Experience Japan’s Magical Cherry Blossom Season

Cherry blossom season (Sakura) is one of Japan’s most breathtaking natural events, usually beginning in late March and continuing into early April, depending on the region.

• Tokyo and Kyoto generally hit full bloom between late March and early April.
• Hokkaido welcomes blossoms a little later, typically mid-to-late April.
• Top places to visit include Ueno Park (Tokyo), Philosopher’s Path (Kyoto), and Osaka Castle Park.
• Sakura season is all about celebrating life, beauty, and new beginnings, often with festive hanami (picnic) gatherings.
• Expect plenty of festivals, food stalls, sakura-themed treats, and spectacular nighttime light displays.
• Plan ahead – this is one of Japan’s busiest travel seasons, with flights and accommodation booking out fast!

There’s truly no experience quite like seeing Japan turn pink for cherry blossom season. Picture wandering through gardens blanketed in delicate petals, enjoying seasonal snacks, and soaking in the lively spring spirit. If Japan is on your travel wishlist, we’ve pulled together everything you need to plan your 2026 sakura adventure.

When and Where to See the Cherry Blossoms

The cherry blossoms begin blooming in Japan’s south and gradually work their way north.

Timing your visit is crucial because full bloom only lasts about a week!

Here’s a look at the 2025 forecast:

• Tokyo – Blossomed on March 24, peak bloom March 30
• Kyoto – Bloomed on March 27, with full bloom on April 5
• Osaka – Flowered on March 27, peak viewing on April 4
• Sapporo (Hokkaido) – Flowered on April 23, with full bloom April 28

If you’re planning your flights to Japan from New Zealand, aim for the full bloom dates to make the most of your trip.

Why Sakura Season Matters in Japan

Cherry blossoms are more than just beautiful flowers, they symbolise life's fleeting beauty and the arrival of new beginnings.

During sakura season, Japanese parks come alive with hanami (flower viewing) celebrations, where locals gather under the blossoms for picnics, music, and laughter.

Everything goes pink too: you’ll find sakura-inspired coffees, sweets, special-edition souvenirs, and even beauty products! It’s a nationwide celebration that offers a truly unique cultural experience for Kiwi travellers.

Best Places for Cherry Blossom Viewing

From buzzing cities to peaceful temples, here are some must-visit sakura spots:

Tokyo

• Ueno Park: Over 1,000 cherry trees and a lively hanami atmosphere
• Chidorigafuchi: Rent a rowboat and glide through a sea of blossoms
• Shinjuku Gyoen: A peaceful oasis with an incredible variety of trees

Kyoto

• Maruyama Park: Famous for its illuminated weeping cherry tree
• Philosopher’s Path: A tranquil walkway lined with cherry blossoms
• Kiyomizu-dera Temple: Stunning temple views above a pink landscape

Osaka

• Osaka Castle Park: Historic grounds framed by gorgeous blossoms
• Kema Sakuranomiya Park: Riverside pathways lined with 5,000 trees

Hokkaido

• Goryokaku Park (Hakodate): Blossoms surrounding a star-shaped fort
• Maruyama Park (Sapporo): A later bloom option if you’re visiting later in April

Why You Should Plan for 2026 Now

The 2025 season was spectacular, if you want the best choice of flights, accommodation, and deals, start thinking about 2026 soon.

Cherry blossom season is one of Japan’s peak travel times, so early planning gives you better flexibility, more options, and often better prices.

Pro tip: Check out our deals on cheap flights to Japan such as Cheap Flights to Tokyo to start locking in your dream trip now.

What to Expect (and How to Prepare)

• Book Early – Flights and hotels fill up quickly
• Pack Smart – Bring warm layers for cool evenings
• Respect Local Customs – Don’t pick blossoms or leave rubbish behind
• Chase the Night Blossoms – Many parks offer yozakura (nighttime light-ups)
• Track the Bloom – Download a cherry blossom tracker app to follow the blooms in real time

Make It Easy with Mix & Match

Whether you want to catch Tokyo’s lively celebrations, Kyoto’s serene canal walks, or Hokkaido’s late-season magic, we’re here to help.

Compare flights, secure the best deals, and plan your sakura season adventure stress-free with Mix & Match.

Get ready to experience one of Japan’s most unforgettable seasons, it’s a trip you’ll never forget!

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