Discover the Beauty of Japan's Cherry Blossoms at these Magical Spots.

There is no better time to visit Japan than during the magical spring bloom of the sakura (cherry blossom) trees. Starting in Okinawa in the south and ending in Hokkaido in the north, the sakura zensen (cherry blossom front) rolls over the country's landscapes from January to May, bringing with it a blanket of gorgeous pink and white bursts. During this time, families and friends gather to celebrate Hanami, the viewing of the cherry blossoms. Picnics and parties are organized under the canopies of blooms and the most popular viewing locations become crowded with celebrants and festivities.
     Don't miss the chance to visit Japan during this enchanting season.
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Chidori-ga-fuchi, Tokyo (early April). High on the edge of the Imperial Palace moat, this park is Tokyo's most popular spot for viewing cherry blossoms. A boathouse rents rowboats allowing you to glide along the moat while admiring the soft pink canopy of flowers overhead. At night, the blossoms are set aglow, creating a truly mystical atmosphere.
     The Imperial Palace is home to the Emperor and Empress of Japan and the surrounding parks and gardens are open to the public free of charge. While you're here, be sure to visit the vast Imperial Palace East Garden which houses remains of the 17th-century Edo Castle as well as pretty walking paths, peaceful gardens, and a tea pavilion. To visit the Palace itself, you must book in advance at the Imperial Household Agency Homepage. [ More Info ]

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Hirosaki Castle, Aomori (late April ­ early May). The spectacular Sakura-matsuri (Cherry Blossom Festival) in the castle town of Hirosaki is not to be missed. The main attraction is the Hirosaki Castle Ruins, which has thousands of cherry trees spread throughout its grounds. The original castle was built at the beginning of the 17th century and is now a designated Historic Site. During cherry blossom season each year, 250,000 people come here to enjoy the beauty of the delicate pink and white blooms.
     Aomori is one of Japan's best regions for experiencing nature. The Shirakami-Sanchi Mountain Range, a World Natural Heritage Site, is easily accessible from the city of Hirosaki and is well-known for its beautiful waterfalls, numerous nature trails, and one of the world's largest primeval beech forests. [ More Info ]

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Maruyama Park, Kyoto (late March ­ early April). Kyoto's best site for cherry blossom viewing is this expansive park in the Higashiyama district, once the entertainment center of the city. When in bloom, the park's numerous shidarezakura (weeping cherry trees) are truly spectacular, especially at night when the entire park is lit up.
     Opened in 1886, Maruyama Park is the oldest public park in Kyoto city and is located near several historic sites including the Yasaka Shrine. Within the park you'll find traditional Japanese restaurants, tea houses, an outdoor concert stage, and plenty of quiet paths for strolling.

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Matsumae Park, Hokkaido (late April ­ late May). With nearly 10,000 cherry trees in 250 varieties, Matsumae Park is known throughout Japan for its wonderful Cherry Blossom Festival. The park was created around the ruins of Matsumae Castle, which dates to the 17th century and was the last castle to be built in the traditional Japanese style. The beautifully restored castle tower now houses a reference library where visitors can learn about cherry trees and view cherry blossom-related artifacts. Nearby, the city of Hakodate is the nation's best spot for seafood and a nice place to stop and sample the catch of the day. [ More Info ]

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Mt. Yoshino, Nara (early ­ mid-April). Imagine an entire mountain of cherry trees. That's what you'll find at Mt. Yoshino, perhaps the most famous sight for viewing cherry blossoms in all of Japan thanks to its nearly 30,000 cherry trees in 200 varieties.
     Mt. Yoshino is part of the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range," a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors come here throughout the year to explore the region's ancient pilgrimage routes, sacred sites, and temples. [ More Info ]

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