Are you planning a trip to Japan? Then you should definitely consider visiting this wonderful country during the cherry blossom season. The cherry blossom, traditionally known as sakura, is one of the most iconic symbols of Japan that just cannot be forgotten. You got to keep up with the trend, and now it is cherry blossoms! As soon as the new year begins, everyone sets out to fill their Instagram feeds with the pastel pink aesthetic that is just absolutely breathtaking (and a little envious for those who cannot visit). You can try all you want to grow your own cherry blossom tree, but nothing will beat the original blooming. Brighten up your trip by curating your cherry blossom itinerary to Japan and taking in the sights of this magnificent sakura blooming. Want to know more about the best month to see Cherry Blossoms in Japan? Keep reading to find out.

Why is cherry blossom in Japan so special?

Let us learn some more about the traditions behind sakura blooming, shall we? The long-standing tradition of viewing the cherry blossoms is known as hanami. This is a practice where friends, family and loved ones gather around the cherry blossom trees and take a picnic amidst the stunning pink canopy. Sounds wonderful, doesn’t it? This age-old custom symbolises renewal, beauty, and the fleeting nature of life. The tradition of hanami is not just about admiring these gorgeous flowers, but it is also about getting together with your loved ones and celebrating beauty and cherished bonds.

Month-by-month to see Cherry Blossom!

Now that you are all hyped up to check out the Japanese cherry blossom flowers, we have to find out when is the best time to see cherry blossom in Japan. The timing of your visit largely determines the experience you will have. So, without further ado, let us jump right into when you should be planning your trip!

January to February

The months of January to February in Japan mark the beginning of the beautiful bloom. This is most notable in Okinawa, Japan’s southernmost region, where cherry blossoms begin blooming as early as mid-January. A unique feature about visiting Okinawa for cherry blossom blooming is that you can find the Kanzakura variety, which exhibits a deeper pink colour, adding a unique twist to the usual varieties seen.

While others would like to visit during the prime cherry blossom month, visiting in January allows you to enjoy and immerse yourself in its exquisite beauty without too much crowd. Furthermore, you can also make the most of the Okinawa Flower Festival and Nakijin Castle’s Cherry Blossom Festival, which are the highlights of this month.

Insider Tip: Explore Okinawa’s beaches and enjoy the unique Ryukyuan culture alongside cherry blossom viewing.

Read More: Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan

March

The fun slowly begins from now on. This is when central Japan starts to experience the cherry blossom blooming. By late March, all these cities in Japan are enveloped with layers of these pretty flowers and tourists swarm parks and historic sites. It is the second best month to see Cherry Blossoms in Japan. Tokyo’s Ueno Park celebrates with food stalls and cultural performances. When in Kyoto, consider visiting the gardens of Arashiyama and the Philosopher’s Path as they provide breathtaking views.

Travel Tip: Book accommodations at least three months in advance, as this is peak travel season.

April

April should officially be declared as the best month to see Cherry Blossoms in Japan, as this is when the entire country is blanketed with these beautiful blooms. Thus, it is pretty evident that April is the best time to see sakura. Don’t miss Osaka Castle Park and Hirosaki Park in Aomori during the cherry blossom season in April.

Travel Tip: Join local Hanami parties for a traditional Japanese picnic experience. Pack a picnic blanket and sample local street food.

May

This is the final month of cherry blossom in Japan. While the rest of the country slowly loses its blooms, fresh flowers bloom in Northern Japan and Hokkaido. Matsumae Park in Hakodate and Moerenuma Park provide wonderful views with their historical castles and landscapes that are just perfect for sakura viewing.

Insider Tip: Visit Furano’s stunning flower fields, which bloom soon after the cherry blossoms, for a double floral treat.

Bonus travel tips for the best cherry blossom experience!

Go to the parks in the early morning or late at night.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a good camera, and light jackets.
Avoid littering, and follow park guidelines for picnics and gatherings.
Use local apps like Japan Travel Guide and Google Maps for real-time updates on bloom forecasts.

Now that you know what is the best time to visit Japan to see cherry blossom, the only thing left for you to do is book your Japan family package and pack your bags! Pickyourtrail will take care of everything else for you. Witnessing the cherry blossom is something that everyone must experience at least once in their life. So, do not miss out on this lovely experience; book your cherry blossom itinerary with Japan and have a hassle-free and wholesome trip experience!