Discover the Magic of Sakura Season at Japan’s Top Cherry Blossom Festivals 🌸
Cherry blossoms, or sakura, are more than just beautiful flowers in Japan — they’re a symbol of renewal, hope, and the fleeting beauty of life. Each spring, millions of locals and tourists gather under blooming cherry trees for hanami, the beloved tradition of flower viewing. It’s a time to relax, enjoy picnics, and appreciate nature’s breathtaking display.
If you’re planning to visit Japan in 2026, sakura season is the perfect opportunity to experience the country’s culture at its most enchanting. This guide covers the best cherry blossom festivals in Japan, from world-famous spots like Ueno Park in Tokyo to hidden gems you won’t want to miss.
Whether it’s your first trip or a return visit, get ready to add these unforgettable experiences to your travel bucket list!
When is Sakura Season in Japan?
Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast 2025 released on 27 Feb 2025
Sakura season in Japan typically begins in late March and lasts until late April, though the exact timing depends on the region.
Warmer areas like Okinawa see the blossoms as early as January, while cooler regions such as Hokkaido experience blooms in late April or early May. The peak bloom period, known as mankai, usually lasts just a week, so timing your visit is key.
Check out our Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast Guide — we'll be updating the dates as the Japan Meteorological Corporation releases more forecasts!
What to Look Forward to During Cherry Blossom Season in Japan
Photo Credit: @ryuzo__photo on Instagram
Cherry blossom season, or sakura season, is one of Japan’s most anticipated and celebrated times of the year. Rooted in centuries-old traditions, it’s a season that blends natural beauty with cultural customs, bringing people together to revel in the fleeting beauty of the blossoms.
Hanami (Flower Viewing)
The most iconic custom of sakura season is hanami, which involves gathering under cherry trees to appreciate their beauty. Families, friends, and colleagues spread picnic mats, share food and drinks, and relax while enjoying the blossoms above. Parks and riverbanks across Japan become lively with music, laughter, and festive spirits.
Nighttime Illuminations (Yozakura)
Catch the reflection of beautiful cherry blossoms over the Meguro River in Matsuno, Japan
When night falls, cherry blossoms take on a magical quality during yozakura, or nighttime viewing. Parks, temples, and riverside spots illuminate the trees with lanterns or soft lighting, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere.
Sakura Matsuri (Cherry Blossom Festivals)
Many regions host sakura-themed festivals, where visitors can enjoy local food stalls, cultural performances, and activities. These festivals often feature special treats like sakura mochi (rice cakes wrapped in cherry leaves) and sakura-themed drinks and desserts.
Customary Foods and Drinks
Spot the colourful hanami dango skewers by the Sakura Mochi! Credits to Klook
Sakura season is synonymous with seasonal delicacies. Hanami bento (picnic lunchboxes) are packed with colorful spring-themed dishes, while sake is a popular drink for toasting under the blossoms. Sakura-flavored sweets, like sakura ice cream or sakura daifuku, are also a must-try.
Top Cherry Blossom Festivals in Japan
1) Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, Shizuoka
Where spring comes early through pink petals. Image credits to @nazayazulaikha on Instagram.
The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, or Kawazu Sakura Matsuri, is one of Japan’s earliest and most anticipated cherry blossom events — it started in 1991!
Taking place in Kawazu, a charming town on the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture, the festival is celebrated from 7 February to 8 March 2026, showcasing the stunning beauty of the Kawazu-zakura, a unique cherry blossom variety.
What sets Kawazu-zakura apart is their early blooming period and vibrant pink petals that last for about a month—much longer than most other sakura varieties. Along the Kawazu River, approximately 8,000 cherry trees stretch across 4 kilometers, creating a breathtaking tunnel of blossoms that attracts nearly one million visitors annually.
Visitors to the festival can enjoy daytime strolls under the canopy of pink blossoms, while evening illuminations from 6 PM to 9 PM transform the riverbanks into a magical scene. The festival atmosphere is brought to life with food stalls serving local delicacies and sakura-themed treats, as well as cultural performances and events.
For the best experience, plan your visit during late February, when the blossoms are typically in full bloom. With its unparalleled charm and festive energy, the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival is the perfect way to welcome Japan’s sakura season in style. Don’t forget to book train seats in advance, as this popular event is not to be missed!
Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, Shizuoka
🗓️ Dates: 7 February to 8 March 2026
🎟️ Entry fee: Free
🚆 Getting there: From Tokyo, take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Atami Station. Transfer to the JR Ito Line and Izu Kyuko Line to Kawazu Station. The total travel time is roughly 2.5 hours.
📍 Address: 48-6 Sasahara, Kawazu, Kamo District, Shizuoka 413-0512, Japan
2) Fuji Shibasakura Festival, Yamanashi
A carpet of flowers at the foot of Mount Fuji. Image credits to @bassetts.bouken on Instagram.
The Fuji Shibazakura Festival in Yamanashi Prefecture is a breathtaking springtime event that combines vivid blooms with iconic views of Mount Fuji. Held at the Fuji Motosuko Resort from early April to late May 2026, this festival transforms 2.4 hectares of land into a sea of vibrant colors, thanks to approximately 800,000 shibazakura (moss phlox) flowers. The actual dates of the festival may vary depending on the season, so do check out the official website for the latest information.
What makes this festival truly magical is its unique variety of shibazakura, featuring eight types such as Scarlet Flame, Autumn Rose, and McDaniels Cushion. Together, they create a stunning mosaic of pink, purple, white, and light blue hues. The sight of these vivid blooms against the majestic backdrop of Mount Fuji is a photographer’s dream and one of Japan’s most iconic spring scenes.
Visitors can enjoy the festival's highlights, including panoramic views of Mount Fuji, a relaxing footbath overlooking the flowers, and delicious treats from the Fujiyama Sweets pop-up café. Food stalls also offer a range of local specialties, adding a flavorful touch to the day. To avoid crowds, arrive early—especially during the peak bloom period from late April to early May.
Make the most of your trip to the Fuji Shibazakura Festival by going on a Mt. Fuji Flower Festival & Ropeway & Fruit Picking Tour! Besides visiting famous spots like Arakurayama Sengen Park, this tour includes free entry to the Shibazakura Festival!
You can also opt for the Fuji Shibasakura Festival Bus Ticket. With this, you can visit the festival and access a round-trip bus from Shinjuku Station, making it easy to get around places!
Fuji Shibasakura Festival, Yamanashi
🗓️ Dates: To be announced (2025 dates: 12 April to 25 May)
🎟️ Entry fee: ¥1,200 for adults, ¥600 for children
🚆 Getting there: Take a 40-minute bus ride from Kawaguchiko Station to the Motosu-iriguchi Bus Stop
📍 Address: 212 Motosu, Fuji-Kawaguchiko-cho, Minami-Tsuru-gun, Yamanashi 401-0337
3) Hitachi Cherry Blossom Festival, Ibaraki
Kairakuen Garden during sakura season. Credit: Ibaraki Prefectural Government
The Hitachi Cherry Blossom Festival, or Hitachi Sakura Matsuri, is a springtime delight held annually in Hitachi City, Ibaraki Prefecture. Taking place from 4 April to 5 April 2026, this festival is a must-visit for cherry blossom enthusiasts.
The centerpiece of the festival is Heiwa Dori (Peace Street), a 1-kilometer stretch lined with approximately 120 Somei Yoshino cherry trees. During the day, this picturesque street transforms into a tunnel of delicate pink blossoms, while evening illuminations create a magical, romantic ambiance. This spot has earned its place as one of Japan’s top 100 cherry blossom viewing locations, making it a highlight for visitors.
For those looking to explore further, Kamine Park offers an impressive collection of 1,000 cherry trees of 22 varieties, including rare blossoms like the green Gyoiko and yellow Ukon. Families will love the park’s additional attractions, such as a zoo and an amusement park, making it an ideal destination for all ages.
The festival also features traditional food and game stalls, as well as a vibrant parade showcasing the Hitachi Furyo-Mono, a UNESCO-registered portable shrine and puppet theatre. These cultural highlights provide an authentic taste of Japan’s festive spirit.
Best of all, entry to the Hitachi Cherry Blossom Festival is free, making it an accessible and memorable way to experience the beauty of spring in Japan. Do remember to check out the official website for more details!
Hitachi Cherry Blossom Festival, Ibaraki
🗓️ Dates: 4 April to 5 April 2026 (2025 dates: 5 April to 6 April)
🎟️ Entry fee: Free
🚆 Getting there: To get to Heiwa Dori (Peace Street), alight at Hitachi Station on the JR Joban Line
📍 Address: 5-chōme-2-22 Miyatachō, Hitachi, Ibaraki 317-0055, Japan
4) Matsuyama Spring Festival, Ehime
Embrace tradition and new blooms at the Matsuyama Spring Festival. Image credits to @suparuj on Instagram.
From samurai marches to a baseball-inspired rock-paper-scissors showdown, the Matsuyama Spring Festival offers a one-of-a-kind spring experience you won’t find anywhere else in Japan. This festival perfectly aligns with the cherry blossom season, offering visitors the chance to enjoy both the beauty of sakura and the rich cultural heritage of Matsuyama.
Centered around the iconic Matsuyama Castle and the scenic Shiroyama Park, the festival celebrates the area's historical significance and springtime charm. Visitors can partake in traditional hanami (cherry blossom viewing) while soaking in breathtaking views of the castle surrounded by delicate pink blooms.
Key highlights of the festival include the Daimyō Musha Gyōretsu, a colorful parade featuring participants dressed as samurai and historical figures from the Sengoku to Taishō eras. Traditional performances such as the lion dance and Iyobushi singing add to the festival's lively atmosphere.
For a uniquely Matsuyama experience, don’t miss the Yakyūken Contest, a playful mix of baseball gestures and rock-paper-scissors that nods to the city’s baseball heritage.
Fun fact: Renowned haiku poet Masaoka Shiki played a crucial role in popularizing baseball in Ehime. He taught the sport at Matsuyama Junior High School in 1889 and wrote about it, helping to spread its popularity!
Matsuyama Spring Festival, Ehime
🗓️ Dates: To be announced (2025 dates: 4, 6 and 7 April)
🎟️ Entry fee: Free
🚆 Getting there: Take a train to JR Matsuyama Station or Matsuyama-shi Station (Matsuyama City Station).
📍 Address: 1 Marunouchi, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0008, Japan
Check out the official website for the latest updates!
5) Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival, Aomori
The Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival is a sight for sore eyes. Image credits to @japanprivatetour on Instagram.
Every spring, the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival transforms the historic grounds of Hirosaki Castle Park into a breathtaking haven of pink and white blooms. Held from 17 April to 5 May 2026, this beloved festival draws over 2 million visitors eager to experience one of Japan’s most stunning sakura displays.
Hirosaki Castle Park boasts 2,600 cherry trees spanning over 50 varieties — like Somei Yoshino (Cherry flowers), Shidarezakura (Weeping Cherry), and Yaezakura (Double Layer Cherry).
Cherry Blossom Tunnel at Hirosaki Castle. Credit: Amazing Aamori
This cherry blossom festival features iconic sights like the Sakura Tunnel, a dreamy path along the western moat, and the Petal Carpet, where fallen petals create a pink mosaic on the water’s surface. As day turns to night, the park comes alive with night illuminations from 6:30 PM to 10 PM, casting a magical glow over the blossoms
Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival, Aomori
🗓️ Dates: 17 April to 5 May 2026
🎟️ Entry fee: ¥520 for adults, ¥160 for children
🚆 Getting there: Take a train to JR Matsuyama Station or Matsuyama-shi Station (Matsuyama City Station).
📍 Address: 1 Shimoshiroganechō, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8356, Japan
Check out the official website for more information.
6) Shiroishi Castle Sakura Festival, Miyagi
This is where history meets the bloom of a thousand cherry blossoms. Image credits to @japan.undiscovered on Instagram.
Nestled in the heart of Miyagi Prefecture, the Shiroishi Castle Sakura Festival is a springtime celebration that blends the timeless beauty of cherry blossoms with the rich history of Shiroishi Castle. Taking place during early to mid April 2026, this festival offers visitors the chance to admire over 200 cherry trees in full bloom in the picturesque Masuoka Park, which surrounds the castle grounds.
Shiroishi Castle, once home to Katakura Kagetsuna, a loyal commander of the legendary Date Masamune, provides a stunning historical backdrop for the blossoms. For panoramic views of the city painted in sakura hues, head to the castle tower—a must-visit spot for photographers. The scene becomes even more enchanting after sunset, when bonbori lanterns illuminate the park, casting a soft, magical glow over the cherry trees.
Located just a 10-minute walk from JR Shiroishi Station, the festival is easily accessible and offers a unique blend of nature and culture. Whether you’re snapping photos of the castle framed by blossoms or enjoying the serene beauty of the illuminated trees, the Shiroishi Castle Sakura Festival is an unforgettable way to experience the charm of spring in Tohoku.
Shiroishi Castle Sakura Festival, Miyagi
🗓️ Dates: To be announced (2025 dates: 1 to 14 April)
🎟️ Entry fee: Free
🚆 Getting there: Take a train to JR Shiroishi Station on the Tohoku Main Line. From Shiroishi Station, walk about 10 minutes to Masuoka Park, where Shiroishi Castle is located.
📍 Address: 1-16 Masuokachō, Shiroishi, Miyagi 989-0251, Japan
Check out the official website for the latest updates!
7) Takayama Festival, Gifu
Immerse in the vibrant tradition of the Takayama Festival! Image credits to @japanbyfood on Instagram.
The Takayama Festival, or Takayama Matsuri, is a breathtaking showcase of Japan’s rich cultural heritage, held biannually in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture. Recognized as one of Japan’s three most beautiful festivals, it takes place in spring (Sanno Matsuri in April 14 to 15) and autumn (Hachiman Matsuri in October 9 to 10) every year, drawing visitors from around the world.
The Spring Festival, centered around Hie Shrine, marks the arrival of spring and offers prayers for a fruitful harvest. During this vibrant celebration, 12 ornate festival floats (yatai), adorned with intricate carvings, lacquerwork, and textiles, are paraded through the streets. The festival reaches its peak at night, when the floats are illuminated by hundreds of lanterns, casting a warm glow over the festivities.
Fun fact: In 2016, the Takayama Festival was recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, highlighting its importance as a living tradition.
Takayama Festival, Gifu
🗓️ Dates: 14 to 15 April 2026
🎟️ Entry fee: Free
🚆 Getting there:
- From Nagoya: Take the Hida Limited Express train to Takayama Station. Traina run hourly, and the journey takes 2 hours 20 minutes.
- From Tokyo: Take the Shinkansen to Nagoya, then transfer to JR limited express train to Takayama Station. The journey takes 4.5 hours.
📍 Address: 178 Sakura-machi, Takayama City, Gifu 506-0858, Japan
Planning Your Trip to Japan During Sakura Season
Credit: Ibaraki Prefecture
Cherry blossom season in Japan is more than just a time to admire beautiful flowers—it’s a celebration of life, culture, and the fleeting moments that make spring so special. From iconic festivals and stunning parks to hanami picnics and nighttime illuminations, the season offers countless ways to experience the beauty of sakura.
Whether you’re strolling through historic castle grounds, savoring sakura-themed treats, or marveling at lantern-lit blossoms, each moment is an opportunity to connect with Japan’s traditions and natural splendor. As you plan your trip, remember to check bloom forecasts, pack thoughtfully, and embrace the spirit of togetherness that makes this season truly unforgettable.
Start your sakura adventure today and make this cherry blossom season one to remember! Explore festival tours, activities, and more with Klook to ensure a seamless and enriching experience.
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