What could be better than ringing in the start of spring with a trip to the land of sakura? Japan’s Meteorological Agency has already released the cherry blossom forecast for this year, so it’s time to plan your hanami (flower-viewing) trip to Japan. Here’s our round-up of some of the most gorgeous spots to catch cherry blossoms in Japan, in cities all across the country starting from south to north.
Here Are The Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Japan
Yoshino Park, Kagoshima
Forecast flowering date: 26 March 2019
Forecast full bloom date: 4 April 2019
Located in the north of Kagoshima, the 30-hectare Yoshina Park is home to over a dozen cherry cultivars, including the rare local species Kawazu-zakura. Definitely not to be missed!
Other sakura hot spots: Sengan-en Garden, Tadamoto Park, Mochio Park
Where to stay: Richmond Hotel Kagoshima Kinseicho, from RM$343 per night*
Located in the heart of the city, the hotel is within a few minutes walk from Tenmonkan shopping area and airport shuttle station. The park is just a tram stop away from JR Kagoshima Station, perfect if you want to continue your sakura-hunting journey in Fukuoka, which is only 1 hour and 5 minutes away by train.
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Maizuru Park, Fukuoka
Forecast flowering date: 19 March 2019
Forecast full bloom date: 30 March 2019
Fukuoka is the largest city in Kyushu, Japan’s southwesternmost main island. In Maizuru Park, you can find more than a thousand cherry trees, with the Fukuoka Castle ruins providing a beautiful backdrop. The flowering period is marked by the Fukuoka Cherry Blossom Festival, with various festive activities and food booths to keep you sated and entertained until dark, when the trees are illuminated, showing off another side of the sakuras’ breathtaking beauty.
Other sakura hot spots: Nishi Park, Katsuyama Park, Akizuki Sugi no Baba Street
Where to stay: Nishitetsu Grand Hotel, from RM$400 per night*
From Tenjin station, just next to the hotel, it’s a 20-minute subway ride to the airport. You can take a nice stroll and reach Maizuru Park or Nishi Park within half an hour.
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Senkoji Temple, Hiroshima
Forecast flowering date: 26 March 2019
Forecast full open date: 2 April 2019
The Zen environment of Senkoji Temple makes for the perfect place to surround yourself with weeping cherry trees, as well as Yaezakura and Yoshino cherry trees. Walk up the hill to the observation deck for a panoramic view of the blossoms and Seto Inland Sea.
Other sakura hot spots: Itsukushima Shrine, Ondo-no-Seto Park, Japan Mint Hiroshima Branch
Where to stay: Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima, from RM$287 per night*
The hotel is located near the centre of Hiroshima, with attractions like Peace Memorial Park and Hiroshima Castle within walking distance. Enjoy stunning views of Seto Inland Sea from the rooftop hotel restaurant and bar.
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>>You may also like: The Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Taiwan
Japan Mint, Osaka
Forecast flowering date: 26 March 2019
Forecast full open date: 2 April 2019
The Japanese Mint is the head government office responsible for producing and circulating coins in the country. The cherry garden at its premises is opened to the public for just seven days a year, for sakura lovers to visit during the cherry blossom season. With different rare varieties of cherry blossoms in different shades like white, light green and light pink, the garden is an absolute must-visit for sakura-viewing in the city.
Other sakura hot spots: Osaka Castle, Kema Sakuranomiya Park, Expo Commemoration Park
Where to stay: City Plaza Osaka, from RM$279 per night *
Conveniently located near Nakanoshima Park and Osaka Castle, which are only few minutes away from the hotel. Enjoy the large public bath, onsen and free massage machines on the top floor of the hotel.
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Gojo River, Nagoya
Forecast flowering date: 23 March 2019
Forecast full open date: 1 April 2019
If you wish to experience the festive atmosphere of Sakura Matsuri, Iwakura city is the place to be, with its famous handmade Koinobori (carp flags) and traditional cherry blossom festival held near the scenic Gojo River.
Other sakura hot spots: Nagoya Castle, Yamazaki River, Togokusan Fruit Park
Where to stay: Mitsui Garden Hotel Nagoya Premier, from RM$520 per night *
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Chidorigafuchi, Tokyo
Forecast flowering date: 18 March 2019
Forecast full open date: 25 March 2019
There are many gorgeous sakura-viewing spots in Tokyo – you’re likely to find blossoms simply by wandering the streets or strolling through the parks. However, our favourite spot in the city is Chidorigafuchi. Just imagine the romance of a boat ride under a canopy of cherry trees. This picturesque garden is the ultimate date spot and certainly one of the most instagrammable sakura spots in town.
Other sakura hot spots: Shinjuku Gyoen, Yasukuni Shrine, Ueno Grace Park
Where to stay: Tokyo Dome Hotel, from RM$1443 per night *
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20-Ken Roads of Shizunai, Hokkaido
Forecast flowering date: 29 April 2019- Hakodate
Forecast full open date: 17 May 2018- Kushiro
Voted as one of the ‘100 Best Cherry Blossom Spots’, ‘100 Best Roads in Japan’ and ‘Hokkaido Heritage’, 20-Ken Roads of Shizunai is undoubtedly the best sakura-viewing spot in Hokkaido. The 7km-long road in Shinhidaka is lined endlessly with over 3,000 cherry trees.
Other sakura hot spots: Goryokaku Park, Maruyama Park, Matsumae Park
Where to stay: Premier Hotel Nakajima Park Sapporo, from RM$326 per night *
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*Note: These rates are based on search queries made on kayak.com.my on 12 February, 2019. The prices are quoted in RM$. Flight prices are based on results for a return economy flight search. Hotel prices are for double occupancy and include taxes and fees. Prices are subject to change, may vary, or no longer be available.
