Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Japan in 2025

Picture yourself beneath a canopy of soft pink and white flowers, their petals gracefully drifting down like nature’s confetti. It seems like a dream, doesn’t it? Indeed, it’s authentic, and you can witness it on your Japan tour! The Sakura cherry blossom tree represents more than mere beauty. It stands for renewal, beauty, and those invaluable moments that make life remarkable. Annually, from mid-March through April, Japan becomes an awe-inspiring paradise of flowers, attracting travelers from around the world to experience this enchanting time. From charming parks to tranquil riverbanks, Japan Tourism understands how to create an unforgettable cherry blossom experience. Prepared to immerse yourself in the allure of Japan’s legendary spring event? Let’s discover the 9 best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan in 2025.

• Shinjuku Gyoen, Tokyo
• Chidorigafuchi Moat, Tokyo
• Kakunodate, Akita
• Philosopher’s Path, Kyoto
• Maruyama Park, Kyoto
• Hirosaki Castle, Hirosaki
• Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi, Yamanashi
• Osaka Castle
• Mt. Yoshino, Nara

Shinjuku Gyoen, Tokyo

Shinjuku Goyen is a magnificent National Park, located in the heart of Tokyo. It is the ideal mix of the traditional Japanese, English and French garden styles. This expansive park has over a thousand cherry blossom trees of all varieties, so a picturesque  scenery is guaranteed for the Japanese Cherry Blossom season. It is one of the most preferred destinations among the locals and tourists of the country to experience hanami ( flower viewing) picnics. However, if you are already sure of your planned time for visiting Shinjuku Goyen, then you can book your reservations online via their website to escape the long queues. 

Why Visit?: Shinjuku Gyoen blends classical Japanese gardens, formal French gardens, and English-style landscapes, creating a varied setting for cherry blossom appreciation.
The best time to visit: March to early April.

Chidorigafuchi Park, Tokyo

Chidorigafuchi Park is located on the outskirts of the Imperial Palace in Chiyoda City, Tokyo, It is one of the top places to see cherry blossoms in Japan offering gorgeous views during the day as well as at night. Guests can take pleasure in the enchanting view of soft pink petals gracefully moving with the breeze and settling on the sparkling waters of the moat as charming boats float past, or, admire the charm of these flowers from the water’s surface directly. In the evening, the grounds are lit up, creating an ideal setting for a nighttime walk following a day of discovering Tokyo. This area boasts numerous tourist attractions in Tokyo, with Yasukuni Shrine being a highlight in spring thanks to its 600 cherry blossom trees and its renowned Somei Yoshino tree.

Why Visit?: The view of Sakura petals floating on the moat creates a surreal, postcard-perfect scene.
The best time to visit: March to early April.

Read More: Best Months to See Cherry Blossoms in Japan

Kakunodate, Akita

Famous as the “Little Kyoto of Tohoku,” Kakunodate is a charming historic town which is known for its well-preserved samurai houses and precious cherry blossom trees. The weeping cherry blossom trees here are thoughtfully planted along the streets, hence, they evoke a charming and romantic ambiance. We highly recommend you add this experience to your Japan tour package and create a great memory.

Why Visit?: The blend of history and nature makes Kakunodate a unique cherry blossom destination.
The best time to visit: Mid to late April.

Philosopher’s Path, Kyoto

Kyoto, the land of rich history and vibrant culture, also provides one of the most peaceful backdrops for cherry blossoms along the Philosopher’s Path. The weeping cherry blossom trees here are thoughtfully planted along the streets, and as a result, they evoke a charming and romantic ambiance. It blooms once a year, usually in early spring, and develops one of Kyoto’s most popular sights during the hanami (cherry blossom viewing). This is a calm walkway that is marked by hundreds of Cherry trees and is located in Higashiyama district of Kyoto alongside a canal. It is indeed one of the best places to see cherry blossom in Japan.

Why Visit?: Ideal for peaceful strolls, the Philosopher’s Path is a favorite among photographers and nature lovers.
The best time to visit: Early to mid-April.

Maruyama Park, Kyoto

Maruyama Park is one of best places to see cherry blossom in Japan. It is located near Yasaka Shrine and is the oldest garden in Kyoto. The centerpiece of this park is a huge weeping cherry tree ( also known as the Gion Yozakura), which is well-lit at night, creating a magical view. 

Why Visit?: Nighttime illuminations offer a completely different perspective of the Japanese cherry blossom.
The best time to visit: Early to mid-April.

Hirosaki Castle, Hirosaki

When you search Cherry Blossom Japan online, do you get to find a beautiful white colored castle, with lots of pastel pink colored cherry blossom trees around and a snowy mountain in the background? That is one of the most iconic Japanese attractions – Hirosaki Castle. The park around the castle includes over 2,500 cherry trees. The Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival celebrated here attracts lakhs of visitors from all across the world, every year.

Why Visit?: The combination of a historic castle, moats filled with floating petals, and pink cherry blossoms creates an unforgettable experience.
The best time to visit: Late April to early May.

Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi, Yamanashi

Few sights are as breathtaking as cherry blossoms gracefully framing the majestic Mount Fuji. Moreover, Lake Kawaguchi, part of the Fuji Five Lakes, offers one of the best viewpoints for this iconic scene. This area’s elevation exceeds that of Tokyo, which causes the sakura to usually blossom in late April. Those who miss seeing the cherry blossoms in Tokyo should certainly check out Kawaguchiko which will instantly make you fall in love!

Why Visit?: The reflection of Mount Fuji and Sakura trees on the lake’s surface makes for a picture-perfect moment.
The best time to visit: Mid to late April.

Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle, a renowned landmark of Japan, becomes even more breathtaking during the cherry blossom season. Nishinomaru Garden surrounds the castle, with over 600 cherry trees bordering it, creating a breathtaking contrast of pink flowers against the castle’s white walls and golden highlights. During the night, the lit-up castle and cherry blossom trees provide a breathtaking sight. Osaka Castle is one of the best places to see cherry blossom in Japan and you must add it to your Japan itinerary.

Why Visit?: The combination of historical magnificence and lively cherry blossoms makes Osaka Castle a must-visit location on your Japan tour.
The best time to visit: Late March to early April.

Mt. Yoshino, Nara

Historically, Mt. Yoshino is considered the origin of the cherry blossom viewing custom. The cherry blossoms here are considered the most renowned in Japan, earning designation as a UNESCO site. What can truly make the eyes shine is the view of endless layers of lovely pink sakura petals stretching along the mountains. In total, Kyoto is divided into four zones: Shimo Senbon area, Naka Senbon area, Kami Senbon area and Oku Senbon area and each of them is quite visually stunning.

Why Visit?: The sheer scale of cherry blossoms at Mt. Yoshino makes it a bucket-list destination for any Sakura enthusiast.
The best time to visit: Early to mid-April.

These locations capture the real spirit of Japan’s cherry blossom season, honoring the country’s love for the beautiful Japanese national flower. Whether you’re discovering Tokyo Sakura spots or Kyoto’s cultural treasures, every destination provides a remarkable experience. If you are planning a Japan tour, then you must book your Japan family packages or Japan honeymoon packages around the Japanese Cherry Blossom season in 2025. Seize the opportunity to experience the enchantment of pink cherry blossoms set against the vibrant heritage and scenic beauty of Japan.