Where Should You Go to See Sakura in Japan?
Sakura (cherry blossoms) can be seen all over Japan.
If you are staying a few days in Tokyo, you can usually find cherry blossoms nearby during peak season. If you imagine cherry blossoms with historic temples and traditional streets, Kyoto is often the first place that comes to mind.
However, Tokyo is extremely crowded, and Kyoto is packed with visitors from all over the world during sakura season. Taking photos or enjoying hanami quietly can be difficult.
That’s why I recommend visiting the Tohoku region.
Why Visit Tohoku for Sakura?
“Tohoku” refers to the six prefectures in northern Honshu.
Compared to major tourist areas, Tohoku still has fewer international visitors. The region has a calm, local atmosphere — and incredible cherry blossom spots that many travelers don’t know about.
Because of the colder climate, sakura bloom later than in Tokyo or Kyoto. This makes Tohoku perfect if you miss peak bloom in central Japan.
Below are three of my favorite sakura spots in Tohoku.
🌸 1. Hanamiyama Park (Fukushima)
Best Time to Visit
Late March – Mid April (varies by year)
Access
Tokyo → Tohoku Shinkansen → Fukushima Station (≈ 90 min)
Then about 12 minutes by bus.
Why Visit
This mountain is privately owned but open to the public. It’s often called a “Peach Blossom Paradise,” with over 70 kinds of flowers blooming one after another.
The colorful layers of flowers create a unique landscape that is extremely photogenic.
Time Needed
About 2 hours (longer if you love photography)
Food Recommendation
Try Fukushima’s famous round dumplings (Enban gyoza).
🌸 2. Kakunodate (Akita)
Best Time to Visit
Late April – Early May
Access
Tokyo → Akita Shinkansen → Kakunodate Station (≈ 2h 40min)
15-minute walk from the station.
Why Visit
Black samurai residences from the 1600s create a dramatic background for pink cherry blossoms — a classic Japanese scene.
Nearby, the Hinokinai River has about 2 km of cherry trees lining the riverbank, offering a completely different sakura view.
Even outside sakura season, this historic town is worth visiting.
Time Needed
2 hours minimum
3–4 hours recommended if visiting samurai houses + lunch
Food Recommendation
- Oyakodon (chicken and egg rice bowl)
- Inaniwa Udon — thin, smooth regional noodles
🌸 3. Hirosaki Park(Aomori)
Best Time to Visit
Late April – Early May
Access
Tokyo → Tohoku Shinkansen → Shin-Aomori → JR Ou Line → Hirosaki
(≈ 3.5 hours total)
Why Visit
The park surrounds Hirosaki Castle and contains some of Japan’s oldest Somei Yoshino cherry trees.
Hirosaki is especially famous for:
- Cherry blossom tunnels
- Petals covering the moat like pink water
- Beautiful views even after peak bloom
Time Needed
2 hours (park only)
3 hours if visiting inside the castle or taking photos slowly
Food Recommendation
Aomori produces Japan’s largest apple harvest. Try local apple pie shops in Hirosaki City.
Is Tohoku Too Far?
Yes — Tohoku requires travel time, even by Shinkansen.
However:
- Hanamiyama Park works well as a day trip from Tokyo
- Kakunodate and Hirosaki are better with 1–2 nights stay
If you make the trip, you’ll see cherry blossoms that feel special and less crowded.