Every spring, Japan changes atmosphere. For a short window of time, streets, rivers, temples and parks are covered in soft pink cherry blossoms called sakura. But in Japan, sakura are not just flowers. They represent time, change, and the beauty of impermanence.

Understanding sakura means understanding an essential part of Japanese culture.

A symbol of impermanence

Sakura bloom for only a few days. Their beauty is intense but brief. This reflects the Japanese concept of mono no aware, the awareness that beautiful moments do not last and that this fragility is precisely what makes them meaningful. Rather than sadness, sakura invite appreciation. You are meant to enjoy them fully, knowing they will soon fall.

Hanami, the tradition of flower viewing

Hanami literally means flower viewing. In practice, it is a seasonal ritual. People gather under cherry trees with friends, family or colleagues to eat, drink and celebrate the arrival of spring. Hanami is not about performance or sightseeing. It is about slowing down and sharing a moment together.

A season of new beginnings

In Japan, both the school year and the business year begin in April, exactly when sakura bloom. Cherry blossoms therefore symbolize renewal, transitions, graduations and fresh starts.

Tokyo offers a wide range of cherry blossom experiences, from lively parks to calm riversides.

Ueno Park
One of the most famous hanami spots in Japan, with over a thousand cherry trees. Expect a festive atmosphere, food stalls and large picnic gatherings.

Shinjuku Gyoen
Spacious and calmer, with multiple varieties of sakura that bloom at different times. Ideal if you want a longer viewing period and less crowd density.

Chidorigafuchi
A moat lined with cherry trees where you can rent a boat and row beneath the blossoms. Especially beautiful in the late afternoon.

Meguro River
A long stretch of cherry trees forming a tunnel over the river. Popular in the evening when lanterns illuminate the blossoms.

Kyoto during sakura season feels slower and more poetic, with blossoms framing temples and traditional streets.

Philosopher’s Path
A quiet walk along a canal lined with cherry trees. Best enjoyed early in the morning.

Maruyama Park

Famous for its large weeping cherry tree illuminated at night. A popular spot for evening hanami.

Heian Shrine
Wide gardens with ponds and cherry trees creating a peaceful atmosphere away from the busiest areas.

Arashiyama
Cherry trees along the river with mountain views and the Togetsukyo Bridge in the background.

Osaka combines historic scenery with large green spaces perfect for hanami.

Osaka Castle Park
Cherry trees surrounding one of Japan’s most iconic castles. A classic and very photogenic spot.

Kema Sakuranomiya Park
Thousands of cherry trees lining the river. Ideal for long walks or river cruises.

Shitenno-ji
One of Japan’s oldest temples, offering a quieter sakura experience in a historic setting.

Expo ’70 Park
A large park with multiple sakura varieties and fewer crowds than central Osaka.

Sakura are not admired because they last, but because they do not. They remind people to pause, observe and appreciate the present moment. That is why cherry blossom season is not just something you see in Japan. It is something you feel.