Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Tokyo & Kyoto (2026 Guide)

2025/11/19

Cherry blossom season is one of the most magical times to visit Japan. Every spring, Tokyo and Kyoto transform into soft shades of pink and white as sakura trees burst into bloom along rivers, temples, and historic streets. Whether you’re visiting Japan for the first time or returning for a spring getaway, this 2026 guide highlights the best places to enjoy cherry blossoms—complete with peak bloom forecasts, photo spots, and travel tips.

When is the Cherry Blossom Season in 2026?

Cherry blossoms typically bloom between late March and early April, but each city has a slightly different schedule.

Tokyo – Forecast for 2026

Bloom begins: Late March
Full bloom: Early April
Peak viewing window: March 28 – April 5

Tokyo tends to bloom earlier due to coastal climate and warmer temperatures.

Kyoto – Forecast for 2026

Bloom begins: Late March to early April
Full bloom: Early April
Peak viewing window: April 2 – April 10

Kyoto’s historical temples and gardens make the sakura season especially scenic.

Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Tokyo

1Ueno Park

Ueno Park is one of the best cherry blossom spots in Tokyo, with over 1,000 sakura trees lining wide walkways. The festive hanami atmosphere makes it especially popular among families and first-time visitors. Expect lively picnic areas, food stalls, and plenty of photo opportunities.

2Meguro River

The Meguro River offers one of Tokyo’s most iconic spring scenes. Hundreds of cherry trees arch over the river, forming a romantic pink tunnel. It’s also one of the most Instagrammable sakura locations in the city, especially at dusk when the lanterns begin to glow.

3Chidorigafuchi

Chidorigafuchi is known for its stunning view of cherry blossoms reflected on the Imperial Palace moat. Renting a rowboat here creates one of the most memorable Tokyo cherry blossom experiences. The area can be extremely busy, but the scenery is absolutely worth it.

4Shinjuku Gyoen

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden features both early- and late-blooming cherry blossom varieties, giving it one of the longest sakura seasons in Tokyo. With spacious lawns and beautifully landscaped gardens, it’s the perfect place for a calmer, more relaxed hanami day.

5Sumida Park

Located along the Sumida River, this park combines beautiful cherry blossoms with views of Tokyo Skytree—a perfect mix of traditional spring scenery and modern skyline. It’s especially popular for morning walks and evening photography.

Tokyo Cherry Blossom Route

If you’d like to combine several of these Tokyo cherry blossom spots into one smooth sightseeing route—without crowded train transfers—check out the sample spring itineraries in our Tokyo Private Tour Guide, where you can explore customizable sakura routes and travel tips.

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Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Kyoto

1Philosopher’s Path

The Philosopher’s Path is one of Kyoto’s most peaceful and atmospheric cherry blossom walks. Hundreds of sakura trees line the canal, creating a gentle pink canopy over the water. The slow, meditative pace of this path makes it perfect for travelers seeking a quieter, more reflective hanami experience away from the crowds.

2Maruyama Park

Maruyama Park is famous for its spectacular weeping cherry tree (shidare-zakura), which becomes beautifully illuminated at night. It’s one of the most iconic sights of Kyoto cherry blossom season, and the surrounding garden offers plenty of space to relax, enjoy snacks, and soak in the spring atmosphere.

3Kiyomizudera Temple

Few places blend historic architecture and cherry blossoms as dramatically as Kiyomizudera. From its wooden stage overlooking Kyoto, you’ll see the temple surrounded by soft pink blossoms and sweeping city views. It’s especially stunning in the late afternoon when the golden light hits the temple façade.

4Arashiyama

Arashiyama is one of Kyoto’s most photogenic spring areas, combining cherry blossoms with bamboo forests, riverside scenery, and picturesque mountains. Sakura trees bloom along the riverbanks and near the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, creating postcard-perfect views throughout the area.

5Nijo Castle

Nijo Castle offers a unique blend of historic castle walls and cherry blossoms, with over 400 sakura trees blooming across its grounds. The contrast between the blossoms and the elegant architecture makes it one of Kyoto’s best photo spots during peak season.

Kyoto Cherry Blossom Route

If you’d like to visit several of these Kyoto cherry blossom spots in one efficient route—without navigating crowded buses or complex transfers—explore customizable spring itineraries in our Kyoto Private Tour Guide, designed to help you enjoy Kyoto’s sakura at your own pace.

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Best Nighttime Cherry Blossoms (Tokyo & Kyoto)

Cherry blossoms become even more magical after sunset.
Illuminations, reflections on water, and softer evening colors create a completely different viewing experience. Here are some of the best night sakura spots in both cities:

Kiyomizudera Light-Up（Kyoto）

Kiyomizudera Temple hosts limited-time spring illuminations, lighting up its wooden stage and the hillside filled with cherry blossoms. The nighttime contrast between the glowing temple and soft pink trees feels almost surreal.

Maruyama Park Night Sakura（Kyoto）

The famous weeping cherry tree in Maruyama Park becomes even more spectacular under nighttime lights. This is one of Kyoto’s most iconic night hanami spots—perfect for photos and relaxing evening strolls.

Tokyo Midtown Sakura Illuminations（Tokyo）

In Roppongi’s Tokyo Midtown, cherry trees along the garden path are beautifully lit, creating modern and elegant nighttime sakura scenes. It’s especially recommended for couples and travelers wanting a stylish atmosphere.

Chidorigafuchi Evening Views（Tokyo）

Chidorigafuchi's moat reflects illuminated cherry blossoms, creating one of Tokyo’s most romantic spring nightscapes. The crowds are lighter at night, and the scenery is breathtaking.

Tips for Enjoying Sakura Like a Local

To enjoy cherry blossoms comfortably—like Tokyoites and Kyoto locals—keep these tips in mind:

Visit early morning for minimal crowds
Avoid peak hours (11am–3pm)
Bring a picnic sheet if planning hanami
Respect park rules（no loud music, no taking branches）
Check bloom forecasts daily—full bloom changes quickly
Weekdays are always quieter than weekends

Enjoy Cherry Blossoms with a Private Tour

Cherry blossom season is the most magical time to experience Japan’s natural beauty and cultural charm. Whether you're wandering along Tokyo’s riversides or exploring Kyoto’s ancient temples, the sakura season in 2026 will offer unforgettable views and once-in-a-lifetime moments.

Use this guide to plan your spring itinerary—and elevate your experience with a private tour or charter vehicle for the most flexible, comfortable, and seamless way to enjoy cherry blossoms across Japan.

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