Cover Tokyo, Japan in the spring (Photo: Yu Kato/Unsplash)
Tokyo, Japan in the spring (Photo: Yu Kato/Unsplash)
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Partake in Japan’s traditional custom of ‘hanami’ (literally “flower watching”), wherein locals gather for picnics and such under the blooming trees to celebrate the advent of a new season
Spring time in Japan is marked by the arrival and flourishing of cherry blossoms, adorning nearly every tree-lined street and park in the country. Small and delicate as they are, sakura flowers are full of meaning; they symbolise the end of winter, hopeful new beginnings, and, for their ephemeral beauty, the transience of life.
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They certainly make for a compelling reason to visit Japan soon. Though many spring flowers in Japan are anticipated to be at their “peak” from late March to April, buds can open as early as January in the subtropical south or well into May in the far north, like Hokkaido.
Here are some spots on the seasonal floral trail—perfect for those venturing beyond the major cities and seeking a different perspective and experience of the country altogether.
Ashikaga Flower Park, Tochigi
Famous for its colourful wisteria, which hang overhead like graceful stalactites, this expansive garden also boasts blooming azaleas, tulips, snow willows and weeping cherry trees that complete the breathtaking scene. Come for the variety and meander through the meticulously curated collection, letting time pass you by. Expect crowds turning up for the Spring Flower Festival, which starts based on the blooms from late March through April.
Hitachi Seaside Park, Ibaraki
Above Nemophila, or "baby blue eyes" in full bloom at Hitachi Seaside Park, Japan (Photo: Nguyen TP Hai/Unsplash)
Above Miharashi Hill at Hitachi Seaside Park, Japan (Photo: Ten Ten/Pexels)
Nemophila, or "baby blue eyes" in full bloom at Hitachi Seaside Park, Japan (Photo: Nguyen TP Hai/Unsplash)
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Though a relatively short distance from the actual ocean, Hitachi Seaside Park is home to one of vibrant nemophila, also known as “baby blue eyes”, that seem to go on forever. A myriad of seasonal flowers thrive here, too—creating an expansive floral landscape to explore on foot or on a rented bicycle. Ideal viewing is mid-April to early May, when all are in full bloom.
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Tsuruga Castle, Fukushima
Let this restored stronghold in Fukushima add a historical and cultural edge to your cherry blossom viewing. The combination of the castle’s imposing presence and the delicate sakura creates a scene that is both serene and captivating. Visitors can explore the well-tended grounds, then stop by the nearby Rinkaku Teahouse and Fukushima Prefectural Museum to further gain an in-depth glimpse of Japanese traditions. The best time to visit is mid-April.
Funaoka Castle Ruins Park, Miyagi
Try out a different viewing experience and hop on the scenic, old-fashioned slope car in Funaoka Castle Ruins Park. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely walk along the trails, get cosy for a picnic amongst the flora, and snag a photo of the train car as it passes through a tunnel of pink blossoms. You can count on these cherry trees to be at their peak between early to late April during the Shibata Sakura Festival.
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Achi Village, Nagano
Within this charming mountain town in central Japan, the Hanamomo-no-Sato Park is renowned for its hanamomo (flowering peach) trees, which bloom around the same time as the azaleas and cherry blossoms. Because it is far away from the bustling cities, Achi also lends the perfect setting for stargazing, camping, hiking, or simply immersing oneself in nature. The best time to visit is the latter half of April.
Asahi Funagawa “Spring Quartet”, Toyama
In Asahi town, at the heart of coastal Toyama, a stunning visual spectacle ensues—cherry trees, tulips, and rapeseed flowers bloom simultaneously at the foot of the snow-capped Alps, creating a harmonious “quartet” of spring hues. Also nearby is the Funagawa River, which is framed on both sides by cherry trees once planted and continuously maintained by the local community. On some evenings, fire torches accentuate this magnificent “tunnel” of flowers and create a magical viewing experience. You’ll want to witness this between early to late April.
Hirosaki Park, Aomori
Above Hirosaki Park is a top spot for cherry blossoms in Japan (Photo: WANG Tianfang/Unsplash)
Hirosaki Park is a top spot for cherry blossoms in Japan (Photo: WANG Tianfang/Unsplash)
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With its restored three-storey castle and botanical gardens, Hirosaki Park is one of Japan’s most famous sakura spots. Beyond an abundance of trees, it’s got all sorts of attractions—from cherry blossom tunnels and moats filled with fallen petals, to rental rowing boats and picnic areas. There is also the famed “heart sakura”, a unique formation of two cherry trees that makes for a romantic photo backdrop. The Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival is held here annually from April 23 to May 5.
Goryokaku Park, Hokkaido
The aerial view of historic Goryokaku Park is truly a must-see; it’s a star-shaped, moated fort embellished with pink blossoms every springtime, with pops of lush, manicured greens completing the postcard-worthy sight. The best way to witness this is by heading up the adjacent, 107-meter-tall Goryokaku Tower and enjoying panoramic views from its observation deck. From here, you will also catch sight of of Mount Hakodate, the Tsugaru Straits, and the Yokotsu mountain range. At the park itself, you can delight in a leisurely stroll and ride a rented boat on the petal-peppered moat.
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Trained as a student journalist, Mac’s knack for writing was a serendipitous discovery. Years later and she can’t imagine doing anything else. When she isn’t typing away on a story, she revels in being lost in a new city, revisiting a cosy film or sitcom, and idling away with her dogs.
