Japan’s most celebrated season, cherry blossoms, mild weather, and the country at its most visually extraordinary. Here is how to experience it properly.
When to Visit Japan in Spring
Late March to mid-April – Cherry Blossom Peak
The cherry blossom front moves south to north. Tokyo typically peaks from March 25 to April 5. Kyoto blooms slightly later, usually early to mid-April. The window is narrow and weather-dependent. See the Japan cherry blossom guide for 2026 forecasts and the best viewing spots.
Late April to May – Spring Without the Crowds
Once cherry blossoms end, international crowds drop and prices normalise. Late April and May bring azalea blooms, fresh green, and comfortable temperatures (18 to 25 degrees). The exception: Golden Week (late April to early May) is Japan’s biggest domestic holiday period. Book 3-4 months in advance if your trip overlaps.
Cherry Blossom Viewing – Hanami
Spreading a mat under cherry trees, eating, drinking beer or sake, and watching petals fall is a genuine thousand-year tradition and one of the most joyful experiences in Japan. Best spots in Tokyo: Shinjuku Gyoen (500 yen entry, no alcohol), Ueno Park (free, festive atmosphere), Chidorigafuchi (free, boat rental on the moat). In Kyoto: Maruyama Park (free, weeping cherry lit at night), Philosopher’s Walk (free canal path).
Timing: Visit famous spots before 8 am for the best experience without crowds. Weekdays are significantly more enjoyable than weekends.
Best Places to Visit in Spring
Tokyo
Blossoms at Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, Chidorigafuchi, and Meguro River. See the Tokyo neighbourhoods guide for where to base yourself.
Kyoto
The most famous blossom destinations are Fushimi Inari, Maruyama Park, Heian Shrine, Philosopher’s Walk, and Arashiyama. Book accommodation 3 to 4 months ahead. See the Kyoto guide.
Yoshino – The Cherry Blossom Mountain
A mountain covered with 30,000 cherry trees in Nara Prefecture, blooming in sequence across three weeks. Far fewer international tourists than in Kyoto. About 1.5 hours from Osaka by limited express train.
Tohoku – Late Season, Fewer Crowds
Northern Honshu blooms mid to late April. Hirosaki Castle Park in Aomori (2,500 trees in a castle moat) is widely considered one of the finest blossom spots in Japan, and is dramatically less crowded than Kyoto.
Hokkaido – Golden Week Blossoms
Blooms late April to early May. Perfect for Golden Week travellers priced out of Kyoto and Tokyo. See the Hokkaido guide.
Spring Beyond Cherry Blossoms
Late April brings wisteria at Kawachi Wisteria Garden in Fukuoka and Ashikaga Flower Park, cascading purple tunnels that rival cherry blossoms. Azaleas at Nezu Shrine in Tokyo. Shibazakura (pink moss phlox) at the base of Mount Fuji from late April through May.
Practical Notes
- Accommodation: Book 3 to 4 months ahead for the cherry blossom season. Kyoto fills first.
- Golden Week 2026: April 29 to May 5. Book all transport months ahead if overlapping.
- Weather: 5 to 15 degrees Celsius in Tokyo in late March and early April. Pack layers. Rain is common.
