In spring, the most popular activity in Japan is cherry blossom viewing. As temperatures rise, spring flowers bloom, and the whole country is blanketed in a sea of pink cherry blossoms. Both international tourists and local residents are drawn to the beauty of the blossoms. Japan’s mountainous terrain and extensive forests also offer numerous hiking opportunities. Spring is a great time to combine cherry blossom viewing with outdoor hiking adventures!
1. Cherry Blossom Viewing
Ueno Park (Tokyo):
Ueno Park is home to about 1,200 cherry trees. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of blooming varieties such as the Yoshino and Yamazakura cherries. At night, the park is illuminated, creating a dreamy atmosphere for viewing the blossoms. Every year during the blooming season, the park hosts a Cherry Blossom Festival, with lights illuminating the trees, various events, and bustling markets.
Osaka Castle Park (Osaka):
This park is a premier cherry blossom spot in Osaka. The iconic Osaka Castle, surrounded by cherry trees, forms a breathtaking backdrop. The park boasts big patches of cherry blossoms. The “Cherry Blossom Path” between the main and second enclosures is particularly famous. During the cherry blossom season, the castle grounds are adorned with pink flowers, creating a picturesque scene. The gentle fall of cherry petals in the breeze is truly enchanting.
Takato Castle Ruins Park (Nagano):
Situated on the site of the historic Takato Castle, this park features about 1,500 local cherry trees known as “Takato Kohigan Sakura,” which bloom only here. When in full bloom, the park transforms into a pink wonderland, with the historical buildings providing a stunning contrast. The park is also illuminated at night, adding a touch of magic to the cherry blossom experience.
Kitakami Tenshochi Park (Iwate):
Along the Kitakami River, over 100-year-old Yoshino cherry trees compete to bloom, creating a 2-kilometer-long cherry blossom tunnel. Visitors can enjoy the blossoms by taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the park or a leisurely boat trip on the river, offering a serene and elegant viewing experience.
Nagoya Castle (Nagoya):
Nagoya Castle is surrounded by about 1,000 cherry trees of ten different varieties, including Yoshino cherries. The combination of the majestic castle and delicate cherry blossoms captures the essence of Japanese scenery. During the “Nagoya Castle Cherry Blossom Festival”, both the blossoms and the castle are illuminated, creating a magical evening experience.
Himeji Castle (Hyogo):
Himeji Castle is the largest and most elegant surviving ancient castle in Japan. Due to its pristine white walls and gracefully curved rooflines that resemble a white heron spreading its wings, it is also known as the “White Heron Castle”.
Every year, from late March to early April, is the peak cherry blossom season. Around 1,000 cherry trees, including Yoshino and weeping cherry varieties, bloom throughout the castle grounds. The pink petals flutter down against the backdrop of the main keep and white walls, creating a dreamy, enchanting scene.
From sunset to midnight, the castle hosts nighttime illuminations of the cherry blossoms. The lit-up blossoms create an even more magical atmosphere than during the day, and visitors can enjoy the shadows cast by the night-time cherry blossoms on the castle walls and stone fortifications.
Mount Yoshino (Nara):
Mount Yoshino stretches from the southern banks of the Yoshino River in central Nara Prefecture to the Omine Mountain Range. It is centered around the Kimpusen-ji Temple and is a vast area dotted with numerous shrines and temples.
Mount Yoshino is famed for its approximately 30,000 cherry trees. Each spring, the cherry blossoms bloom in succession from the lower part of the mountain (Shimo Senbon) up to the summit (Oku Senbon), transforming the entire mountain into a breathtaking display of pink.
As the sun sets, the cherry blossoms, spread across the mountain, are beautifully illuminated, creating a mystical and enchanting atmosphere. The interplay of the blossoms and the twinkling lights under the night sky envelops Mount Yoshino in a magical aura.
2. Hiking
Utsukushigahara Highlands (Nagano):
On a sunny spring day, consider a hike in the Utsukushigahara Highlands, located in the Matsumoto, Ueda, and Nagawa areas of Nagano Prefecture. With an elevation of about 2,000 meters, this area offers gentle, expansive terrain with well-marked trails. The clear views of the Japanese Alps, Mount Yatsugatake, and even Mount Fuji on a good day make it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Shosenkyo Gorge (Yamanashi):
Shosenkyo Gorge is located in the northern part of Kofu City and is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, with clear waters flowing gently, surrounded by unique rock formations and continuous stretches of natural beauty. It is often celebrated as the “most beautiful valley in Japan.” In spring, the area bursts with fresh greenery and vibrant blossoms, presenting a refreshing and lively scenery everywhere you look.
The typical hiking route begins at Nagatabashi, known as the entrance to Shosenkyo, and ends at Crystal Fountain. This route spans approximately 6 kilometers and takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete. Along the way, hikers can enjoy stunning views, with the trail winding along the stream. Key highlights include the Tenko Forest, designated as a natural monument by Yamanashi Prefecture, the dramatic cliffs of Kakuen Peak, the giant natural “Stone Gate,” and the 30-meter-tall, graceful Sen-ga Taki Waterfall.
Sarushima Island (Kanagawa):
As spring arrives, Sarushima, the only natural island in Tokyo Bay, beckons with its hiking trails and scenic beauty. Although it is called “Monkey Island,” there are no monkeys here. The island, covered mostly in forest, offers various hiking routes. After a hike, visitors can enjoy fishing or a barbecue on the nearby shores, especially around Yokosuka.
When the flowers bloom and spring arrives, take a trip to Sarushima Island! Floating in Tokyo Bay, Sarushima is the only natural island in the bay and the largest uninhabited island there. It’s easily accessible, just a half-hour trip from Keikyu Yokosuka-Chuo Station in Yokosuka City.
Despite its name “Sarushima,” which means “Monkey Island,” there aren’t any monkeys on the island. The island is small, and mostly covered by forests, but it boasts several hiking trails, perfect for a free and relaxing walk. Around the island, especially near the Yokosuka area, there are many shallow beaches where you can enjoy fishing or have a BBQ to unwind after your hike.
3. Spring Travel Tips
Weather: Spring in Japan sees gradually warming temperatures, but nights can still be chilly. Rainfall is generally lower than in other seasons, but it’s wise to be prepared for rain. Dress in light layers and bring a jacket for cooler evenings.
Peak Season: Spring, especially during the cherry blossom season, is the peak travel time in Japan. Plan your trip in advance to avoid crowds and secure accommodations, restaurant reservations, and tickets to attractions.
Allergies: When cherry blossoms reach their full bloom, a large amount of pollen is dispersed over a wide area. Those with pollen allergies should take extra precautions and be well-prepared during this time.
