to explore outside the city itself to surrounding cities that are just a short distance away.
Osaka Castle Park
You just need to visit one site that you would visit normally in order to experience the cherry blossoms in Osaka. Even though it is the location of the city’s most famous castle, Osaka Castle Park is also home to some of the most beautiful flower orchards in the city.
Plum blossoms, as opposed to cherry blossoms, may be seen at the Plum Grove of Osaka Castle, which is located close to the real castle keep. However, on the other side of the moat, which is the outer side, there are a great number of trees that are in bloom.
In addition, on a particularly pleasant weekend, you will find just as many people here enjoying picnics as there are trees. To my knowledge, that is the most accurate depiction of residents delighted in hanami that I have ever seen.
Himeji Castle Park
If you are not traveling to Nara, then there is a good probability that you will instead go to Himeji from Osaka for the purpose of a day trip vacation. Despite the fact that Himeji is not as well-known as Nara, it is nonetheless highly popular. As was said before, the castle and the park that surrounds it are the focal points of interest.
The beauty of Himeji Castle will be revealed to you as soon as you get there. Cherry trees are located all the way up into the castle complex, beginning at the entrance gate and going all the way up. On the other hand, I believe that the most gorgeous location for blooms is on the outside of the castle walls and moat. Both the cherry trees that are located on top of the castle walls and those that are located along the water’s edge may be seen there.
You will ultimately get to Senhime-no-Komichi Park, which is located on an island, if you continue to follow the moat. Taking a stroll along its pedestrian route will soon provide you with an abundance of cherry blossoms in the sky, making it an excellent location for taking photographs in Himeji.
Nara Park
As a result of its proximity to Osaka (or Kyoto), Nara is often chosen as a day trip destination by tourists who are interested in seeing the city. One may visit Nara for a variety of reasons, the majority of which are located at Nara Park. Simply adding Sakura to your list of reasons to come is a great idea.
Despite the fact that there are a few trees in the vicinity of temples like Todai-ji, I was only able to find one location that was very abundant with cherry blossoms. It’s possible that there are more in Nara; this is only what I discovered.
When you reach the south side of Nara Park, you will find the Ukimido gazebo. Along the path that leads down to the gazebo and the lake that it is situated on, there is a little grove of cherry trees that creates an especially breathtaking location for photographs.
Where to go in Kyoto to observe the cherry blossoms
Not only is Kyoto a city that is very well-liked among tourists in Japan, but it is also an amazing destination to visit during the springtime. Since Kyoto is home to a large number of parks, gardens, and temples, it is an ideal place for the practice of hanami.
I can’t claim that I am familiar with all of the greatest spots in Kyoto since, just like in Tokyo, there is a lot of territory to cover in Kyoto. According to reports, the Kyoto Botanical Garden is among the most beautiful places to see the cherry blossoms in Kyoto, Japan; nevertheless, I would not know this from personal experience.
On the other hand, I am able to suggest the following locations, in addition to the magnificent gardens that are located at Tenryuji Temple, which are worthy of being mentioned.
Philosopher’s Path
Additionally, the Philosopher’s Path is a location that works very well in conjunction with the Keage Incline. At any time of the year, this winding walk along a stream is certain to be stunning and picturesque; but, when cherry blossoms are in bloom, it elevates the experience to an all new level.
Taking a stroll around this park will take you about twenty minutes in either direction; nevertheless, you are sure to lose track of time due to the presence of trees and other things to view along the route.
Shirakawa Lane in Gion
The Gion District in Kyoto is perhaps the most well-known neighborhood in the city because of its geisha district and the magnificent traditional scenery that can be seen there. Due to the fact that there is so much to see, it is possible that you may overlook the especially lovely section of Gion known as Shirakawa Lane.
It is a peaceful region that is converted into a beautiful place when its numerous cherry trees bloom thanks to the fact that it follows a small creek and is home to many attractive bridges. You will find cherry trees in other parts of this city, but a stroll along Shirakawa Lane is incomparable to any other experience you might have.
To-ji Temple
One of the most significant historical and cultural monuments in Kyoto is the To-ji Temple, which is a Buddhist temple that dates back to the eighth century. The pagoda that it houses is the highest wooden structure in the all of Japan.
In spite of this, if you go to Kyoto in the spring or fall, you will find that your attention is drawn elsewhere. In addition to the enchanting beauty of the cherry blossoms, the grounds of To-ji Temple are well-known for the manner in which the leaves transform throughout the fall season.
Keage Incline
In Kyoto, there is a peculiar monument known as the Keage Incline, which is a short section of abandoned railway rails. However, when spring arrives, this location becomes one of the most enchanting places to go because the trees on each side of it bloom, forming a magnificent tunnel of blossoms.
Going to this location later in the day, as I did, might make it a bit more difficult to take photographs here. Because the Keage Incline is a somewhat long and small place, it is quite likely that you will have to share it with other people unless you arrive early.
Disadvantages Of Vacation To Japan During The Springtime
Having a good understanding of what to anticipate is a significant component of making the most of your trip to Japan during the cherry blossom season. You may come across a multitude of photographs of towns and attractions decked out in sakura, but these photographs seldom shed light on the drawbacks and difficulties associated with traveling at this time of year.
Despite the fact that many of the drawbacks are self-evident, I believe it is important to reiterate them:
Numerous people
When it comes to tourism in Japan, the months of March and April are among the busiest months, if not the busiest months overall. There is a strong desire among people to witness the cherry blossoms, and you can sense it. Even in smaller towns, the sheer number of people may be daunting. towns like as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are teeming with tourists.
The expense
When there is a huge demand, prices tend to go up. As a result of the increased number of people fighting for hotels and flights, you will wind up paying more money on your vacation, even if you are attempting to conduct typical activities that are not related to hanami.
The climate during the time
If you go to Japan in the spring, it is difficult to know what you will experience there. The weather might be scorching and humid while you are touring one place, and then the next location you visit could be pouring rain. In a strict sense, the rainy season does not begin until March and ends in May; nevertheless, if you look at raincharts, it is not too far off. Also, if you travel anyplace near the mountains, you should anticipate that the temperature will drop rapidly.
As for the positive aspects, the photographs that are shown below ought to handle that.