Although there are cherry blossoms around the world when it comes to cherry blossom viewing, Japan is indeed famous, and most people will pay visits to the Sakura festival. We have listed a lot of cherry blossom viewing spots; however, there will lack of enjoyment in this beautiful time without the Sakura Season Limited food, snacks, desserts, drinks, and cuisines. Let's check out what we have prepared for you to enjoy the cherry blossom season in Japan. You are welcome to tell us your taste or preference for a perfect private tour tailored by us.
Table of Contents
1. Cherry Blossom Season Limited Snack Purchase
2. Cherry Blossom Season Limited Menu Delicacies
3. Sakura Limited Food Recommendations
4. Cherry View Restaurants Recommendations
5. Brief Intro about Japanese Food
6. Foodie Tour during Japan Sakura Season
7. Japan Sakura Forecast
8. Costs of a Trip to Japan
Many people visit Japan for a foodie tour because of its delicious cuisine and local food including Sakura food. But what is Sakura food? "Sakura" refers to cherry blossoms in Japanese, and it is also associated with various foods and flavors in Japanese cuisine. Sakura-flavored foods are often seasonal and popular during the cherry blossom season in Japan.
1. Cherry Blossom Season Limited Snacks Lists
●Eitairo Spring Special Sakura Jelly
The Eitairo has released a cherry blossom seasonal special product, which has been recognized by many domestic and international dessert awards for its pleasing appearance and taste. A whole salted cherry blossom is wrapped in pink jelly, which is naturally flavored with cherry blossoms. With its sweet, salty, and fragrant flavor, it is simply a work of art and it is one of the popular Hanami snacks. Priced at 300 yen a piece, it is available for sale at Nihonbashi Takashimaya, Keio Department Store, and Haneda Airport.
●Häagen-Dazs Spring Special Wabi-sabi Rice Cake Ice Cream
Häagen-Dazs' Wabi-sabi series began in 2015, including a cherry blossom flavor that you can smell the elegant aroma of cherry blossoms as soon as you open the lid. The sweetness of the cherry blossom sauce is accentuated by the saltiness of the ice cream, and the elasticity of the rice cake returns when it melts, making this Sakura flavored ice cream feel like the texture of Japanese desserts, which is rich in flavor and is worth a try. Priced at 324 yen per box, the Haagen Dazs Sakura ice cream is available at convenience stores and supermarkets.
●Ginobudou Spring Special Sakura Pie with Butter and Cherry Blossom Petals
The Sakura Pie with Butter and Cherry Blossom Petals from Gin no Budou is a hot item among all the Sakura snacks every spring. Born in 1996, it is inspired by falling cherry blossoms flying in the air and is made by grating cherry blossom petals into the crust, adding pink cherry blossom candies and butter to give it a crunchy and sweet taste. Available from 540 yen for a pack of 6 at major department stores such as Keio Shinjuku, Seibu, and Ikebukuro, this Sakura dessert is a great gift for your friends and family when you go back to your home country.
●Hyatt Andaz Tokyo Sakura Macarons
The sakura-flavored macarons released from March 19-April 27 from Hyatt's Andaz Hotel, with thick matcha paste and cherry blossom filling wrapped under an almond-flavored macaron pastry crust and topped with a slice of salted cherry blossom petal garnish, are said to be a bestseller for White Valentine's Day when the store will have more boys than girls to purchase Sakura desserts. Priced at 1,200 yen for a 3-pack, it is for sale on the first floor of Hotel Andaz, Toranomon, Tokyo.
●KALDI Spring Cherry Blossom Limited Edition Lucky Bags
If you don't have time to shop around during the Japan cherry blossom season, you can always go to one of the KALDI stores that are popping up all over Tokyo. Priced at 1,800 yen, the cherry blossom lucky bag contains a bottle of Wakayama-made plum wine for cherry blossom viewing, a cute little cherry blossom cup, and Hanami picnic food such as 6 slices of flaky cherry blossom pie cookies. The bag itself is designed with a cherry blossom theme, making it an enjoyment.
2. Cherry Blossom Season Limited Menu Delicacies
Is there any Sakura Japanese cuisine? Yes, some restaurants launch Sakura cuisine during the Cherry Blossom season. Let’s check out who are they in the following.
Spring Colors on the Table at Nadaman (なだ万), a Century-Old Restaurant
Nadaman (なだ万), a long-established haute kaiseki restaurant, launched a limited Sakura food menu in March called "Chungyo - Colors of Spring," which will be available for lunch and dinner at 12 restaurants nationwide at Shinjuku, Shibuya, Nihonbashi, Yokohama, Umeda, Nakanoshima, Sapporo, and others. The menu is designed by the head chef of each restaurant according to the theme of spring, emphasizing "new flavors and spring colors," so that those who have traveled from afar can enjoy the season of cherry blossoms along with the delightful food. The price is 10,000 yen per person.
The Nadamanchubo Ekyutoshinagawaten, which is not participating in this event, is taking advantage of its unique view to offer a limited-themed menu for the cherry blossom season, with all the basic set menus featuring cherry blossom elements and an unrivaled view of the cherry blossoms from the window. Be sure to make your reservation early.
Nadamanchubo Ekyutoshinagawaten Address: Japan, 〒108-0075 Tokyo, Minato City, Takanawa, 3 Chome−２６−27 エキュート品川 1F
Access: 3-minute walk from Takanawa-guchi exit of JR Shinagawa Station / 3-minute walk from Takanawa-guchi exit of Keikyu Main Line Shinagawa Station / 5-minute walk from Takanodai Station of Toei Asakusa Line
Opening hours: 11:30 - 15:30 lunchtime / 17:00 - 22:00 nighttime
Per capita spending: 10,000-18,000 yen
Nearby Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots: Hachibangen Garden, Nature Education Garden attached to the National Science Museum, Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Garden Art
Genpin Asakusa Restaurant
Is it possible to enjoy Sakura seafood in Japan? Yes, just pay attention to Genpin Fugu. Fugu (blowfish) is one of the most important items of Japanese cuisine that expresses the "freshness" of Japanese food. Japan's largest Fugu restaurant group, Genpin Fugu, launched a two-month limited menu called "Kasumigaseki". By selecting the highest quality fugu in spring and combining it with a variety of seasonal ingredients, it can create a series of fugu seafood dishes that are both beautiful and delicious. It offers seven different ways to prepare fugu, along with the beautiful "Snow Salad," "Hanami Onigiri," and "Sakura Sushi”, is a sight to behold, and the cherry blossoms outside the window are as beautiful as the fugu feast on the table.
Genpin Asakusa Restaurant is located in the Sensoji Temple scenic area. After enjoying the views outside, you can enjoy the cherry blossom beauty on the dining table.
Address: Japan, 〒111-0032 Tokyo, Taito City, Asakusa, 1 Chome−19−6 1F～2F
Hours: 11:30-22:30
Phone: +81 3-3843-1529
Per capita consumption: 5,000-8,000 yen
Nearby Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots: Sensoji Temple, Sumida Park, Asakusa Hanayashiki Amusement Park
Sakura Meat at Kikkon TOKYO
Compared to the usual izakaya, Kikkon always brings new izakaya dishes to the table, and it would be a pity not to try "Sakura Meat" after enjoying cherry blossoms in Japan in spring. There is a sashimi with "Sakura meat" that is very eye-catching.
As some of you may have guessed, this meat that can be eaten raw is horse meat that we don't usually have access to. The Japanese call it sakura meat when it's raw and cold, and it's a seasonal dish because it's best enjoyed in the springtime. There is no unpleasant taste as expected, but high-quality horse meat has a sweet flavor and is known as "the gift of the brave". Combined with the other dishes in the "Communicator" set, such as boiled fish, tempura, and grilled beef tongue, it makes for a colorful izakaya feast. By the way, this course comes with 2 hours of free drinks, so if you are a guy who dares to eat Sakura meat, just make a date!
吉今TOKYO 大手町店：6F Tokyo Sankai Building, 1-7-2 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Access：1 minute walk from Otemachi on the underground Chiyoda Line
Opening hours: 11:30-14:00, 17:00-23:30
Per capita consumption: 4000-6000 yen
Nearby Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots: Kokyo Gaien National Garden, Chidorigafuchi
しゃぶしゃぶめり乃SHINJUKU
How about tasting the Sakura charcoal grilled & shabu shabu? This restaurant, known as the "LV of shabu-shabu", has created a new way of eating shabu-shabu. In addition to unlimited food for 2 hours, when the first plate of lamb is served, it will be accompanied by an oversized marshmallow, which is then thrown into the pot after the pot is opened to fill the light soup with sweetness so that the lamb shabu-shabu will be more tender and fresher. In addition to the all-you-can-eat lamb, you can also order unlimited beef tongue, but the store is so popular that you really need to make a reservation.
しゃぶしゃぶめり乃SHINJUKU: Japan, 〒160-0021 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Kabukicho, 1 Chome−6−3, Ishizuka Bldg., 3F
Access: 2-minute walk from the East Exit of JR Shinjuku Station
Business hours (last order): 15:00-23:30
Per capita consumption: 4,000-5,000 yen
Nearby Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots: Shinjuku Gyoen, Meiji Jingu Gaien
Remember that some restaurants in Japan need to make a reservation in advance, especially for the limited set menu, which must be prepared in advance. To have a better dining experience, planning your private tour is very helpful. All you need to do is decide on a time to go, and we'll take care of the rest for you!
3. Sakura Season Limited Food Recommendations
●Sakura Mochi
Sakura Mochi is a typical wagashi of spring, with a cute outer skin filled with red bean paste and covered with salted cherry blossom leaves. It has a small and tender appearance, and the salted cherry blossom leaves are not too sweet and have a light cherry blossom leaf aroma. Depending on the place, the shape and material of the hanami mochi also differ slightly, such as in the Kanto region, most of the cherry blossom mochi is Chomeiji SAKURAMOCHI, while in the Kansai region, the representative Sakura-flavored mochi is the Domyoji Sakura Mochi.
●Sakura-flavored Popsicle
Garigari-kun, a popular popsicle brand in Japan, is always releasing new flavors to keep things fresh, and the cherry blossom-flavored popsicles released during the cherry blossom season are also very popular. Tear the cute and funny package and follow Garigari to welcome spring with a big bite of popsicle.
Sakura Chocolate
Sakura Shiriji (Ciliegio Cherry Blossom Chocolate) is a milk chocolate with a cherry blossom flavor filling. When you eat the chocolate, it's as if spring has come early in your mouth! The packaging is lightweight and easy to store, making it a great gift.
●Asahi Beer
Asahi's Super Dry Spring Cherry Blossom Limited Edition Beer, which is only available during the cherry blossom season in Japan, has received great reviews since its launch due to its high quality. Although the Asahi Spring Cherry Blossom Limited Edition Beer is no different from regular Asahi beer drinks, it is a beautiful sight at picnics and parties during the special cherry blossom season, thanks to its unique packaging design and high quality.
●Sakura Cola
Coca-Cola launches Sakura Cola 2018, which is based on Coca-Cola's classic glass bottle Cola, inspired by Japan's beautiful spring, with a large cherry blossom blooming on a pink background. It is available for a limited time during the period from January 22nd.
●Cherry Blossom Yokan
Sakura yokan is a four-square confection made from white kidney beans that are dyed pink with food coloring and then solidified in the cold. Some of the yokan are mixed with salted cherry blossom leaves and flowers, while others are combined with other flavors to make a double yokan.
●Salt Pickled Cherry Blossoms
Cherry blossoms have a very short blooming period, so the Japanese have been making pickled cherry blossoms a long time ago in order to preserve them for a long time. Yaezakura is the best pickled cherry blossom, and the process of pickling is very complicated. Salt-pickled cherry blossoms are also good as a gift.
●Sakura Coffee
Every year, Starbucks in Japan makes a big deal out of the cherry blossom season by offering a selection of cherry blossom specialty drinks and treats, and each Sakura Starbucks drink reveals the romantic element of cherry blossoms. Don't miss the Japanese cherry blossom Starbucks drink in springtime.
●Sakura Desserts
Tsujiri Tea House is a long-established tea maker in Kyoto, with a history of tea production dating back to 1860. In the spring of the year, a special cherry blossom flavor will be introduced, which is indeed great news for matcha lovers. In addition to the new Sakura flavor for dine-in, you can also buy "Sakura Matcha Latte" and Sakura Milk instant packs as souvenirs, and take these Sakura desserts home to share the strong Kyoto flavor with your friends and relatives!
●Sakura Matcha Daifuku
The Sakura Matcha Daifuku, which Ito Kyuemon introduces every year, has a sticky, soft cherry blossom ice skin on the outside and Ito Kyuemon's most famous matcha filling on the inside. With one bite, the sweetness and softness of the crust and the slight bitterness of the matcha filling form a marvelous melting that even if you don’t have a sweet tooth, you can't resist it.
●Sakura Raindrop Cake
Raindrop Cake is a Japanese dessert that has become a favorite because of its crystal-clear cuteness. Every year during the cherry blossom season, Eitairo introduces Sakura Raindrop Cake, which takes the Tokyo cherry blossoms that are about to bloom and wraps them in a jelly-like shell so that you can watch them bloom on a plate while you enjoy the Sakura dessert, and this value-packed delicacy is only available for a month or so each year when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom!
●Nenrinya Cake
The Nenrinya's cake has gained a large following for its special flavor. Nenrinya has a basic cherry blossom cake called "Sakura Buds" that is traditionally round in shape. There is mountain-shaped cake, the whole cake is pink, like a rolling mountain full of cherry blossoms, and the top of the mountain is covered with Nenrinya's signature "sugar frosting snow", which is romantic to the extreme. The texture of each layer of the cake is slightly different, making it more natural and varied in taste. The rich custard flavor with a hint of cherry blossom and the signature frosting make this cake even more delicious.
Cherry View Restaurants Recommendations
Are there any restaurants in Japan where you can enjoy delicious food and Sakura viewing at the same time? Of course, no matter whether you are enjoying the Tokyo Sakura season, Kyoto Sakura season, or Hokkaido Sakura season, you can find your choice.
Tokyo's Sakura View Restaurant: CRAFTALE
Highlight: One Michelin star, modern French cuisine
The first impression of CRAFTALE is the beauty of the simple Scandinavian decor, which is very clean. A giant long strip of glass allows diners to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the different seasons outside the window while tasting delicious food. Especially in spring, when cherry blossom season comes, the entire Meguro River is covered in pink, which is a beautiful sight to behold. CRAFTALE is composed of two thematic elements: "CRAFT" technology and "TALE" story. The chef conveys his feelings to the diners through his cuisine, and behind every exquisite dish, there is a story that the chef wants to tell.
Practical Information:
Opening Hours: 18:00 - 23:00; 11:30 - 15:00 (open for lunch on weekends and closed on Wednesdays)
Address: 1 Chome-16-11 Aobadai, Meguro City, Tokyo 153-0042, Japan
Phone: +81 3-6277-5813
Per capita budget: 8,000JPY
Service options: Reservations required
Kyoto's Sakura View Restaurant: Honke Tankuma Honten
Highlights: One Michelin star, Kyoto cuisine
Established in 1928, Honke Tankuma Honten has been pursuing the ultimate in Kyoto cuisine. The restaurant is located just above the Kamogawa River, and all seats are private rooms.
Walking through the veranda, you can enjoy the traditional Japanese-style garden, and even before you eat, you will be impressed by the view. Honke Tankuma emphasizes the seasonal flavors of Kyoto, and its dishes are prepared with great care and skill. For example, the salt-grilled wakame is a dish of fresh spring fish from Kyoto that is grilled to a crisp. The presentation is so lifelike that you'll feel like you've traveled to the three-star Kanda.
The signature dish is the secret turtle pot, which has touched the hearts of countless diners and is the top-notch dish here. The chef boldly adds turtle soup to the Kyoto cuisine and mixes unique flavors of Kyoto Kaiseki. Turtle hot pot is only sweet and fragrant, which will definitely change your traditional impression of turtle.
Practical Information:
Hours: 11:30 - 15:00; 17:00 - 22:00
Address: 168 Izumiyacho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8014, Japan
Phone: +81 50-3628-1645
Per capita budget: 35,000 JPY
Service options: Reservations required
Hokkaido's Sakura View Restaurant: Asari Honten
Highlights: Local favorites, sukiyaki and shabu-shabu
Asari Honten is an old Japanese house that was moved from Aomori and has been in the meat business for hundreds of years, starting as early as 1901. All of Asari's meat comes from well-known brands, and the high-quality and low-priced domestic black wagyu beef is the main specialty of the restaurant. The exclusive sukiyaki cooked in a thick secret chicken broth maximizes the flavor of the beef and is a delicacy that can only be tasted here.
Practical Information:
Hours: 11:00 - 20:30 (Closed on Wednesdays)
Address: Japan, 〒040-0043 Hokkaido, Hakodate, Horaicho, 10−11 あさり肉店
Phone: +81 138-23-0421
Per capita budget: 5,000 JPY
Service options: Reservations required
※It is noted that in Japan, restaurants often have strict policies regarding reservations, with many being non-refundable and non-changeable. It is crucial to carefully review the terms and conditions of each restaurant when making reservations, as policies can vary. You are highly recommended to plan a tailor-made private tour, which will provide a more personalized experience and assistance with restaurant reservations, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable dining experience.
5. Brief Intro about Japanese Food
Japanese cuisine has developed independently in the unique climate and culture of Japan. It emphasizes seasonality, delicate flavors, and the use of various types of tableware for presentation. When visiting Japan, exploring these quintessential dishes is a must.
●Sushi
Sushi is one of the most famous and widely recognized Japanese dishes. It consists of vinegared rice combined with toppings such as fish, seafood, vegetables, or egg. The combination of flavors creates a delicious taste that is beloved by the Japanese people. Trying sushi is a must-do when in Japan.
●Oden
Oden is a simple dish made by simmering various ingredients in a soy-based broth. Originating from the Kanto region of Japan, it features a rich and flavorful soup with a variety of colorful ingredients, accompanied by soy sauce and miso broth for dipping.
●Udon and Soba Noodles
Representing Japanese noodle dishes are udon and soba noodles. Udon noodles are thick, white, and chewy, made from wheat flour. They have a light flavor. Soba noodles, on the other hand, are made from buckwheat flour.
●Sashimi
Sashimi refers to thinly sliced raw fish or seafood, which is typically enjoyed by dipping it into soy sauce. There is a specific order to enjoy sashimi, starting with milder flavors and progressing to stronger ones, based on the type of fish or seafood.
●Unagi-don
Unagi-don is a dish that features grilled freshwater eel served over steamed rice. The eel is cooked to perfection, with a crispy yet tender texture and a rich, flavorful sauce. It pairs perfectly with the sweet and sticky rice.
●Tempura
Tempura refers to deep-fried battered vegetables, seafood, or other ingredients commonly found in Japanese cuisine. The name "tempura" originated from the Portuguese word "Temporas," which referred to the fasting period of Catholics. During this time, they refrained from eating meat and instead ate fried fish, shrimp, and vegetables.
These are just a few examples of the diverse and delicious Japanese cuisine. When exploring Japan, don't miss the opportunity to indulge in these iconic dishes.
6. 7-Day Japan Culture & Food Tour at Sakura Season
Quick Access>>>7 Days Tokyo - Mt. Fuji - Hakone - Kyoto - Nara - Osaka Tour
During the Japan Sakura season, you can spend 7 days to enjoy the spectacular view of the cherry trees and also enjoy the culinary delights in Japan. This Japan Culture & Food Tour offers a diverse experience, combining cultural landmarks, natural attractions, and culinary delights across Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Hakone, Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka. Sakura viewing spots in this 7-day itinerary include Senso-ji Temple to enjoy Tokyo cherry blossom, Arakurayama Sengen Park to see Mt. Fuji cherry blossom, Nara Park to admire Nara cherry blossom, and Osaka Castle to appreciate Osaka cherry blossom.
Tell us your budget and we will tailor your private itinerary according to your requirements.
Detailed Itineraries of the Japan Foodie Tour in 7 Days
●Day 1: Welcome to Tokyo:
Arrive in Tokyo and enjoy a worry-free transfer to your hotel. Begin your cultural journey in the bustling metropolis.
●Days 2-3: Tokyo's Cultural Tapestry:
Immerse in Tokyo's vibrant atmosphere, exploring iconic sites like Meiji Jingu Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and the historic Senso-ji Temple. Engage in unique experiences such as sushi-making in Shinjuku and marvel at the futuristic wonders of Odaiba.
●Day 4: Mt. Fuji & Hakone Retreat:
Embark on a scenic retreat around Mt. Fuji, with visits to Oshino Hakkai, Arakurayama Sengen Park, and the serene Lake Ashi. Take a Hakone Sightseeing cruise and ascend Komagatake Ropeway. Marvel at cherry blossoms in Arakurayama Sengen Park and explore Narusawa Hyoketsu Ice Cave.
●Days 5: Kyoto & Nara Traditions:
Visit cultural landmarks including Fushimi Inari Taisha, Uji Matcha Street, Nara Park, and Tōdai-ji Temple. Witness the beauty of cherry blossoms and immerse yourself in Japanese traditions.
●Day 6: Osaka's Urban Adventure:
Embark on an urban adventure in Osaka, exploring Kuromon Ichiba, Osaka Castle, and lively districts like Dotonbori. Experience diverse local flavors and embrace the playful side with a Ninja Outfit experience and a ride on the HEP Five Ferris wheel.
●Day 7: Departure from Osaka:
Conclude your memorable journey with private transfer services, ensuring a seamless departure from Osaka.
Reflect on the cultural, scenic, and urban wonders experienced during your 7-day Japan Culture & Food Tour. For more Japan food tour itinerary inspirations at Sakura season, you can check Japanese culinary tours for related reading.
Japan Sakura Schedule
Here is the Japan cherry blossom map that shows the Sakura forecast. For more cherry blossom Japan dates, you can check cherry blossom month in Japan.
Cost for a Trip to Japan
There are so many Sakura Japanese foods worthy of a taste during the cherry blossom festival in Japan. However, how much does a trip to Japan cost? Is it expensive to visit Japan during the Sakura season? Check our average cost to go to Japan for a cherry blossom trip here:
Conclusion
The beauty of the cherry blossom season waits for no one, and the delicacies of the cherry blossom season are also limited for a limited time. Remember to buy the souvenirs that you can take away. The delicious Sakura-themed food on the plate that cannot be taken away can only be put in your stomach to experience it yourself. When people who love cherry blossoms from all over the world gather in Japan, the dining situation will definitely exceed the supply. Leave us a message for a tailored private tour that will ensure you a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience.