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Celebrate Cherry Blossom Season 

Celebrate Cherry Blossom Season 

Celebrate Cherry Blossom Season 

Celebrate Cherry Blossom Season in Japan or South Korea

With pink and white confetti blanketing temples and shrines, sakura (cherry blossom) season is an important event in the Japanese calendar and a magical time to visit the country. With South Korea an increasingly popular destination with similarly spectacular displays, our trips are designed to capture the fleeting nature of cherry blossom in these two enchanting countries.

In Japan, the practice of hanami (flower viewing) is said to date back to the Nara period (710–794) and is deeply instilled in the culture to this day. We organise special cherry blossom departures, so you can see the blooms at their best in hotspots such as Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden in Tokyo, the Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto and Osaka Castle. In South Korea, this time of year is known as beot-kkot and is usually less crowded than in Japan, which makes it an appealing alternative. On our trips, you can visit spectacular viewing spots such as Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, Haeinsa Temple in Gayasan National Park and the breathtaking Seoraksan National Park in Gangwon-do province. 

Typically, cherry blossoms are in full bloom between mid-March to early April in Japan and South Korea, so now is the perfect time to book your spot on one of our special departures!   

Explore cherry blossom trips

Cherry Blossom Trips In Japan

Ancient & Modern Japan

Celebrate Cherry Blossom Season 
14 Days from CAD 8080
CAD 7420

Guided Group (Incl. Taxes)

Explore Zen gardens, temples and the most iconic sights of Japan

Culture

Highlights of Japan

Celebrate Cherry Blossom Season 
8 Days from CAD 7028
CAD 6460

Guided Group (Incl. Taxes)

Uncover the cultural highlights of Japan on this eight-day trip

Culture

Japan's Kumano Kodo

Celebrate Cherry Blossom Season 
14 Days from CAD 12728
CAD 12160

Guided Group (Incl. Taxes)

Walk Japan's ancient pilgrimage routes along the Kumano Kodo

Walking & Trekking

Cycling in Japan

Japan
14 Days from CAD 13300

Guided Group (Incl. Taxes)

Cycle the land of the Samurai; temples, geishas and incredible Tokyo and Kyoto

Cycling

Cherry Blossom Trips In South Korea

FAQS on our Sakura Cherry Blossom Trips

When is cherry blossom season in Japan?

We recommend you book your sakura tour between late March and early April, in line with cherry blossom season in Japan.

When is cherry blossom season in Japan?

Cherry blossom season is said to be between late March and April. However, the breadth of Japan means that the season travels up the country and lasts around four months in total. This is down to the fact that the climate in Japan becomes milder as you travel north. The northernmost parts of the country will experience the latest cherry blossom seasons. We recommend taking this into account if you are planning a more extensive cherry blossom trip to Japan.

Where are the best places in Japan to see cherry blossoms?

Some of the best places to visit during your sakura holiday in Japan include:

  • Nakameguro, Tokyo
  • Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Tokyo
  • Maruyama Park, Kyoto
  • Himeji Castle, Himeji
  • Shinkyo Bridge, Nikko

You can find more suggestions in our guide to sakura season.

What does 'sakura' mean in Japan?

Sakura quite literally means ‘a flowering cherry tree’.

What is the cultural significance of cherry blossom season in Japan?

Adoration of sakura season dates back to the Heian period over 1,000 years ago. A short yet vibrant season, it’s associated with renewal and new beginnings. This time of year is met with great admiration and it’s common for it to be celebrated in Japanese culture. As a result, it is regularly showcased in art and other cultural outlets.

When is the cherry blossom festival in Japan?

Hanami, otherwise known as the cherry blossom festival, has existed for centuries. There are no exact dates for when these festivals take place, however, there will be ongoing celebrations. If you’re planning a cherry blossom festival tour to Japan, be sure to align your trip with when each location will enjoy sakura season.

Where am I likely to find cherry blossom festival celebrations during a tour in Japan?

You will naturally come across celebrations throughout the sakura season, but there are some places in Tokyo with more extensive celebrations. These include:

  • Ueno Park
  • Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
  • Meguro River

The areas of Kyoto and Tokyo are particularly vibrant at this time of year and are worth visiting to experience cherry blossom festivals during your trip to Japan.

What should I wear on a cherry blossom season trip in Japan?

Many people opt for white and pastel-coloured clothing during sakura season holidays in Japan. Having said this, more practical advice includes wearing a coat or jacket during the earlier stages of the season as it can be a little chilly. As the season progresses, layers are a good idea, allowing you to add and remove clothing where necessary.

Regardless of when you go, we recommend wearing comfortable footwear for your cherry blossom walking tour in Japan.

What can I expect from a cherry blossom walking tour in Japan?

Our cherry blossom walking tours in Japan are guided group trips. Group sizes will range from 6-18 people, plus your expert leader, with travellers aged 16 years or above.

The activity level will be listed in our trip details, but they will generally be in the moderate range, requiring some fitness and an adventurous spirit. You can read our full activity level guidelines for more information.

What is the weather like during a cherry blossom season holiday in Japan?

The weather during your cherry blossom trip to Japan will depend on where you are. During the spring, temperatures range from 2–24 °C, so it is recommended that you check the forecast ahead of your trip. The start of the season is a lot chillier, so make sure you account for this.

Do you offer cherry blossom cycling holidays to Japan?

Yes, you can find out more about our cycling cherry blossom tours to Japan here.

Expert Blog Entries

Celebrate Cherry Blossom Season