Cherry Blossom in Japan 2024: best places for sakura full bloom

Although every season in Japan holds unique charm, none is as magical as the cherry blossom season. As sakura blooms paint the country in hues of pink, Japan comes alive with vibrant hanami festivals. Visiting the country during this season is an experience of a lifetime. If you searched for “cherry blossom in Japan best places,” you’re in for a treat. This is your ultimate guide to experiencing Cherry Blossom season in Japan 2024. It’s filled with curated recommendations of where to go, best things to do and best time to see the sakura bloom. Here’s an overview of what you’ll find in this article:

For years, I dreamt of witnessing Japan’s landscapes transform into a mesmerizing sea of pink blossoms. Little did I realize that cherry blossom season wasn’t just about nature’s beauty; it’s also a profoundly cultural and symbolic time in Japan. A season to honor the fleeting nature of life and beauty of nature – that’s the essence of hanami. The most vivid memories I have from this trip are of families gathered beneath cherry trees in full bloom pickning and having a great tim. The sounds of laughter were infectious, and I’m convinced this is the happiest, most remarkable time to experience Japan and I couldn’t recommend it more.

Cherry Blossom in Japan best places

Cherry blossoms, or sakuras in Japanese, are the national flower of Japan. They have a deep cultural significance and bloom all over the country, from urban parks and bustling streets to serene mountainsides. Each location has its own beauty and characteristics, so I recommend planning to visit most (or why not all?) of the best places to see the Cherry Blossom in Japan. These are my absolute favorites:

1) Kyoto

Kyoto is the quintessential city to experience cherry blossom season in Japan. Last year, we were fortunate enough to explore this historical city during full bloom days. Saying it was a dream come true would be an understatement. The ancient streets, enchanting parks, and majestic castles were adorned with countless sakura trees. A captivating backdrop that enhanced our journey through the rich cultural heritage of Japan’s former capital. I strongly recommend planning your visit to Kyoto during full bloom week, which can be anticipated a couple of months in advance.

In 2024, full sakura bloom in Kyoto is expected to happen on the 31st of March. We talked in detail about the best spots to experience cherry blossom in Kyoto on this post. But here’s a summarized list of my favorite sakura spots in Kyoto:

• Philosopher’s Path
• Toji Temple
• Haradani-en Garden
• Kyoto Botanical Garden
• Daigoji Temple
• Kiyomizudera
• Hirano Shrine

We had a blast trying delicious small dishes, sipping sake and making friends with groups of locals sitting around us. I’m not sure if it was the sake or the overall happiness the season brings to both tourists and locals – perhaps both. But Japanese people were unusually open and excited to meet us during that night. It was an unforgettable night of camaraderie, one of these rare traveling moments you feel truly connected with locals!

2) Kanazawa

Kanazawa was the most surprising city we visited in Japan. It’s an exceptionally charming town, brimming with fantastic things to see and do, especially during cherry blossom season. And what’s best of all? Kanazawa remains a hidden gem, away from the bustling tourist routes, allowing for an authentic and tranquil experience in Japan. We had the fortune of visiting Kanazawa during full bloom and were truly impressed by the abundance of sakura trees adorning the parks and castles and lining riverbanks. It was a highlight of our trip to Japan, and I wholeheartedly recommend planning a visit to this historically rich city during sakura season.

In 2024, full sakura bloom in Kanazawa is expected to happen on the 6th of April. And these are the best cherry blossom spots to visit:

• Kanazawa Castle Park
• Kenrokuen Garden
• Promenade along the Asanogawa River
• Saigawa Riverbank

My absolute favorite sakura experience in Kanazawa was to stroll in the rivebanks of Asanagawa River, in the proximity of Kazuemachi Chaya District. It was sunset time, and the atmosphere couldn’t have been more romantic. A perfect place to create core memories with the love of your life, like we did!

3) Mount Yoshinoyama

Mount Yoshino is one of the best places to visit in Japan during sakura season. With over 30,000 sakura trees of various varieties blanketing its slopes, this mountain offers one of the most breathtaking natural landscapes you’ll ever see. Due to its high altitude, the cherry blossoms on Mount Yoshino typically bloom later in the season. Usually during the first two weeks of April. In this post, you’ll find a comprehensive guide to Mount Yoshino, complete with details on the best spots to immerse yourself in the cherry blossom splendor!

4) Fujikawagichico

The frame of Mount Fuji surrounded by cherry flowers popped in my mind whenever I thought of visiting Japan. So, seeing this landscape with my own eyes was not only a dream come true, but also a highlight of our trip to Japan. Trust me when I say there’s no better place to admire Mount Fuji than from Fujikawaguchiko. It’s a perfect destination for a daytrip from Tokyo, but it’s better explored over 2-days itinerary. Especially during cherry blossom season, which usually happens in the second week of April!

If you’re coming from Tokyo like most of us, I’d recommend visiting the Chureito Pagoda on your way to Fujikawaguchiko. The earlier you can get there, the better, as this is one of the most beautiful and popular places in Japan. In clear days, you’ll have a perfect view of Mount Fuji and during cherry blossom season the temple is surrounded by gorgeous sakura trees. It’s one of the most impactful places we visited in Japan and definitely a must-visit to all!

After visiting the pagoda, head to the town of Fujikawaguchiko. There’s much to do in the center, but I’d recommend skipping the crowds and heading directly to Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center, the final stop of the red bus line. Find a comfortable picnic spot and enjoy a delicious Japanese meal while admiring the most beautiful angles of Mount Fuji. Then, walk down the lake promenade and admire the hundreds of sakura trees adorning the majestic vulcano in the background. This is a truly an experience for the books, one we will never forget!

5) Tokyo

Tokyo is the most fascinating city I’ve visited, a place where modernity coexists perfectly with tradition. From strolling in bustling streets filled with neon signs to relaxing in zen temples where time seem to stand still, our days in the capital of Japan were simply the best. Especially with so many sakuras in bloom enveloping us and the city, creating the most romantic and unforgettable of sceneries. If you’re heading to Japan during cherry blossom season, it’s worth planning your stay in Tokyo during full bloom days. The people, parks and streets truly come to life!

In 2024, full sakura bloom in Kanazawa is expected to happen on the 29th of March. And these are my favorite cherry blossom spots to visit:

• Ueno Park
• Meguro River
• Senso-ji Temple
• Nakameguro
• Chidorigafuchi Park
• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
• Yoyogi
• Sumida Park

6) Himeji Castle

Himeji is one of the most spectacular castles in Japan. Its imposing size, meticulously preserved structure, and profound historical significance have earned it the esteemed status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a must visit spot, especially during cherry blossom season, when it’s enveloped by hundreds of sakura trees creating a true sight to behold. Visitors can explore the castles premises and the town of Himeji, but the most remarkable thing to do is to take a boat trip across the moats that surround this magnificent fortress. If possible, prioritize the full bloom week, which usually happens in the first 10 days of April.

7) Okayama

Okayama is a delightful town out of the beaten path of Japan. It’s home to one of Japan’s top three traditional gardens and a perfect place to visit during cherry blossom season. We visited Okayama as a day trip from Osaka and experienced almost full bloom conditions. Strolling leisurely along the picturesque riverbank near Korakuen Garden was truly memorable experience, topped up by visiting to the stunning Korakuen Garden and Okayama Castle. We had such a great time and I recommend adding Okayama to your Japan itinerary.

In 2024, full sakura bloom in Okayama is expected to happen on April 1st. And these are some of the best places to visit during cherry blossom season:

• Handayama Botanical Garden
• Korakuen Garden
• Okayama Castle

8) Nara

Picking a favorite destination from such an epic trip to Japan during cherry blossom season is no easy feat. But Nara undeniably holds a special place in my heart. This city is a treasure trove of historical and cultural wonders and left me in awe at every turn. However, what truly captivated me was Nara’s serene and zen-like ambiance. The city is an oasis of tranquility, where deer roam free (yep, you read it right) and where I could sense the country’s spiritual essence. Nara is a place like no other and of the finest places in Japan to bask in the beauty of cherry blossom season!

In 2024, full sakura bloom in Nara is expected to happen on the 1st of April. Below, you’ll find my top recommendations of places to visit during cherry blossom season in Nara:

• Nara Park
• Mount Wakakusa
• Himuro Shrine

Best time to visit Japan for cherry blossom

When it comes to experiencing cherry blossom in Japan, timing is crucial. And that’s because sakura flowers have a really short life-spam and in a matter of days they go from first blooms to falling from the trees. So, if you want to witness full bloom, you’ll need both a strong strategy and flexibility to plan (and perhaps rearrange plans) according to latest predictions for the specific year.

I shared the strategy I used to witness full bloom in several locations in Japan on my guide to Japan. You should definitely read it if you’re serious about experiencing the best of sakura season in 2024. But, as a rule of thumb, this is what you need to know:

Cherry blossom season in Japan happen every year, between mid-March and mid-May. The southernmost locations bloom earlier, whereas northern locations bloom later. The most popular destinations in Japan, such as Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka tend to reach full bloom between last week of March and first week of April. Therefore, these are the best weeks to visit Japan for cherry blossom.

Exact full bloom dates for each year can be predicted a couple of months in advance. For 2024, this is the current estimation. If you’re planning a trip to Japan during sakura season, I recommend you to:

• Book international flights as soon as possible
• Pick an itinerary based on average full bloom days. Here is my suggestion!
• Book hotels with free cancelation using Booking.com, so that you can rearrange plans as you become wiser on full bloom dates
• As soon as yearly predictions are released, adjust your itinerary and make permanent reservations. Be quick and assertive!

I know waiting to make permanent bookings may seem like a gamble at first. But trust me when I say any sacrifice is worth to witness full bloom in Japan!

Cherry blossom in Japan 2024 dates

As much as Japanese people like to enjoy seeing the sakuras, they like to anticipate their full bloom dates. It’s a big thing in Japan and I totally got into it last year, while planning our trip. The initial predictions are released a couple of months in advance and may change depending on several factors. So, make sure you’re always updated.

This year’s predictions are out. At this moment, these are the most important full bloom dates:

• Tokyo full bloom in 2024: 29th of March
• Kyoto full bloom in 2024: 31st of March
• Osaka full bloom in 2024: 1st of April
• Kanazawa full bloom in 2024: 6th of April

Last year’s predictions were spot on, even the dates released a couple of months in advance. Once full bloom dates were out, I started making permanent reservations, and that’s what I recommend you do. If you’re agile, you’ll still be able to find accommodation with great cost-benefit!

Visiting Japan during sakura festival season: travel tips

Eager to make the most of your trip to Japan during sakura festival season? Here are some top travel tips!

When is the best time to book a holiday to see the cherry blossom? Cherry Blossom is the busiest tourist season of the year in Japan. Visitors from all over the world flock to the most popular places to see the sakuras in bloom between March and April. So, you’ll want to have the basics of your trip booked in advance, such as international flights, hotels with free cancelation using Booking.com, and train tickets if you’re not planning on buying the JR Rail Pass.

Take part of spring festivals: Many interesting festivals take place in Japan during sakura season. The most intriguing is perhaps the offical sumo contest, which happens in Osaka during March. No less interesting are the gueisha shows happening in Kyoto for limited time during spring. Such unique experiences!

Cherry Blossom festivals in Japan: There are many cherry blossom festivals happening in Japan between March and April. In Tokyo I recommend joining the Meguro River festival and in Kyoto I recommend joining Maruyama Park festival. Regardless of the festivals you attend, make sure to join locals in hanami at a park. It’s such a vibrant and lovely celebration!

What to wear during cherry blossom in Japan: Temperatures can fluctuate a lot during the prime weeks of cherry blossom in Japan. During some hours of the day, it may be 20+ Celsius, whereas temperatures in the evening may drop significantly after sunset. Thus, I recommend wearing spring outfits, and bringing a winter jacket for night-time. I have created an in-depth packing guide to spring in Japan and I highly recommend you check it out!

I hope this travel guide was inspirational and useful to you. If so, check other blogs we published about Japan and book your trip using the links below.

:: Best cherry blossom season itinerary in Japan

:: When is cherry blossom season in Japan 2024