Japan Cherry Blossom 2023 Forecast: When & Where To See ...

HOME When Will Cherry Blossoms Bloom in Japan? The 2026 Sakura Forecast You'll Want to Bookmark (Updated: Feb 5) When Will Cherry Blossoms Bloom in Japan? The 2026 Sakura Forecast You'll Want to Bookmark (Updated: Feb 5)

• Written by: LIVE JAPAN Editor

Last updated: 5 February 2026

Updated on February 5, this guide breaks down Japan’s 2026 cherry blossom forecast, with predicted bloom timing by region and practical tips on where to catch the season’s most beautiful views of the Somei Yoshino variety. Whether you’re planning well in advance or fine-tuning your itinerary closer to departure, this forecast helps you make the most of sakura season in Japan.

Table of Contents

1. When is cherry blossom season in Japan in 2026?
2. Where to see early and late-blooming sakura
3. 2026 Cherry blossom forecast for sightseeing areas in Japan
4. Where is the best place to see the cherry blossoms in Japan?
5. Why is cherry blossom season so important in Japan?
6. Does Japan have cherry blossom festivals?
7. When to start planning your spring trip to Japan
8. Recommended stays to enjoy cherry blossom views
9. Book an unforgettable cherry blossom tour

When is cherry blossom season in Japan in 2026?

Cherry blossom in Tokyo

Cherry blossom season in Japan varies by region, typically starting in late March and moving north through April. According to the latest forecast from Japan Meteorological Corporation, updated on February 5, 2026, many areas are expected to bloom slightly earlier than average, while major cities will be close to their usual timing. Forecast dates refer to Somei Yoshino, the most common and widely viewed cherry blossom variety in Japan. In central Japan, first blossoms are forecast around March 20 in both Nagoya and Tokyo. Kyoto is expected to begin flowering around March 24, with Osaka following at roughly the same time. Hiroshima is projected to bloom around March 22, while Fukuoka is expected to see its first blossoms around March 21, both broadly in line with seasonal norms. Farther north, Sendai is forecast to begin flowering around April 5, followed by Aomori around April 18 and Sapporo around April 26. In these northern regions, cherry blossom season typically continues into early May.

After Sakura: 20 Beautiful Japanese Flowers and When & Where to See Them (+Tours) Enjoy 15% or more off your next stay with deals on Booking.com

When is peak cherry blossom season in Japan in 2026?

Cherry blossoms typically reach full bloom about five to seven days after first flowering, though timing can shift depending on temperature, rain, and wind. In most locations, peak viewing lasts around one week under stable conditions. Based on the latest 2026 forecast, Tokyo is expected to reach peak bloom around March 28, while Nagoya should follow closely around March 30. In Kyoto and Osaka, full bloom is projected for around April 1. In western Japan, Hiroshima is forecast to peak around March 31, while Fukuoka is expected to reach full bloom around March 30. Moving north, Sendai is projected to peak around April 10, followed by Aomori around April 22 and Sapporo around April 29. If you are not traveling during this period, early-blooming varieties can be enjoyed in southern areas such as Atami City (peaked around February 8) and Kawazu (expected peak around February 16–22), while colder regions like Sendai and Hokkaido offer later cherry blossom viewing from April through early May.

Where to see early and late-blooming sakura

Where to See Cherry Blossoms in January–February

• If you want to see cherry blossoms before the main season, head south of Tokyo, where some varieties bloom as early as January.
• Atami (Shizuoka Prefecture): Located about 1.5 hours from Tokyo, about 58 Atami-zakura trees bloom along a peaceful stream in late January to early February, about a month ahead of Japan’s standard cherry blossoms.
• Kawazu (Izu Peninsula): About three hours from Tokyo, Kawazu-zakura is a unique cherry blossom variety that blooms in late Febraury to early March, nearly a month earlier than typical sakura. About 850 vibrant pink flowers line a 4km stretch of the Kawazu River, creating a stunning early spring scene.
• Miurakaigan (Kanagawa Prefecture): About 1.5 hours from Tokyo, Miurakaigan offers a smaller-scale but picturesque cherry blossom viewing experience in mid-to-late February.

Where to See Cherry Blossoms in April–May

• Blossoms in the Greater Tokyo region may bloom from March to April.
• Tohoku Region (Sendai and beyond): In Sendai, sakura usually start blooming at the end of March, slightly later than in Tokyo.
• Hokkaido (Sapporo and beyond): The last cherry blossoms in Japan typically bloom in late April to early May, making Hokkaido one of the final places to enjoy sakura season.

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2026 Cherry blossom forecast for sightseeing areas in Japan

Use the forecast bloom dates below to plan your trip. (Tap on a city name to jump to that section.)

Tokyo Flowering: March 20 / Full bloom: March 28 Mt. Fuji Area (Lake Kawaguchi) Flowering: April 7 / Full bloom: April 13 Sapporo Flowering: April 26 / Full bloom: April 29 Sendai Flowering: April 5 / Full bloom: April 10 Kanazawa Flowering: April 2 / Full bloom: April 8 Nagano Flowering: April 6 / Full bloom: April 11 Nagoya Flowering: March 20 / Full bloom: March 30 Kyoto Flowering: March 24 / Full bloom: April 1 Osaka Flowering: March 24 / Full bloom: April 1 Hiroshima Flowering: March 22 / Full bloom: March 31 Fukuoka Flowering: March 21 / Full bloom: March 30

Where is the best place to see the cherry blossoms in Japan?

Japan has over 1,000 stunning cherry blossom spots, so choosing the best one can be tough. To help, we’ve listed beautiful locations by region.

Must-See Sakura Ranking: Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan

a. Northern Japan: Hokkaido

Sakura blossoms around Goryokaku (Hakodate, Hokkaido)

・Moerenuma Park (Sapporo): Designed by sculptor Isamu Noguchi, this artistic park has big sculptures and bursts with bright pink cherry blossoms in spring. ・Goryokaku Tower and Fort Goryokaku (Hakodate): A star-shaped, French-style fort and national historic site surrounded by famous cherry blossoms. The 107m-high Goryokaku Tower gives a unique bird’s-eye view of Hokkaido’s blooms. ・Asahigaoka Park (Furano): One of Japan’s Hundred Views, this spot offers amazing views of the Furano Basin and Tokachi mountains, with 3,000 cherry trees adding to the beauty. ・Mt. Tengu (Otaru): Named after mythical creatures, this mountain has great views of Otaru and the Sea of Japan. In spring, lighted cherry trees create a striking scene. ・Asahikawa Park (Asahikawa): With about 3,500 cherry trees, this popular Hokkaido park lights up the blossoms at night during the season.

Check & Book Now! ▶ Recommended Hokkaido Cherry Blossom Tours Recommended reading

• 12 Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Hokkaido
• Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park: In Japan's North, the Floor Comes Alive With Sakura Colors
• Visiting Hokkaido in Spring: Ultimate Guide to Hokkaido Weather & What to Wear
• Where to Stay in Hokkaido - Japan’s Gorgeous Northern Island

Book Your Stay ▶ Hotels in Hokkaido Browse recommended cherry blossom tours

b. Northeastern Japan: Tohoku Region

Weeping cherry tree blossoms along Kakunodate Bukeyashiki-dori (Akita)

・Hirosaki Park (Aomori): Covering 49 hectares with about 2,600 cherry trees, Hirosaki Park is one of Japan’s best sakura spots. Check out more top cherry blossom spots in Aomori here. ・Mt. Iwaki (Aomori): A sacred mountain with around 6,500 cherry trees along a 20km road, Mt. Iwaki blooms beautifully from late April to early May. ・Kakunodate Bukeyashiki-dori (Akita): Famous for its preserved samurai district, Kakunodate lights up with pink weeping cherry trees in late April, contrasting with the black fences of samurai homes. See more top cherry blossom spots in Akita here. ・Miharu Takizakura (Fukushima): A national treasure and one of Japan’s Three Most Famous Cherry Blossom Trees, this 1,000-year-old weeping cherry is surrounded by a visitor path. See more top cherry blossom spots in Fukushima here. ・Hitome Senbonzakura (Miyagi): Spanning 8 kilometers along the Shiroishi River, this spot offers a gorgeous view of cherry trees with the snowy Zao Mountains behind. See more top cherry blossom spots in Miyagi here. ・Tsutsujigaoka Park (Sendai): Three hundred years ago, Date Tsunamura of the Date Clan planted 1,000 sakura trees here. Despite challenges over the years, replanting efforts have maintained the park's allure, now featuring over 360 diverse sakura trees. See more top cherry blossom spots in Miyagi here.

Check & Book Now! ▶ Recommended Aomori Cherry Blossom Tours Recommended reading

• 10 Cherry Blossom Spots in Tohoku, Northern Japan
• 20km Cherry Blossom Tunnel! Japan’s Mt. Iwaki Has “The World's Longest Cherry-Lined Road”
• 10 Cherry Blossom Festivals to Enjoy in the Tohoku Region
• 5 Trains for Seeing Cherry Blossoms in Tohoku: Enjoy Japan's Spring Scenery
• Top 10 Places in Iwate to See the Cherry Blossoms
• Top 10 Places in Yamagata to See the Cherry Blossoms

Book Your Stay ▶ Hotels in Tohoku Browse recommended cherry blossom tours

c. Eastern Japan: Kanto-Koshin Region

Cherry blossoms at night along Chidorigafuchi Park (Tokyo)

・Meguro River (Tokyo): Stretching 3.8 kilometers, this river is lined with about 800 cherry trees that bloom vibrantly in spring, enhanced by nearby cafes and restaurants for dining and drinks. ・Rikugien Gardens (Tokyo): A tranquil, historic Japanese landscape garden, recognized as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty, famous for its graceful weeping cherry trees during spring. ・Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (Tokyo): Celebrated as a masterpiece of Japanese garden design, Shinjuku Gyoen boasts around 1,000 cherry trees across 65 varieties, delivering a spectacular spring display. ・Ueno Park (Tokyo): Home to roughly 1,200 cherry trees, Ueno Park is a leading spot for sakura viewing, attracting nearly 2 million visitors each spring—especially enchanting in the evening with illuminated bonbori lanterns. ・Yoyogi Park (Tokyo): One of Tokyo’s largest parks, Yoyogi Park draws crowds in spring for hanami under its sprawling cherry blossoms, perfect for gatherings. ・Lake Kawaguchi (Yamanashi): Nestled against the stunning backdrop of Mount Fuji, the shores of Lake Kawaguchi become a captivating cherry blossom retreat each spring. Nearby, Arakurayama Sengen Park (Chureito Pagoda) is also a popular stop worth exploring.

Check & Book Now! ▶ Recommended Tokyo Cherry Blossom Tours Recommended reading

• 10 Best Sakura Viewing Spots in Tokyo
• Breathtaking Blossoms at Chidorigafuchi – Tokyo’s Favorite Sakura Spot
• Japan’s Cherry Blossoms – Best Secret Spots to Enjoy Spring Sakura Magic without the Crowds
• What to Know About Japan's Cherry Blossom Festivals

3 Budget-Friendly Hotels in Tokyo Near Cherry Blossoms 4 Recommended Tokyo Hotels for Cherry Blossom Season: Right Near the Sakura Book Your Stay ▶ Hotels in Tokyo Browse recommended cherry blossom tours

d. Central Japan: Hokuriku and Tokai Region

Matsumoto Castle framed by beautiful sakura blossoms (Nagano)

・Nagoya Castle (Aichi/Nagoya): A major Nagoya attraction, this castle is encircled by about 1,000 cherry trees of 10 types, like Yoshino and Shidare, making for gorgeous spring scenery. Its annual Spring Festival, held from late March to early April, includes a light-up event that showcases the blossoms and castle, plus local Nagoya food and drinks at Shachihokodo and traditional Japanese games. ・Kenrokuen Garden (Ishikawa/Kanazawa): One of Japan’s three most famous gardens, Kenrokuen features around 420 cherry trees across 40 varieties, blooming in mid-April. It’s also listed among Japan’s 100 Best Sakura Spots. ・Matsumoto Castle (Nagano): Japan’s oldest five-tiered, six-story castle, Matsumoto Castle shines in spring with its cherry blossoms. The evening illumination along the outer moat creates a romantic, enchanting vibe. ・Shinshu Zenkoji Temple (Nagano): Established in 642, this historic temple is surrounded by a beautiful mix of cherry trees and weeping cherry blossoms, enhancing its spiritual charm. ・Takato Castle Ruins Park (Nagano): With about 1,500 cherry trees, this park ranks among Japan’s top 100 cherry blossom spots and is a must-see during peak bloom season. ・Ueda Castle Park (Nagano): Built in 1583, Ueda Castle is famous for its surrounding area, where over 1,000 cherry trees bloom, forming a stunning spring spectacle.

Recommended reading

• Top 10 Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan's Chubu Region

Book Your Stay ▶ Hotels in Nagano Browse recommended cherry blossom tours

e. Mid-Western Japan: Kansai/Kinki Region

Some of the 1,000 cherry blossoms around Himeji Castle (Hyogo)

・Himeji Castle (Hyogo): Known for its over 1,000 cherry trees, Himeji Castle provides a special sakura experience, including boat tours in the moat beneath pink petals during its cherry blossom festival. ・Tō-ji Temple (Kyoto): Home to Japan’s tallest wooden pagoda, Tō-ji Temple is surrounded by about 200 striking cherry trees, creating a captivating sight. Nearby Kyoto restaurants offer a chance to dine with blossom views. ・Ninna-ji Temple (Kyoto): Famous for its late-blooming Omuro-zakura cherry trees, Ninna-ji pairs them with a five-story pagoda. This scenic spot is a national beauty and one of Japan’s top 100 sakura locations. ・Yoshimine-dera Temple (Kyoto): Founded in 1029, Yoshimine-dera is renowned for its lovely weeping cherry blossoms, nestled among Kyoto’s western mountains. ・Mount Yoshino (Nara): Mount Yoshino features around 30,000 white wild cherry trees across its valleys and ridges, delivering an incredible springtime sakura display.

Check & Book Now! ▶ Recommended Osaka/Kyoto/Nara Cherry Blossom Tours Recommended reading

• 10 Best Kyoto Cherry Blossom Spots: When To See Them & Sakura Festival Dates
• Kyoto Cherry Blossom Festivals and Events
• 10 Best Osaka Cherry Blossom Spots: When & Where to See Sakura Festivals!
• 10 Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Osaka - According to Locals
• 10 Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Nara & When To See Sakura Festivals
• 10 Best Places for Cherry Blossoms Near Kobe: Where and When to See Sakura

3 Incredible Ryokan and Hotels Near Kyoto's Best Cherry Blossom Spots Where To Stay In Cherry Blossom Season In Kyoto: 3 Budget Hotels Right Near the Sakura Book Your Stay ▶ Hotels in Kyoto After the Blossoms, Enjoy Kyoto's Food Scene! ▶ Join a Tour Now After the Blossoms, Enjoy Nara's Food Scene! ▶ Join a Tour Now

f. Southwestern Japan: Chugoku and Shikoku Region

Ritsurin Garden in Kagawa Prefecture. (Photo: PIXTA)

・Matsuyama Castle (Ehime): One of Japan’s 12 pre-Edo Period castles still standing, Matsuyama Castle is a beautiful spot for cherry blossom viewing. Its historic grounds are dotted with many cherry trees, blending natural splendor with historical charm during the spring bloom. ・Hijiyama Park (Hiroshima): Famous for its 1,300 cherry trees and sweeping city views, Hijiyama Park is Hiroshima’s top hanami spot. It offers great photo ops near Henry Moore’s Arch, family-friendly areas by the Manga Library, and lively evening picnics along winding paths under the blossoms. ・Hiroshima Castle (Hiroshima): Surrounded by about 350 cherry trees along its grounds and moat banks, Hiroshima Castle blooms in early April, creating classic Japanese scenery. ・Ritsurin Garden (Kagawa): Celebrated for its scenic charm, Ritsurin Garden offers a peaceful setting for cherry blossom viewing. Its tidy paths and ponds are framed by delicate cherry tree blooms, making it a calm and picturesque retreat for visitors.

Book Your Stay ▶ Hotels in Shikoku

g. West Japan: Kyushu Region

Kumamoto Castle (Photo: PIXTA)

・Fukuoka Castle (Fukuoka): At Fukuoka Castle, history meets nature during its spring cherry blossom festival. The event brings illuminations, local food, traditional performances, and a variety of fun activities. ・Kumamoto Castle (Kumamoto): One of Japan’s most famous castles, Kumamoto Castle provides a striking setting for cherry blossom viewing. Its wide grounds are filled with cherry trees, offering a perfect mix of spring beauty and historic architecture.

Check & Book Now! ▶ Recommended Fukuoka Cherry Blossom Tours Celebrated for Centuries: The 5 Great Sakura Trees of Japan Book Your Stay ▶ Hotels in Kyushu Browse recommended cherry blossom tours

Why is cherry blossom season so important in Japan?

Dressing in kimono and seeing the cherry blossoms is a popular activity for many visitors to Japan

Cherry blossom season matters so much in Japan because of its deep history and cultural meaning. Dating back to the 8th century, enjoying sakura became a beloved tradition that highlights life’s fleeting nature. Known as “mono no aware,” this idea celebrates the blossoms’ short but stunning bloom—lasting just a week to ten days. It’s shaped how Japanese people see life, reminding them to treasure every moment while it lasts!

Recommended reading

• These 17 Weird Japanese Cherry Blossom Facts Will Make You Feel Instantly Smarter!
• 10 Exotic Japanese Cherry Tree Types You'll Fall in Love With
• All About Japan's Famous Weeping Cherry Trees: Seasons, Types, and Where to See Them
• Japan’s Sakura Culture Q&A – Everything You Need to Know about Cherry Blossoms in Japan
• What is the Difference Between Plum and Cherry Blossom? How To Tell Them Apart & 7 Places to See Them

Does Japan have cherry blossom festivals?

Blossoms along the Meguro River (Tokyo)

Absolutely, Japan throws tons of cherry blossom festivals tied to “hanami,” the tradition of flower viewing! These happen during the short sakura season, lasting just a few weeks. People head to parks and sakura-lined streets for picnics and to celebrate the blooms. The timing shifts across Japan—starting in the warmer southwest and wrapping up in the cooler north. Plus, “yozakura,” or night viewing with lighted blossoms, is a festival favorite!

Recommended reading

• Sakura Matsuri: 10 Famous Cherry Blossom Festivals in Japan
• Top 10 Cherry Blossom Festivals to Enjoy in the Tohoku Region
• Beyond the Guidebook: Expats Share Their Favorite Hanami Spots and Rituals
• Japan in Spring: Tips for Enjoying Cherry Blossom Festivals in Japan

Can I join hanami events in Japan?

Hanami picnics are a popular pastime in spring (Ueno Park, Tokyo)

Yes, you can totally join hanami events in Japan! To make the most of these cherry blossom parties, grab a few essentials: a waterproof tarp or picnic blanket (try 100 yen shops or a big plastic bag), tasty drinks and sakura-themed bentos or snacks from a convenience store, plus wet wipes, chopsticks, a garbage bag, a camera, and warm layers for chilly early spring nights. Want to level up? Rent a kimono for a fun daytime stroll and great photos!

Recommended reading

• All About Hanami: How Japanese Enjoy Sakura Viewing

Get Your Tickets ▶ Browse popular activities in Tokyo

When to start planning your spring trip to Japan

Those wishing to enjoy cherry blossom season in Japan are encouraged to start planning their spring travel at least 5 months in advance, given its popularity abroad. Like autumn foliage season, hotels in Tokyo and Kyoto book up fast, so secure your stay as soon as you pick your dates. Once that’s done, lock in cherry blossom tours and hot experiences like Ghibli Museum, teamLab, Tokyo Skytree, and Shibuya Sky—spots disappear quickly!

Where to Stay In Japan For Cherry Blossom Season

Recommended stays to enjoy cherry blossom views

Book Now ▶ Top Tokyo Hotels with Cherry Blossom Views Still Available! Secure your room a month in advance. Book Now ▶ Rooms Still Available! Discover Japan's Hot Spring ryokans with Stunning Sakura Views.

More on traveling to Japan in spring

Visiting Japan for the cherry blossoms? Be sure to check out these important links to help make your time even more amazing!

• Tokyo Sightseeing Done Right: What to Wear in Spring and What to Bring
• Ultimate Japan Spring Travel Guide: 10 Tips for traveling to Japan in Spring!
• Plum Blossoms in Japan: 9 Best Spots In And Around Tokyo (And When To See Them)

Book an unforgettable cherry blossom tour

Make your Japan trip unforgettable with these awesome cherry blossom tours! Pick one, click for details, and reserve your spot today.

• Tokyo: Asakusa Yakatabune Boat Ride with Meals & All-You-Can-Drink Beverages (Image: KKday)
• Tokyo Area: Mt. Fuji Flower Festival Tour with Mt. Kachi Kachi Ropeway Experience from Tokyo Photo: Klook
• Tokyo: Licensed Guide Tokyo Meguro Cherry Blossom Walking Tour Photo: Viator
• Tokyo: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover's Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide Photo: Viator
• Kyoto: Private & Unique Kyoto Cherry Blossom "Sakura" Experience Photo: Viator
• Kyoto: Kyoto Sagano Romantic Train with Cherry Blossoms Bus Tour Photo: Klook
• Kyoto: Arashiyama Gourmet Coupon + Randen 1 Day Free Ticket Photo: Klook
• Osaka: Osaka Spring Daytime Cherry Blossom Food Tour Photo: Viator
• Nara Area: Cherry Blossom Buddha and Mt. Yoshino with Strawberry Picking Tour Photo: Klook
• Hiroshima: Private Hiroshima Cherry Blossom and Sakura Experience Photo: Viator
• Aomori Area: Hirosaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide Photo: Viator

Browse cherry blossom tours available in 2025

Enjoy cherry blossom season by train

Japan has a huge number of scenic train rides letting you enjoy the magic of cherry blossom season. The articles below feature some of our biggest recommendations. We also recommend saving money and hassle by getting a Japan Rail Pass or other discount tickets via our Transport Passes section, at the link below.

Browse & Save ▶ Popular Rail Passes Springtime Exclusive! Top 7 Scenic Views of Cherry Blossoms With Trains Near Tokyo Sakura Train: 5 Scenic Train Rides for Cherry Blossoms Around Kyoto & Osaka Tokyo Sakura Tram: Experience Tokyo's Secret Neighborhoods, Off the Beaten Path

Dates referenced are based on information available on the Japan Meteorological Corporation's website.

Questions about planning your trip? Chat with us on Facebook Messenger Written by: LIVE JAPAN Editor

The LIVE JAPAN editorial team is a multinational group made up of native editors who have lived in Japan for over five years and Japanese editors who love to travel. Together, we share the best of Japan, offering cultural insights, historical context, event updates, and travel-friendly deals, to support your journey every step of the way.

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