My favorite cherry blossom views in Japan
APRIL 2025
Written by: Strawberry Erica
Sakura Season
Sakura (cherry blossom) season in Japan typically runs from late March to early April. Our trip was in early April from the 6th to the 19th, and we were lucky enough to catch what's called hanafubuki — when the petals start to fall and create a dreamy snowstorm of pink. It was absolutely stunning, and I highly recommend visiting during this time. It’s just after peak season, so you still get the full cherry blossom magic — but with way fewer crowds.
NUMBER ONE
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Tokyo
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden had by far the best cherry blossom views of the trip. The park is home to around 1,500 cherry blossom trees, including 70 different varieties that bloom at different times between late March and late April! We visited just after peak bloom, but it was still absolutely breathtaking. When you enter the park, you’ll be greeted by a wide open grassy field lined with hundreds of cherry blossom trees. We arrived right at opening, and there were so many quiet spots to take in the beauty — and even snap a few cherry blossom pics all to yourself.
Take your time at the park to soak up the magic that is sakura season — truly, nothing beats the beauty of this place. Bring a snack and have a picnic! There are plenty of benches and open spots to sit back, relax, and enjoy the sun. We brought fruit sandos and onigiri (rice balls) from 7-Eleven, and honestly… convenience store food in Japan is no joke. This might’ve been one of my favorite meals of the entire trip.
What I loved most about this garden was how diverse and picture-perfect the landscapes were. One of the most stunning views was overlooking the Naka-no-ike Pond, where towering cherry blossom trees reflected beautifully on the water. You’ll have so much fun wandering through and discovering all the different gardens this park has to offer — every turn feels like a new little world.
NUMBER TWO
Arakurayama Sengen Park, Fujiwaguchiko
Arakurayama Sengen Park is definitely a close second! Hike up the mountain for some of the most stunning cherry blossom views — all framed by the majestic Mt. Fuji. Seriously, the climb is so worth it, and visiting Fujikawaguchiko ended up being one of my favorite parts of the whole trip. At the top, you’ll reach the observatory deck where you get that iconic view of the Chureito Pagoda surrounded by cherry blossoms. Chef’s kiss!
What’s amazing about this park is that cherry blossoms are everywhere! As soon as you enter, you’ll start climbing a series of staircases (fair warning if stairs aren’t your thing), but the cherry blossoms line the path the whole way up. It’s the kind of climb you want to take slow — with plenty of spectacular views along the way and perfect spots to pause, catch your breath, and soak it all in.
When you reach Chureito Pagoda, head to the right and you’ll find an entire hillside bursting with cherry blossoms. As you make your way up to the observatory deck, you’ll be treated to views like these while waiting in line for your turn. They allow about 30 people at a time on the deck so that everyone gets a chance to take their photos and soak in the spectacular view of Chureito Pagoda — totally worth the wait!
NUMBER THREE
Katsuoji, Osaka
Katsuoji was by far the cutest temple we visited in Japan! Darumas (traditional Japanese wooden dolls) and cherry blossoms were scattered all throughout the grounds, adding the perfect pops of red and pink against the lush green landscape. I loved this temple so much — it was far less touristy than others, and the darumas gave it such a unique and unforgettable charm. The cherry blossoms were stunning, and at the end of the park, we found a winding path lined with dreamy pink and purple blooms.
NUMBER FOUR
Ueno Park, Tokyo
Next up is Ueno Park in Tokyo! This park is so cute — especially with the little boat rentals on Shinobazu Pond. We didn’t ride one, but they made for the most charming photos with cherry blossoms in the background. Cherry blossom trees are scattered throughout the park, with tons of photo opportunities — from branches arching over the walkways to soft reflections on the water.
NUMBER FIVE
Osaka Castle, Osaka
Osaka Castle was unlike anything we’d ever seen before — a stunning structure surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and massive fortified walls with moats flowing through them. On the north side of the castle grounds near the Gokuraku-bashi Bridge, I found a cluster of cherry blossom trees arching over the water, with breathtaking views of Osaka Castle in the background. It was one of the most unique cherry blossom scenes of the entire trip — a total must-see if you’re visiting Osaka!
NUMBER SIX
Sensoji Temple, Tokyo
If you’re looking for a cherry blossom experience with a dose of history — look no further! Head to Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple, and a spot that truly has it all: towering gates, stunning temple buildings, a beautiful pagoda, and plenty of food stalls and shops — all with cherry blossoms blooming around them.
NUMBER SEVEN
Kogamasao Memorial Park, Fujiwaguchiko
Kogamasao Memorial Park is the best photo spot for cherry blossoms, Mt. Fuji, and the lake all in one frame. The park itself is super charming — we even stumbled upon a craft fair while we were there! We ended up buying so many goodies, and I absolutely loved the magic of local handmade vendors selling their artisan crafts beneath the cherry blossoms.
NUMBER EIGHT
Gion, Kyoto
Last but certainly not least, I’ve added Gion to the list! Gion is Kyoto’s famous geisha district, and wandering through its quiet side streets and tucked-away neighborhoods will lead you to the most charming surprises. While exploring, we stumbled upon Tatsumi-jinja Shrine and Tatsumi Bridge — both tucked under the most beautiful cherry blossoms, creating a picture-perfect moment you won’t want to miss.
