Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan for 2025

What is Hanami?

Hanami (花見) literally means “flower viewing” in Japanese—花 (hana) meaning "flower" and 見 (mi) meaning "to see" or "to view." It refers to the centuries-old tradition of gathering beneath cherry blossom trees (sakura) to appreciate their fleeting beauty. What began as an imperial court ritual has become a beloved springtime custom across Japan. Today, hanami is a joyful celebration, often involving food, drinks, and shared moments under the blossoms with friends, family, or coworkers.

Japan is experiencing a major tourism boom this April as cherry blossom season hits its peak. After years of pandemic-related restrictions, visitor numbers are now breaking records in cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima. If you're a traveller or expat looking to make the most of sakura season, here’s your guide to some of the best hanami spots—and how to enjoy them without the stress.

Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Japan This April

There’s something quietly magical about standing beneath a canopy of cherry blossoms in full bloom. The light filters through soft pink petals like a scene from a dream. The air is still, yet alive with anticipation. And just for a brief moment, it feels like time slows down. This is hanami—the art of appreciating impermanence, wrapped in beauty and shared with strangers and loved ones alike.

Japan offers countless places to experience this springtime enchantment, but a few spots stand out for their breathtaking atmosphere and unique character.

In Tokyo, Ueno Park is more than just a hanami hotspot—it’s a festival in motion. Over a thousand sakura trees create a vibrant pink corridor that pulses with life. Crowds gather early, blue tarps unfurl across the grass, and the scent of street food fills the air. There’s something joyfully chaotic here, a celebration of spring in all its noisy, colourful glory.

In Kyoto, the scene softens. Maruyama Park, tucked beside Yasaka Shrine, is known for its iconic weeping cherry tree, which glows ethereal white-pink beneath the lanterns at night. As the lights flicker and petals fall silently to the stone paths, it’s easy to believe you’ve stepped into a folktale. The blend of sacred space and natural beauty gives this park a timeless quality that feels deeply rooted in Japan’s soul.

For those drawn to more contemplative places, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park offers a profoundly moving hanami experience. The cherry trees lining the Motoyasu River frame the somber silhouette of the Atomic Bomb Dome. Here, the blossoms speak not only of renewal, but remembrance—of life moving forward while honouring the past. It’s a quiet kind of beauty that lingers long after you leave.

And in the north, far from the buzzing cities, Hirosaki Castle in Aomori Prefecture feels like a secret whispered by spring itself. With over 2,600 cherry trees surrounding the castle, bridges, and moat, the petals gather like snow on water, framing postcard-perfect reflections. The further journey makes the reward even sweeter—this is hanami for those seeking a touch of wonder, far from the crowds.

A Little Sakura Wisdom

If you find yourself focusing more on your picnic than the petals, don’t worry—there’s an expression for that, too. In Japanese, there’s a humorous idiom: 花の下より鼻の下 (hana no shita yori hana no shita). A playful word trick, it literally compares “under the flowers” (花の下, hana no shita) with “under the nose” (鼻の下, hana no shita)—meaning, instead of admiring the blossoms, you’re more concerned with what’s under your nose… like your bento box or your next bite of fried chicken.

In other words: you came for the sakura, but stayed for the snacks.

It’s a light-hearted reminder that hanami is as much about joy and togetherness as it is about solemn reflection. So don’t feel guilty if the highlight of your day is your picnic spread—it’s all part of the tradition.

Hanami Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts for a Respectful Sakura Experience

Do – Pack a picnic mat
Bringing a picnic mat (or blue tarp) is essential. The ground is often cold or damp in early spring, and claiming a spot under the trees is a big part of the hanami experience. The earlier you arrive, the better your view.

Do – Bring your own rubbish bag
Bins are limited and often overflow quickly. It’s expected that you take your trash home, so come prepared with your own bag. Leave the space as clean as you found it.

Do – Bring food, drinks, and good vibes
Convenience stores offer great hanami-ready snacks and bentos. Alcohol like beer or sake is totally acceptable in most parks, just be mindful of your behaviour. Hanami is about relaxing and enjoying—not getting loud and sloppy.

Do – Dress for the weather
Spring can be unpredictable. Bring extra layers, especially if you’re staying past sunset. A blanket, a jacket, and maybe a portable light will make your hanami comfortable into the evening.

Do – Check the sakura forecast before you go
Cherry blossoms are famously short-lived. Full bloom typically lasts about a week and varies by location. Double-check timing online or through a local resource—CallButler can help with that too.

Don’t – Shake the trees for viral photos
It may look pretty, but shaking or touching the blossoms is damaging and inconsiderate. Leave the petals where they are for everyone to enjoy.

Don’t – Leave your spot unattended for long
It’s common to “hold” a space with a tarp, but etiquette says someone should stay behind. Leaving it empty for hours risks losing your spot—or upsetting your neighbours.

Don’t – Blast loud music or act disruptive
Hanami is lively but still respectful. Keep your volume down and avoid disruptive behaviour. You’re sharing the space with children, elders, and others seeking a peaceful afternoon.

Don’t – Forget basic manners
Don’t block walkways, take up excessive space, or leave trash behind. Japan’s public spaces rely on shared respect—so do your part to keep the atmosphere enjoyable for everyone.

How CallButler Can Help

Travelling during cherry blossom season is exciting—but also chaotic. Trains are packed, parks are full, and navigating reservations or local etiquette can be overwhelming, especially if you don’t speak Japanese.

CallButler is here to make it easy. Whether you want help booking transport, reserving a post-Hanami dinner, or creating a smooth sakura itinerary, our local assistants are ready to help—anytime, anywhere. We’re your personal concierge in Japan, taking the stress out of travel so you can simply enjoy the blossoms.

Spend less time figuring things out, and more time under the trees.
Make your hanami experience unforgettable—with CallButler.