Spring in Japan is one of the most popular times to visit, and for good reason. Springtime weather brings mild temperatures with low risk of rain, meaning you can freely explore Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and other cities without constantly worrying about any potential delays or cancellations.
And while there’s plenty to do in Japan during this time of the year, one springtime activity you should experience at least once is Hanami (cherry blossom viewing), where you spend the day admiring the pretty flowers with your family and friends. Read on below to know more about hanami, how to prepare for one, and recommended locations!
What is a Hanami?
Hanami, or cherry blossom viewing, is a must-try during your trip to Japan in spring.
Hanami is a traditional Japanese custom spanning centuries and literally means “flower viewing” in Japanese. While the custom began with plum blossoms (ume), the focus slowly turned to include the more popular sakura or cherry blossoms, and the rest is history.
In modern-day context, hanami usually involves outdoor parties beneath the cherry blossom blooms in the day and at night (yozakura). Even though cherry blossoms are the main star, plum blossom viewing (umemi) and peach blossom viewing still take place in some areas.
Here’s a visual guide to identifying flowers this season like a pro.
What to bring to a Hanami?
Make sure to bring the essentials to your hanami! (Source: maconmonitor.com)
Here’s a list of hanami picnic essentials to have you looking like a local in no time.
- Picnic Mat: These can be purchased from discount stores across Japan like Daiso or Don Quijote for as little as JPY100. It’s advisable to buy them beforehand as they won’t be readily available especially at prime viewing spots.
- Disposable Utensils: Don’t forget to bring along some plates, cups, cutlery and napkins to enjoy all the glorious food!
Blankets: Most locals will recommend staying till evening when the cherry blossom trees are lit up for a completely different experience. Since temperatures tend to dip after sunset, do bring along a blanket or a throw just in case!
Hanami Food
A hanami and cherry blossom viewing experience wouldn’t be complete without some delicious food like a hanami bento or hanami sweets.
Hanami Bento
These themed lunch boxes are more elaborate compared to your typical bento. (Source: https://i.4meee.com)
Here’s a list of must-have items in your bento box:
- Makizushi – sushi rolls
- Inarizushi – sushi wrapped in tofu skin
- Tamago – Japanese style sweet egg omelette
- Kamaboko – pink and white fish cake
Other typical dishes to complete your meal:
- Karaage – Japanese deep fried boneless chicken
- Ebi – deep fried breaded prawn
- Takoyaki – octopus balls with various filling
- Onigiri – Japanese rice balls with various filling
- Tsukemono or salads
Hanami Sweets
Your hanami isn’t complete until you’ve had some dessert! (Source: https://flavorverse.com/)
Here’s 2 quintessential springtime desserts to try:
Sakura Mochi: Sticky rice cake filled with red bean and wrapped in a salted cherry blossom leaf.
Hanami Dango: Sweet dumplings made from rice flour, typically served on a skewer in three colours – pink, white and green.
Klook tip: When going to a hanami, Japanese drinks like tea and cider are a must, so make sure to bring your preferred beverage of choice. During hanami, cherry blossom flavored drinks are available for a limited time, so keep an eye out when you shop at the konbini or grocery store.
If you’re planning to bring any alcohol, make sure to check if your chosen viewing location allows it.
How to Hanami?
Check out Klook’s guide on how to hanami in 2026.
What to wear to a Hanami?
To commemorate this special experience, try renting a kimono or yukata! (Source: https://www.worldlyresort.com/)
For many, especially first-timers to hanami & cherry blossom viewing, dressing up can be another way to commemorate the special event. Go all-out with a gorgeous Japanese kimono and don’t forget to snap pictures while you’re at it!
Klook offers personalized Tokyo Kimono Rental, Kyoto Kimono Rental, Fukuoka Kimono Rental. So, you’re bound to find one near you. (P.S. You can even get your hair done at the same time, and they have options for men’s kimonos too!)
Experience a hassle-free hanami & cherry blossom viewing with Klook!
Every minute counts during the hanami season. Too early or too late could mean losing prime viewing spots, or being unable to experience it entirely! Guided hanami and cherry blossom viewing tours from Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and other popular locations across Japan take care of all the planning for you.
If you’d rather have your own DIY hanami picnic, consider car rentals in Japan or IC Cards like the SUICA to help make traveling around easier.
Now that you’re done planning your trip, it’s time to get booking and packing. Make sure you have all your essentials ready, such as your Japan eSIM or pocket WiFi so you stay connected at all times. Happy travels!
FAQs
1. What is hanami in Japan?
Hanami, which literally means “flower viewing” in Japanese, is a traditional Japanese custom where people gather for picnics as they admire the blooms. Though the custom began with plum blossoms (ume) , the focus slowly turned to include sakura or cherry blossoms as well.
2. When is the best time for hanami cherry blossom viewing?
Cherry Blossom viewing in Japan generally happens from late March to early May, though it varies depending on location and the type of blossom. For example, Okinawa’s cherry blossom season takes place as early as January due to its subtropical climate, while Hokkaido’s can peak in late May due to its colder temperatures. While planning for flower viewing in Japan, we recommend checking cherry blossom forecasts.
3. Where are the best places for cherry blossom viewing in Japan?
Popular hanami & cherry blossom spots include:
- Tokyo: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Meguro River, and Ueno Park
- Kyoto: Maruyama-Koen Park and the Philosopher's Path
- Osaka: Okawa River and the Expo 70 Commemorative Park
Other famous locations include Mount Yoshino, Nara Park, and Kawaguchiko near Mount Fuji. Check out our guide to the cherry blossom season in Japan for more information on how to make the most out of your upcoming trip.
4. What should you bring to a hanami picnic?
We recommend bringing the following to a hanami & cherry blossom picnic:
- Picnic Mat
- Disposable Utensils like plates, cups, cutlery, and napkins
- Blankets
- Bento with your preferred Japanese dishes. Popular options include makizushi, inarizushi, tamago, kamaboko, karaage, ebi, takoyaki, onigiri, and tsukemono
- Hanami sweets like sakura mochi and hanami dango
5. Is hanami allowed everywhere in Japan?
No. While hanami is celebrated throughout the country, note that rules apply for each location. It’s best to check official park websites or keep an eye out for local government announcements.
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