Chasing Cherry Blossom (Sakura) in Japan

(56 Reviews)
100% Recommended

Chean Chen

Markham, ON
Family/Luxury Cruise and River Cruise Specialist

My love for traveling and finding the best deal, is the driving force behind my choice to become a travel consultant. I pride myself on building trust and a relationship with my clients, I plan your trip as I would for my own family.

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Toji Temple Kyoto

In March/April of 2023 I managed to tick off a bucket list item I have been waiting to do for the past 2.5years - Visit Japan during the Cherry Blossom Season. And it didn’t disappoint!I have been to Japan over a dozen times but never during Sakura season and I was determined to do it this year. 


I have seen cherry blossom trees in Toronto,Vancouver,  Washington DC and even Nashville but it’s nothing compared to when you see and “FEEL” the sakura festival in Japan. You will see these breathtaking blossomed trees ornate local parks, streets and draped over picturesque canal walkways. 


Japanese people are very passionate and will encompass and celebrate the ‘Sakura’ blossom to the fullest. You can ‘feel’ the spring vibe, people are happy, parks are full with picnic goers under the Sakura trees, merchants infuse the Sakura into their teas and delicate pastries/sweets, homes/businesses are adorned with spring flowers and sakura blossoms and temple goers dressed in their bright spring kimonos. 


Determined to see more Sakura, I took a Shinkansent to Kyoto. Tokyo was beautiful but Kyoto was breathtaking! The heavy laden Sakura branches draped the Philosophers Walk making it truly magical. The Toji temple, Tofuku-Ji temple, the Yasaka pagoda, Gion river side were splashed with the different shades of pink Sakura blossoms. Even the bamboo forest, Arashiyama, had its own plot of Sakura trees which was a beautiful background for wedding pictures!


It truly is a magical sight to see and experience the Japanese Sakura Festival.


Pro Tip - Be prepared for rain, it is the spring season! A light jacket and umbrella will be needed. Tokyo can get very busy during the Sakura season, branch out to Kyoto, Osaka, Nara  and surrounding areas for where it is less crowded. Get the JR pass for the trains/some subways, cheaper option.

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