Japan Cherry Blossom Guide

There are an abundance of cherry blossom trees in Japan, and experiencing them in full bloom is truly magical. Cherry blossom season (sakura season) is short and sweet, typically lasting only about 2–4 weeks, usually around early to mid-April depending on the city and weather.

Because this is Japan’s most popular time to visit, expect bigger crowds, higher prices, and the need to book hotels, trains, and activities months in advance. That said, it is absolutely worth experiencing at least once in your life.

In this blog, I’m sharing some of the best places to see cherry blossoms based on where we stayed in Japan, plus helpful tips so you can feel confident and stress-free while soaking it all in.

Kyoto Cherry Blossoms

Philosopher's Path

This is an absolute must when visiting Kyoto during cherry blossom season. The Philosopher’s Path is about a mile-long walkway lined with cherry blossom trees that follow a peaceful canal. It’s incredibly picturesque, and there are plenty of opportunities for photos, some spots are more stunning than others depending on which trees are in peak bloom, as some are fuller than others.

Along the path, you’ll also find charming restaurants, shops, and cafés. I highly recommend stopping somewhere with outdoor seating if you can. Grab a drink, do some people watching, and really take in the beauty, it’s one of those moments you’ll remember forever.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

There are several beautiful cherry blossom trees scattered throughout the grounds of Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Some of the most stunning ones are near the front, where you can capture both the blossoms and the iconic temple in the same photo. It’s truly breathtaking and feels like something straight out of a postcard.

Nara Park

Nara Park is overflowing with cherry blossom trees, making it a perfect stop during spring. One standout area is a large open green space called Kasugano Enchi, where people were picnicking, kids were playing, and everyone was enjoying the season. This area is lined with cherry blossom trees and would be an amazing picnic spot.

If you don’t stumble upon it naturally, just search for Kasugano Enchi, it’s well worth seeking out.

Overall, there is truly no shortage of cherry blossoms in Kyoto. You’ll find them everywhere. One thing we noticed throughout Japan is that once someone finds a great photo spot, a line will quickly form. If you stumble upon a quiet, beautiful tree, people may start lining up behind you. Before waiting forever or feeling crowded, remember that there are countless equally beautiful (and less busy) spots nearby, sometimes just a short walk away.

Tokyo Cherry Blossoms

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

My favorite place in all of Japan for seeing cherry blossoms was hands down Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. The park is massive and filled with huge, stunning cherry blossom trees, and surprisingly, it wasn’t crowded at all when we visited. There was so much space to take photos at your own pace and actually enjoy some privacy.

The park also has temples, landscaped gardens, and a few small cafés and restaurants. There is a small entrance fee, but it’s 100% worth it.

Yoyogi Park

Located near Shibuya, Yoyogi Park is a very large park that also houses the Meiji Jingu Shrine (which we didn’t visit this time). The park is free, which is a huge plus. The entrance lined with cherry blossom trees was very crowded, especially with people picnicking.

We didn’t have time to venture deeper into the park, but I wish we had, I’m sure the crowds thin out the farther you walk in. Even so, it’s still one of the best parks in Tokyo for cherry blossom viewing.

Chidorigafuchi Moat

We didn’t personally make it here, but Chidorigafuchi Moat is one of the most famous cherry blossom spots in Tokyo. The trees line the water, and you can rent a boat to see the blossoms from the river, which looks especially beautiful at night when everything is lit up. It’s a true bucket-list spot.

Sumida River

We completely stumbled upon the Sumida River while walking to the Tokyo Skytree, and it ended up being one of my favorite unexpected cherry blossom moments. The river is lined with cherry blossom trees, and seeing them with the Tokyo Skytree towering in the background was incredible.

This is exactly why I always recommend walking as much as possible when exploring cities, you’ll stumble upon the most beautiful surprises.