The budding and blooming of cherry blossoms is one of the most popular phenomena in Japan.
Cherry blossoms have become a must-visit tourist attraction in Tokyo and many other places. Millions of foreign tourists choose springtime to visit the country for the magnificent cherry blossoms.
For many Japanese, cherry blossoms, or sakura, symbolize human life, both birth and death. The tree and its flowers have been etched in the culture and tradition of Japan, so you can see them almost anywhere.
While the cherry blossom season is still months away, one can't help but be excited about arguably the most popular season in Japan. Before making plans, here’s everything you need to know about cherry blossoms in Japan in 2025:
What is the best month to see cherry blossoms in Japan?
The best month to see cherry blossoms in Japan is April or May (depending on where you are in Japan) when the flowers are in full bloom. However, as early as March, some cherry blossom trees start flowering and are already an attraction of their own.
ALSO READ: 20 BEST CHERRY BLOSSOM SPOTS IN TOKYO
How long do Japan cherry blossoms last?
Cherry blossoms typically last for 10 to 14 days. Certain species may last longer than 14 days, but Yoshino cherries, the one that’s widely spread across Japan, last only for about 14 days.
When do cherry blossoms in Japan bloom in 2025?
Cherry blossoms often start in March in most parts of Japan and last about two weeks. The full bloom period lasts only a few days, so it’s important to time your visit well.
As of now, it's still very early to say when the cherry blossoms will flower and bloom. We still have to wait for the Japan Meteorological Corporation to release the official forecast. Based on last year's cherry blossom forecast, cherry blossoms in Tokyo started flowering in the fourth week of March, while the full bloom took place in the first week of April.
Japan's 2025 cherry blossom forecast will be around these dates based on last year's phenomena:
Kochi - Flowering on March 23; Full bloom on March 28
Fukuoka - Flowering on March 27; Full bloom on April 2
Tokyo - Flowering on March 29; Full bloom on April 1
Hiroshima - Flowering on March 25; Full bloom on April 2
Nagoya - Flowering on March 28; Full bloom on April 2
Osaka - Flowering on March 28; Full bloom on April 3
Kyoto - Flowering on March 29; Full bloom on April 3
Kanazawa - Flowering on March 31; Full bloom on April 5
Sendai - Flowering on April 2; Full bloom on April 7
Sapporo - Flowering on April 26; Full bloom on April 30
Wakayama - Flowering on March 29; Full bloom on April 2
Kagoshima - Flowering on March 29; Full bloom on April 7
Aomori - Flowering on April 14; Full bloom on April 18
Nagano - Flowering on April 4; Full bloom on April 9
As we approach the cherry blossom season, the Japan Meteorological Corporation will release more updates soon.
Be warned! This is just a forecast. And like any other forecast, this is not 100% accurate. There were times when cherry blossoms got confused and prematurely bloomed in autumn. So, do your research and manage your expectations when creating an itinerary. Be sure to check this guide again!
Will there be a cherry blossom festival in 2025?
Yes! Japan has fully opened its borders to foreign tourists, and activities such as cherry blossom festivals have been allowed since last year. Cherry blossom festivals, or ‘Hanami,’ typically fall between late March and mid-April or even early May.
Cherry blossom festivals in Japan take place in riversides, parks, roadsides, mountainsides, gardens, temples, shrines, business districts, and more. Make sure to do your due diligence.
Best cherry blossom spots in Japan
If you’re visiting Japan, cherry blossoms are everywhere! Here are the best cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan:
Chidorigafuchi (Tokyo)
Nakameguro River Park (Tokyo)
Philosopher’s Path (Kyoto)
Osaka Castle Park (Osaka)
Lake Kawaguchiko or Fuji Five Lakes (Yamanashi)
Hirosaki Castle (Aomori)
Himeji Castle (Hyogo)
Mitsuike Koen (Kanagawa)
Mount Yoshinoyama (Nara)
Nijukken Road (Hokkaido)
As a final note, if you wish to make the best out of your spring vacation in Japan, plan your trip well. Watch out for the cherry blossom 2025 forecast now and then to get a good read on their budding and blooming activities.
Visiting the best cherry blossom spots in Tokyo can be confusing and exhausting for first-time tourists. Don’t stress out! Join our Cherry Blossom Tour in Tokyo where your local guide brings you to the best places in Tokyo to see sakura blooming!
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