Cherry blossom season is one of the biggest and most popular times of the Japanese calendar. Everyone wants to see the blossoms and enjoy the mild Spring weather. Almost any park or garden that has cherry blossom trees will be beautiful, but there are some that take it a step further

5. Miyajima Island, Hiroshima

Miyajima Island is a small island off the coast of Hiroshima, famous for Itsukushima shrine and the floating torii gate. On the island over 1300 cherry blossoms have been planted in different varieties. It makes for a very unique landscape as the cherry blossoms contrast with the ocean. There are also many cherry blossoms around the shrine and pagoda, allowing for a peaceful yet beautiful walk.

4. Kinkakuji, Kyoto

In Kyoto, Kinkakuji, also known as the Golden Pavilion or Golden Temple, is one of the most popular tourist spots due to its ability to shine regardless of season. However, it truly comes to life in Spring. The temple is surrounded by forest and foreshadowed by a lake, allowing for a lovely reflection of nature. During cherry blossom season, this springs into colour as the flowers bloom in varying shades of pale pink. The surrounding areas are very popular places for “hanami”, cherry blossom viewing parties. Most akin to a picnic under flowering trees, hanami is one of the most common activities for this time of year.

3. Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa

Kenrokuen Garden is one of the ‘top 3’ traditional gardens in Japan. It incorporates traditional Japanese design with the natural lay of the land. In Spring, there are 20 varieties of cherry blossoms flowering throughout the garden, so the trees never become repetitive. Walking throughout Kenrokuen Garden can take up to a few hours, and in the warm spring sun, is a common pastime.

2. Minoh Park, Osaka

In the northern outskirts of Osaka is the small mountain town of Minoh. This area becomes very popular in Autumn as a place to view the autumn leaves. It is a lesser-known fact that it is just as beautiful during Spring. A light one hour hike will take you up one of the surrounding mountains to Minoh Waterfall. Cherry blossom trees are spread out along the path, making it a beautiful view for the entire journey. This is also a place to escape the crowds gathered at some of the more famous cherry blossom spots.

1. Nara Park, Nara

Nara Park is commonly famous for the Nara deer. So much so that the mascot of Nara City is a deer. Throughout Nara Park there are a number of wild deer that have grown accustomed to people and will interact peacefully. This is quite an experience at any time of year, as it is possible to feed crackers to the deer and receive a bow in response. This experience can be heightened in Spring as the park is overwhelmed with cherry blossom trees and there are many young deer accompanying their mothers. The park is also home to a number of temples and pagodas, meaning it is possible to take in traditional Japanese culture, surrounded by friendly deer in the beautiful pink and white of cherry blossom season.

It is possible to see cherry blossoms all throughout Japan in Spring, and as one of the most-celebrated parts of Japanese culture, it is a must-do when visiting Japan. The places listed above are just some of the most popular and beautiful areas to visit. Experiencing the cherry blossoms firsthand is a wonderful way to enjoy Japan, and is recommended by all.

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