Sakura NAVI 2023

Update: 12th Mar. 2023

Cherry Blossom Blossom Forecast

​1. Tokyo Chidorigafuchi-Ryokudo	​The rows of Yoshino cherry trees that dye the moat of the Imperial Palace pale pink are popular spots for clerks and clerks. In the evening, enjoy a romantic atmosphere and enjoy the cherry blossoms from the boat at night. The contrast between the beautiful cherry blossoms seen from the stone wall and the green path is beautiful.
​2. Yokohama Sankeien Garden	​The first highlight is the 500m cherry blossom tunnel that runs from the road in the Honmoku area to the main gate. There is "Kamisakura Evening" in the park, where you can enjoy cherry blossoms at night. During the period, the main building and cherry blossoms collected from Kyoto and Kamakura are lit up, and you can enjoy a fantastic cherry blossom viewing different from the daytime. Cherry ice with finely chopped cherry leaves is popular at Sankeien Saryo.
​3. Odawara Castle	​Approximately 300 cherry trees surrounding the castle tower and moat. Many people come to see the cherry blossom scenery, which was selected as one of the top 100 cherry blossom spots. The park also has an amusement park for children to enjoy.
​4. Mt. Fuji Lake Kawaguchiko	​Along the Kawaguchiko Kaigan Road, such as the Hubei View Line, is a great location where you can admire the cherry blossoms while watching Mt.Fuji. Ubuyagasaki, where you can see the inverted Fuji reflected in Lake, is a recommended view spot.
​5. Matsumoto Castle	​Matsumoto Castle is one of Japan's five major national treasures. It is the oldest 5-story and 6-story castle in Japan. In the spring, the cherry blossoms surrounding the castle moat are in full bloom, and the "Night Sakurakai" and the "National Treasure Matsumoto Castle Sakura Namiki Hikari Corridor" will be held. Don't miss the illuminated Matsumoto Castle tower and cherry blossom spotlight.
​6. Takayama Nakabashi bridge	​Miyagawa river flows through the center of Takayama City. The cherry blossoms planted on the riverbank create a wonderful view of the red Nakabashi. At night, the lights turn on and you can enjoy a different view of the cherry blossoms than during the day.
​7. Shirakawago	​Shirakawa-go is a world heritage famous for its snowy scenery, but cherry blossoms and Mizuhashi are in full bloom in spring, so you can relax with the warm colors of private houses and flowers.
​8. Ishikawa Kenrokuen Garden	​A 110-square-meter daimyo garden that walks through the forest. Approximately 40 species of cherry blossoms, including higanzakura, yoshino cherry, and yamazakura, bloom one after another. In particular, the rare Kenrokuen-kumagai and Kenrokuen-kikuzakura, which are most rarely seen in late April, are must-sees.
​9. Hikone Castle	​Hikone Castle is known as the castle of 350,000 Ii. In spring, about 1,100 cherry blossoms are in full bloom and are beautiful in harmony with the stone and white walls. Many people visit the castle as a cherry-blossom viewing spot. In addition, specialty products and specialty products are sold, and the night lights are turned on.
​10. Kyoto Arashiyama	​Arashiyama is generally around Togetsukyo Bridge over the Katsura River, where you can enjoy flowers throughout the year. In spring, places in Arashiyama become cherry blossom viewing spots, and in early April, Hirosawa Pond and mountain cherry blossoms at Osawaike Tsutsumi, mid-April, Giou-ji Temple Giouji-gijo-zakura, and late April at Nison-in Temple Will be Fukenzo-zakura.
​11. Kyoto Ninna-ji	​This is a description of the head temple of the Omuro school of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, which is known for its grove of cherry trees called "Omuro-zakura" in Kyoto, Japan. These trees are beloved by the local people and have been popular since the Edo period for their late blooming, which makes them the last cherry trees to blossom in Kyoto. The trees are short, only about 2 to 3 meters tall, and there is a famous poem about them that goes, "Otafuku am I, Omuro's cherry trees my nose is low, but well-liked by everyone."
​12. Osaka Castle	​An urban park with a total area of 105.6 ha, centered on the castle tower rebuilt in 1931 (Showa 6). Huge stone walls, moats and cherry blossoms are beautifully in harmony. Nishi-no-Maru Garden is a famous cherry blossom spot and is visited by many people.
​13. Himeji Castle	Himeji Castle, a national treasure and a World Heritage Site, has about 1,000 cherry blossoms, including Yoshino cherry trees, weeping cherry trees, and mountain cherry trees. Along the moat of Himeyama Park, Sannomaru Plaza is full of famous places such as cherry trees and hills.

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The time has come for one of Japan's most cherished and beloved traditions: cherry blossom season.

Every year, thousands of tourists flock to Japan to witness the breathtaking beauty of these delicate pink and white flowers. The cherry blossom, known as "sakura" in Japanese, is a symbol of renewal and the fleeting nature of life.

According to this year's bloom forecast, the cherry blossoms are set to bloom earlier than usual, with the first blooms expected in late March.

The peak bloom is expected in early to mid-April, depending on the region.

The bloom forecast is eagerly anticipated every year, as it determines when the country will celebrate "hanami," the tradition of gathering under the blossoms to enjoy food, drinks, and the company of friends and family.

The cherry blossom season is a magical time in Japan, as the trees burst into a sea of pink and white, creating a stunning backdrop for picnics, walks, and celebrations. It's a time when the country comes alive with energy and excitement, and the air is filled with the sweet fragrance of the blossoms.

For those planning a trip to Japan during cherry blossom season, there are many wonderful experiences to enjoy. From strolling through the parks and gardens to participating in traditional tea ceremonies and attending cherry blossom festivals, there's no shortage of things to do and see.

If you're looking for a truly unforgettable experience, consider taking a nighttime boat ride along the river in Tokyo or Kyoto, where the illuminated cherry blossoms create a mesmerizing display.

And of course, no cherry blossom season would be complete without trying some of the delicious seasonal treats, such as sakura-flavored mochi and sakura sake.

Overall, the cherry blossom season is a must-see event for anyone visiting Japan. The beauty and magic of these fleeting flowers are sure to leave a lasting impression on your heart and soul, and the memories you make during this time will stay with you forever.