Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan 2026 | Ultimate Sakura Travel Guide

Cherry blossom season in Japan is one of the most iconic spring experiences in the world. From late March through early May, Japan transforms into a soft pink landscape as sakura (cherry blossoms) bloom from south to north.

This 2026 guide is designed for travelers searching for the best cherry blossom spots in Japan, the Japan cherry blossom forecast, and practical planning tips—covering major cities, regional highlights, hidden locations, night illuminations, etiquette, and photography advice.

When Is Cherry Blossom Season in Japan? (2026 Forecast Overview)

Tokyo Cherry Blossom Spots

Ueno Park

Ueno Park is among Tokyo’s most famous sakura destinations, with large numbers of cherry trees and a classic hanami atmosphere. During peak season, the area becomes lively with seasonal stalls and groups enjoying picnics under the blossoms.

Meguro River (Nakameguro)

The Meguro River area is famous for a long stretch of cherry trees forming a “pink tunnel” effect. Reflections on the water create a distinctly Tokyo-style sakura scene—romantic, photogenic, and especially atmospheric near sunset.

Chidorigafuchi (Imperial Palace Moat)

Located near the Imperial Palace, visitors can rent boats and row beneath blooming cherry trees. This perspective—looking up through blossoms while floating—feels uniquely immersive.

Kyoto Cherry Blossom Spots

Philosopher’s Path

The Philosopher’s Path is a calm, canal-side walkway lined with cherry trees. It’s ideal for a slow morning stroll, especially when petals begin to fall and drift across the water.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

The iconic wooden terrace overlooking Kyoto is surrounded by sakura during spring. Night illuminations are especially impressive.

Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Western Japan

Mount Yoshino (Nara)

Mount Yoshino is legendary for cherry blossoms—thousands of trees covering slopes in layered waves. Bloom progresses in stages at different elevations, extending the viewing season.

Northern Japan Cherry Blossoms

Hirosaki Castle (Aomori)

Hirosaki is one of Japan’s top cherry blossom destinations, famous for moat scenery. When petals fall and gather on the water, the surface can resemble a “pink river,” creating one of the most photogenic spring scenes in the country.

Kyushu Cherry Blossoms

Kumamoto Castle

The contrast between the dark castle architecture and pale blossoms is striking. Kyushu’s earlier bloom timing makes it ideal for travelers visiting Japan in late March.

Hokkaido’s Late Cherry Blossom Season

Goryokaku Park (Hakodate)

Late April to early May is an excellent time to catch sakura in Hokkaido. Goryokaku Park is famous for its unique star-shaped design and a full ring of cherry trees.

Hidden Cherry Blossom Spots Most Tourists Miss

Many travelers focus on famous headline locations. But some of the most relaxing sakura experiences are found away from major tourist routes. A simple rule works surprisingly well: walk 15–20 minutes farther than most visitors.

Night Cherry Blossoms (Yozakura)

Yozakura—cherry blossoms illuminated at night—can feel like a different season entirely. The best viewing window is often 30–60 minutes after sunset.

Hanami Etiquette

• Take your trash with you (or dispose of it properly if bins are provided).
• Do not shake branches or pick blossoms.
• Don’t block paths for photos, especially in narrow areas.
• Drone use is commonly restricted—assume it’s not allowed unless clearly permitted.

Cherry Blossom Photography Tips

• Sunrise / morning: soft light + fewer crowds.
• Backlighting: petals glow when the sun is behind them.
• Water reflections: rivers, moats, ponds add depth.
• Petal fall: breezy days create dynamic photos.

How to Plan the Perfect Sakura Trip in 2026

Planning is a balance between preparation and flexibility. Forecasts can shift by several days depending on temperatures, and peak bloom can be brief. Build a “Plan B” spot each day in case of rain or crowds.