Your Ultimate Guide To The Best Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Japan, Korea, China & Taiwan
Cherry blossom season is one of the most magical times to travel in Asia. For a few fleeting weeks, cities, mountains, rivers, and historic landmarks are transformed by soft pink sakura blooms. From Japan’s iconic hanami scenes to Taiwan’s early mountain blossoms, this guide covers the best cherry blossom spots in Asia, plus when to go and how to plan the perfect sakura trip!
Why Asia Is the Best Place to See Cherry Blossoms?
Asia offers the widest variety of cherry blossom experiences in the world. Whether you prefer lively festivals, serene temples, dramatic mountain backdrops, or urban riverside strolls, countries like Japan, South Korea, China, and Taiwan each bring their own unique sakura charm. Better yet, bloom seasons are staggered — meaning you can chase cherry blossoms across multiple destinations in a single spring! (What better excuse to travel more? 😏)
Japan Cherry Blossom Spots (The Ultimate Sakura Experience)
Japan is the heart of cherry blossom culture, with centuries‑old hanami traditions, seasonal festivals, and some of the world’s most photogenic sakura views.
Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in Japan
Cherry Blossom season in Japan generally happens in Spring — from late March to early May. From March to May, many flock to the country to partake in Hanami (or cherry blossom viewing), and revel in the breathtaking sight of streets covered in a sea of sakura.
Cherry blossom full bloom forecast from Japan Meteorological Corporation’s 4th forecast, announced 5 Feb 2026.
The Japan Meteorological Corporation released the Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast 2026! Here's an overview of the forecasted flowering and full bloom dates at a glance:
Prefecture | Location | 2026 Forecasted Flowering Date | 2026 Forecasted Full Bloom Date | Yearly Average Flowering Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Hokkaido | 26 April | 30 April | 1 May | |
Aomori | 18 April | 22 April | 22 April | |
Miyagi | 6 April | 11 April | 8 April | |
Tokyo | 22 March | 29 March | 24 March | |
Ishikawa | 2 April | 8 April | 3 April | |
Nagano | 7 April | 11 April | 11 April | |
Aichi | 21 March | 30 March | 24 March | |
Kyoto | 25 March | 2 April | 26 March | |
Osaka | 25 March | 1 April | 27 March | |
Wakayama | 28 March | 4 April | 24 March | |
Hiroshima | 22 March | 1 April | 25 March | |
Kochi | 21 March | 28 March | 22 March | |
Fukuoka | 22 March | 30 March | 22 March | |
Kagoshima | 26 March | 6 April | 26 March |
IMPORTANT REMINDER: The forecasted flowering and full bloom dates table are based on trends and seasonality as of 22 January 2026. Check out the Japan Meteorological Corporation website for the latest information on flowering and full bloom prediction dates in all prefectures.
Best Spots to See Cherry Blossoms in Japan
1. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is an iconic must-do during hanami season — so you definitely shouldn't miss a pitstop at this park while in Tokyo! With three distinct gardens within the garden grounds (the Japanese Garden, British Garden, and French Garden), you can spend a whole day here just enjoying the amazing views at every turn and corner!
Address: 11 Naitomachi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0014, Japan
2. Meguro River
Meguro River offers a pretty sight of pale pink blooms against the bright blue skies on a clear sunny day in spring. However, nightfall is when the real magic happens.
For a unique way to enjoy sakura at Meguro River, come when the sun has set for the Nakameguro Sakura Festival. Join the locals on picnic mats — grab a beer or snack from the roadside stalls and admire the night illuminations and views of the cherry blossoms above.
Address: Walk from Meguro Station or Nakameguro Station
3. Sagano Romantic Train
Image credit: Sagano Romantic Train website
Hop aboard the Sagano Romantic Train, which will take you on a leisurely 25-minute ride around the Arashiyama district. As you glide past landscapes blanketed in fluffy pink blooms, you’ll understand why it’s reputed as one of the most well-loved trails, especially for all the hopeless romantics.
For a comprehensive tour, check out the Kyoto Sagano Romantic Train, Arashiyama, Kiyomizudera & Fushimi Inari-taisha Day Tour which includes a buffet lunch or beef shabu-shabu lunch depending on your choosing.
Address: Arashiyama Station
4. Osaka Castle
Image credit: @daiki442 on Instagram
Osaka Castle is probably the most iconic spot for cherry blossom watching in Osaka. This heritage site has long been a popular picnic spot and especially so during spring and fall, when the leaves turn into a beautiful fiery red.
And who wouldn't want to capture that IG-worthy shot of the grand castle draped in enchanting pink hues?
Address: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan
5. Nara Park
Image credit: @s_a_0_8_0_2 ・on Instagram
If spending a day in Nara Park surrounded by cherry blossom trees and polite deer that will bow for their crackers doesn’t sound like the perfect hanami to you, we don’t know what else will!With about 1,700 sakura trees, head southeast from the Todai-Ji Temple main hall and you’ll find a large lawn encircled by cherry trees, perfect for a scenic picnic!
Address: Nara Park is a short walk east of Kintetsu-Nara Station
6. Arakurayama Sengen park
Image credit: @dvd.ring
With its unbeatable, iconic view of the Arakura Fuji Sengen-jinja Shrine and its five story-pagoda and Mt. Fuji in the backdrop, the Arakurayama Sengen Park offers spectacular views all year round — made even prettier in pink during spring.Needless to say, this spot is extremely famous for its sakura views, so come as early as possible if you want to get a shot without the crowd! However, if you're looking to come in the evening, do stay for the night light up to see the pagoda and cherry blossoms in Japan in a different light.
Where: Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Prefecture
Address: 2-chome-4-1 Asama, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0011, Japan
7. Maruyama-Koen Park
Image Credit: @ryuzo__photo on Instagram
Offering a calm oasis of nature away from the bustling city center, the Maruyama-Koen Park is one of Kyoto's most famed cherry blossom spots. One unique feature that the park has is its towering shidarezakura (weeping cherry tree), which is also illuminated in the evenings.
The park is also a short walk away from another iconic Kyoto attraction, the Yasaka Shrine, which has a 1,350-year history.
Address: Maruyamacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0071, Japan
South Korea Cherry Blossom Spots (Festivals & City Views)
South Korea’s cherry blossom season combines scenic landscapes with energetic festivals and easy‑to‑access urban parks.
Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in South Korea
Heading to Korea in spring to see the sakura has definitely got to be on the travel bucket list for many - and it's not hard to see why.
From March to Mid-April, many flock to the country to partake in cherry blossom viewing festivals (like the famous Jinhae Gunhangje Festival and Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival) and revel in the breathtaking sight of streets covered in a sea of sakura 😍
South Korea's 2026 cherry blossom forecast is here!
🌸 The 2026 Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast isn't out just yet — but here are estimated dates based on yearly averages for reference! 🌸
When will cherry blossoms bloom in South Korea this year?
For 2026, cherry blossoms are expected to bloom 3 to 8 days earlier than usual across the country. Most regions will see blooms 3 to 7 days earlier, while areas in Honam and the metropolitan region may experience blooms up to 8 days earlier.
2026 South Korea Cherry Blossom Forecasted Bloom Dates by Region:
- Seogwipo (Jeju Island) – March 24
- Southern region (e.g., Busan, Gyeongju) – March 24 to April 3
- Central region (e.g., Seoul, Daejeon) – April 4 to April 12
- Northern Gyeonggi, Northern Gangwon & Mountainous Areas – After April 4
For more information on flowering and prediction dates, check out the Korea Weatheri Cherry Blossom Forecast notice on this website.
*All dates are accurate at the time of publishing, please check the relevant websites for the most updated information.
Best Spots to See Cherry Blossoms in Korea
1. Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival
Image credit: Jeju Tourism Website
Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Jeju Island is home to the elusive King Cherry Trees. As one of the most majestic and rare species of cherry blossoms, seeing them IRL is a real thrill.
Image credit: Jeju Tourism website
The annual Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival is held at tree-lined venues including Jeonnong-ro, Jeju City, the entrance to Jeju National University, and at Jangjeon-ri, Aewol-eup. Revel in the marvellous sight of lovely King Cherry blooms - these are fleeting so make sure to check on the dates before heading down!If you miss out on seeing these blossoms in full bloom, you can still enjoy the breathtaking views surrounding Jeju Island. Around mid-April, you can also see a sea of yellow as the canola flowers bloom!
Address: Jeonnong-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
2. Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival (Hangang Park)
Image credit: Yeongdeungpo Cultural Foundation website
Home to over 1,880 cherry blossom trees along with azaleas, forsythia, royal azaleas, and other spring flowers, the Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival is sure to be a blooming bonanza. Set along the Han River, this is one of the most frequented cherry blossom viewing spots in all of Seoul. Lay out your rug and plant yourself here for the day!
Address: Yeongdeungpo-gu Yeouiseo-ro and Han River Park soccer field
3. Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival
Seoul cherry blossoms are sure to be heart-stealers when you visit Seokchon Lake during springtime. Come early to mid April, the cherry blossom trees are in full dazzle along the lakeside – make sure to highlight the Seokchonhosu Lake Cherry Blossom Festival on your calendar. Dates are TBC - but the festival usually happens in the first two weeks of April.
Address: 148, Jamsil-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul
4. Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung Palace in the spring
Easily one of the most iconic sights in Seoul, the Gyeongbokgung Palace is a fantastic spot for beholding cherry blossoms. Wander around the palace gardens and wonder at the delicate flowers and surrounding vistas.
#KlookTip: There are a few more palaces around Seoul that are stunning during cherry blossom season Korea. These include Changdeokgung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, Unhyeongung Palace and Changgyeonggung Palace.
Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
For the best-curated sakura experience in Seoul, the Chasing Cherry Blossoms Tour will take you to all the best viewing spots, based on the forecast and when you’re due in town!
5. Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival
When it comes to South Korea cherry blossoms, the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the most famous sakura festivals in Korea. One of the biggest celebrations in the country, visitors from across the globe flock to this otherwise sleepy town to see the stunning pastel pink hues.
The top blossom viewing spots are at the Yeojwacheon Stream and Gyeonghwa Station. To top off your experience, make sure you sample a slice of Cherry Blossom Cake; a sweet seasonal treat that's only available during spring.
Address: 9 Tongsin-dong, Jinhae, Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea
6. Namcheon-dong Cherry Blossom Road
Photo credit: @oigimia (Instagram)
Namcheon-dong in Busan, more famously known as Cherry Blossom Road, is an other-worldly sight! With densely-packed cherry trees lining either side, arching over the road in Samik Beach town, you’ll feel as if you’re travelling to the gates of sakura heaven.
Image credit: Busan Tourism website
Some of these trees are more than 30 years old! This is a famous spot for locals and tourists to lay their eyes on these lovely pink blooms. And while you’re in the hood, head to other popular nearby destinations like Gwangalli Beach.
Address: Namcheon-dongSuyeong-gu, Busan, South Korea
China Cherry Blossom Spots (Underrated & Crowd‑Free)
China is an underrated destination for cherry blossom viewing, offering expansive parks, scenic gardens, and fewer international crowds. Cherry blossom season in China is more than just a visual treat — it’s a celebration of spring and renewal.
Many cities host vibrant flower festivals, where you can enjoy cultural performances, tea ceremonies, and even traditional dances under a canopy of pink blooms. In places like Wuhan’s East Lake Cherry Blossom Park, night-time sakura illuminations add a dreamy touch to the festivities.
Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in China
The cherry blossom viewing season in China usually extends from the middle of February until the beginning of May.
Compared to Japan and Korea, where cherry blossoms have a shorter blooming period, China’s prolonged bloom season offers greater flexibility for scheduling trips. Typically, these blooming periods span about two weeks with peak bloom presenting the most breathtaking sights.
City | Yearly Average Flowering Date |
|---|---|
31 March | |
17 March | |
16 March | |
5 March | |
6 March | |
22 April | |
20 March | |
22 March | |
3 May | |
19 March | |
22 March | |
7 March | |
18 March | |
22 March | |
5 March |
Best Spots to See Cherry Blossoms in China
1. Yuyuantan Park (玉渊潭公园)
Credit: @davilla7czh via Instagram
In Beijing, Yuyuantan Park serves as a sanctuary for cherry blossom admirers, boasting an impressive assembly of over 2,000 cherry trees. There are over 20 species of cherry trees, including the indigenous Yunnan Cherry Trees and imported Japanese Cherry Trees.
Yuyuantan Park’s diverse collection of cherry trees promises visitors a splendid array of hues and staggered flowering times. This tranquil oasis provides not only idyllic paths for relaxing walks, but also stunning backdrops within its cherry garden that are ideal for those keen on capturing their beauty in photographs.
Address: No. 10, West 3rd Ring Middle Road, Haidian District, Beijing
2. Jingshan Park (景山公园)
Credit: sndqwrj via XHS
Jingshan Park is another top location in Beijing to admire cherry blossoms. Typically reaching full bloom between late March and early April, the park’s cherry trees draw crowds who wish to revel in their beauty. Visitors can enjoy a mix of cherry blossoms alongside other spring flowers — plum blossoms, lilac flowers, moutan peonies, and more!
The park is situated just north of the Forbidden City, providing stunning panoramic views from its highest point. Visitors can enjoy both the cherry blossoms and the historic architecture of the Forbidden City from this vantage point.
Address: No. 44 Jingshan West Street, Xicheng District, Beijing, China, 100009
3. Gucun Park (顾村公园)
Credit: catvision via XHS
Gucun Park is home to an impressive collection of 10,000 cherry blossom trees, featuring a variety of 28 cherry tree species — making it one of the largest cherry blossom sites in Shanghai!
The best time to view the cherry blossoms here is from March 11 to April 15. The annual Shanghai Cherry Blossom Festival held at Gucun Park is a highlight, offering family-friendly activities such as the Children’s Forest Carnival and various leisure activities. You can also enjoy a Ferris wheel and various themed photo spots throughout the park!
Address: No. 4788 Hutai Road, Baoshan District, Shanghai, China, 201906
4. Century Park (世纪公园)
Credit: 9828730127 via XHS
Century Park presents a serene backdrop for the viewing of cherry blossoms — an excellent location for both photography enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxing stroll. The cherry blossoms typically bloom from mid-March to early April. The park features several varieties of cherry trees, including the early-blooming Kawazu-zakura.
The calm atmosphere and artfully designed gardens of the park complement the beauty of the cherry blossoms perfectly. For anyone aiming to take striking photographs or wishing to spend a tranquil day surrounded by blooms, Century Park stands out as an essential destination in Shanghai.
Address: No. 1001 Jinxiu Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
5. East Lake Cherry Blossom Park (东湖樱花园)
Credit: XHS
A popular cherry blossom viewing spot in Wuhan is East Lake Cherry Blossom Park — just a 16-minute drive from Wuhan University. This park features an assortment of over 30 distinct cherry blossom varieties. A highlight of the park is the “Seventy-Eight Cherry Blossom Pavilion,” which is adorned with 78 cherry trees.
Address: 118 Lumo Road, Hongshan District, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
6. Yongfu Cherry Blossom Garden, Zhangping (永福樱花茶旅景区)
Yongfu Cherry Blossom Garden is one of China's top cherry blossom destinations, popular among photographers.
There are over 100,000 cherry trees of over 40 varieties — including Feihan, Yunnan, Yoshino, and Fujian mountain cherries — spread across 50,000 acres! This diversity means that the park enjoys a prolonged blooming period from late January to mid-March, due to the different blooming periods among varieties.
Credit: 602568466 via XHS
What makes this garden special its located on a tea plantation, adding to the picturesque setting. Be sure to stop by Cherry Blossom Avenue — a scenic pathway lined with sakura trees. The park also features a pink train that offers rides through the cherry blossom areas, making it a fun experience for families and children.
Address: Taipin Cherry Blossom Garden, Yongfu Town, Zhangping, Fujian Province, China
Taiwan Cherry Blossom Spots (Early Blooms & Mountain Scenery)
Taiwan’s cherry blossom season starts earlier than most of Asia, making it perfect for travelers who want to see sakura as early as January or February.
Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in Taiwan
Besides the pale pink blooms, Spring in Taiwan (which happens from March to May) also brings with it pleasant temperatures ranging from 18°C to 26°C, making it the perfect time to visit. The cherry blossoms are in full bloom in March and April, so if you want the most spectacular views - time your visit then!
Best Spots to See Cherry Blossoms in Taiwan
1. New Taipei - Wuji Tianyuan Temple
Wuji Tianyuan Temple is one of the most popular destinations for cherry blossom viewing in the country – and for good reason!
Various kinds of cherry blossom trees surround the area, framing the 200-meter-tall pagoda in delicate shades of pink and white. In full bloom, they’re so fluffy they look almost cloud-like.
We recommend visiting between late February to April to catch the blossoms.
Address: No. 36, Section 3, Beixin Rd, Tamsui District, New Taipei City, Taiwan 251
2. Yangmingshan National Park (陽明山)
Cherry blossoms in Yangmingshan
Spanning around 28,400 hectares, it's safe to say that there are many places to enjoy cherry blossoms within Yangmingshan National Park! These include areas near the bronze statue of Chiang Kai-shek, Shuilian Cave at the second parking lot, the park's visitor centre, lake and mountain green space (湖山綠地), cherry blossom stream (櫻花溪流) and more!
Besides cherry blossoms, Yangmingshan is also known for various other seasonal blooms like Rhododendrons in early spring and Calla Lilly in April, making the national park a real springtime hot spot.
Cherry blossom at Ping Jing Street | Image by @cjc0327 on Flickr
If you're looking for the most romantic cherry blossom trail in Yangmingshan, 42 Pingjing Street (平菁街 42 巷) is the place to be! It's also the earliest cherry blossom viewing spot in Taipei.
Address: 5HV6+M9 湖田里 Taiwan, Taipei City, Beitou District
3. Lala Mountain Loving Farm (拉拉山恩愛農場)
While most visit Lala Mountain to have a taste of its sweet and juicy peaches during summer, it is also home to one of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in spring! Covering an area of about 4 hectares, step into Loving Farm and you'll be surrounded by a sea of pink petals.
You can even bring your own food for a picnic under the trees and take a close-up selfie with the cherry blossoms with the small ladders that are provided by the farm!
Address: No. 143號, Zhongxin Rd, Fuxing District, Taoyuan City, Taiwan 336
4. Wuling Farm (武陵農場)
Cherry blossoms in Wuling Farm
Being one of Taiwan's most popular cherry blossom viewing spots, expect more than 20,000 cherry trees of different varieties like mountain cherries (山櫻花), Yae sakura (八重櫻) and Wu She sakura (霧社櫻) when you step into Wuling Farm!
Address: No. 3-1號, Wuling Rd, Heping District, Taichung City, Taiwan 42495
5. Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village (九族文化村)
Photo Credit: Formosan Aboriginal Cultural Village Official Website
With blooms starting as early as February, enjoy the romantic atmosphere of the Formosan Aboriginal Cultural Village where you'll be able to view 8 different varieties of cherry blossoms from over 5,000 trees.
Address: 555, Taiwan, Nantou County, Yuchi Township, 金天巷45號
6. Alishan (阿里山)
Take the Alishan train to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way
You'll know when spring is here when the Yoshino sakura in the Alishan Forest Recreation Area starts blooming! During the cherry blossom season, this already popular Taiwanese landmark is made even more gorgeous with pink cherry blossom petals sprinkled all over the top of the mountain.
Coupled with the many Japanese-style buildings in Alishan, the cherry viewing experience here is a unique one as you'll feel like you're in Japan! Drink tea under the cherry trees, take a walk around the various tea gardens and just soak in the surreal atmosphere.
Address: No. 59號, 中正村 東, Alishan Township, Chiayi County, Taiwan 605
7. Taroko National Park (太魯閣)
Photo Credit: Taroko National Park Official Facebook
Both a popular attraction and cherry blossom viewing spot, take a day trip to Taroko National Park from Taipei and enjoy the beautiful views of cherry blossoms along the way.
Clustered around the Tian Siang Visitor Center, the light pink and magenta cherry trees are a refreshing sight amidst the mountain scenery. They can usually be found from early January to early February. Some of our must-visit places are the Xiaozhuilu Trail (小錐麓步道), Jiuqu Cave (九曲洞) and the Swallow Grotto Yanzikou Trail (燕子口步道)!
Address: Xiulin Township, Hualien County, Taiwan 972
When Is the Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in Asia?
Destination | Cherry Blossom Season |
|---|---|
January - March | |
Mid Feb - May | |
Late March - Early April | |
Late March - Mid April |
Cherry Blossom Travel Tips
- Remember to check bloom forecasts regularly, as peak dates can change each year (and even on a daily basis) due to weather!
- Visit early morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds
- Look out for night illuminations for a different sakura experience 🌸
- Book accommodation early, especially during peak bloom weeks!
Planning the Perfect Cherry Blossom Trip
Sayamaike Park’s cherry blossom-filled pathway Image source: flickr｜榮宗 陳
From Japan’s iconic sakura festivals to Taiwan’s early mountain blooms, Asia offers endless ways to experience cherry blossom season. Whether you’re a first‑timer or a seasoned sakura chaser, planning around bloom forecasts and choosing the right destination can make your spring trip truly unforgettable.
Cherry blossoms may be fleeting, but the memories — and photos — last forever.
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