Understanding Bloom Timing
Cherry blossoms aren't a season—they're a brief moment. Full bloom (mankai) lasts about one week before petals fall. Timing varies by location and year: Tokyo typically blooms late March, Kyoto follows 3-5 days later, northern Japan (Tohoku) in mid-April. The Japan Meteorological Corporation issues forecasts starting in January.
Pro Tip: Book flights and accommodation before forecasts confirm dates. Adjust your specific activities once bloom timing is clearer.
Where to See Sakura
Tokyo: Ueno Park (crowded but iconic), Shinjuku Gyoen (beautiful, less chaotic), Meguro River (Instagram-famous, extremely crowded). Kyoto: Philosopher's Path, Maruyama Park, Arashiyama. Beyond the cities: Mount Yoshino (thousands of trees), Hirosaki Castle (northern timing), Himeji Castle (castle + blossoms combo).
Hanami Culture
Hanami means "flower viewing" but really means picnicking under blooming trees. Groups stake out spots early morning (or send someone ahead). Bring a tarp, bento boxes, sake or beer. Convenience stores sell hanami sets. Join the celebration—it's one of Japan's most communal traditions. Night illuminations (yozakura) offer magical evening viewing.
Pro Tip: Lawson and 7-Eleven sell excellent bento boxes. Combine with konbini chicken and onigiri for a perfect picnic.
Beating the Crowds
Visit at dawn (6-7 AM) for peaceful photos. Weekdays are significantly better than weekends. Skip the famous spots for neighborhood parks—locals know best. Consider regions that bloom earlier (southern Kyushu) or later (Tohoku, Hokkaido) than peak tourist season. Rain clears crowds but accelerates petal fall.
Booking Strategy
Book 6+ months ahead. Seriously. Cherry blossom season is Japan's busiest tourism period. Hotel prices triple, popular ryokans sell out completely. Consider staying outside central Tokyo/Kyoto and commuting. Airbnb availability is better than hotels. JR Pass must be purchased outside Japan.
What If You Miss Full Bloom?
The week after full bloom offers "cherry blossom snow" (petals falling)—arguably more beautiful than peak bloom. Early bloomers and late bloomers extend the season. Shinjuku Gyoen plants multiple varieties specifically for extended viewing. One rainy day can end the season abruptly, so flexibility helps.
