Japan bursts into shades of pink, white and yellow as cherry trees bloom each spring, enchanting locals and tourists who gather beneath the blossoms to revel in their ephemeral magic. People meet under the flourishing trees, known as sakura, in the spirit of hanami — the Japanese tradition of appreciating the fleeting beauty of flowers. An ode to impermanence, cherry blossoms last for around two weeks and fall in a gentle sea of confetti just three days after full bloom. Meanwhile, every corner of the Land of the Rising Sun transforms into a temporary blush of pink. From picnics in parks to captivating light displays at sakura festivals, the arrival of spring is celebrated, and the momentary splendour of cherry blossoms invites contemplation on the transient nature of life. Here’s our ultimate guide on when to visit Japan for sakura season, hanami etiquette, and the nine best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan this spring. 

Japan’s cherry blossom season spans from March to May during spring. The best time to experience the country’s cherry trees in full bloom is typically late March to April, however, this varies depending on the region you are visiting. In Fukuoka, first bloom usually occurs mid-to-late March, with peak bloom happening in the last few days of March to the first few days of April. In Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, cherry trees generally begin to flower in the last week of March, reaching full bloom in the first week of April. The final cherry blossoms of the season can be found in northern regions such as Hokkaido, blooming in late April to early May. Ultimately, there is no guarantee on when and how long cherry blossoms will bloom, and forecasts are affected by a variety of factors such as temperature, rainfall and wind. 

Hanami, which translates to flower viewing, is the Japanese custom of enjoying the ephemeral beauty of flowers — most commonly, cherry blossoms. Dating back centuries, this tradition is central to springtime and is deeply woven into Japanese culture, where the fleeting lifespan of cherry blossoms symbolises the transient nature of life. This notion is underpinned by the Japanese concept of ‘mono no aware’: the bittersweet feeling that arises when you are aware of the impermanence of all things — and how this transience is what instils life with such beauty and value.  

As the first cherry trees begin to bloom and paint the skies like waves of fairy floss and wispy clouds, people in Japan gather under the sakura to eat, drink and socialise — celebrating the arrival of spring and appreciating the beauty of the blossoms. Sakura festivals are also held across the country, featuring parades, music, food stalls, and art, while some locations illuminate the cherry trees at nighttime for a spellbinding viewing experience.  

Hanami is a core part of the nation’s culture, so engaging in this custom during sakura season is an enriching and authentic way to experience Japanese life. As a traveller, it’s important to understand hanami etiquette, ensuring you experience this age-old custom like a local. Here are a few basic rules: 

• Avoid touching or shaking the cherry blossom trees. 

• Be prepared to carry your rubbish with you until you can dispose of it appropriately — public bins are limited in Japan. 

• Remove your shoes before stepping onto a picnic mat. 

• Respect the local rules — barbecuing or alcoholic beverages are prohibited in some parks, while other parks have curfews at night. 

Travellers can experience hanami in many ways, from enjoying a picnic under the sakura and admiring the blooms surrounding a shrine, to meandering cherry tree-lined streets and glimpsing sprawling mountains dotted with cherry blossoms from a bullet train. Experience the splendour of Japan during sakura season on an all-inclusive luxury tour with APT, offering the chance to experience the ephemeral beauty of cherry blossoms at a range of unique and coveted destinations, such as the iconic oOtorii gate of Itsukushima Shrine and the World Heritage-listed Himeji Castle. Enjoy curated cultural experiences, locally inspired dining, luxury accommodation and seamless travel, all designed for effortless indulgence and unforgettable memories. Here are the nine best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan this spring with APT.  

The magic of Japan’s sakura season offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and deep cultural significance, celebrated through hanami parties, special cuisine and vibrant festivals. As cherry trees across the country reach full bloom, Japan’s landscapes are transformed into a pastel dreamscape and streets become awash with sakura petals — a gentle reminder of life’s fleeting beauty. Exploring Japan during cherry blossom season is a truly unforgettable experience.  

An expertly curated journey through Japan with APT is defined by all-inclusive luxury, effortless travel, and authentic cultural encounters — offering memories to cherish for a lifetime. Witness cherry blossoms at a range of iconic and unique sights, enjoy luxury accommodation and savour gourmet dining along the way. Discover the Land of the Rising Sun with the experts this spring and browse our curated Japan itineraries today. 

 Words by Jemma Glucina-Henderson