2025 Japan Cherry Blossom Season: Key Forecasts u0026 Viewing Guide
The 2025 cherry blossom season in Japan (sakura) is unfolding according to a gradient from south to north, with blooms starting in Kyushu in late March and progressing to Hokkaido by early May. The timing is influenced by aboveaverage winter temperatures in northern regions, which accelerated bud development, while southern areas align closer to the 1991–2020 average. Below is a detailed breakdown of peak bloom periods, regional trends, and top viewing spots to help plan your trip.
1. National Bloom Timeline
Start of Blooming: The earliest blooms appeared in early March in southern Kyushu (e.g., Uwajima, Ehime and Sukumo, Kochi), with sample trees in Fukuoka (March 23), Nagoya (March 25), and Osaka (March 26) following shortly. Tokyo’s sample trees began blooming around March 22.
Full Bloom Period: Most of Kyushu, Kanto (Tokyo, Yokohama), and Hokuriku (Niigata, Kanazawa) entered full bloom in early to midApril. Northern Tohoku (Sendai, Aomori) and Hokkaido (Sapporo, Hakodate) are experiencing full bloom from late April to midMay, with Hokkaido’s later dates due to cooler spring temperatures.
2. Regional Highlights
Kyushu u0026 Kinki: These southern regions saw blooms in early to midMarch, with full bloom lasting until early April. Popular spots include Fukuoka’s Momochi Seaside Park (overlooking Hakata Bay) and Osaka Castle Park (historic setting with thousands of cherry trees).
Kanto u0026 Hokuriku: Tokyo, Yokohama, and Kanazawa reached full bloom in early to midApril. Tokyo’s Ueno Park (vibrant crowds) and Shinjuku Gyoen (tranquil gardens) are top choices, while Kanazawa’s Kenrokuen Garden combines cherry blossoms with traditional Japanese landscaping.
Tohoku u0026 Hokkaido: Northern areas are seeing blooms later than the rest of the country. Sendai and Aomori entered full bloom in late April, while Hokkaido’s Sapporo Joshi Gakuin Gakuin (campus trees) and Maruyama Park (central location) will be in full bloom from early to midMay—ideal for avoiding peak crowds.
3. Top Viewing Spots
Tokyo: Ueno Park (800+ cherry trees), Shinjuku Gyoen (350+ varieties), and Chidorigafuchi Moat (boat rides among blossoms).
Kyoto: Philosopher’s Path (canalside walks with cherrylined banks), Heian Shrine (grand shrine with vast cherry groves), and Arashiyama (mountain backdrop for blossoms).
Osaka: Osaka Castle Park (historic fortress surrounded by cherry trees), Nakanoshima Park (riverfront blooms), and Dotonbori (festive atmosphere with lights and food).
Hokkaido: Maruyama Park (central Sapporo, popular for hanami parties), Moerenuma Park (modern sculpture garden with cherry blossoms), and Jozankei Yuraku (hot spring town with scenic walks).
Tohoku: Hirosaki Castle Park (1,600+ cherry trees framing a historic fortress), Aomori Nebuta Museum (blossoms alongside cultural attractions), and Sendai Yanagimachi (street lined with cherry trees).
4. Planning Tips
Timing: Visit during full bloom (typically 1–2 weeks after flowering starts) for the most spectacular views. Northern areas have a shorter season due to cooler temperatures.
Crowds: Popular spots in Kanto and Kansai can get crowded during peak bloom (early to midApril). Arrive early in the morning or visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Accommodation: Book hotels and ryokans well in advance, especially in major cities and near popular parks.
Transportation: Use public transport (trains, buses) to reach remote areas, and consider renting a car for Tohoku and Hokkaido to explore at your own pace.