Spring in Japan is synonymous with sakura — ephemeral, breathtaking cherry blossoms that paint parks, rivers and temple grounds in delicate pink and white. Below is a practical guide to the best viewing spots for 2025 and when you should plan to visit them so you don’t miss peak bloom.
Tokyo offers a variety of hanami experiences: large, lively gatherings (Ueno Park), peaceful gardens (Shinjuku Gyoen) and scenic riverside strolls (Meguro River). Peak season in Tokyo typically arrives in late March to early April — plan for a window around the end of March through the first week of April for the best chance of full bloom.
Kyoto’s historic temples and riverside walks become even more magical during sakura. Philosopher’s Path is great for a reflective walk, while Maruyama Park is famous for its illuminated weeping cherry tree at night. Aim for early April to catch Kyoto at its most picturesque.
Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms is iconic and very photogenic. The Expo ’70 Commemorative Park and evening light-ups are festive and family-friendly. Late March to early April is usually ideal in this region.
For classic postcard views — cherry blossoms framed with Mt. Fuji — head to Chureito Pagoda or the shores of Lake Kawaguchi. Bloom here can be a little later than in the city, often arriving in early to mid April depending on the year.
The north blooms later. Hirosaki Castle (Aomori) and parks in Hokkaido typically peak in late April to early May. If you want to chase later-season sakura or cooler spring weather, head north.
Use these regional windows as a planning guide — exact timing varies with weather each year:
Sakura season is brief and weather-dependent, but with flexible planning you can time your visit to experience Japan at its most beautiful. If you’d like, Maplewings can help you build a cherry-blossom-focused itinerary — from Tokyo & Kyoto classics to quieter northern escapes.
Ready to plan your sakura trip? Visit Maplewings or contact our team for custom dates and bookings.