Japan Cherry Blossom Season 2025 Travel Guide & Forecast

If there is a season to describe Japan, it must be the cherry blossom season. The cherry blossom season in Japan 2025 will peak in late March to April. You can stroll under cherry blossom trees in popular cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. This article will share the forecast for Japan's 2025 sakura season, the best cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan, and other tips to help you plan your Japan cherry blossom tour.

Why is Cherry Blossom Season Special in Japan?

Japanese people have a profound understanding of cherry blossoms, making them a special part of their hearts. The Japanese are especially obsessed with cherry blossoms, which they consider a feast of life.

Cherry blossoms are also called Sakura (桜) in Japan. It not only has a beautiful appearance but also has a deeper cultural significance. Cherry blossoms have a short life span of only a week to two weeks. Cherry blossoms in Japan represent the brevity, beauty of life, and impermanence of life. It fits in with the mono-no-aware (物の哀れ) aesthetics of Japanese culture, that is, the profound feeling of the fleeting life. However, it's also a reminder to appreciate the moment.

Cherry blossoms are planted all over Japan, from south to north, which shows the importance of cherry blossoms in Japan. The blooming cherry blossoms create a beautiful scenery in spring. During cherry blossom season in Japan, people visit parks, shrines, river banks, and other places with friends and family. They hold cherry blossom viewing parties under cherry blossom trees, which is called Hanami (literally "flower viewing") in Japan. Spread out a picnic cloth and share food and wine.

Cherry blossoms have a long history in Japanese culture. Since ancient times, cherry blossoms have been loved and praised by the Japanese people. Many films, articles, poems, paintings, and other works describe the beauty of cherry blossoms, making them an important part of Japanese culture. The cherry blossom is also often used as a symbol of samurai (Japanese warriors) because it represents bravery and honor. Samurai are encouraged to bloom brilliantly like cherry blossoms, even if their lives are short.

Japan's cherry blossom trees are diverse, with hundreds of varieties. Somei Yoshino (Yoshino Cherry) is the most common cherry blossom variety and currently the most abundant cherry blossom tree in Japan. The flowers of Somei Yoshino are pale pink and spectacular when in full bloom (late March to early April). Edo Higan is an early blooming cherry blossom that usually blooms before Somei Yoshino (mid-March to early April). The Shidarezakura (weeping cherry blossom) is named for its drooping branches.

When is the Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in Japan in 2025?

You can see cherry blossoms in most of central Japan from late March to early April. However, from January to early May, you can find cherry blossoms (sakura blossoms) in Japan. The best time to go to Japan for cherry blossoms is usually during the cherry blossom season, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Therefore, in terms of specific cities, you need to know when is cherry blossom season is in Japan in 2025.

The flowering time of cherry blossom varies by region, usually blooming from south to north in sequence. The best time to see cherry blossoms in Japan depends on where you want to enjoy them. Each region's cherry blossom season has its unique beauty. You can plan your Sakura viewing trip in Japan according to your time and the places that interest you.

For example, warmer areas in southern Japan, such as Kawazu town, Okinawa, etc., boast early sakura as early as January or February. The cherry blossoms in popular major cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara are expected to bloom in late March to early April. In Hokkaido (cities such as Sapporo and Hakodate), the cherry blossom season is usually late (late April to mid-May).

The cherry blossom forecast for 2025 has been released. Although it is not yet known when Japanese cherry blossoms will bloom in 2025, you can still plan your tour according to the cherry blossom forecast. The following is the latest cherry blossom forecast for some cities in Japan in 2025, released by Japan Meteorological Corporation.

Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast 2025

How Long Do Cherry Blossoms Last in Japan?

Japanese cherry blossoms have a short flowering period, usually lasting only about a week or two, from the opening time of the flowers until the petals begin to fall. The cherry blossoms are in full bloom 5-7 days after their flowering day, which is the most beautiful time.

The length of Japan's cherry blossom season depends a lot on the weather and the type of cherry blossom trees. If the weather is good, the flowering time will be longer. Conversely, hot, strong winds and rainy weather may cause the petals to fall quickly, shortening the cherry blossom season in Japan.

Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Japan

The beauty of cherry blossoms lies not only in their pink petals and a sea of flowers covering the trees but also in the unique atmosphere they create. The cherry blossoms in the famous Sakura viewing places always make people linger.

Tokyo

Ueno Park: Ueno Park is one of the most famous and bustling cherry blossom viewing spots in Tokyo. Ueno Park has more than 1,000 cherry blossom trees. Every year in late March and early April, the 400-meter cherry blossom tunnel attracts countless tourists to come and admire the flowers. The cherry blossoms under the light look like a dream world.

Meguro River: There are about 800 cherry blossom trees along the banks of the Meguro River. When the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the river is reflected with the pink flowers, forming a dreamlike scene. You can take a small boat to tour the river and appreciate cherry blossoms from different angles.

Shinjuku Gyoen: Shinjuku Gyoen has a wide variety of cherry blossoms. Cherry blossoms bloom in February, March, and April. In addition to cherry blossom viewing, you can also enjoy the traditional Japanese gardens. This is definitely an excellent place to experience the spring atmosphere in the city.

Chidorigafuchi: The cherry blossoms bloom along the moat outside the Imperial Palace. You can leisurely stroll along the green walkway next to the Tokyo Imperial Palace or paddle on the moat.

Sumida River: The cherry blossoms on both sides of the Sumida River bloom from mid-March to early April. More than 500 cherry trees form a unique landscape with the Tokyo Skytree across the river.

Rikugien Gardens: Rikugien Garden is an exquisite Japanese garden in Tokyo. From mid-March to late March each year, you can see the weeping cherry blossom in the park with the classical architecture. The biggest highlight of the huge weeping cherry tree is very popular among tourists.

Yoyogi Park: More than 700 cherry blossom trees are a big draw when they are in full bloom. Tourists can have a picnic on the spacious lawn and enjoy the beautiful time of spring.

Kyoto

Philosopher's Path: Every cherry blossom season, cherry blossom trees along the Philosopher's Path form a pink gallery. Take your camera or phone for a walk on the path and capture the beautiful cherry blossoms.

Hirano Shrine: The cherry blossom trees inside the Hirano Shrine are old and flourishing. The cherry blossom procession (Oka-sai Matsuri) held annually in April attracts numerous tourists to admire the flowers and pay their respects.

Maruyama Park: Maruyama Park's cherry blossoms are known for their dense blooms and graceful tree shapes, which make it a popular spot for cherry blossoms. Attending a cherry blossom party in the park is a good choice.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple: The ancient temple is famous for its wooden stage. You can see cherry blossom trees below from the Stage of Kiyomizu. The night lighting decoration will magnify the beauty of the cherry blossoms.

Okazaki Canal: Walk out of Heian Jingu Shrine and head to Okazaki Canal. Whether you like a boat ride or a walk along the canal, it's a treat.

Arashiyama: In addition to maple leaves and Bamboo Groves, cherry blossoms are also a major feature of Arashiyama. Ride the Sagano Romantic Train through the sea of flowers and experience a different Sakura viewing journey.

Mount Fuji

The pink cherry blossoms at the foot of Mount Fuji stand in stark contrast to the snow-capped mountaintop. Chureito Pagoda and Lake Kawaguchi are both popular cherry blossom spots. You can expect the Sakura festival at Lake Kawaguchi. You can drive to Hakone in about 1 hour. Enjoy the beauty of Mount Fuji and cherry blossoms at Onshi Hakone Park.

Other Places to See Japan's Cherry Blossoms

Osaka Castle: More than 3,000 cherry blossom trees surround historic Osaka Castle Park. As night falls, the cherry blossoms under the lights become even more mysterious.

Nara: Mount Yoshino is recognized as one of the best places to view cherry blossoms. The cherry blossoms in Mount Yoshino are renowned for their grand scale, with over 30000 cherry blossom trees. Encounter docile deer under the cherry trees in Nara Park.

Himeji Castle in Hyogo prefecture: Himeji Castle has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In late March, cherry blossoms begin to bloom in Himeji Castle. The beautiful contrast between the white castle and the pink flowers.

Matsumoto Castle in Nagano: Matsumoto Castle's cherry blossoms are known for the quaint castle backdrop.

Hirosaki Castle in Aomori: The cherry blossoms of Hirosaki Castle are famous for their spectacular sea of flowers and light show at night. From late April to early May, Hirosaki Castle becomes one of the most popular cherry blossom viewing destinations in northeastern Japan.

How to Plan Your Japan Cherry Blossom Tour Itinerary

Sakura blossom viewing is one of the best things to do in Japan. The cherry blossoms in Japan are not only a visual feast but also an excellent opportunity to deeply experience Japanese culture and nature. A perfect Japan cherry blossom tour requires careful planning.

1. Choose a cherry blossom viewing destination. Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara are all famous locations for cherry blossom viewing. Or consider niche locations, but the cherry blossoms there may not be as good as popular attractions.

2. Determine your travel time. Check the cherry blossom forecast from the Japan Meteorological Corporation or specialized cherry blossom prediction websites. Pay attention to the expected cherry blossoms blooming time in the area you want to visit.

3. Make the itinerary. Determine the cities and attractions you want to visit in advance and plan the length of your stay at each location. Cherry blossoms in southern Japan usually bloom earlier than in northern regions, so you can arrange your cherry blossom viewing itinerary from south to north. For example, Osaka → Nara → Kyoto → Tokyo.

Due to weather changes, the blooming time of cherry blossoms may vary. It takes some luck. Flexible itineraries are recommended. Go where the flowers bloom. Or spend more time somewhere. You can plan the general itinerary in advance, but try to decide on the specific flower viewing itinerary later.

4. Plan transportation routes. During the cherry blossom season in Japan, there may be a traffic jam. Learn about the best transportation mode for the cherry blossom viewing location in advance to avoid being unable to find transportation.

Things to Consider

1. Book Early: It is recommended to book hotels, air tickets, travel agencies, Japan cherry blossom festival tickets, etc., 3 to 6 months in advance. In many popular cherry blossom viewing spots, it becomes increasingly difficult to book as the cherry blossom season approaches. Book in advance to get a better price and avoid missing the best viewing time. Try to choose a hotel close to the cherry blossom viewing location for convenient travel.

2. Keep an eye on the weather and cherry blossom forecast. Due to changing weather, the cherry blossom season in Japan may be advanced or delayed. It is suggested to pay close attention to the latest official cherry blossom forecast before traveling to ensure that you can capture the most beautiful moment of the cherry blossoms.

3. Find a professional tour guide. If you want to avoid the crowds but don't want to miss the great cherry blossom viewing spots, consider starting your Japan cherry blossom tour with an experienced tour group. Hi Five Trip provides customized itinerary services, adjusting your cherry blossom viewing itinerary according to your interests and needs.

4. Avoid crowds. The lively scene is indeed very atmospheric, but you might also want to enjoy the cherry blossoms in peace. Try not to enjoy cherry blossoms on weekends and holidays. Get up early to enjoy the quiet cherry blossom time.

5. Pack your bags. The weather in spring is unpredictable, so bring suitable clothing such as warm clothes and rain gear. Don't forget to bring a camera or mobile phone to record the beautiful cherry blossoms.

6. Cherry blossom viewing etiquette. Respect local culture. Pay attention to keeping the environment clean while admiring cherry blossoms. Don't make loud noises. Do not shake the branches or pluck the flowers to protect the cherry blossom trees.

FAQs about Japan's Cherry Blossoms in 2025

1. When is cherry blossom season in Japan?

The cherry blossom season in Japan usually occurs in spring. The specific time varies depending on the geographical location and climate conditions of the year. Generally, the cherry blossom season begins in the Kyushu region of southwestern Japan and gradually moves north to Hokkaido. Cherry blossoms are at their peak in March and April, spreading across the central part of Japan. Hokkaido in northern Japan may experience the cherry blossom season from late April to May.

2. Does Japan have cherry blossom festivals?

Yes. The cherry blossom season in Japan is accompanied by various cherry blossom festivals (sakura matsuri) and celebration events. Japan's cherry blossom festivals are usually held when cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Due to the different opening times of cherry blossoms, there is no fixed date for the cherry blossom festivals. You can look forward to the Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival in Tokyo and the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival.

3. Can I visit Japan for cherry blossoms in January and February?

Yes. You can see cherry blossoms in January and February in the southernmost region of Japan, where the climate is warmer. Also, Japan has some early-flowering cherry blossom varieties.

Okinawa: Some early-blooming cherry blossoms usually bloom in January, such as Kanhi-zakura cherry blossoms.

Izu Peninsula: Kawazu on the Izu Peninsula is known for its early-blooming Kawazu-zakura cherry blossoms, which usually start blooming around early to mid-February.

Atami: In mid-January to early February, you can enjoy one of the earliest cherry blossoms, Atami-zakura.

Shinjuku Gyoen in Tokyo: You can see Kanzakura (winter cherry) blooming in February.

4. Is the Japan cherry blossom forecast accurate?

Based on cherry blossom forecasts from the past few years and their actual opening times, it's not absolutely accurate. The cherry blossom forecast in Japan can only offer a rough guide, as the blooming of cherry blossoms is influenced by natural conditions, which cannot be grasped. If there is a significant change in weather, the forecast may be off. Cherry cherry blossom forecast is frequently updated. The closer to the date of flowering, the more accurate the prediction.