In Nagasaki…
Nagasaki's mild climate means that its cherry blossoms are among the first in Japan, and there are plenty of beautiful
hanami spots to take advantage of these early blossoms. However, one of the most beautiful cherry blossom spots in the prefecture is perhaps one of the most unexpected – the area around the hypocenter of Nagasaki's atomic bombing. Visit this well-known area to reflect in the park marking the hypocenter itself, and the neighboring Peace Park, as well as to learn more at the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb museum, all while taking in the beautiful cherry blossoms.
In Kyoto…
You can see cherry blossoms in bloom all over
Kyoto during sakura season, yet there are several places that stand out as offering the best panoramas. Maruyama-koen Park is cherry blossom central, the most popular spot in Kyoto for viewing parties, and the Imperial Palace Park offers the rare
shidare-zakura (weeping cherry trees) at the north end of the park. You may also visit Kyoto Botanical Gardens that offers plenty of cherry trees, some of which bloom much later than others in the city, making it a late-season favorite.
In Tokyo…
If your itinerary affords you the opportunity to spend an evening in
Tokyo, then you must experience
yozakura, which is viewing the blossoms under the stars. In parks across the city, the blossoms are lit up at night crating an otherworldly ethereal scene that is hauntingly beautiful. One of the best examples is the weeping cherry at Rikugien, a garden that dates back to 1702. Walking past the front gate within the gardens brings into view an impressive 70-year weeping cherry blossom tree, made all the more beautiful under a spotlight.
In Okinawa…
On the southern island of
Okinawa, cherry blossoms can be spotted as early as January, but the big bloom usually doesn’t hit until late March. The region boasts numerous locations where you can experience this signature sign of spring, most notably in Maizuru Park. Not only will you find thousands of cherry trees here, but also the ruins of the Fukuoka Castle, including elegant stone walls and a former moat that dates back to the 17th century.
Sail Japan in Luxury with Regent
Regent Seven Seas Cruises® has consistently delivered unmatched luxury cruises with the very best value for over thirty years. Aboard The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet™, enjoy unrivaled onboard space, unforgettable shoreside excursions, incomparable culinary experiences, and exceptional personalized service.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION