The Ultimate Cherry Blossom Travel Guide: Where to See the Best Blooms & When to Go
Listen, if you’ve never experienced cherry blossom season in full bloom, you are missing out.
There’s just something about strolling under pink petals, living your best soft-life fantasy, that makes spring feel extra special. But here’s the catch—these gorgeous blooms are gone before you know it!
So, if you’re trying to sip a matcha latte under sakura trees in Tokyo, twirl through a petal-covered park in Paris, or catch the pink takeover in D.C., you need to know when and where to go.
No worries, though—I did the research so you don’t have to.
Save this guide, send it to your travel bestie, and let’s get into the best places to see cherry blossoms (and when to book those flights)!
1. Tokyo, Japan 🌸
Best Dates to Visit: Late March to early April (typically March 25 - April 5)
Tokyo is one of the best places in the world to experience cherry blossoms (or “sakura” as they’re called in Japan). Top spots include:
Shinjuku Gyoen – A peaceful park with a mix of early and late-blooming trees.
Ueno Park – One of the most famous spots with over 1,000 cherry trees.
Chidorigafuchi – Rent a boat and row beneath the blossoms along the moat.
Pro Tip: Visit at night for a magical “yozakura” (night sakura) experience with illuminated cherry blossoms!
2. Kyoto, Japan 🏯
Best Dates to Visit: Late March to early April (typically March 30 - April 8)
Kyoto’s historic temples and gardens make for a stunning cherry blossom backdrop. Must-visit spots include:
Maruyama Park – Home to Kyoto’s most famous weeping cherry tree.
Philosopher’s Path – A dreamy, flower-lined canal walk.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple – Incredible views of cherry blossoms against Kyoto’s skyline.
Pro Tip: Kyoto gets busy during peak bloom! Arrive early in the morning for fewer crowds.
3. Washington, D.C., USA 🇺🇸
Best Dates to Visit: Late March to early April (typically March 20 - April 13)
The cherry blossoms in D.C. were a gift from Japan in 1912, and the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates their beauty. Best spots include:
Tidal Basin – The most iconic location, with cherry trees framing the Jefferson Memorial.
East Potomac Park – A lesser-known spot with fewer crowds.
The National Mall – Blossoms with stunning views of the Washington Monument.
Pro Tip: Check the National Park Service’s bloom tracker to time your visit perfectly!
4. Vancouver, Canada 🍁
Best Dates to Visit: Early April to mid-April (typically April 1 - April 14)
Vancouver’s cherry blossoms come to life across the city, with over 40,000 trees! Best places to see them include:
Queen Elizabeth Park – Breathtaking pink tunnels of flowers.
Stanley Park – Enjoy a scenic waterfront walk lined with cherry trees.
VanDusen Botanical Garden – A serene spot for blossom viewing.
Pro Tip: Visit during the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival for cultural events and guided tree walks.
5. Seoul, South Korea 🇰🇷
Best Dates to Visit: Early April (typically April 1 - April 10)
Seoul is another top cherry blossom destination, with gorgeous viewing spots across the city:
Yeouido Park – Famous for its Yeouido Spring Flower Festival with illuminated trees at night.
Seokchon Lake – Stunning reflections of cherry blossoms on the water.
Gyeongbokgung Palace – Traditional architecture meets pink blooms!
Pro Tip: Visit in the early morning for crowd-free photos.
6. Jerte Valley, Spain 🇪🇸
Best Dates to Visit: Late March to early April (typically March 25 - April 5)
If you want cherry blossoms with a European twist, head to Spain’s Jerte Valley! This lesser-known spot turns into a sea of white blossoms every spring.
Garganta de los Infiernos – A nature reserve with waterfalls and cherry trees.
Cabezuela del Valle – A charming village surrounded by blooms.
Pro Tip: This is a short bloom season, so check the local forecasts before booking!
7. Macon, Georgia, USA 🍑
Best Dates to Visit: Late March (typically March 15 - March 31)
Macon proudly calls itself the “Cherry Blossom Capital of the World” with over 350,000 trees!
Downtown Macon – Home to the International Cherry Blossom Festival.
Central City Park – Family-friendly activities and carnival rides.
Wesleyan College – Gorgeous cherry trees surround the campus.
Pro Tip: Grab a pink cherry blossom-themed treat from local bakeries during the festival!
8. Paris, France 🇫🇷
Best Dates to Visit: Early April (typically April 1 - April 10)
Paris in the spring? Oui, s’il vous plaît! Some of the best places to see cherry blossoms include:
Jardin des Plantes – A peaceful botanical garden with pink trees.
Parc de Sceaux – The ultimate cherry blossom picnic spot outside the city.
Notre-Dame Cathedral – Beautiful pink trees frame this iconic landmark.
Pro Tip: Pack a picnic and enjoy a lazy afternoon under the blossoms—French-style!
Planning Your Cherry Blossom Trip?
Cherry blossoms are fleeting, but with the right timing, you can experience their full beauty! Bookmark this guide and start planning your spring getaway.
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