Ueno Park, Tokyo

Ueno Park, by far, the most popular destination in Tokyo for hanami, holds over 1,000 cherry blossom trees that bloom every single year in their delicate pinks. Take a stroll down the park, visit the Ueno Park Zoo and eat from the several delicious eateries around the area. It’s a picture perfect moment for you and a friend.

Nearest Airport: Tokyo (Haneda/Narita)

Himeji Castle, Hyogo

Ever dreamt of taking a boat trip surrounded by cherry blossoms all around? Then you won’t want to miss a visit to the Himeji Castle in Kinki. Known for its imposing size and beauty, the Himeji Castle is a highly popular cherry blossom spot during the short and crowded blooming season. The best times to visit fall in early April! So don’t wait any longer, time is running out!

Nearest Airport: Kobe /Osaka

Goryokaku, Hakodate

Fort Goryokaku known for its massive, star shaped citadel was built in the last years of the Edo Period. A few years later, the fort became the site of a civil war between an army of the shogunate and the superior troops of the newly established Meiji government.

After losing its military importance, it was eventually turned into a public park in the 1910s. Over one thousand cherry trees were planted along its moats, making it one of Hokkaido's best cherry blossom spots. The peak of the blooming season usually takes place around early May.

Nearest Airport: Hakodate

Kenrokuen, Kanazawa

Known as one of Japans’ three most beautiful landscape gardens, Kenrokuen opened its spacious grounds to the public in 1871. The garden features a variety of trees each season. Although beautiful year-round, Kenrokuen is perfect during its spring time and a local favorite for a relaxing day. During this time, travelers can walk the paved road for pedestrians alongside cherry blossom trees, shops and restaurants that lie just outside of the garden.

Nearest Airport: Komatsu

Asahiyama Shin-rin Park, Kagawa

Last but most certainly not least is the Asahiyama Shinrin Park, known for its large scale cherry blossom trees, the park holds over 2,000 cherry blossom trees that are planted to spread over the bridge and roads of the park.  An observatory in the area allows travelers alike to see the sea and mountains surrounding the park making a beautiful contrast to the beautiful spring season.

Nearest Airport: Takamatsu