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.
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Before making plans, here’s everything you need to know about cherry blossoms in Japan in 2023:
What is the best month to see cherry blossoms in Japan?
The best month to see cherry blossoms in Japan is April, when the flowers are in full bloom. However, as early as March, cherry blossoms here have started flowering and are already an attraction of their own.
How long do cherry blossoms in Japan last?
Cherry blossoms typically last for 10 to 14 days. Certain species may last longer than 14 days, but Yoshi cherries, the one that’s widely spread across Japan, last only for about 14 days.
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When do cherry blossoms in Japan bloom in 2023?
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.
Based on the cherry blossom 2023 forecast, cherry blossoms in Tokyo are expected to start flowering on March 14, which is a couple of days earlier than usual, while the full bloom is expected on March 21.
Here are the cherry blossom flowering and blooming dates in Japan for 2023 [UPDATED MARCH 14, 2023]:
Fukuoka - Flowering on March 16; Full bloom on March 25
Tokyo - Flowering on March 14; Full bloom on March 21
Hiroshima - Flowering on March 18; Full bloom on March 26
Nagoya - Flowering on March 17; Full bloom on March 26
Osaka - Flowering on March 21; Full bloom on March 27
Kyoto - Flowering on March 21; Full bloom on March 27
Kanazawa - Flowering on March 24; Full bloom on March 28
Sendai - Flowering on March 25; Full bloom on March 30
Sapporo - Flowering on April 24; Full bloom on April 27
Wakayama - Flowering on March 19; Full bloom on March 27
Kochi - Flowering on March 19; Full bloom on March 26
Kagoshima - Flowering on March 23; Full bloom on April 1
Aomori - Flowering on April 12; Full bloom on April 16
Nagano - Flowering on April 2; Full bloom on April 6
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.
Will there be a cherry blossom festival in 2023?
Yes! Japan has fully opened its borders to foreign tourists since last October and activities such as cherry blossom festivals have also resumed. Cherry blossom festivals, or ‘Hanami,’ typically fall between late March to 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. If you are dropping by Kyoto or Osaka, check out the Best Hanami Viewing Spots in Kyoto and the Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Osaka!
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Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Tokyo
If you’re visiting Tokyo, cherry blossoms are everywhere! Here are the best cherry blossom viewing spots in Tokyo:
Sumida Park
Chureito Pagoda
Meguro River
Monzen Nakacho River
Ueno Park
Rikugien Garden
Shinjuku Imperial Garden
Chidorigafuchi
Check out the Best Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Tokyo!
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 2023 forecast every now and then to get a good read on their budding and blooming activities.