Thinking of experiencing cherry blossom season in Japan? Here’s everything you need to know before you go.
Cherry blossoms are a national obsession in Japan, with news broadcasts regularly updating locals on where and when the blooms will appear, usually starting in late March. The cherry tree, or sakura, holds deep cultural significance, appearing on kimonos, paintings, currency, and even in seasonal foods.
The blossoms signal a time of renewal and new beginnings. The centuries-old tradition of hanami—picnicking under blooming cherry trees with family, friends, or colleagues—dates back to the eighth century and remains a beloved part of Japanese culture today.
Here’s everything you need to know about cherry blossom season in Japan and how Wendy Wu Tours can help you get there.
The timing of cherry blossom season varies each year depending on weather conditions and location. In warmer regions, blooms may appear earlier, while colder areas may see a later start.
In major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, cherry blossoms usually bloom from late March to early April.
On Okinawa, Japan’s southern islands, blossoms can appear as early as January.
In northern areas like Hokkaido, they may bloom as late as May.
The cherry blossom season is quite short. Full bloom usually occurs about a week after the first flowers appear. After another week, the petals peak and begin to fall. Wind and rain can shorten this window even further.
This fleeting beauty is celebrated in Japanese culture as mono no aware, the bittersweet awareness of impermanence. The ephemeral nature of sakura has even influenced samurai culture, with the blossoms symbolising life’s fleeting moments of beauty.
During cherry blossom season, hanami transforms parks into vibrant social hubs. Families, friends, artists, and photographers gather under the blossoms for picnics and celebrations. Historically, businesses would send employees to reserve prime spots overnight, while today, leaving a note or mat is common. Groups settle on mats, enjoying sake, beer, and bento boxes, often continuing into the evening thanks to illuminated cherry trees, or “light-ups.”
Hanami etiquette tips:
🌸 Respect the trees—never pick blossoms or shake branches
🌸 Take all garbage with you
🌸 Check local park rules, as they may vary
Travelling with Wendy Wu Tours during cherry blossom season means you’ll experience these magical celebrations with the guidance of local experts who know the best trees, parks, and insider spots.
Sakura season brings a variety of seasonal Japanese delicacies. Popular sakura-themed treats include:
Sakura ice cream and dumplings
Pickled cherry blossom leaves
Sakura chu-hai (sweet canned alcohol)
Seasonal Starbucks and McDonald’s items, like sakura macarons or McFlurries
Limited-edition KitKat and Pepsi sakura flavours
These unique treats make excellent souvenirs or a taste of Japan to enjoy while on your tour.
Cherry blossom tours with Wendy Wu Tours are filling up fast! Witness the beauty of sakura, experience hanami celebrations, and explore Japan at its most enchanting. Book today to secure your place on a truly unforgettable spring holiday.
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