Superb Views of Japan's Cherry Blossoms Easy to Access
Japan's rich history and natural beauty are two key components in what make it such a sought-after travel destination. Cherry blossoms (Sakura), which bloom in spring and are known for their cotton candy, cloud-like appearance, are scattered all across Japan in picture-perfect arrangement.
In its entirety, there are over 600 types of cherry blossoms (Sakura) in Japan and hundreds of locations that admire them. When traveling by train to seek out the best Japanese cherry blossom spots, here are just a few breathtaking locations to add to your itinerary.
Inokashira Park
Nestled between Musashino and Mitaka, Inokashira Park is home to roughly 500 cherry trees that encircle the pond. Located near Kichijoji Station and just 30 minutes outside of Tokyo, visitors can stretch out on blankets beneath the trees to indulge in picnics, rent small boats to get a panoramic view from the water, and bask under the pink glow of sakura reflections on the water.
Hirosaki Castle Park
Loved for both its history and unbeatable scenery, Hirosaki Park is part of the Hirosaki Castle grounds built in 1611. The location is one of the top attractions in Japan when it comes to cherry blossoms. Similar to Inokashira Park, you can rent boats to get a unique view of the pink foliage, but at Hirosaki, your water tour is set quaintly on the castle's moat.
Hitome Senbonzakura
From JR Funaoka Station, make the short trek to Shibata Senokyo Bridge at Hitome Senbonzakura. With a name that literally means, "1,000 sakura trees in one glance", you can indulge in seemingly endless views of Japanese cherry blossoms beneath the snow-capped mountains of Mount Zao. Lining the banks of the Shiroishi River, you can opt to enjoy stunning views from either the Shibata Senokyo Bridge or the Sakurahodo Bridge, Niragamizeki Weir, or via boat and train. At night, Hitome Senbonzakura is lit by lamp posts that give the trees an almost translucent appearance.
Other notable sakura viewing spots include:
Ueno Park
Nara Park just south of Kyoto
Chureito Pagoda overlooking Mount Fuji
Takatō Castle
Kawazu
There are countless destinations with incomparable sights for sakura viewing, and with a Japan Rail (JR) Pass, you can easily access the best of them with Japan's bullet trains.
Sakura Dreams
Discover the magic of cherry blossoms through our exclusive tours, offering unique ways to immerse yourself in Japan's seasonal splendor.
