Optimal Time for Cherry Blossom Viewing in Japan
The prime cherry blossom viewing period in many regions of Japan typically spans from late March to early April. In the Tohoku region and Hokkaido, cherry blossoms can be enjoyed from late April to early May. Notably, the earliest blooming Higan cherry in Okinawa starts flowering around mid-January, preceding the late-blooming Yaezakura, which peaks in mid-April.
In 2023, cherry blossoms are expected to bloom earlier than usual due to a relatively warmer climate. For detailed predictions, refer to the "2023 Japan Cherry Blossom Blooming Forecast."
▼ Annual Optimal Viewing Periods
| Region | Optimal Viewing Period |
|---|---|
| Tokyo | Late March to Early April |
| Hokkaido | Late April to Early May |
| Tohoku | Mid to Late April |
| Kanto | Late March to Early April |
| Chubu/Hokuriku | Late March to Mid-April |
| Kinki | Late March to Early April |
| Chugoku/Shikoku | Late March to Early April |
| Kyushu | Late March to Early April |
| Okinawa | Mid-January to Early February |
【Tokyo】Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots
Ueno Park | Tokyo
【Optimal Viewing Period】Late March to Early April
Ueno Park stands as one of Tokyo's renowned cherry blossom viewing sites. Legend has it that the monk Tenkai, who founded Kanei-ji Temple in the early Edo period, transplanted cherry blossoms from Mount Fuji. The cherry blossoms bloom magnificently along the sakura avenue that runs through the park.
Event Period: "Ueno Sakura Festival" - Late March to Early April each year
Meguro River | Tokyo
【Optimal Viewing Period】Late March to Early April
Meguro River is a particularly popular cherry blossom viewing spot in Tokyo. Along Meguro River, from the bridges in Meguro to the vicinity of Meguro Station, rows of cherry blossoms create an uninterrupted spectacle during the blooming season. Stylish cafes dot the surroundings, making it an ideal stroll along with the nearby Daikanyama.
Event Period: "Nakameguro Sakura Festival" - Early April each year
Illumination Period: March 18th to April 9th, 2023, 17:00-20:00
Inokashira Park | Tokyo
【Optimal Viewing Period】Late March to Early April
Inokashira Engei Park is situated between Musashino City and Mitaka City in Tokyo. Here, you can revel in the splendid scenery of cherry blossoms in full bloom along the shores of the pond. The park boasts approximately 500 cherry blossom trees, with particularly spectacular views of Yoshino cherry blossoms and wild cherries around Inokashira Pond. Taking a boat ride from the top of the pond to admire the cherry blossoms and enjoying the scenery from the Seven Wells Bridge atop the pond are both must-see attractions.
Showa Kinen Park | Tokyo
【Optimal Viewing Period】Late March to Late April
Showa Kinen Park spans across Tachikawa City and Akishima City in Tokyo. Within the expansive gardens, roughly 39 Tokyo Domes, you can appreciate a variety of trees and flowers. Around mid-March, weeping cherry blossoms and cold scarlet cherry blossoms reach their peak, while Oshima cherry blossoms and Yoshino cherry blossoms begin to bloom one by one. The renowned cherry blossom spot in the park, the "Sakura Garden," is dyed in a pale pink hue, making it a must-visit destination.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden | Tokyo
【Optimal Viewing Period】Late March to Late April
Adjacent to the Shinjuku district, Shinjuku Gyoen is a 3.5-kilometer circumference oasis covering an area of 58.3 hectares. This "urban oasis" turns into a spring cherry blossom haven with 1000 cherry blossom trees in full bloom. The prime time to enjoy the cherry blossoms is generally from late March to early April, featuring early-blooming cold scarlet cherry blossoms and late-blooming Fugenzo cherry blossoms, providing a diverse array of cherry blossoms during this period.
Chidorigafuchi | Tokyo
【Optimal Viewing Period】Late March to Early April
Located northwest of the Imperial Palace, Chidorigafuchi offers a spectacular view of cherry blossoms blooming on the opposite side of the moat. Boat rides along the moat for cherry blossom viewing are also popular, making it one of Tokyo's best cherry blossom viewing spots that imparts beautiful hues to the moat. Additionally, the specimen tree, foundational to Tokyo's cherry blossom declaration, is situated near Chidorigafuchi at the Yasukuni Shrine.
Rikugien Gardens | Tokyo
【Optimal Viewing Period】Late March to Early April
Rikugien Gardens stands as one of Tokyo's representative feudal lord gardens. The spectacular weeping cherry blossom branches in the park, especially during full bloom, are considered masterpieces that welcome visitors in spring. Strolling through the landscaped Mori-no-Tenkyu Fountain Garden with its large pond, you will undoubtedly be enchanted by the beautiful scenery.
Sumida Park | Tokyo
【Optimal Viewing Period】Late March to Early April
Enjoy the beauty of spring in Sumida Park, one of Tokyo's most iconic cherry blossom viewing spots, with the Tokyo Skytree as a backdrop. Rows of cherry blossom trees along the river, starting from Azumabashi Bridge, add to the picturesque scene. The cherry blossoms are illuminated during the flowering season, making it a recommended experience for an evening stroll amidst the cherry blossoms.
Yoyogi Park | Tokyo
【Optimal Viewing Period】Late March to Early April
A popular cherry blossom viewing destination just a 3-minute walk from Harajuku Station, Yoyogi Park is located south of Meiji Shrine, surrounded by lush greenery in the heart of the city. Particularly crowded around late March when Yoshino cherry blossoms are in full bloom, it offers a leisurely space for cherry blossom viewing on the lawns. It's also recommended to enjoy cherry blossoms while exploring Harajuku or Omotesando.
Tokyo Midtown | Tokyo
【Optimal Viewing Period】Early to Mid-April
Tokyo Midtown, a new evening cherry blossom viewing spot, features 103 cherry blossom trees mainly of the Yoshino variety. Illuminated during the cherry blossom season, it's a popular destination for a nighttime stroll under the cherry blossoms. In the adjacent Hikichicho Park, cherry blossoms such as Oyamazakura and Yaebenishidare are in full bloom.
【Kanto Region】Famous Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots
Seiho Goryo Park | Ibaraki Prefecture
【Optimal Viewing Period】Late April
Located in Chushi, Ibaraki Prefecture, Seiho Goryo Park is renowned for its double-flowered cherry blossoms, with approximately 2000 trees. Situated in hilly terrain, the pink cherry blossoms paint the slopes in various colors, creating a spectacular view. The park also features around 200 Yoshino cherry trees that bloom earlier than the double-flowered cherry blossoms.
Nikko Highway Cherry Trees | Tochigi Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Mid-April
Nikko Avenue has been a famous cherry blossom viewing spot since the Edo period. Along National Route 119, approximately 1,500 wild cherry trees line the 16-kilometer stretch from Utsunomiya City to Nikko City. With the longest length of cherry blossom trees in Japan, traversing beneath the cherry blossoms during the blooming season is a refreshing and popular springtime drive.
Senbonzakura on the South Side of Mount Akagi | Gunma Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Early to Mid-April
Senbonzakura, located south of Mount Akagi in Maebashi City, Gunma Prefecture, is a row of about 1,400 Yoshino cherry trees planted since 1956. During the flowering season, it attracts numerous cherry blossom enthusiasts. Adjacent to "Miyagi Senbon Sakura no Mori," cherry blossoms and rapeseed flowers bloom simultaneously, creating a springtime spectacle. Additionally, the moss phlox Fukurokou flowers, which bloom later than cherry blossoms, with 150,000 plants are also worth seeing.
Saitama Sakura Embankment | Saitama Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late March to Early April
The popular spot for spring cherry blossoms and rapeseed flowers, Saitama Sakura Embankment, is located along the Nakagawa River in the northeast of Saitama City. Approximately 1,000 Yoshino cherry trees are planted along the riverbank. Moreover, the embankment-maintained Sotokashindendo Park is adorned with blooming rapeseed flowers, providing a delightful sight for visitors.
Omiya Park | Saitama Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late March to Early April
Located north of the Musashino Ichinomiya Hikawa Shrine, Omiya Park is about 1.5 kilometers northeast of JR Omiya Station. The park features around 1,000 cherry blossom trees, including Somei Yoshino, Shidarezakura, and Satoyama cherry blossoms, creating a delightful scene. The cherry blossoms along the old Funabashi shore and the 120-year-old Shidarezakura with light pink blossoms in the Free Square are also worth a visit.
Kumagaya Sakura Embankment | Saitama Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late March to Early April
About 500 Somei Yoshino cherry trees bloom along the Kumagaya Sakura Embankment, located along the Arakawa River in Kumagaya City. Famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot since the Edo period, it attracts many visitors who come to enjoy the picturesque scenery of cherry blossoms and rapeseed flowers in spring. Just a 5-minute walk from JR Kumagaya Station, its convenient location is one of its charms.
Shimizu Park | Chiba Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Early April
Shimizu Park, located in Noda City, Chiba Prefecture, is a renowned spot with around 2,000 cherry blossom trees in full bloom during spring. The rows of cherry blossom trees along the roadside are particularly worth seeing. Additionally, the earliest blooming cherry blossoms in the adjacent Kimpukuin temple are century-old famous trees. The cherry blossom season in the park concludes in late April with the blooming of azaleas.
Ooka River Promenade | Kanagawa Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late March to Early April
The Ooka River flows through the Minami Ward of Yokohama City. The Ooka River Promenade, lined with cherry blossom trees on both sides, is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot in Yokohama. The section from Kannon Bridge to Shimizu Bridge near Kyumyoji Station is illuminated with paper lanterns according to the blooming season, creating a magical night cherry blossom viewing experience.
Sankeien Garden | Kanagawa Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Early March to Mid-April
Sankeien Garden in Yokohama is a historical garden with relocated structures from Kyoto and Kamakura. In spring, approximately 250 cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino and Oyama cherry blossoms, bloom, creating a picturesque scene. The beautiful floral landscapes and various structures make it a must-visit destination. Additionally, during the cherry blossom season, limited special tickets are available, allowing early admission compared to regular opening hours.
【Hokkaido/Northeast】Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots
Goryokaku Park | Hokkaido
【Best viewing time】Late April
Goryokaku is a historic landmark representing Hakodate, also known as a star-shaped fortress. Goryokaku Park is home to around 1,500 cherry blossom trees, and in late April, the world of cherry blossoms unfolds. Particularly, from the top of Goryokaku Tower, you can view the pink springtime Goryokaku, making it a highly worthwhile sight.
Nijukken Road Cherry Trees | Hokkaido
【Best viewing time】Early to Mid-May
In Shinshinotsu Town, the Nijukken Road features over 2,000 cherry trees along a straight road spanning about 7 kilometers. The road is 20 ken wide (approximately 36 meters), giving it its name. Every year from early to mid-May, the pink Ezo-yamazakura blossoms are in full bloom.
Hirosaki Park | Aomori Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late April
As one of the premier cherry blossom viewing spots in northeastern Japan, Hirosaki Park is also known for Hirosaki Castle with its existing keep. With around 50 varieties and approximately 2,600 cherry blossoms, including Somei Yoshino, Edo Higan, and Yaezakura, it is a popular cherry blossom viewing destination. The illumination during the flowering season is also spectacular. Additionally, the sight of flower boats in the moat outside the castle during the bloom is magnificent.
Kitakami Exhibition Grounds | Iwate Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Mid-April to Early May
Along the Kitakami River in Iwate Prefecture, cherry blossoms line the riverbank. Approximately 150 varieties and 10,000 cherry blossoms, including Somei Yoshino in mid-April and Kasumizakura in early May, create a stunning display. During the cherry blossom festival held in the flowering season, the spectacle of cherry blossoms and carp streamers swimming in the sky is impressive.
Shirakawa Riverbank One Thousand Cherry Trees | Miyagi Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Early to Mid-April
Along the Shirakawa River in the southern part of Miyagi Prefecture, the riverside cherry blossoms with Mount Zao in the background are a masterpiece. Stretching about 8 kilometers, the row of cherry trees is known as "Ichirizakura" or "One Thousand Cherry Trees." When approximately 1,200 cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the snow-capped Zao mountain range in the background creates a spectacular view. During the Shirakawa Cherry Blossom Festival, flower-viewing boat tours operate, allowing visitors to enjoy the illuminated cherry blossoms at night.
Kakunodate Samurai District | Akita Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late April to Early May
Known as the "Little Kyoto of Michinoku," Kakunodate in Senboku City boasts photogenic pink cherry blossoms reflecting on wooden fences. The Shidarezakura cherry blossoms that bloom in late April in front of samurai residences give a profound feeling no matter where you go. Additionally, the Hinoekicho Riverbank on the west side of the Samurai District, where cherry blossoms begin to bloom around mid-April, is designated as a national scenic spot.
Yamagata Castle Ruins Kajo Park | Yamagata Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late April
Kajo Park is located within the ruins of Yamagata Castle in the center of Yamagata City. In spring, approximately 1,500 cherry blossoms bloom in competition, and the nighttime scenery of the park and cherry blossoms along the moat is also popular. The area from the bridge leading to Higashi-odote Gate provides a recommended photo spot with cherry blossoms, stone walls, and the moat.
Shidare-zakura Cherry Blossoms on the Chushu Line | Fukushima Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late April
A 3 km long cycling and pedestrian path built on the former site of the JR Nakanosen Line in Kitakata City, Fukushima. In mid-April, about 1,000 Shidare-zakura cherry trees bloom on both sides of the road, creating a deep pink cherry blossom tunnel. Along the way, there are spots showcasing steam locomotives, making it perfect for commemorative photos.
Miharu Takizakura | Fukushima Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Early to Mid-April
Miharu Takizakura is one of Japan's three great cherry blossom trees, estimated to be over 1,000 years old. As the name suggests, it is a Shidare-zakura cherry tree, with beautiful branches resembling a waterfall. Standing at 13.5 meters tall with a root circumference of 11.3 meters, it is designated as a national natural monument. Weekends during the flowering season are particularly crowded, so it's best to visit on weekdays.
Crane Castle Park | Fukushima Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Around Mid-April
Tsurugajo in Aizuwakamatsu is a historical stage from the late Edo period Boshin War. Approximately 1,000 cherry trees, mainly Yoshino cherry blossoms, are planted within the castle, creating a picturesque view with cherry blossoms and the castle keep. The nighttime cherry blossom illumination and the annual cherry blossom festival are also worth experiencing!
【Chubu/Hokuriku】Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots
Takada Castle Site Park | Niigata Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late March to Early April
Takada Castle Site Park in Joetsu City is a premier cherry blossom viewing spot in Niigata Prefecture, with around 4,000 cherry blossoms blooming in the vicinity. The area with a view of the three-story turret and the cherry blossoms across the moat is an excellent photography spot. On evenings illuminated by 3,000 paper lanterns, it becomes a renowned cherry blossom viewing location.
Takaoka Kojo Park | Toyama Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Early April to Mid-April
Located in the center of Takaoka City, Takaoka Kojo Park is the former residence park of the Maeda family with 1,800 cherry trees. In the park, you can see 18 varieties of approximately 1,800 cherry trees, including Koshinohigan, Someiyoshino, and Oshimazakura. The "Takaoka Sakura Festival" is held during the flowering season, drawing large crowds. The nighttime cherry blossoms illuminated by paper lanterns are also a sight not to be missed.
Kenrokuen | Ishikawa Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Early to Mid-April
In Kenrokuen, one of Japan's three great gardens, you can witness over 40 different varieties of cherry trees, totaling more than 400 trees. Rare species like the Kikuzakura, with over 300 petals per flower, bloom from late April to early May. Additionally, enjoy the scenery of Kanazawa Castle's Ishikawa Gate and the cherry blossoms located in the northwest part of Kenrokuen.
Ashikaga Flower Park | Tochigi Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late April to Mid-May
Ashikaga Flower Park is famous for its great wisteria, but it also features beautiful cherry blossoms. The park has various cherry tree varieties, creating a stunning landscape. The illumination at night enhances the magical atmosphere, making it a unique and enchanting cherry blossom viewing spot.
Kawazu-zakura Cherry Blossoms in Izu | Shizuoka Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Early February to Early March
The Kawazu-zakura, discovered in Kawazu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture in 1955, is renowned for its early bloom. Along the Kawazu River, approximately 3.6 kilometers of 850 Kawazu-zakura cherry trees burst into a deep pink spectacle. The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival is held during the flowering season. In Shimoda, southern Izu, about 800 Kawazu-zakura trees line the Aono River, creating a breathtaking display.
Cherry Blossoms along the Gojo River | Aichi Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late March to Early April
The Gojo River flows through areas in the northwest of Aichi Prefecture, including Inuyama City, Kani City Ouchi-cho, and Iwakura City. Particularly in the stretch around Iwakura City, approximately 1,400 cherry trees are planted, creating a beautiful sight during the flowering season. The countless petals floating downstream when the cherry blossoms fall are worth witnessing.
Kawazu Cherry Blossoms in Izu | Shizuoka Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Early February to Early March
The Kawazu-zakura, discovered in 1955 in Kawazu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a spectacle along the approximately 3.6-kilometer-long Kawazu River with 850 trees of deep pink cherry blossoms. The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival is held during the flowering season. In Minami Izu Town's Shimo-ya Onsen, approximately 800 Kawazu-zakura trees line the Aono River.
Cherry Blossoms along the Gojo River | Aichi Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late March to Early April
The Gojo River flows through the northwest areas of Aichi Prefecture, including Inuyama City, Kani City Ouchi-cho, and Iwakura City. Especially in the Iwakura City-centered basin, about 1,400 cherry trees are planted along a 7.6-kilometer stretch, offering a picturesque view during the flowering season. The sight of countless petals floating downstream as the cherry blossoms fall is truly worth witnessing.
Mita Myojin Cherry Blossoms | Mie Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Early to Mid-April
Located in the Gotake area of Misugi-cho, Mie Prefecture, Shinfuku-in is a famous cherry blossom viewing spot with around 500 wild cherry trees lining the road to the temple, traditionally known for cherry blossom viewing. The cherry blossoms in Mita are designated as a national scenic spot. The reflection of cherry blossoms on the terraced fields is truly magnificent, attracting a steady stream of visitors.
Kaizu Osaki | Shiga Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late March to Early April
On the northern shore of Lake Biwa in Takashima City, Shiga Prefecture, Kaizu Osaki features a row of cherry blossoms. In recent years, around early April, approximately 800 Somei Yoshino cherry trees stretch along a 4-kilometer lakeside road. Kaizu Osaki is also famous for its beautiful rocks rising above the lake and is one of the representative scenic spots of Lake Biwa called the "Hachiko of Lake Biwa."
Jingo-ji Temple | Kyoto Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Early to Mid-April
Among Kyoto's many cherry blossom viewing spots, the Omuro cherry blossoms at Jingo-ji Temple are renowned for their late bloom. Designated as a national scenic spot, its distinct feature is the varying tree heights, allowing you to closely appreciate around 130 Daio sakura trees in the temple's cherry blossom garden. The composition of the five-story pagoda amidst cherry blossoms is particularly popular.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple | Kyoto Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late March to Early April
Kiyomizu-dera is a representative temple in Kyoto, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cherry blossoms in the temple grounds are scattered around the three-story pagoda and the stage of the main hall. The nighttime cherry blossom scenery, especially during the special evening illuminations, is a must-see. Sannenzaka and Yasaka Pagoda are nearby attractions, essential for exploring Kyoto.
Arashiyama | Kyoto Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late March to Early April
The slopes of Arashiyama are adorned with cherry blossoms in spring, creating a spectacular view. Additionally, cherry trees line the Katsura River around the Togetsukyo Bridge, providing an excellent opportunity to capture the beauty of Togetsukyo Bridge and Arashiyama through cherry blossoms. Don't miss the specialty of "Kotojiki Teahouse" near the Togetsukyo Bridge – cherry blossom mochi, a delightful treat to accompany your cherry blossom viewing!
Osaka Castle Park | Osaka Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late March to Early April
Osaka Castle Park is home to approximately 3,000 cherry trees, making it one of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in the Kansai region. The Nishinomaru Garden on the west side of the main keep and the area near the Sengan-en Garden on the east side, offering views of the main keep through cherry blossoms, including about 300 cherry trees, primarily Yoshino cherry, create a fantastic photo spot. The standard cherry tree of Osaka Prefecture is also located in the Nishinomaru Garden.
Himeji Castle | Hyogo Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late March to Early April
Himeji Castle, renowned for its elegant main keep, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Approximately 1,600 cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino and weeping cherry blossoms, are planted around the castle, creating a beautiful scene with the castle and cherry blossoms. There are also many cherry blossom viewing spots such as the Nishinomaru Garden, Sannomaru Square, and walking paths along the inner moat.
Yoshino | Nara Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Early to Mid-April
The entire mountain is designated as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range." In spring, around 200 varieties totaling about 30,000 cherry trees, led by Jousan cherry blossoms, bloom on Mt. Yoshino. Mt. Yoshino is divided into four areas: Shimo (Lower), Naka (Middle), Kami (Upper), and Oku (Deep). The best viewing time for cherry blossoms is extended, as in lower-altitude areas, cherry blossoms bloom successively from lower to higher elevations.
Kimii-dera Temple | Wakayama Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late March to Early April
Kimii-dera, said to have been built in the Nara period, is the second temple on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage. The garden is home to approximately 500 cherry trees, making it a famous early-blooming cherry blossom spot in the Kinki region. The vermilion Tahoto Pagoda surrounded by cherry blossoms is a popular photography spot. In front of the main hall, there is a specimen tree designated by the Meteorological Observatory of Wakayama, attracting attention during the flowering season.
【China/Shikoku】Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots
Tottori Castle Ruins Kumoso Park | Tottori Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late March to Early April
Tottori Castle, famous for its plunder by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, was the residence of the Tottori clan with 320,000 koku in the Edo period. Approximately 240 cherry trees, primarily Yoshino cherry, are planted in the park on the castle ruins, making it one of Tottori's most famous cherry blossom viewing spots. As night falls during the cherry blossom season, many people come to enjoy the illuminated cherry blossoms.
Matsue Castle (Chidori Castle) | Shimane Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late March to Early April
Matsue Castle, one of the castles with a surviving main keep designated as a national treasure. During the cherry blossom season, the "Castle Festival" is held, featuring events like samurai parades and the Amanoiwato Festival. The area developed into Castle Mountain Park is illuminated with lanterns at night, making it highly recommended for nighttime cherry blossom viewing.
Daigo Sakura | Okayama Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Early April to Mid-April
Daigo Sakura in Mabi, Okayama Prefecture. Legend has it that Emperor Gotoba, exiled to the Oki Islands in the distant past, visited this place and praised the blooming cherry blossoms, giving rise to its name. It is said to be a splendid cherry tree, standing at 18 meters high, about 20 meters in length, and over 1,000 years old, designated as a natural monument of Okayama Prefecture.
Miyajima | Hiroshima Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Mid-March to Early April
Miyajima, one of Japan's three scenic spots in Aki. In spring, around 1,900 cherry trees, mainly Yoshino cherry, bloom, reaching their peak around early April each year. Recommended cherry blossom viewing spots include around the Pagoda of Itsukushima Shrine, Ohmoto Park, and Daishoin Temple. You can also see wild cherry blossoms that bloom earlier than Somei Yoshino, as well as weeping cherry blossoms and Oshima cherry blossoms.
Showa-san | Kagawa Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late March to Early April
Showa-san is located in Sanuki City in the western part of Kagawa Prefecture, extending into the Seto Inland Sea, offering a leisurely view of cherry blossoms and the Seto Inland Sea. From the summit at an altitude of 352 meters, you can enjoy panoramic views of numerous islands in the Seto Inland Sea. It is one of the most popular cherry blossom viewing spots in Shikoku, featuring not only Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms but also European cherry blossoms and double-flowered cherry blossoms.
Matsuyama Castle | Ehime Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Early April
Matsuyama Castle, a symbol of Matsuyama Castle Town, stands atop Mt. Katsuyama at an elevation of 132 meters. In spring, you can see around 200 cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino, Sazanka Shinzakura, Oshima cherry, Shiozawa cherry, and Botan cherry. The Matsuyama Spring Festival is held in early April during the flowering season, attracting many visitors.
Kochi Castle | Kochi Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late March to Early April
Kochi Castle was the residence of the Yamauchi family, who ruled with 240,000 koku, and is one of the 12 surviving main keeps. From the main keep, you can overlook the entire city of Kochi, and in spring, you can enjoy seasonal flowers such as Yoshino cherry blossoms in the well-maintained Kochi Park around the castle. During the "Kochi Castle Hana Kairo" event held in early April each year, the area from Otemon to the main keep is decorated with flower arrangements and lights, making it a must-see spot.
【Kyushu/Okinawa】Cherry Blossom Viewing Resort
Maizuru Park | Fukuoka Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late March to Early April
Maizuru Park is built on the ruins of Fukuoka Castle. In spring, various cherry blossoms such as Somei Yoshino, Yoko, Kanzan, and Shidare-sakura can be enjoyed. The cherry blossoms reflected in the moat and the view of Fukuoka City from the main keep are must-see attractions. The "Fukuoka Castle Cherry Blossom Festival" is held in conjunction with the blooming season, featuring stalls, stage events, and illuminations.
Ofunayama Park | Saga Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late March to Early April
One of the largest nighttime illuminated cherry blossoms in Kyushu can be found here and is not to be missed. About 2,000 cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino, Oshima cherry, Yamazakura, and Yaezakura, bloom against the unique rock surfaces of Mt. Ofuna. In addition, the 25,000-square-meter nighttime cherry blossom illumination is enchanting.
Omura Park | Nagasaki Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late March to Early April
Renowned as a representative cherry blossom spot in Nagasaki Prefecture, about 2,000 cherry trees, including Yoshino cherry, bloom here. In Omura Shrine in the park, you can see the Omura cherry blossoms, which bloom in late April to mid-May, with many petals and designated as a national natural monument. Iris flowers bloom in late May.
Kumamoto Castle | Kumamoto Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Late March to Early April
Kumamoto Castle is known for its magnificent stone walls and is also a great place for cherry blossom viewing in spring. In addition to the cherry blossoms scattered around the main keep, beautiful cherry blossoms can be seen on the Oyukizaka and Ninomaru Square, extending north from the Sakurano-ma Horse Ground. Due to the impact of the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake, reconstruction is still underway, and access to some areas is restricted.
Fudouson Isshin-ji | Oita Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Early April to Mid-April
Fudouson Isshin-ji is located about a 40-minute drive southwest of Oita City. In April, deep pink double-flowered cherry blossoms bloom, creating a splendid and unique world. During the flowering season, the Isshin-ji Botan Sakura Cloud Sea Festival is held, and the limited-time sale of handmade cherry blossom mochi, wrapped in leaves of Isshin-ji Botan Sakura, is said to be a popular item that sells out quickly.
Sengan-en (Iso Teien) | Kagoshima Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Early February to Early April
Sengan-en is the villa of the Shimazu family of the Satsuma domain, offering the best cherry blossom viewing in Kagoshima with Sakurajima in the background. The vast garden of 15,000 tsubo, with Sakurajima as a backdrop, is adorned with seasonal flowers. In early spring, the brilliant color of the Hikaribeni cherry blossoms is a sight to behold. Various events are held from mid-February to early April under the name "Spring Festival."
Kin Kannon-ji Castle Ruins | Okinawa Prefecture
【Best viewing time】Mid-January to Early February
Enjoy early-blooming Higan cherry blossoms at the World Heritage site of Kin Kannon-ji Castle Ruins. Located in the northern part of Okinawa Main Island, facing the East China Sea, it is a UNESCO cultural heritage site. The Higan cherry blossoms in the castle bloom from mid-January to early February each year, with their vibrant pink color being truly breathtaking. The "Kin Kannon-ji Cherry Blossom Festival" is held during the blooming season, attracting a steady stream of visitors.
