Japanese cherry blossoms, also known as “sakura” in Japanese, are in my opinion one of the most beautiful event of the year and beloved symbols of Japan. The blossoms typically bloom for just a few short weeks each year, usually in late March or early April, and their delicate pink and white petals create a stunning and ethereal display.
People in Japan eagerly anticipate the arrival of cherry blossom season, and many gather in parks and gardens to enjoy the blossoms with friends and family. This tradition is known as hanami, which means "flower viewing" in Japanese. Growing up in Japan, I used to go every year to have picnics or parties under the cherry blossom trees, and enjoy food, drinks, and festivities while surrounded by the beautiful blossoms. My best memories were seeing my parents and relatives getting rowdy and making friends with a bunch of people. This was one of my favorite time of the year and best times to meet the whole fam.
Travel Tips!
I highly recommend going to Japan during this cherry blossom season and I’ll give you tips for it!! If you're planning a trip to Japan to see the cherry blossoms, it's a good idea to keep an eye on the Japan Meteorological Corporation's cherry blossom forecast, which predicts the estimated bloom dates for various regions throughout Japan. Generally, the cherry blossom season tends to start in southern Japan, such as in Kyushu, in late March and gradually moves northward. Tokyo typically sees cherry blossoms in bloom around late March to early April. If you're looking for a more relaxed and peaceful viewing experience, consider visiting lesser-known spots or going during off-peak times.