Few natural phenomenons are as wondrous as sakura season. Symbolic of renewal and new beginnings, the blooming of cherry blossoms is a breathtaking sight eagerly anticipated around the world each year. Ready to celebrate the arrival of spring surrounded by petals in full bloom? We’re showcasing some of the world’s best viewing spots for cherry blossom season – so take this as a sign to book that flight now!
Read More: Wan Chai Guide – Thrills & Chills In The Heart Of The City
Yuyuantan Park, Beijing
Home to one of the largest gardens of its kind in China, Yuyuantan Park spans 132.3 hectares (326.9 acres). The Cherry Blossom Garden is undoubtedly a highlight, admired by millions for its stunning views dating back to the Jin Dynasty. Every year, tourists flock from all around the world to the park’s ‘Cherry Blossoms Festival,’ held from late March to early May. During peak viewing times, you’ll be able to see over 3,000 cherry trees settling and swaying with the wind.
Yuyuantan Park, No.10, West 3rd Ring Middle Road, Haidian District, Beijing, China, +86 10 8865 3800, www.yytpark.com
Hirosaki Park, Aomori
Every year, the architectural brilliance of Hirosaki Castle is amplified by the blooming of cherry blossoms. In honour of this radiant occasion in 2025, the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival will celebrate every beautiful bloom from 16 April to 5 May. Whether viewing from a paddle boat on the river or roaming the castle’s picturesque grounds, visitors will be basking in the glow of sakura season. With tickets starting from JP¥100 for children to JP¥320 for adults (with group discounts available), Hirosaki’s sakura spectacular is definitely one not to miss!
Hirosaki Castle Botanical Garden, 2-1 Shimo-Shirogane-cho, Hirosaki City, Aomori 036-8588, Japan, +81-172-37-5501, www.hirosaki-kanko.or.jp
Philosopher’s Path, Kyoto
Named after Kyoto University philosophy professor Nishida Kitaro, who was known for his meditative strolls along this particular canal, Philosopher’s Path is a truly stunning two-kilometre stretch! Framed by cherry blossom trees, the path offers a perfect backdrop for a contemplative afternoon walk. Unsure where to start? Most recommendations suggest heading south to explore multiple prime viewing spots, beginning at Eikan-do Temple and ending at Nanzen-ji Temple. The peak window for blooming season here is from 5 to 13 April – so start planning your visit!
Philosopher’s Path, Shishigatani, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan, www.japan.travel
Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival, Changwon
Commemorate the coming of spring with picturesque views of Changwon at the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival! Home to one of the world’s densest cherry blossom areas, Jinhae boasts 350,000 cherry trees, making it a must-visit during blooming season. Hop on the Korail and keep your eyes glued to the window to marvel at the magical sight of cherry blossoms framing the tracks on your way to the festival. With street vendors, dance performances, and Korean music filling the area from 26 March to 6 April, you’re in for a truly unforgettable experience.
Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival, Tongsin-dong, Jinhae, Changwon, Gyeongsangnam, Republic of Korea, +82 055 546 4310, jgfestival.or.kr
Valle Del Jerte, Cáceres
In Spain, you’ll discover over 1.5 million snow-white cherry blossoms set against a stunning mountain backdrop. For the complete foliage experience, explore the entire botanical range of Jerte Valley – but if you’re after just the cherry blossoms, aim to visit between 2 April and 12 April for the peak bloom. The blossoms here bloom earlier at lower altitudes, so head further up the later you plan your visit.
Valle del Jerte, 10612 Jerte, Cáceres, Spain, +34 927 420 000, www.turismovalledeljerte.com
Kungsträdgården, Stockholm
Anyone who claims that Europe lacks stunning cherry blossoms simply needs to visit Kungsträdgården and its breathtaking blooms. Also known as the King’s Garden, Kungsträdgården is dotted with charming outdoor cafés. Sit and enjoy the view as the scent of freshly brewed coffee intertwines with the light sweetness of the cherry blossoms – certainly a view fit for a king(’s garden)!
Kungsträdgården, Jussi Björlings allé, 111 47 Stockholm, Sweden, +46 8 508 490 30, www.visitstockholm.com
VanDusen Botanical Garden, Vancouver
A true gem in the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival’s lineup, the ‘Sakura Days Japan Fair’ is the prime opportunity to capture the peak moments of the blooming season from 12 to 13 April. Expect everything traditionally Japanese – from food and drinks to music, art, and a variety of activities. Visitors can experience a traditional tea ceremony, sample premium sake, and try their hand at classic Japanese games, all framed by the blossoming petals.
VanDusen Botanical Garden, 5251 Oak Street, Vancouver, Canada, +1 604 257 8463, vcbf.ca
Brooklyn Botanics Garden, Brooklyn
Take in the surreal view of cherry blossoms in varying hues of white, pink, and even green at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Join in on spring festivities with events like ‘Hanami Nights,’ where you can soak in the season of spring beneath the twinkling lights of blooming cherry blossom trees. Stroll through and admire the foliage while participating in activities like origami workshops and bonsai viewings, all while enjoying delicious Japanese food and drinks. Check the Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s website for the latest updates on peak blooming times for different flora!
Brooklyn Botanics Garden, 990 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11225, U.S.A, +1 718 623 7200, www.bbg.org
Friday Club. is where every day feels like Friday. We spark conversations that are both trendy and thought-provoking, exploring topics that truly matter while staying true to ourselves. We’re all about honesty, tackling tough subjects head-on, yet we never forget to embrace the fun life has to offer.
