When (and Where) to See Japan's Cherry Blossoms
Sakura season is short, moving and unforgettable. Our guide to timing your trip perfectly.
The cherry blossom front sweeps Japan from south to north each spring — and timing is everything.
Kyushu blooms first in late March, Tokyo and Kyoto usually peak in the first week of April, and northern Honshu and Hokkaido carry the season into May. Full bloom lasts barely a week in each city, so build flexibility into your itinerary.
In Kyoto, skip the daytime crowds at Maruyama Park and walk the Philosopher's Path at 7am instead. In Tokyo, Nakameguro's canal at dusk is pure magic when the lanterns come on.
Can't travel in spring? Autumn's maple season (mid-November) delivers the same drama in crimson and gold, with half the crowds.