Japan is renowned for its beautiful Sakura, or Cherry Blossoms. The Sakura season typically runs from mid-March to mid-April, varying by location within Japan. In Tokyo, it usually peaks at the end of March. To assist tourists in planning their visit and fully enjoying the unforgettable experience of Cherry Blossoms, it’s essential to check the official website where the Japanese government publishes tentative dates for Sakura in each city. If you’re considering a trip to Japan to witness the Sakura, it’s advisable to start your planning in November or December of the previous year, as flights and accommodations tend to become quite expensive as the dates approach.
Following are the most important information you need to pay attention to:
Plan Your Travel Dates: To make the most of your trip, schedule your travel around the cherry blossom forecast dates. Keep a close eye on the website, as these dates may change due to weather fluctuations. It’s advisable to visit the Japanese weather department’s site for the cherry blossom predictions, which are generally released in late January or early February. Here’s the link to the official website of the Japanese weather department.
The peak cherry bloom typically lasts for 8 to 10 days, so it’s crucial to plan your visit during this time to experience the iconic Sakura, as it is a dream come true for many to see it in person.
Prepare Itinerary:
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Destinations to Visit
- Tokyo: Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, Chidorigafuchi, and Yoyogi Park are top spots.
- Kyoto: Maruyama Park, the Philosopher’s Path, and Kiyomizu-dera are stunning.
- Osaka: Osaka Castle Park, Kema Sakuranomiya Park, and the Osaka Mint Bureau (for its famous sakura path).
- Hiroshima: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Shukkeien Garden.
- Hokkaido: The best places in Hokkaido for sakura viewing include Maruyama Park in Sapporo and Goryokaku Park in Hakodate.
- Other spots: Consider visiting Nara, Kamakura, or even rural regions like the Fuji Five Lakes area for a quieter experience.
Prepare your travel documents:
Once your dates are decided, you must plan your documents including Japanese visa. The list of documents needed for applying visa are as below:
- Valid Passport
- 1 Visa application form, (invitation form (if invited by family and friends),
- 1 Photo
- Flight itinerary with the flight/ship number and date of arrival and departure to and from Japan
- One of the following documents to prove ability to pay travel expenses during your stay in Japan
- Income certificate or tax return issued by a public agency
- Bank statement, balance certificate etc.
- Itinerary in Japan form
- Additional
To prepare above documents or forms, please follow the guidelines mentioned by Japanese Government. To apply for the Japanese visa, please visit Japanese Government at the official link.
Book Flight
This is the most crucial aspect of your tour once your travel plans are set. Please make sure to book your tickets as soon as possible to avoid rising prices, especially during peak season when airlines aim to maximize their profits. Additionally, consider exploring flexible travel dates or nearby airports to potentially find better deals. It’s also wise to sign up for fare alerts from airlines or travel websites, so you can be notified of any sudden price drops or special promotions. By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure a smoother and more budget-friendly travel experience.
Book Hotel in Japan
Book your hotel as early as possible once your tickets are confirmed. The cherry blossom season is a busy period for tourism in Japan, so it’s wise to book your accommodations early. Hotels in popular cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto tend to fill up fast. Consider staying at ryokan (traditional inns) or guesthouses for a more authentic experience. Look for hanami parties: Certain parks, such as Ueno, have specific areas set aside for picnicking during hanami (flower viewing), and nearby lodging can quickly become fully booked.
Here’s a list of budget hotels in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Kawaguchiko within the price range of ¥7,000–¥12,000 per night (based on availability and season):
| City | Hotel (features) | Approx Price | Location |
| Tokyo | Mystays Asakusa (Free Wi-Fi, kitchenette in rooms) | Approx. ¥8,000–¥10,000 | Asakusa, near Tokyo Skytree and Sensoji Temple |
| APA Hotel Shinjuku-Kabukicho Tower (Public bath, free Wi-Fi) | Approx. ¥9,000–¥11,000 | Central Shinjuku, close to nightlife and shopping areas | |
| Sakura Hotel Ikebukuro (Multilingual staff, simple yet comfortable rooms) | Approx. ¥7,500–¥10,000 | Near Ikebukuro Station, good for exploring Tokyo | |
| Tokyo Ueno Youth Hostel (Features: Shared kitchen, basic private and dormitory rooms) | Approx. ¥7,000–¥8,500 | Ueno area, near Ueno Park and museums | |
| Capsule Hotel Anshin Oyado Akihabara (Capsule-style beds, spa and sauna facilities) | Approx. ¥8,000 | Akihabara, great for tech and anime fans | |
| Kyoto | |||
| Osaka | Hotel Sun Plaza 2 Annex (Shared and private rooms) | Approx. ¥7,000–¥8,500 | Shin-Imamiya, convenient access to Namba |
| APA Hotel Namba-Ekihigashi (Modern amenities, free Wi-Fi) | Approx. ¥9,000–¥12,000 | Near Dotonbori, easy access to shopping and dining | |
| Osaka Guesthouse Nest (Affordable dormitory and private rooms) | Approx. ¥7,000–¥8,500 | Close to Tennoji Station | |
| Hotel Chuo Selene (Spacious rooms, coin laundry) | Approx. ¥8,000–¥9,500 | Shin-Imamiya, close to Tsutenkaku Tower | |
| Kamon Hotel Namba (Stylish, compact rooms) | Approx. ¥9,000–¥10,500 | Namba, walking distance to Dotonbori | |
| Kawaguchiko (Mt Fuji San) | Dot Hostel & Bar Lake Kawaguchiko (Modern shared and private rooms) | Approx. ¥7,500–¥8,500 | Close to Lake Kawaguchiko |
| K’s House Mt. Fuji (Guesthouse with cozy private rooms) | Approx. ¥8,000–¥10,000 | Walking distance to Kawaguchiko Station | |
| Plaza Inn Kawaguchiko (Basic but clean and affordable) | Approx. ¥9,000–¥10,000 | Near Kawaguchiko Station | |
| Hostel Michikusa-ya (Traditional Japanese-style rooms) | Approx. ¥8,000–¥9,000 | A short walk to the lake | |
| Rakuyu Ryokan (Hot spring baths, traditional ambiance) | Approx. ¥11,000–¥12,000 | Overlooking Lake Kawaguchiko |
Note: Prices can fluctuate based on the season, ongoing promotions, and the booking platforms used. To secure the best rates, early reservations are highly recommended!
You can explore other types or star hotels on any of the major hotel bookings sites such as:
Rakuten Travel in Japan
and, many more.
Book your local tours
Local tours offer the best opportunity to discover Japan through various group types. With their expertise and professionalism, they meticulously plan these tours to provide tourists with the most enriching experiences. Here are some of the top local tours available which offer various packages depending on your needs:
All Japan Tours: For Private and Group Tours
Please note that we have experience with Viator only and you need to research these tour operators before confirming your bookings.
Research on tourist attractions
This is a particularly busy season, so it’s wise to plan your itinerary to make the most of your tour in Japan. If tickets can be purchased online, be sure to book them ahead of time to skip long lines. Additionally, look for the least crowded times during these peak tourist days to enhance your sightseeing experience.
Sakura Viewing (Hanami)
- Sakura Picnics: Gather with locals for hanami by bringing along a blanket and delicious food such as sushi, bento boxes, or sakura-flavored treats. Sakura-inspired sweets like mochi and beverages infused with cherry blossom flavors are especially popular.
- Sakura Night Viewing: Many parks illuminate their sakura trees after dark, known as yozakura. This enchanting experience offers a unique atmosphere, distinct from daytime blossom viewings.
- Participate in Sakura Festivals: During the cherry blossom season, various cities hold flower festivals featuring food stalls, live performances, and cultural activities.
Transformations in Japan
JR Pass: If you’re planning on traveling between cities, the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) can save you money on trains, including the bullet trains (shinkansen). Just make sure it aligns with your travel schedule.
Local transport: Japan’s metro and public transport are super convenient. In cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, get a transportation pass or prepaid card (like Suica or Pasmo).
Renting a bike: In cities like Kyoto, cycling is a popular and efficient way to explore cherry blossom sites.
Renting a car: It one of the best options if you are traveling with family.
Research on Food and Drink during Sakura Season
- Sakura-flavored treats: From sakura mochi (sweet rice cakes) to sakura-flavored lattes or beers, it’s a fun time to try unique seasonal flavors.
- Matcha: Kyoto is especially famous for matcha-flavored desserts and drinks, so don’t miss that!
- Japanese Meal: Try out elaborate Sushi, Bento, Udon Noodles, Shashmi Noodles and more.
- Vegan Meal: Japanese Vegan meal are served in many restaurants and temples. Those are delicious and elaborate sit down meals. Must try these vegan 8-10 course meal at temple in Kyoto.
Research on Local Shopping
1. Ginza (For Fashion and Luxury)
Discount coupon combined with tax exemption (Lotte Duty Free Ginza)
Discount coupon combined with tax exemption (Japan Duty Free Ginza)
In Ginza, GN1-GN5 shopping center under highway is very popular for mid priced fashion, food, and more This is one of the best locations where you get all under one roof and also enjoy various cuisines while shopping.
2. Kappabashi (For Stylish Kitchenware)
3. Asakusa (For Perfect Japanese Souvenirs)
4. Jimbocho (For Winter Jackets, Ski Shops & Sport, Books)
5. Akihabara (For Manga, Electronics & More)
6. Ochanomizu (For Guitars & Instruments)
7. Harajuku (For Young Fashion)
8. Shimokitazawa (For Vintage Clothing and Antiques)
9. Makuhari (For Modern Malls and Great Discounts)
10. Odaiba (For Shopping and Entertainment, with a View)
Be Ready for Japan
- Expect crowds: Sakura season is extremely popular, especially in major cities. Try to visit less well-known parks if you’re looking for a more peaceful experience. Arrive early at the popular spots, getting there early in the morning will help you avoid the biggest crowds.
- Expect lots of Walking: If you’re not accustomed to walking, it’s essential to train for 2-3 months prior to your trip to Japan. During your travels, be ready to walk 5-10 kilometers daily.
- Prepare for Limited English: We encourage you to learn a few essential phrases, like “thank you,” “excuse me,” and “sorry.” Feel free to use Google Translate to communicate with local Japanese residents; you’ll find it easy to navigate your surroundings.
- Information Desks: Most train stations have assistants available to help you with train schedules or to guide you to your destination. Tokyo’s main station features an information desk where you can receive the assistance you need.
Please note that this article will be updated on a regular basis whenever new information is available or old information is updated.