Answering 10 of Your Burning Spring in Japan FAQs

Spring is just around the corner, and for many, that means one thing—cherry blossom season in Japan. With the number of inbound visitors to Japan continuing to rise, more and more travellers are making plans to experience the country’s famous sakura and all the other things that make spring in Japan so special. 

If you’re one of them, you’re probably already picturing yourself strolling through parks lined with pink blossoms, enjoying a picnic under the petals, and taking in the fresh, lively atmosphere that comes with the change of seasons. But before you pack your bags, you likely have a few questions about what to expect.

Japan in spring isn’t just about flowers—it’s a time of festivals, seasonal foods, and some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes coming to life. However, with peak travel periods, fluctuating bloom forecasts, and a culture rich in seasonal traditions, it helps to know a bit more before you go.

To make things easier, we’ve put together answers to 10 of the most common spring in Japan FAQs. From the top cherry blossom viewing spots to what to pack, or how crowded it really gets, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to make sure your springtime adventure in Japan is as smooth and enjoyable as possible!

1. When is the best time to see cherry blossoms in Japan?

Cherry blossoms, or sakura, typically bloom between late March and early April, but the exact timing varies depending on location and yearly weather conditions. 

If you’re planning your trip around the blossoms, it’s essential to follow official cherry blossom forecasts released by the Japan Meteorological Corporation and the Japan Weather Association. These organisations provide detailed regional predictions, starting as early as January and updating frequently as the season approaches. Their forecasts help both locals and tourists anticipate when and where to see the best blooms.

The cherry blossom front, known as sakura zensen, moves from south to north across Japan. This means that areas like Kyushu (Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Kagoshima) will see blossoms earlier, usually by mid-to-late March. 

In contrast, central areas such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka reach peak bloom in late March to early April. If you visit later in the season, you can still catch cherry blossoms in Tohoku (Sendai, Aomori) in mid-April or even further north in Hokkaido (Sapporo, Hakodate), where they bloom from late April to early May.

Since cherry blossoms only last about one to two weeks, timing is crucial. If your travel dates aren’t flexible, consider visiting multiple locations to maximise your chances of seeing the blossoms at their best. Some tourists combine Tokyo with a trip to northern Japan, ensuring they experience the sakura in full bloom.

2. Where are the best places to see cherry blossoms?

Japan is filled with incredible cherry blossom viewing locations, each offering a different atmosphere and experience. 

If you’re staying in Tokyo, some of the best spots include Ueno Park, famous for its long rows of cherry trees and vibrant hanami parties, and Shinjuku Gyoen, a spacious and peaceful park perfect for those who prefer a quieter experience. Another must-visit location is Chidorigafuchi, where you can rent a rowboat and admire the cherry blossoms reflected in the water while floating along the Imperial Palace moat.

For those heading to Kyoto, the city’s historic temples and shrines provide stunning backdrops for cherry blossom viewing. Maruyama Park, located near Yasaka Shrine, is one of the most popular hanami locations, featuring a massive weeping cherry tree that is illuminated at night. The Philosopher’s Path, a scenic canal walk lined with cherry trees, is ideal for a leisurely stroll, while Kiyomizu Temple offers breathtaking panoramic views of cherry blossoms against the city’s skyline.

If you’re visiting Osaka, Osaka Castle Park is a top pick, with thousands of cherry trees surrounding the historic castle, creating a picture-perfect setting. For a unique riverside experience, Kema Sakuranomiya Park features a long stretch of cherry trees along the Okawa River, making it perfect for walking or taking a river cruise. 

If you’re heading further north, Goryokaku Park in Hakodate, Hokkaido, offers a spectacular view of cherry blossoms surrounding a star-shaped fortress, one of the most picturesque spots in the country.

Many cities also hold sakura festivals with food stalls, night illuminations, and cultural performances, so checking local event calendars can help you find even more memorable hanami experiences. If you’re short on time, you can also find cherry trees in unexpected places like shrines, small residential streets, and even train stations, so always keep an eye out as you explore!

3. What is hanami, and how do I do it?

Hanami, or cherry blossom viewing, is one of Japan’s most cherished traditions, where people gather under blooming sakura trees to eat, drink, and enjoy the fleeting beauty of the flowers. While it may seem as simple as sitting under a tree, hanami has its own set of customs and unwritten rules that visitors should be aware of.

First, if you plan on having a picnic, you’ll need to arrive early to secure a good spot—especially in popular parks like Ueno Park or Maruyama Park, where locals start reserving spaces early in the morning. Bringing a picnic mat or “blue sheet” (a common plastic tarp sold at convenience stores) is essential, as many hanami spots don’t have seating. 

Japanese convenience stores and supermarkets sell seasonal bento boxes, sakura-flavoured sweets, and drinks like sake or special sakura beer, making it easy to enjoy a traditional hanami meal without much preparation.

While hanami is a social event, it’s important to be respectful of other visitors. Keeping noise levels reasonable, not playing loud music, and cleaning up after yourself are key aspects of hanami etiquette. 

Many parks have designated garbage collection areas, but bringing your own trash bags is a good idea in case bins are full. Some parks, especially in Kyoto, have rules against eating and drinking under cherry trees, so always check the regulations before setting up a picnic.

If you don’t want to sit in a park, you can also enjoy hanami in other ways. Many temples and gardens, such as Rikugien in Tokyo or Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto, offer special night-time illuminations, where cherry trees are lit up after dark, creating a breathtakingly magical atmosphere. 

Some locations even hold hanami boat cruises, allowing visitors to experience cherry blossoms from the water. Whether you choose to picnic, take a scenic walk, or admire the blossoms at night, hanami is all about appreciating the beauty of Japan’s most iconic flower.

4. What’s the weather like in spring?

Spring in Japan is known for its mild and comfortable weather, but it can be quite unpredictable depending on when and where you visit. In general, temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), with early March still feeling a bit chilly, while late May starts to lean toward early summer warmth. 

If you’re visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, you can expect pleasant daytime temperatures, but mornings and evenings can still be quite cool. If you’re heading to northern areas like Hokkaido or the Tohoku region, spring arrives later, and you might even experience snow if you’re visiting in early March.

One thing to watch out for is spring rain. While it’s not as rainy as the summer months, sudden showers are quite common, especially in April. It’s always a good idea to carry a small umbrella or light raincoat in your bag just in case. 

You might also experience strong spring winds, particularly in coastal areas and places like Mount Fuji, where temperatures can drop significantly. If you’re planning on outdoor sightseeing, wearing layers is the best way to stay comfortable throughout the day.

Another thing to keep in mind is pollen season. If you have hay fever or pollen allergies, spring in Japan might be a bit challenging, as cedar and cypress trees release pollen in large amounts from February to April. 

Many Japanese people wear masks to protect themselves. If you’re sensitive to pollen, it’s worth preparing in advance so you can fully enjoy your trip without discomfort.

5. What should I pack for a spring trip to Japan?

Packing for spring in Japan requires a balance of comfort and flexibility, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day. The key is to bring light layers so you can easily adjust to changing weather conditions. A combination of t-shirts, long-sleeve tops, and a light jacket or sweater will keep you comfortable, especially if you plan on staying out from morning to evening. 

If you’re visiting in early spring (March to early April), a warmer coat or even a scarf might still be useful, particularly in northern Japan or when exploring higher elevations like Mount Takao or Mount Yoshino.

Comfortable footwear is also essential, as you’ll be walking a lot. Many of Japan’s best spring attractions, like cherry blossom parks and historic districts, require long strolls or even light hiking. 

Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes with good grip are ideal, especially if you plan on visiting temples and shrines, where you’ll often find uneven stone paths. Some temples and traditional accommodations require visitors to remove their shoes before entering, so shoes that are easy to slip on and off can also be a plus.

Other essentials include a small umbrella or raincoat for sudden spring showers, sunscreen and sunglasses (especially if you’re visiting in late April or May when the sun gets stronger), and a good quality camera or smartphone to capture the breathtaking cherry blossoms and seasonal scenery. 

If you plan to use public transport often, having a reusable IC card (such as Suica or Pasmo) will make travel more convenient, and a portable WiFi device or SIM card can be useful for navigating maps and checking real-time cherry blossom updates.

6. Are there any special spring festivals?

Spring in Japan isn’t just about cherry blossoms—it’s also one of the best seasons for traditional festivals and cultural events. 

If you’re visiting in March, you might catch Hinamatsuri (Doll Festival) on March 3rd, a celebration for young girls where families display beautiful ornamental dolls dressed in traditional court attire. While it’s mostly a private family tradition, some places, like the Meguro Gajoen Hotel in Tokyo, display extravagant doll collections for public viewing.

In mid-April, one of the most visually stunning festivals is the Takayama Spring Festival (April 14-15) in Gifu Prefecture. This festival features elaborately decorated festival floats, mechanical puppets, and traditional performances, all set against the picturesque old town of Takayama. 

Another famous festival tied to cherry blossoms is the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival, held from late April to early May in Hirosaki, Aomori. Hirosaki Park is known for its breathtaking sakura tunnel and stunning reflection views of cherry blossoms on the water, making it one of Japan’s most famous spring events.

For those visiting Tokyo in May, the Kanda Matsuri is one of the biggest and grandest festivals in the city, held in mid-May every odd-numbered year. It involves parades of mikoshi (portable shrines), samurai-era costumes, and traditional music, offering a lively and energetic atmosphere. 

If you want to experience a nighttime festival, Kyoto’s Aoi Matsuri (May 15th) is another elegant event featuring a procession of participants dressed in Heian-era clothing, reenacting ancient imperial ceremonies.

7. How crowded is Japan in spring?

Spring is one of the busiest travel seasons in Japan, especially between late March and early May, when cherry blossoms and national holidays bring in massive crowds of both domestic and international tourists. 

The most congested period is Golden Week (April 29 – May 5), when multiple Japanese national holidays occur back-to-back. During this time, hotels, trains, and tourist attractions can get extremely crowded, and prices for flights and accommodation tend to skyrocket. If you’re travelling during Golden Week, booking well in advance is absolutely necessary.

Even outside of Golden Week, popular cherry blossom spots like Ueno Park in Tokyo, Maruyama Park in Kyoto, and Osaka Castle Park tend to get packed, especially on weekends. If you want to enjoy a quieter hanami experience, visiting early in the morning on weekdays is your best bet. 

Some lesser-known cherry blossom spots, like Inokashira Park in Tokyo or Yoshino Mountain in Nara, offer beautiful scenery with slightly fewer tourists. Another tip is to explore night-time cherry blossom illuminations, which often have fewer crowds compared to the daytime peak hours.

If you’re worried about crowded trains, avoid peak commuter hours (7 AM – 9 AM and 5 PM – 7 PM) when local workers fill up public transport. Long-distance trains like the Shinkansen can also sell out quickly during peak season, so reserving seats in advance is recommended if you’re travelling between major cities. 

While spring is busy, with the right planning, you can still find ways to enjoy Japan’s seasonal beauty without feeling overwhelmed by the crowds.

8. Can I still see cherry blossoms if I miss the peak season?

Yes, you can still catch cherry blossoms even if you miss the peak season in central Japan! While cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka typically reach full bloom between late March and early April, the sakura front moves from south to north, meaning you can still see cherry blossoms if you adjust your itinerary accordingly.

If you arrive in Japan too early (late February to early March) and find that cherry blossoms haven’t bloomed yet in the main cities, you can head further south to places like Okinawa, where the sakura season starts as early as mid-January to early February. The cherry blossoms in Okinawa are different from those in Tokyo and Kyoto—known as kanhizakura, they have a darker pink hue and tend to bloom for a longer period. 

If you’re visiting after Tokyo and Kyoto’s peak bloom (mid-April to May), you still have plenty of options. Tohoku, the northern region of Japan, experiences cherry blossom season later than the central areas, with places like Hirosaki Castle in Aomori and Kakunodate Samurai District in Akita offering spectacular views. 

Further north, Hokkaido is one of the last places to see cherry blossoms, with Hakodate’s Goryokaku Park and Maruyama Park in Sapporo being among the best spots to visit in late April to early May.

Another alternative is to visit higher altitude areas, where cherry blossoms bloom later due to cooler temperatures. Locations like Mount Yoshino in Nara, known for its thousands of cherry trees, or Fuji Five Lakes near Mount Fuji, offer breathtaking late-blooming sakura views. Some areas even plant different varieties of cherry trees, which bloom at different times, extending the season for visitors who arrive outside the typical peak bloom period. 

9. What are some must-try spring foods?

Spring in Japan isn’t just about cherry blossoms—it’s also a season filled with unique seasonal foods that highlight fresh ingredients and delicate flavours. 

One of the most famous spring sweets is sakura mochi, a traditional Japanese dessert made of sweet pink rice cake filled with red bean paste and wrapped in a pickled cherry blossom leaf. The combination of the soft mochi, sweet filling, and slightly salty sakura leaf creates a unique flavour that perfectly captures the essence of spring. 

Another beloved sweet treat is ichigo daifuku, which features a fresh, juicy strawberry encased in chewy mochi with a sweet bean paste filling. These are widely available at confectionery shops and department store food halls across Japan.

For those who enjoy savoury dishes, spring is the best time to try sansai ryori (mountain vegetable cuisine), which includes freshly harvested wild vegetables like fuki (butterbur), warabi (bracken fern), and kogomi (ostrich fern shoots). These greens are often used in tempura, miso soup, or simply blanched and dressed with sesame or soy sauce. 

Many traditional ryokan and countryside restaurants serve these seasonal dishes, making them a must-try for food lovers looking to experience authentic Japanese spring flavours.

Spring is also when sakura-flavoured drinks and desserts make an appearance at cafes and shops across the country. Starbucks Japan is famous for its limited-edition sakura lattes and frappuccinos, while convenience stores sell sakura-flavoured sweets, breads, and even sakura beer. 

If you’re visiting in April, keep an eye out for the special hanami bento boxes sold in department stores, which feature beautifully arranged seasonal ingredients like grilled fish, pickled vegetables, and cherry blossom-shaped foods, perfect for a picnic under the sakura trees.

10. Is spring a good time to visit Japan?

Absolutely! Spring is one of the best seasons to visit Japan, offering mild weather, stunning cherry blossoms, and exciting cultural events. However, because it’s such a popular season, planning ahead is crucial to make the most of your trip.

The biggest reason to visit in spring is, of course, the sakura season, which transforms parks, streets, and even entire cities into picturesque landscapes covered in soft pink petals. Hanami (cherry blossom viewing) is a truly unique experience, whether you’re having a picnic under the trees, taking a scenic boat ride along a river, or simply strolling through a historic temple surrounded by blossoms. 

But beyond sakura, spring also offers beautiful flower festivals, including the wisteria tunnels of Ashikaga Flower Park and the Nemophila fields at Hitachi Seaside Park, both of which are breathtaking alternatives if you miss cherry blossom season. 

Spring is also festival season, with major events like the Takayama Spring Festival, Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival, and Kanda Matsuri taking place during this time. These festivals showcase traditional Japanese culture, elaborate floats, and lively street performances, adding an extra layer of excitement to your trip. 

The only drawback of visiting Japan in spring is the crowds and higher travel costs. Since both domestic and international tourists flock to Japan during this season, hotels and flights tend to sell out months in advance, and popular tourist spots can get incredibly busy. 

Additionally, Golden Week (April 29 – May 5) is one of the most congested travel periods, as many Japanese people take holidays and travel domestically. To avoid the biggest crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning, explore less-touristy locations, or travel outside peak holiday periods.

Overall, if you plan ahead, book early, and remain flexible with your itinerary, visiting Japan in spring can be one of the most rewarding and visually stunning experiences. 

See You Under the Sakura Trees!

Spring in Japan is nothing short of extraordinary—the soft pink petals drifting through the air, the delicious seasonal treats, and the energy of festivals that bring ancient traditions to life. With cherry blossoms blooming across the country, seasonal delicacies to indulge in, and a calendar full of vibrant events, there’s no better time to experience Japan at its most breathtaking. 

If you’ve been dreaming of strolling through Kyoto’s historic streets lined with sakura, enjoying a hanami picnic in Tokyo’s famous parks, or exploring the hidden cherry blossom gems of Tohoku and Hokkaido, now’s the time to start planning your adventure! Hopefully, this guide has answered your biggest spring-in-Japan FAQs and helped you feel more prepared to take on this incredible season.

Of course, navigating Japan during peak season can feel overwhelming, but that’s where we come in! 

If you need help putting together the perfect cherry blossom itinerary, our Japan Travel Planner service can help you craft a personalised trip suited to your interests, from must-visit sakura spots to unique seasonal experiences. 

Want to experience Japan’s spring magic with an expert guide? Check out our tours, designed to take you beyond the typical tourist routes and straight into the heart of Japan’s cultural and scenic wonders. 

And for those who want to make new travel friends while chasing the best spring sights, our group trips offer an exciting way to explore Japan with like-minded adventurers, complete with stress-free planning and unforgettable experiences.

Spring in Japan doesn’t last long, but the memories you’ll make will stay with you forever. So why just imagine it? Let’s make it happen! Start planning your spring escape today, and we’ll see you under the sakura trees! 🌸✨