About Sakura & Hanami
Sakura (cherry blossoms) are Japan’s iconic spring spectacle. People celebrate sakura with hanami — picnics beneath frothy clouds of pink and white petals. Sakura symbolize renewal, impermanence, and the joy of being present. This site helps you plan a respectful, unforgettable sakura trip.
Sakura basics
- What: Many cherry species flower; some are pale pink, some almost white — all called sakura.
- Why: Hanami traditions go back centuries. Visiting sakura is cultural and social — enjoy food stalls, festivals, and night illuminations (yozakura).
- Respect: Don’t pick blossoms, clean up after hanami, and follow local park rules.
Quick packing tips for sakura season
- Light layers (spring days warm, nights chilly).
- Portable picnic blanket for hanami.
- Camera or phone with extra battery — sakura photos are endless.
Top Places to See Sakura (Sakura Spots)
Tokyo — Ueno Park & Nakameguro
Urban sakura: riverside walks, illuminated cherry-lined canals, and lively hanami crowds.
Kyoto — Philosopher's Path & Maruyama Park
Classical sakura: temples, canals, and quiet tea houses framed by blossoms.
Hirosaki — Castle Park
A castle moat filled with sakura petals — one of the most romantic and photogenic spots for sakura.
Mount Fuji area — Chureito Pagoda & Kawaguchiko
Iconic sakura with Mount Fuji in the background — perfect for postcard photos.
Sample 5-Day Sakura Itinerary
Day 1 — Tokyo: Nakameguro & Shinjuku Gyoen
Arrive, stroll the Meguro River, enjoy izakaya snacks, and see illuminated sakura at night.
Day 2 — Tokyo: Ueno Park & Asakusa
Hanami in Ueno, visit Senso-ji, and try sakura-flavored treats.
Day 3 — Kyoto: Philosopher's Path & Gion
Bullet train to Kyoto, afternoon tea near cherry-lined canals, evening walk in Gion.
Day 4 — Kyoto: Arashiyama & Maruyama Park
Bamboo grove in the morning, hanami picnic by the riverside in the afternoon.
Day 5 — Mount Fuji area or Hirosaki (seasonal)
Choose Mt. Fuji views with sakura or head north to Hirosaki for castle park gardens.
Hanami etiquette & tips
- Bring a picnic blanket and trash bag — public bins can be scarce during festivals.
- Be mindful of crowded paths; avoid blocking walkways for photos.
- Try seasonal sakura foods: sakura mochi, sakura lattes, and sakura-flavored confections.
Photography & Sakura
Sakura make delicate, dreamy photos. Experiment with: close-ups of petals, silhouettes against the sky, reflections in moats, and framed temple shots. Early morning and evening (golden hour / yozakura) give the best light.