The 2024 Japan cherry blossom season is eagerly anticipated by travelers from around the world. These beautiful cherry blossoms, called sakura in Japan, will soon cover the country in lovely shades of pink and white, creating a captivating natural show.
When is Cherry Blossom Season in Japan in 2024?
Cherry blossom season in Japan for 2024 is expected to peak from late March to early April. The official forecast was released by the Japan Meteorological Corporation on Jan. 10, and updates will be available as the season approaches. The prime time to witness the full bloom of cherry blossoms will be in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.
How Long Do the Cherry Blossoms Last in Japan?
Cherry blossoms typically last for about two weeks, from the start of their bloom to the peak bloom. However, if you plan your trip outside the peak season, there are still opportunities to enjoy cherry blossoms. In southern regions like Kawazu on the Izu Peninsula and Atami City, early blossoms can be seen from January to February. For later blossoms, consider visiting colder areas like Sendai and Hokkaido from April to May.
Where Is the Best Place to See the Cherry Blossoms in Japan?
Japan boasts over 1,000 locations where you can experience the beauty of cherry blossoms. To simplify your selection process, we have compiled a list of gorgeous cherry blossom spots by region, according to Live Japan:
Northern Japan: Hokkaido
Moerenuma Park (Sapporo)
Goryokaku Tower and Fort Goryokaku (Hakodate)
Asahigaoka Park (Furano)
Mt. Tengu (Otaru)
Asahikawa Park (Asahikawa)
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Northeastern Japan: Tohoku Region
Miharu Takizakura (Fukushima)
Hitome Senbonzakura (Miyagi)
Hirosaki Park (Aomori)
Kakunodate Bukeyashiki-dori (Akita)
Mt. Iwaki (Aomori)
Eastern Japan: Kanto-Koshin Region
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (Tokyo)
Ueno Park (Tokyo)
Meguro River (Tokyo)
Yoyogi Park (Tokyo)
Rikugien Gardens (Tokyo)
The Importance of Cherry Blossoms in Japan
Japan welcomes the arrival of spring with a spectacular display of cherry blossoms, symbolizing renewal and the ephemeral nature of life. These blossoms reach their peak beauty in about two weeks before gracefully falling away, marking a period celebrated nationwide.
As shared by the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, the season is famous for hanami, a traditional Japanese custom of enjoying the transient beauty of flowers, particularly cherry blossoms. Hanami, which dates back over a thousand years, translates to 'watching blossoms.' It's a time when people gather under the blooming trees to enjoy food, drinks, and company.
Families, friends, and coworkers come together for cherry blossom parties, engaging in activities like eating, drinking, and barbecuing under the soft pink canopies. These gatherings resemble potluck parties, with attendees bringing cooked meals, alcohol, snacks, and sweets.
Hanami also serves as an opportunity for schools and offices to host welcome parties. This tradition provides a platform for social bonding and meeting new friends, reinforcing community ties during this beautiful but brief season.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
