Hanami Season in Japan 2025

Enjoy the colorful sights of spring blossoms

Best time: February–April

While the most popular spring flower blossom is sakura (late March–April), ume or plum blossoms (February–March) are also a beautiful sight to behold. Generally, you can get information on the best days of bloom from forecasts. However, hanami is not only about flowers, it is usually a time to get together with friends and family to enjoy a picnic and the changing weather.

Places to Visit

Mount Fuji

Nothing can beat the view of the blooming trees with Mount Fuji on the backdrop. You can catch a glimpse of this quintessential postcard landscape at Lake Kawaguchiko or at Chureito Pagoda. The whole Fuji Five Lakes region looks amazing in the spring. Another scenic location is Mount Yoshinoyama(Nara Prefecture).

Kyoto

Kyoto has quite a few scenic spots such as Imperial Palace Park, Philosopher's Path, Botanical Garden, and Maruyama Park. Most people gather in parks with food and drinks and enjoy the splendid beauty of spring.

Historical Hirosaki Castle (Aomori Prefecture)

Over 30,000 cherry trees make it a prime destination for the hanami season in the country. Divided into four areas with different trees and dozens of viewpoints, it takes days to explore. Historical Hirosaki Castle (Aomori Prefecture) features up to 3,000 cherry trees that you can enjoy from a boat or during a picnic. Another spot with a historical atmosphere is Takato Castle Park that is the premier spot in Nagano Prefecture.

Mount Yoshino (Yoshinoyama), Nara Prefecture

Celebrated as one of Japan's most famous cherry blossom destinations, Mount Yoshino boasts over 30,000 sakura trees blanketing its slopes. The blossoms typically peak in early April, offering a mesmerizing pink panorama.

Shinjuku Gyoen, Tokyo

A spacious national garden featuring more than a thousand cherry trees of various species, Shinjuku Gyoen offers both early and late-blooming varieties. This makes it a great spot for hanami even if you miss the peak season. Alcoholic drinks are prohibited, ensuring a peaceful atmosphere.

Matsumae Park, Hokkaido

Home to Japan’s northernmost castle, Matsumae Park boasts over 10,000 cherry trees encompassing 250 varieties. The extended blooming period here starts from late April, offering a prolonged hanami season