If you’re anything like me, the idea of cherry blossoms—sakura—has probably been a long-time fantasy. Growing up with anime, I used to picture sakura as these delicate pink clouds that magically appeared for a fleeting moment in spring before vanishing like a whisper in the wind.
But surprise! Moving to Japan opened my eyes to a glorious truth: sakura season isn’t just a one-week wonder. With over 200 different varieties, each with its own unique bloom time, colour, and vibe, sakura season is a dynamic, months-long affair.
Let’s dive in and explore some of the prettiest types of Sakura that Japan has to offer.
Somei Yoshino: The OG Queen 👑
Meet the Beyoncé of cherry blossoms—the Somei Yoshino. This variety is the undisputed star of sakura season and the one you probably think of when someone says “cherry blossom.” Her petals are a dreamy pale pink, so light they almost appear white. Somei Yoshino trees bloom in late March to early April, painting Japan’s landscapes in soft pastel hues.
Fun fact: this variety is so popular that about 80% of the cherry trees in Japan are Somei Yoshino. She’s the classic beauty everyone knows and loves, and trust me, seeing them en masse during full bloom will absolutely give you chills. Add to that the poetic way the petals fall, like snowfall, and you’ve got yourself a scene straight out of a Shinkai Makoto film.
If you’re chasing the quintessential cherry blossom experience, Somei Yoshino is your girl. As the most widely planted sakura tree in Japan, you’ll find her almost anywhere, but there are a few iconic spots that really bring out her grandeur.
Peak bloom (or mankai) for Somei Yoshino is generally in late March to early April, but the exact timing depends on the weather. Keep an eye on the sakura zensen forecast, which predicts bloom dates across Japan. Somei Yoshino tends to dominate city parks, so they’re easy to spot even in urban settings.
Kanzan: The Fluffy Glam Girl 💖
If Somei Yoshino is the elegant starlet, Kanzan is the drama queen, strutting in with her double-layered petals and unapologetically bold hot pink colour. Each bloom can have up to 50 petals, making Kanzan flowers extra plush and flamboyant. They bloom a little later than Somei Yoshino, typically mid to late April, so if you missed the earlier varieties, Kanzan has got your back.
Honestly, Kanzan sakura give me major “main character” energy. They stand out in a crowd and bring the kind of extra-ness we secretly aspire to. When you see a Kanzan tree in full bloom, you’ll want to whip out your phone and spam your Instagram followers immediately. No shame—we’ve all been there.
If you want to catch them, you’ll need to plan your trip for a bit later in the season, making them perfect for travellers who miss the early rush of Somei Yoshino. Kanzan blooms in mid to late April, so it’s a great option if you’re travelling after the main sakura rush. Kanzan trees often stand alone or in smaller clusters, so be on the lookout for their intense hot pink blossoms!
Kawazu-zakura: The Early Bird 🌅
Who says you have to wait for spring to enjoy cherry blossoms? Enter Kawazu-zakura, the trendsetter of the sakura world. This variety starts blooming as early as February (yes, February!) and keeps the party going through early March. With vibrant pink petals and a longer blooming period, Kawazu-zakura is a must-see for those eager to kick off sakura season early.
Plan for mid-February to early March to catch these trendsetting blossoms. And don’t forget to bring a jacket—it’s still chilly in Japan during this time! Their bold pink colour pops even more against the bare, winter landscape, making them extra Insta-worthy.
A popular spot to catch these beauties is in Kawazu Town, Shizuoka, where an entire festival is dedicated to them. Picture strolling down a riverside, surrounded by deep pink blossoms, while munching on sakura-flavoured treats—absolute bliss.
Shidare Zakura: The Weeping Beauty 🌸😭
Aka the “weeping cherry,” Shidare Zakura looks like she’s stepped straight off the cover of a fashion magazine. With her graceful drooping branches covered in soft pink flowers, this variety is elegance personified (or treefied? 😅).
Shidare Zakura trees bloom from early April to mid-April and often steal the show in gardens and parks with their dramatic, cascading silhouettes. They’re especially stunning in traditional Japanese settings.
Shidare Zakura generally bloom in early to mid-April, but if you’re aiming to see a specific tree (like the iconic Miharu Takizakura), check local forecasts and event timings. Bring a camera, because their graceful droop makes for stunning, cinematic photos.
Ukon: The Wild Card 🍋
Now, this one’s a bit of a curveball. Did you know there’s such a thing as yellow cherry blossoms? Meet Ukon, the quirky cousin of the sakura family. Ukon blooms in late April and has pale yellow flowers that make a bold statement against Japan’s usually pink-dominated sakura landscape.
Seeing Ukon for the first time feels a bit surreal. It’s like finding out your quiet friend has a secret talent for rapping—you didn’t see it coming, but you’re absolutely here for it.
Ukon blossoms appear in late April, so they’re a great choice if you’re visiting towards the tail end of sakura season. That said, I can’t emphasise enough that they are rare, so spotting them can feel like finding an Easter egg in a video game. Keep an eye out for their unique colour if you’re still in Japan at the end of April.
Sakura Is More Than Just a Flower 🌸
Experiencing sakura season isn’t just about admiring the blooms—it’s about embracing the fleeting beauty of life itself, a concept deeply rooted in Japanese culture and philosophy. From hanami (flower viewing) parties under the trees to sakura-themed foods (hello, sakura mochi and sakura lattes), this time of year is a feast for the senses.
And let’s not forget the sheer variety of settings where you can enjoy sakura. Want a traditional experience? Head to Kyoto’s temples and shrines. Prefer a more modern vibe? Check out the urban sakura spots in Tokyo, like Ueno Park or along the Meguro River. Feeling adventurous? Hop on a train to discover the lesser-known rural sakura destinations—you might even find yourself in a picturesque countryside village surrounded by Yamazakura.
So, Which Types of Sakura Are the Prettiest?
That’s like asking, “Which flavour of ice cream is the best?” Everyone’s got their own preferences! Are you drawn to the classic elegance of Somei Yoshino, or do you vibe with Kanzan’s over-the-top glamour? Maybe you’re a sucker for something unique, like Ukon’s yellow flowers. Whatever your pick, one thing’s for sure: sakura season in Japan is pure magic, and every variety has its own charm.
Let me know in the comments—are you Team OG, Team Glam, or rooting for a wild card? 🌸
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