We all know that cherry blossoms are a top attraction in Japan. I mean, who wouldn’t want to catch those beautiful pink petals in full bloom? Especially us Singaporeans—we’re known for being a little “kiasu” when it comes to anything out of the ordinary, especially things we don’t get to see back home.
Well, here’s a sneak peek of the Cherry blossom forecast scoop for you: let’s make sure you’re all set to witness the beauty of those cherry blossoms in Japan in 2024.
In this article, we’ll explore Japan’s Sakura viewing traditions and reveal prime spots to enjoy the blossoms. Please take a look at our table of contents below.
Bonus tip: Those with a JR pass should take advantage of this two-week travel itinerary to explore different onsens in Japan. If you don’t know how to onsen, check out the ultimate guide to the Onsen for Singaporeans.
Table of contents
Culture of Cherry Blossom in Japan
Cherry blossoms, known as sakura in Japan, are renowned for their exquisite beauty. Yet, they represent more than just ornamental trees and hold deep cultural significance in Japan’s history, culture, and identity.
The sakura bloom marks the end of chilly winters and the beginning of the spring season. For many Japanese, sakura symbolizes human mortality. The flower portrays beauty at its peak but eventually withers and becomes fragile, mirroring the cycle of human life. It serves as a reminder that life is both short and precious.
In Japan, during the blooming period, people gather for hanami parties to celebrate and cherish these iconic trees in Hanami, or “flower viewing,” an event that means picnicking under the cherry blossom trees. Experiencing a hanami event in Japan is a must-do during springtime!
When Is Cherry Blossom Season in Japan in 2024
The cherry blossom season in Japan in 2024 is expected to peak from late March to early April, particularly in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. The Japan Meteorological Corporation issued the final official forecast on March 14, 2024.
* Please bear in mind that this Cherry blossom forecast is not guaranteed to be 100% accurate. We advise conducting thorough research and managing expectations before finalizing your itinerary.
Last Updated on 14 March 2024.
2024 Forecast of Flowering and Full Bloom Dates
Here is the table of the 2024 cherry blossom forecast in Japan.
| Location | Forecasted Flowering Date | Forecasted Full Bloom Date | Flowering Date In Average Year |
| Sapporo | 4/30 | 5/3 | 5/1 |
| Aomori | 4/17 | 4/21 | 4/22 |
| Sendai | 4/4 | 4/9 | 4/8 |
| Tokyo | 3/24 | 3/31 | 3/24 |
| Kanazawa | 4/1 | 4/7 | 4/3 |
| Nagano | 4/6 | 4/11 | 4/11 |
| Nagoya | 3/22 | 4/1 | 3/24 |
| Kyoto | 3/25 | 4/2 | 3/26 |
| Osaka | 3/27 | 4/3 | 3/27 |
| Wakayama | 3/24 | 4/1 | 3/24 |
| Hiroshima | 3/24 | 4/2 | 3/25 |
| Kochi | 3/19 | 3/28 | 3/22 |
| Fukuoka | 3/22 | 3/31 | 3/22 |
| Kagoshima | 3/30 | 4/9 | 3/26 |
Top Places To Visit During Cherry Blossom Season
Now that you’ve had a glimpse at the cherry blossom forecast in Japan, it’s time to explore the various places where you can witness the breathtaking cherry blossoms, ranging from iconic parks to hidden gems. Before finalizing your itinerary, check out this list for inspiration.
Tokyo
1. Shinjuku Gyoen
Shinjuku Gyoen boasts over a thousand cherry trees, with various early and late blooming species. The park offers expansive lawns and a serene, peaceful atmosphere.
2. Ueno Park
Ueno Park is among Japan’s busiest and most vibrant locations for cherry blossom gatherings. With over 1000 trees lining the streets towards the National Museum and encircling Shinobazu Pond, it’s a bustling hub of activity. Cherry blossoms in Ueno Park typically bloom a few days earlier than in other parts of the city.
3. Chidorigafuchi
At Kitanomaru Park, hundreds of cherry trees adorn the moats of the former Edo Castle, making it Tokyo’s top cherry blossom spot. Visitors can rent boats to enjoy the view, and the trees are illuminated in the evening, adding to the enchanting atmosphere.
Nagano Prefecture
1. Matsumoto Castle
Matsumoto Castle ranks among Japan’s most stunning original castles. About 300 cherry trees are planted around the castle moats and inside the castle’s paid inner grounds.
2. Takato Castle Ruins Park
Takato Castle Ruins Park is one of Japan’s top three cherry blossom spots, with 1500 cherry trees on the former castle grounds.
Nagoya Prefecture
1. Yamazakigawa Riverside
The Shikinomichi, known as the “Path of Four Seasons,” along Nagoya’s Yamazaki River is among Japan’s top 100 cherry blossom spots. It spans nearly a kilometre and has hundreds of cherry trees along the riverbank.
2. Nagoya Castle
The Nagoya Castle park and moats feature many Somei Yoshino trees, some weeping cherry trees, and a few other types of cherry trees.
Kyoto
1. Maruyama Park
Maruyama Park, beside Yasaka Shrine, is Kyoto’s favourite spot for cherry blossom celebrations. The park’s highlight is a grand weeping cherry tree illuminated in the evenings. Visitors can enjoy various food stalls and pop-up restaurants with outdoor seating beneath the cherry trees.
2. Philosopher’s Path
The Philosopher’s Path is a pleasant path beside a canal that connects Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion) with the vicinity of Nanzenji. Hundreds of cherry trees line it.
Osaka
1. Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle has over 4000 cherry trees. Nishinomaru Park, in the castle’s western citadel, is perfect for picnics with expansive lawns, castle views, and evening illumination.
2. Okawa River
During cherry blossom season, the Okawa River in central Osaka is a must-visit, boasting approximately 4,800 cherry blossom trees.
You may opt for a 25-minute Okawa River Sakura Cruise with the Osaka Amazing Pass or a private one-hour cruise to savour the blossoms at your own pace. Along either side of the Okawa River, Kema Sakuranomiya Park and the Japan Mint Headquarters are famous cherry blossom spots for you to check out.
3. Kema Sakuranomiya Park
Nearly 5000 cherry trees line the Okawa River for several kilometres. The seemingly endless rows of cherry trees can be viewed from a pleasant riverside promenade or ships cruising the river. There are also lawn areas with a lot of space for picnics.
Yamanashi
1. Lake Kawaguchiko/Fuji Five Lakes
The trees lining the northern shores of Lake Kawaguchiko offer a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji, combined with the lake and cherry blossoms. The lakeside promenade around the Kawaguchiko Music Forest and the Ubuyagasaki peninsula near the Kawaguchiko Ohashi Bridge are among the top spots. Mornings are typically optimal for the best visibility of Mount Fuji.
2. Chureito Pagoda
The Chureito Pagoda, situated in the hills of Fujiyoshida City, attracts photographers throughout the year. It’s especially popular in mid-April during cherry blossom season when it stands amidst a stunning display of cherry blossoms.
Amori
1. Hirosaki Castle
Hirosaki Castle Park is a renowned cherry blossom viewing spot in northern Japan. It boasts approximately 2,600 cherry blossom trees and offers a picturesque view of the castle amidst the blossoms.
Kanazawa
1. Kenrokuen
Kenrokuen, Japan’s renowned garden, is a beautiful sight and a delightful cherry blossom spot. Numerous cherry trees adorn its pathways, offering a stunning display of blossoms. Surrounding areas near Ishikawa Gate also provide opportunities to enjoy the cherry blossoms’ splendour.
Nara
1. Nara Park
Nara Park boasts approximately 1700 cherry trees, outnumbering the deer by around 500. One of the park’s most delightful hanami spots is a large lawn surrounded by cherry trees, located a short walk southeast of Todaiji’s main hall.
2. Mount Yoshinoyama
For centuries, Yoshinoyama (Mount Yoshino) has stood as Japan’s premier cherry blossom viewing destination. The mountain is adorned with around 30,000 cherry trees, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
Sendai
1. Mikamine Park
Mikamine Park, located south of central Sendai, is a spacious public park with hundreds of beautiful cherry trees and wide lawns. It offers plenty of space to hold cherry blossom viewing parties underneath its cherry trees.
Popular Food To Eat During the Cherry Blossom Season
1. Hanami Dango
Hanami dango is one of the popular snacks during cherry blossom viewing in Japan. These skewered dumplings are made with rice flour and glutinous rice flour. These chewy dumplings come in three colours (sanshoku dango): pink, white, and green springtime hues.
2. Sakura Mochi
Sakura Mochi is a flavoured traditional seasonal wagashi (Japanese sweet) enjoyed throughout Japan during spring. It’s flavoured with salt-preserved sakura (cherry blossom) flowers and wrapped in a cherry blossom leaf.
3. Inari Sushi
Inari Sushi consists of sushi rice enveloped in deep-fried, seasoned tofu skin. This simple yet delightful sushi variant requires only a few ingredients, making it perfect for a picnic lunch or a delightful addition to your sushi dinner spread.
Stuck in Singapore?
Did you miss the cherry blossom forecast, or just you simply cannot travel during that time? Not to worry! You can still immerse yourself in the beauty of Sakura season right here at Ikeda Spa. Discover our exclusive Spring spa promotion inspired by Japan’s Hanami festival. Treat yourself to our sakura-inspired spa package, featuring a luxurious cherry blossom Onsen bath and soothing cherry blossom aromatherapy massages designed to hydrate and replenish your body, leaving your skin soft and nourished. To make your experience even more delightful, indulge in a complimentary mochi and tea after your appointment!
