Spring is one of the most popular and beautiful seasons to visit Japan, drawing millions of travelers from around the world every year.
With mild weather, clear skies, and world-famous cherry blossoms, Japan in spring offers a travel experience unlike any other
Spring in Japan = Cherry Blossoms (Sakura).
From late March to early April, cities across the country are transformed into breathtaking landscapes of soft pink and white flowers. Parks, riversides, castles, and historic streets become iconic photo spots that symbolize Japan itself.
This season is especially ideal for first-time visitors.
Public transportation is easy to use, major attractions are fully open, and travel between cities is smooth and efficient. Compared to summer or winter, spring offers comfortable temperatures that make sightseeing enjoyable all day long.
Spring is not only about nature — it is also a cultural highlight.
Travelers can experience traditional festivals, seasonal Japanese cuisine, and outdoor events that are only available during this time of year. These experiences allow visitors to connect more deeply with Japanese culture and daily life.
In this article, you will discover 10 famous cities in Japan that are best visited in spring.
All destinations are carefully selected based on:
- International popularity
- Seasonal beauty
- Travel convenience for inbound tourists
Whether you are planning your first trip to Japan or looking for classic spring destinations, this guide will help you decide where to go in Japan during spring with confidence.
Hola!! I love traveling. I am helping to make your Japan travel unforgettable memory!!
Who am I ?
- Japanese from Ehime 26yo(1999 generation)
- Travel lover
- I have been all prefecture (47) in Japan.
- I do not want everyone who travel in Japan regret after trip
- I want to share my experience for helping
Save this guide and choose the perfect time and place for your Japan advance
目次
Tokyo
Spring in Tokyo is a special season where cherry blossoms, modern cityscapes, and traditional culture come together. The city transforms into a softer, more colorful version of itself, offering a completely different atmosphere compared to other times of the year.
With mild weather and excellent public transportation, spring is one of the best seasons for international travelers, especially for first-time visitors to Japan.
Best Time to Visit
Cherry blossoms in Tokyo typically reach full bloom from late March to early April. This makes Tokyo one of the earliest major cities to enjoy sakura season in Japan and an ideal starting point for a spring cherry blossom trip.
Spring Highlights in Tokyo
Famous Cherry Blossom Spots Across the City
Tokyo offers many easily accessible cherry blossom locations such as Ueno Park, Meguro River, and Shinjuku Gyoen. The contrast between blooming sakura and the urban skyline creates scenery that can only be found in Tokyo.
A Blend of Tradition and Modern Life
Historic areas like Asakusa and Meiji Shrine allow visitors to experience traditional Japanese culture surrounded by spring greenery, while districts such as Shibuya and Ginza showcase the city’s modern energy.
Photogenic Spring Scenery
Rivers lined with cherry trees, peaceful gardens, and stylish cafés make spring one of the most visually appealing seasons in Tokyo. Almost every neighborhood becomes a photo opportunity.
Seasonal Food and Events
Spring brings limited-time sweets, seasonal menus, and cultural events. These experiences add depth to the trip and allow visitors to enjoy Japan beyond sightseeing.
Must visit place in Tokyo
Ueno Park is Tokyo’s most famous cherry blossom destination, with over 1,000 sakura trees. The park becomes lively during hanami season, offering a true local spring experience.
Shinjuku Gyoen is a spacious garden surrounded by skyscrapers. With many cherry tree varieties, it offers a long and relaxed cherry blossom season, perfect for first-time visitors.
Cherry trees line both sides of the Meguro River, creating a stunning tunnel of blossoms. In the evening, illuminated petals reflect on the water, forming a romantic and photogenic atmosphere.
Located near the Imperial Palace, Chidorigafuchi offers one of Tokyo’s most scenic views. Visitors can enjoy cherry blossoms from rental boats, creating a unique spring perspective.
Kyoto
Kyoto is one of the most iconic spring destinations in Japan. Historic temples, traditional streets, and quiet gardens are surrounded by cherry blossoms. Areas like the Philosopher’s Path, Arashiyama, and Gion create a timeless atmosphere that reflects Japan’s cultural heritage.
Spring is one of the most beautiful seasons to visit Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart. As cherry blossoms bloom across the city, ancient temples, shrines, and traditional streets are transformed into elegant spring landscapes that feel timeless and refined.
Compared to modern cities, Kyoto in spring offers a deeper sense of history and atmosphere. Soft pink cherry blossoms frame wooden architecture, stone pathways, and Zen gardens, creating scenery that represents the classic image of Japan for many international travelers.
Best Time to Visit
Cherry blossoms in Kyoto usually reach full bloom from late March to early April. The timing closely matches Tokyo, but Kyoto’s temples and traditional scenery create a more historic and atmospheric spring experience.
Spring Highlights in Kyoto
Iconic Cherry Blossom Scenery at Historic Sites
Kyoto is home to world-famous cherry blossom spots such as Philosopher’s Path, Maruyama Park, and temple gardens throughout the city. Sakura blooming alongside centuries-old temples creates a unique harmony of nature and history that cannot be seen anywhere else.
Traditional Streets and Timeless Atmosphere
Areas like Gion and Higashiyama become especially charming in spring. Walking through narrow streets lined with traditional townhouses under cherry blossoms feels like stepping back in time.
Peaceful Temples and Gardens
Spring brings fresh greenery and seasonal flowers to Kyoto’s gardens. Even famous sites feel calmer in the early mornings, allowing visitors to experience Kyoto’s quiet and spiritual side.
Seasonal Kyoto Cuisine
Spring is the season for delicate Kyoto-style cuisine, featuring fresh vegetables, light flavors, and beautiful presentation. Seasonal sweets and matcha enjoyed in traditional cafés add to the experience.
Must-Visit Places in Kyoto
Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most famous temples and a classic cherry blossom spot. In spring, sakura trees surround the wooden stage, offering a spectacular panoramic view of Kyoto city.
The Philosopher’s Path is a scenic walking trail along a quiet canal. During cherry blossom season, the path is covered by a soft pink tunnel of sakura, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Maruyama Park is Kyoto’s most popular hanami park. Its iconic weeping cherry tree becomes the highlight at night, creating a magical illuminated spring scene.
Keage Incline is a former railway track that becomes one of Kyoto’s most photogenic cherry blossom spots. Rows of sakura trees along the tracks create a dramatic and Instagram-worthy scene during spring.
Osaka
Spring is a lively and colorful season to visit Osaka, Japan’s most energetic food and entertainment city. As cherry blossoms bloom across parks and riversides, Osaka combines urban excitement with seasonal beauty, offering a very different spring experience compared to traditional cities like Kyoto.
Osaka in spring is warm, vibrant, and social. The city’s friendly atmosphere, famous street food culture, and easy access to major attractions make it especially appealing for international travelers.
Best Time to Visit
Cherry blossoms in Osaka typically reach full bloom from late March to early April. Spring is an ideal time to enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere alongside riverside parks, castle grounds, and urban cherry blossom views.
Spring Highlights in Osaka
Cherry Blossoms with City Landmarks
Osaka Castle Park is one of the city’s most famous cherry blossom spots. Thousands of sakura trees surround the historic castle, creating a striking contrast between pink blossoms and the iconic white castle. Riverside areas such as Kema Sakuranomiya Park also offer beautiful spring walks.
Street Food & Local Culture
Spring weather is perfect for exploring Osaka’s food scene. Takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu are enjoyed outdoors, making sightseeing and eating go hand in hand. Osaka’s casual dining culture makes it easy for travelers to feel comfortable and welcome.
Lively Districts and Night Views
Areas like Dotonbori and Namba are full of neon lights, shopping streets, and entertainment. In spring, evenings are pleasant, allowing visitors to enjoy night walks along the river and lively streets without the summer heat.
Easy Day Trips from Osaka
Osaka is a convenient base for spring travel in Kansai. Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe are all easily accessible, making it ideal for travelers who want to experience multiple cities while staying in one place.
Must visit place in Osaka
Osaka Castle Park is the most famous cherry blossom spot in the city. More than 3,000 sakura trees bloom around the historic castle, creating a perfect contrast of history and spring colors.
This riverside park stretches for several kilometers along the Okawa River. Rows of cherry trees form a long pink tunnel, ideal for walking, cycling, and relaxing spring picnics.
Located in northern Osaka, this spacious park is home to a wide variety of cherry trees. Its open layout offers a calm and family-friendly hanami experience, away from the city center crowds.
Nara
Spring is one of the best seasons to visit Nara, a city known for its ancient temples, vast parks, and calm atmosphere. With cherry blossoms blooming across historic sites and gentle spring weather, Nara offers a peaceful and cultural spring experience that feels very different from big cities.
Nara in spring is quiet, spacious, and deeply connected to nature and history, making it especially appealing for international travelers who want to experience traditional Japan at a relaxed pace.
Cherry blossoms in Nara usually reach full bloom from late March to early April. The combination of historic temples, open parklands, and roaming deer creates a calm and timeless spring atmosphere during this period.
Best Time to Visit
Cherry blossoms in Nara usually reach full bloom from late March to early April. The combination of historic temples, open parklands, and roaming deer creates a calm and timeless spring atmosphere during this period.
Spring Highlights in Nara
Cherry Blossoms in Historic Settings
Nara Park becomes especially beautiful in spring as cherry trees bloom around temples and ponds. The combination of sakura, historic architecture, and open green spaces creates classic Japanese scenery.
Free-Roaming Deer
Nara’s famous deer wander freely throughout the park all year, but spring adds fresh greenery and blossoms to the experience. The calm environment makes it easy to enjoy close interaction with nature.
World-Class Temples and Shrines
Sites such as Todai-ji and Kasuga Taisha feel even more serene in spring. Soft sunlight and seasonal colors enhance the spiritual atmosphere, making sightseeing more meaningful and less crowded than in peak seasons.
Ideal for Slow Travel
Compared to Kyoto and Osaka, Nara is less busy in spring. Wide paths, open parks, and a slower rhythm make it perfect for travelers who prefer quiet exploration and cultural depth.
Must visit place in Nara
Nara Park is the most famous cherry blossom spot in Nara. Cherry trees bloom around historic temples and roam freely among the deer, creating a unique spring scene found only in Nara.
Mount Yoshino is Japan’s most celebrated cherry blossom destination, with over 30,000 trees. The layered mountainside covered in sakura offers a breathtaking and unforgettable spring view.
The Heijo Palace Ruins feature wide open grounds with cherry blossoms set against ancient architecture. It is an ideal place to enjoy a peaceful and spacious hanami experience.
Cherry trees line both sides of the Saho River, creating a long sakura-lined walkway. This hidden gem offers a quiet and local cherry blossom stroll away from tourist crowds.
Kanazawa
Spring is one of the most beautiful seasons to visit Kanazawa, a city that perfectly blends traditional culture, history, and refined aesthetics. As cherry blossoms bloom and fresh greenery fills the city, Kanazawa offers an elegant and relaxed spring atmosphere that appeals strongly to international travelers.
Often called “Little Kyoto”, Kanazawa is less crowded than Kyoto while offering equally rich cultural experiences, making it ideal for slow and immersive spring travel.
Cherry blossoms in Kanazawa typically reach full bloom from early to mid-April. Spring arrives slightly later than in Tokyo and Kyoto, allowing visitors to enjoy a quieter cherry blossom season alongside traditional gardens and historic districts.
Spring Highlights in Kanazawa
Well-Preserved Samurai Districts
Areas like Nagamachi Samurai District are especially atmospheric in spring. Soft light, blooming trees, and traditional earthen walls create a calm and historic streetscape perfect for walking and photography.
Historic Teahouse Districts
Higashi Chaya District comes alive in spring with wooden teahouses, seasonal sweets, and quiet lanes. The gentle spring weather makes it ideal for exploring on foot and experiencing traditional Japanese culture.
Art, Crafts, and Local Cuisine
Kanazawa is famous for gold leaf craftsmanship, Kutani pottery, and refined cuisine. Spring seafood and seasonal dishes from the Sea of Japan add to the city’s appeal during this time of year.
Must visit place in Kanazawa
Kenrokuen is one of Japan’s most beautiful landscape gardens and Kanazawa’s top cherry blossom spot. In spring, sakura bloom around ponds and bridges, creating a perfect harmony of nature and traditional design.
Located next to Kenrokuen, Kanazawa Castle Park offers wide open grounds lined with cherry trees. The contrast between white castle walls and sakura creates a classic Japanese spring landscape.
Hiroshima
Hiroshima is a city where history, peace, and natural beauty come together, and spring is one of the best seasons to visit. Cherry blossoms soften the city’s atmosphere, creating a calm and reflective mood that contrasts with its powerful historical background.
Spring in Hiroshima offers a balance of iconic landmarks, emotional experiences, and scenic beauty, making it especially meaningful for international travelers.
Best Time to Visit
Cherry blossoms in Hiroshima usually reach full bloom from late March to early April. Spring is an ideal season to enjoy the city’s riverside scenery, historic sites, and peaceful atmosphere as sakura soften the
Spring Highlights of Hiroshima
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
In spring, cherry blossoms bloom around the Peace Memorial Park, adding gentle color to this symbolic place. The combination of sakura and memorial monuments creates a quiet, emotional, and respectful atmosphere unique to Hiroshima.
Atomic Bomb Dome
Surrounded by spring greenery and cherry blossoms, the Atomic Bomb Dome stands as a reminder of history and peace. The contrast between the delicate flowers and the preserved structure leaves a strong impression on visitors.
Must visit place in Hiroshima
Hiroshima Castle is surrounded by a large park filled with cherry trees. The combination of sakura and the reconstructed castle creates a classic Japanese spring landscape in the city center.
Shukkeien is a traditional Japanese garden featuring ponds, bridges, and seasonal scenery. In spring, cherry blossoms reflect on the water, offering a peaceful and elegant hanami experience.
Miyajima is famous for its floating torii gate and sacred atmosphere. During spring, cherry blossoms bloom around the shrine and mountain paths, creating a unique blend of nature, culture, and sakura.
Sendai
Sendai, the largest city in the Tohoku region, is known as the “City of Trees.” Spring is one of the best seasons to visit, as cherry blossoms and fresh greenery bring color and warmth after a long winter.
Spring in Sendai offers a relaxed atmosphere with a mix of urban comfort, historical sites, and natural beauty, making it an attractive destination for international travelers looking to explore northern Japan.
Best Time to Visit
Cherry blossoms in Sendai typically reach full bloom from early to mid-April, slightly later than Tokyo. This makes Sendai a great destination for travelers who want to enjoy cherry blossoms at a relaxed pace while experiencing the fresh greenery and calm spring atmosphere of northern Japan.
Spring Highlights of Sendai
URBAN COMFORT & GREEN CITY
Sendai is a modern regional hub, but it feels open and relaxed thanks to its wide streets and abundant greenery. Known as the “City of Trees,” the city becomes especially pleasant in spring as fresh leaves appear and outdoor spaces feel alive again. It offers the convenience of a big city without the overwhelming crowds.
SEASONAL ATMOSPHERE & LOCAL LIFE
Spring marks a fresh start after the long Tohoku winter. Locals spend more time outside, parks become gathering places, and cafés feel more active. The city has a calm, everyday rhythm that allows visitors to experience daily Japanese life rather than purely tourist scenes.
HISTORY & CULTURAL IDENTITY
Sendai has a strong historical background connected to samurai culture and regional traditions. This identity is still visible today in the city’s layout, local festivals, and cultural pride. The blend of history and modern life gives Sendai a balanced and authentic atmosphere.
FOOD CULTURE & REGIONAL FLAVORS
Sendai is famous for its approachable and hearty food culture. Spring brings seasonal ingredients, and local dishes are enjoyed casually throughout the city. Dining feels local and genuine, making it easy for visitors to connect with regional culture through food.
Must visit place in Sendai
Tsutsujigaoka Park is one of Sendai’s most famous cherry blossom spots. With over 300 cherry trees of various types, it offers a long-lasting and diverse sakura season loved by locals.
Nishi Park is a classic hanami location near downtown Sendai. Cherry blossoms bloom along the hillside, creating a lively and local spring atmosphere, especially popular for evening flower viewing.
Shiogama Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine overlooking Matsushima Bay. In spring, cherry blossoms line the stone steps, offering a beautiful blend of tradition and seasonal beauty.
Fukuoka
Fukuoka, the largest city in Kyushu, is known for its lively atmosphere, excellent food culture, and coastal setting. Spring is one of the most pleasant seasons to visit, with mild temperatures and comfortable weather that make walking and outdoor activities especially enjoyable.
Spring in Fukuoka offers a perfect balance of modern city life, local culture, and seaside relaxation. The city feels open and welcoming, making it an ideal destination for international travelers who want to experience everyday Japanese life alongside vibrant urban energy.
Best Time to Visit
Cherry blossoms in Fukuoka usually reach full bloom from late March to early April, earlier than Tokyo. It’s an ideal destination to enjoy the start of Japan’s cherry blossom season in a warm, lively city atmosphere.
Spring Highlights of Sendai
LIVELY URBAN ENERGY & COASTAL FEEL
Fukuoka is one of Japan’s most dynamic cities, known for its youthful energy and open, friendly atmosphere. In spring, the city feels especially vibrant as people gather outdoors, enjoying mild weather and coastal breezes. The compact city layout makes it easy to explore while still feeling relaxed.
FOOD CULTURE & SOCIAL DINING
Fukuoka is widely regarded as one of Japan’s best food cities. Spring evenings are perfect for casual dining, and the city’s social food culture encourages interaction and movement between spots. Eating here feels informal, local, and welcoming, making it easy for visitors to feel comfortable.
MODERN LIFE MEETS TRADITION
While modern and fast-growing, Fukuoka maintains strong cultural roots. Traditional neighborhoods, shrines, and seasonal customs coexist naturally with shopping districts and nightlife. This balance creates a city that feels both contemporary and deeply connected to its heritage.
GATEWAY TO KYUSHU
Fukuoka serves as the main gateway to Kyushu, making it an ideal base for further travel. In spring, the surrounding region becomes more accessible and appealing, adding to the city’s appeal for travelers who want flexibility and variety without long-distance travel.
Must visit place in Fukuoka
Maizuru Park surrounds the ruins of Fukuoka Castle and is the city’s most famous cherry blossom spot. In spring, sakura bloom around stone walls and moats, creating a beautiful blend of history and nature.
Uminonakamichi Seaside Park is a vast coastal park with seasonal flowers and open spaces. Cherry blossoms bloom across the park in spring, creating a relaxed and family-friendly hanami atmosphere.
Fukushima
Miharu Takizakura is one of Japan’s most famous cherry trees and a true symbol of spring beauty. Located in Fukushima Prefecture, this single, massive weeping cherry tree is estimated to be over 1,000 years old and is designated as a National Natural Monument of Japan.
The name Takizakura means “waterfall cherry tree,” describing how its long branches cascade downward like flowing water when fully in bloom. In spring, the tree is covered in countless pale pink blossoms, creating a breathtaking and unforgettable sight.
Best Time to Visit
Cherry blossoms at Miharu Takizakura typically reach full bloom from early to mid-April, slightly later than Tokyo, making it a perfect spot to extend the cherry blossom season in a peaceful, natural setting.
Spring Highlights of Miharu Takizakura
Iconic Weeping Cherry Tree
Standing alone in an open field with mountains in the background, Miharu Takizakura offers a powerful and elegant spring landscape. The scale and age of the tree leave a strong impression even on first-time visitors.
Daytime and Nighttime Views
During peak bloom, the tree is illuminated at night. The contrast between the glowing blossoms and the dark sky creates a dramatic and magical atmosphere, completely different from the daytime view.
Seasonal Beauty and Calm Atmosphere
Unlike urban cherry blossom spots, Miharu Takizakura is surrounded by nature, allowing visitors to enjoy spring in a quiet and reflective setting. The area feels peaceful, highlighting the beauty of the single, ancient tree.
Kitakami Tenshochi (Iwate)
Kitakami Tenshochi is one of northern Japan’s most famous spring destinations, located along the Kitakami River in Iwate Prefecture. The area is widely known for its long rows of cherry trees, creating an impressive seasonal landscape that attracts visitors from across the region.
In spring, the riverside scenery becomes vibrant and spacious, offering a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with larger cities. Kitakami Tenshochi is ideal for travelers who want to experience classic Japanese spring scenery in a calm, open setting while exploring the charm of rural Tohoku.
Best Time to Visit
Cherry blossoms typically reach full bloom in mid to late April. This timing makes Kitakami Tenshochi a perfect destination for travelers who want to extend their cherry blossom season beyond central Japan.
Spring Highlights of Kitakami Tenshochi
Riverside Cherry Blossom Scenery
Kitakami Tenshochi is one of northern Japan’s most celebrated cherry blossom spots, stretching along the Kitakami River. Long rows of cherry trees create an expansive spring landscape, offering wide-open views that feel both impressive and relaxing.
Spacious and Scenic Atmosphere
Unlike crowded urban parks, Kitakami Tenshochi feels open and calm. The broad riverbanks and surrounding greenery allow visitors to enjoy cherry blossoms at a slower pace, making it ideal for leisurely walks and quiet spring moments.
Seasonal Beauty in Tohoku
Spring arrives slightly later in Tohoku, and Kitakami Tenshochi captures that seasonal transition beautifully. Fresh blossoms against clear skies and flowing water highlight the region’s natural charm and rural elegance.
Why Visit Japan in Spring?
Spring is the season when Japan shows its most iconic and welcoming face. Cherry blossoms transform cities, riversides, temples, and countryside landscapes into scenes that feel both beautiful and meaningful. With mild weather, smooth transportation, and a wide variety of seasonal experiences, spring offers one of the most comfortable and rewarding times to travel across the country.
From major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Fukuoka to culturally rich destinations such as Nara, Kanazawa, Hiroshima, Sendai, and scenic spots like Miharu Takizakura and Kitakami Tenshochi, each location offers a different expression of spring. Whether you prefer vibrant urban energy, historic streets, peaceful nature, or quiet rural scenery, Japan in spring has a destination that fits your travel style.
For first-time visitors, spring provides an easy and stress-free introduction to Japan. For returning travelers, it offers depth through regional differences, seasonal culture, and natural beauty that changes from place to place. No matter where you go, spring in Japan delivers unforgettable scenery, cultural richness, and a travel experience that truly lives up to its global reputation.
Save this guide and choose the perfect season for your Japan adventure
Thank you for reading!! I hope you enjoy traveling Japan.
Von voyage 🇯🇵