Cherry blossoms move north from Okinawa in January to Hokkaido in May. Full bloom lasts about a week in each city.
Side-by-side comparison
| City | Typical full bloom | Top spot | Hotel price vs normal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | Mar 27–Apr 3 | Shinjuku Gyoen (¥500) | +30–50% |
| Kyoto | Mar 30–Apr 6 | Philosopher's Path | +50–100% |
| Osaka | Mar 30–Apr 5 | Osaka Castle Park | +30% |
| Hiroshima | Mar 28–Apr 4 | Peace Park | +20% |
| Sendai | Apr 8–14 | Shiroishi River | +15% |
| Hirosaki | Apr 22–28 | Hirosaki Castle | +40% |
| Sapporo | Apr 28–May 5 | Maruyama Park | +20% |
Crowd strategy
Visit famous spots before 7 am; book Kyoto hotels 3–6 months ahead.
Plan B
If you miss peak, follow the bloom north to Tohoku and Hokkaido.
Plan it with our free tools
Price your route with the Shinkansen Fare Calculator, check the JR Pass Calculator, set a daily spend in the Budget Calculator, and convert prices in 30 currencies with the Yen Converter.
Frequently asked questions
When is cherry blossom season in Japan?
Late March to early April in Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka; late April in Tohoku; early May in Hokkaido.
How long does sakura last?
About 7–10 days from first bloom to petals falling.
Where can I see late cherry blossoms?
Hirosaki, Kakunodate and Hokkaido.
Is it expensive?
Yes — hotels rise 30–100% in peak week.
Official sources & further reading
Rules, prices and schedules change. Confirm details here before you travel: