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It’s that time of the year again – Cherry Blossom season in Japan! Two years ago, I visited Japan during its iconic Cherry Blossom season and it remains one of the most memorable experiences in my lifetime. Although I’ve shared my Japan trip on the blog before, I felt compelled to do an updated post so I can give you more travel info that’s relevant to 2020!
For starters, there’s no set time for when the cherry blossoms will bloom. Some years they arrive early and other years later. Your best bet is to visit the Veltra site. They have very specific and reliable information regarding cherry blossom season in Japan for 2020 . And currently, they’re anticipating trees to start blooming in late March. If you haven’t heard of Veltra, they’re a travel company known for organizing tours and specific activities around the world at crazy low prices. I wish I had known about their services and website before I visited Japan, but now, you can take advantage of them!
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What you need to know about Hanami
Before visiting Japan, I think it’s so important to understand the deeper significance of cherry blossoms (or sakura) in Japanese culture. It’s not only the country’s national flower, but is a metaphor for life, death, and renewal. It touches on the concept of impermanence and reminds us to appreciate the brief time we share together with loved ones. Cherry blossom season is euphoric and powerful but also short-lived – kind of like life itself. With that said, do not pluck the blossoms off the tree, sit on the roots of the tree, or shake them.
If you’ve ever dreamt about visiting Japan in the spring time, be sure to bookmark and use my guide below for the absolute best cherry blossom spots in Japan!
Kyoto
Known to be one of the most iconic tourist spots in Japan is Kyoto, which I’ve come to see why. The traditional architecture is so charming and unlike the bustling nature of Tokyo. You come here for its history and culture where you can experience the ancient temples and shrines which take you back in time.
Path to Yasaka-No-To Pagoda
My first recommendation for cherry blossom viewing in Kyoto is to walk the path to Yasaka-No-To Pagoda, a tall wooden pagoda that’s surrounded by many historical old homes. What’s unique about this spot is that the streets are directed towards the pagoda so there plenty of photo opps from from below and above. The blossoming trees are stunning against the structure in the distance.
Philosopher Path
Next, the Philosopher’s Path (image left) in Kyoto follows a canal that’s lined with hundreds of cherry blossom trees. After blooming, the passage is bursting with color from the pink flowers and the red bridge. Those two elements sitting along the stone pathway is insanely beautiful!
Stroll along Shirakawa River of Gion
Gion is no doubt a tourist trap, but I promise that you’ll 100% enjoy the stroll along the Shirakawa River. With the trees blooming against the wooden houses, you’ll be in complete awe (see two images below). And if you look hard enough, you’ll even spot the area where the Memoirs of a Geisha was filmed (anyone else remember that movie?) – and possibly a geisha or two. The upside to this busy area is that there’s no shortage of food! The dessert shops are unparalleled in taste and appearance.
