The Sakura season holds a special place in Japanese culture, marking the beginning of spring and symbolizing renewal and the transient nature of life. Many festivals and events are organized across the country to celebrate this natural spectacle, and it's a time when people come together to appreciate the beauty of nature. From Okinawa to Hokkaido, the scent of cherry blossoms is everywhere. How to plan a Sakura tour and travel? When is the Japanese cherry blossom season? How much will it cost to travel to Japan during Sakura season? Where to view the best cherry blossoms in Japan? Here is our complete guide on the Japan cherry blossom tour. Leave us a message for a private cherry blossom itinerary if you are planning to make a Japan Sakura trip.
Table of Contents
■1-Week Japan Sakura Tour
■2-Week Cherry Blossom Trip Japan
■How Late to Book Japan Cherry Blossom Tour
■Average Cost for a Trip to Japan
■Japan Sakura Trip to Kanto, Kansai or Hokkaido
■Why Travel to Tokyo, Fuji, Kyoto, Nara and Osaka
▲And browse ahead our best private guided Sakura cherry blossom trips below (All trip itineraries can be tailored to meet your preferences):
8 Days Tokyo - Kyoto - Osaka Tour
8 days | From $ 4620
10 Days Tokyo - Kamakura - Hakone - Osaka - Kyoto - Nara Tour - Only available from 20th Mar to 15th Apr
10 days | From $ 5863
6 Days Sapporo - Otaru - Lake Toya - Hakodate - Only available from 25th Apr to 10th May
6 days | From $ 3470
14 Days Tokyo - Hakone - Mt.Fuji - Matsumoto - Takayama - Kanazawa - Kyoto - Osaka Tour
14 days | From $ 8850
1 Week Japan Cherry Blossom Trip: Tokyo and Kansai Classic Tour
Quick Access>>>7 Days Tokyo -Osaka - Kyoto - Nara Tour
More 1-Week Cherry Blossom Tour Inspirations>>>1 Week Japan Sakura Itinerary
If you have a 1-week vacation and plan to enjoy the Japanese cherry blossom season, you are highly recommended to consider our crafted cherry blossom Japan trip for 7 days. This cherry blossom tour of a 7-day itinerary in Japan offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, scenic beauty, and culinary delights across Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara. Let's embark on this amazing cherry blossom trip. If you have any specific requirements or need to tailor the itinerary, contact our travel experts to create your trip now.
7 Days Hanami Tour in Japan during the Sakura Season:
●Day 1: Welcome to Japan!
-Smooth flight to Tokyo.
-Personal driver greeting you at the airport.
-Private car transfer to your hotel for a hassle-free start to your trip.
●Day 2: Tokyo Icons and Culinary Adventure
-Visit the Imperial Palace, a serene oasis of Japan's royal heritage.
-Catch a distant view of Tokyo Tower, symbolizing the city's modern pulse.
-Explore Sensoji Temple in the bustling Asakusa district.
-Enjoy the culinary adventure with local street food.
-Experience the vibrant nightlife at Shinjuku Golden Gai, a labyrinth of unique bars.
●Day 3: Discover Mt. Fuji
-Marvel at Lake Kawaguchi's tranquil waters.
-Enjoy the awe-inspiring views of Tenjozan Park.
-Experience the pristine springs of Oshino Hakkai.
-Visit the spiritually significant Arakurayama Sengen Shrine.
●Day 4: Transfer to Osaka by Shinkansen
-Seamless travel with a 2.5-hour Shinkansen transfer from Tokyo to Osaka.
-Private station transfers for a hassle-free continuation of your adventure.
●Day 5: Kyoto and Nara Highlights
-Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, a historic shrine dating back to the 8th century.
-Explore Uji, renowned for premium green tea.
-Discover Nara Park and Tōdai-ji Temple.
-Experience the charm of Nara Park's free-roaming deer.
●Day 6: Explore Osaka on Foot
-Visit Osaka Castle Park, built in 1583.
-Enjoy the Ninja experience in Asakusa.
-Marvel at the world's largest ovular Ferris wheel.
-Explore Dotonbori, a bustling shopping and culinary hub.
-Savor local delicacies like Takoyaki, Kobe Beef, and Okonomiyaki.
●Day 7: Departure
-Enjoy leisure time before a comfortable transfer to the airport.
-Smooth journey for your onward flight.
Highlights of the Sakura Viewing Spots in This 7-day Itinerary
Sensoji Temple (day 1): Experience the enchanting beauty of cherry blossoms surrounding the historic Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo, adding a touch of serenity to this bustling spiritual site.
Kawaguchiko (day 3): Immerse yourself in the picturesque charm of cherry blossoms around Lake Kawaguchi, complementing the breathtaking landscapes of Mt. Fuji, and enhancing your journey through Kawaguchiko.
Arakurayama Sengen Shrine (day 3): Revel in the ephemeral beauty of cherry blossoms at Arakurayama Sengen Shrine, where the spiritually significant surroundings become adorned with delicate pink blooms during the spring season.
Nara Park (day 5): Witness the magical sight of cherry blossoms in Nara Park, where the iconic landmarks of Tōdai-ji Temple and free-roaming deer are beautifully complemented by the fleeting beauty of spring's cherry blossoms.
Osaka Castle (day 6): Explore the grounds of Osaka Castle adorned with cherry blossoms, as the historic castle built in 1583 becomes a scenic backdrop for the fleeting beauty of Japan's beloved Sakura season.
Overall, this 7-day itinerary of Japan cherry blossom tour provides a well-rounded exploration of Japan's vibrant cities and landscapes to immerse in Japanese history, culture, scenery, and food. Enjoy your cherry blossom travel to Japan! If you have any questions about certain activities in the itinerary of this Japan Sakura tour, feel free to ask our travel expert.
2 Week Cherry Blossom Tour in Japan
Quick Access>>>11 Days Tokyo - Hakone - Kyoto - Nara - Hiroshima Tour
More 2-Week Cherry Blossom Tour Inspirations>>>2 Week Japan Itinerary Cherry Blossom
If you hope to explore more about Japan's culture and landscapes in more cities during the Sakura season, this 11-day Sakura tour will be ideal for you. In addition to taking you to visit Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka, this 11-day cherry blossom trip also offers more experience and explorations in Hakone, Nagoya, and Hiroshima, such as soaking in the natural hot springs in a Ryokan, which will be an enjoyable thing for a Sakura tour in Japan!
From iconic landmarks like Tokyo's Meiji Jingu Shrine and Kyoto's Kinkakuji Temple to the tranquil landscapes of Nagoya and the poignant Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, each day promises a blend of cultural immersion and scenic beauty. Delight in the flavors of Osaka's foodie haven, witness the unique allure of Miyajima Island, and indulge in the vibrant energy of Tokyo's Harajuku district. Join us on this enchanting adventure, where every day unfolds a new chapter in Japan's fascinating story.
Detailed Itinerary of the Cherry Blossom Trip Japan in 11 Days
●Days 1-2: Tokyo's Arrival and Cultural Exploration
-Meiji Jingu Shrine: Explore Tokyo's largest shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.
-Harajuku: Immerse yourself in the center of kawaii (cute) and young Japanese fashion style.
-Omotesando: Walk along this tree-lined avenue, Tokyo's version of Champs-Élysées, known for high-end shopping.
-Yoyogi Park: Relax in one of Tokyo's largest parks, a convenient spot near top city attractions.
-Sensoji Temple: Visit Tokyo's oldest and majestic Buddhist temple in Asakusa.
●Day 3: Hakone Full Day Tour
-Tozan Cable Car: Enjoy a scenic ride to Hakone, known for its breathtaking views.
-Owakudani Valley: Explore the volcanic valley, witnessing bursts of white smoke and the smell of sulfur from a past eruption.
-Lake Ashi: Cruise on the Hakone Pirate Ship for stunning views of Mt. Fuji and the lake.
-Hakone Ropeway: Take in the pleasing scenery while riding to Owakudani.
-Hakone Shrine: Visit this iconic shrine and soak in the tranquility of its surroundings.
●Day 4: Nagoya Highlights
-Nagoya Castle: Explore the historic castle designated as a National Treasure.
-Toyota Commemorative Museum: Learn about Toyota's history and technologies.
●Day 5: Journey to Kyoto's Scenic Spots in Arashiyama
-Togetsukyo Bridge: Cross this scenic bridge over the Katsura River in Arashiyama.
-Sagano Bamboo Forest: Experience the unique sounds of the wind in this bamboo forest.
-Okochi Sanso: Visit the former estate of actor Okochi Denjiro, now open to the public.
●Day 6: Kyoto's Shrines & Temples
-Kiyomizu Temple: Enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto from this World Heritage site.
-Kinkakuji Temple: Visit the iconic Golden Pavilion.
-Nijo Castle: Explore the historical castle with beautiful gardens.
-Nishiki Market: Wander through Kyoto's famous market with over 400 years of history.
●Day 7: Nara and Fushimi Exploration
-Fushimi Inari Shrine: Walk through the iconic trail of thousands of Torii gates.
-Uji Matcha Street: Discover Uji's tea culture.
-Nara Park: Encounter and feed free-roaming deer, and visit Todai-ji Temple.
●Day 8: Osaka Foodie Tour
-Kuromon Market: Explore Osaka's famous market.
-Osaka Castle Park: Visit the historic castle.
-Ninja Experience: Relive childhood dreams with a ninja adventure.
-Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi: Explore popular shopping and entertainment districts.
-Donki Ferris Wheel: Experience the world's only oval Ferris wheel.
●Day 9: Hiroshima Highlights
-Atomic Bomb Dome: Visit the iconic symbol of Hiroshima.
-Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: Explore the park dedicated to peace.
-Hiroshima Castle: Learn about the castle's history.
●Day 10: Miyajima Island Adventure before Departure from Osaka
-Miyajima: Explore the romantic island with wild deer.
-Itsukushima Shinto Shrine: Visit the shrine known for its "floating" torii gate.
Highlights of the Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in This 11-day Itinerary
In addition to the Sakura viewing spots such as Sensoji Temple, Nara Park, and Osaka Castle that are also included in the 7-day itinerary, within 11 days tours here, there are also several spots for you to enjoy the Japanese cherry blossom:
Yoyogi Park (day 1): Embrace the vibrant atmosphere of cherry blossoms at Yoyogi Park in Tokyo, where the sprawling greenery transforms into a sea of pink during the Sakura season, creating a lively and picturesque setting.
Nagoya Castle (day 4): Discover the historical charm of Nagoya Castle amidst cherry blossoms, as the iconic fortress stands proudly surrounded by the delicate hues of spring, offering a unique blend of cultural and natural beauty.
Arashiyama (day 5): Traverse the enchanting bamboo groves and witness the ethereal beauty of cherry blossoms in Arashiyama, Kyoto, creating a magical ambiance as you explore this scenic district.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple (day 6): Delight in the breathtaking views of cherry blossoms at Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto, where the iconic wooden terrace offers a stunning vantage point to admire the beauty of sakura in a historical setting.
Nijo Castle (day 6): Stroll through the historic gardens of Nijo Castle in Kyoto, where cherry blossoms add a touch of elegance to the UNESCO World Heritage site, creating a serene atmosphere within the castle grounds.
For other options to view more cherry blossoms in Japan in springtime, you can check Best Spots to View Japanese Cherry Blossoms.
Embark on a captivating 11-day journey through Japan's cultural wonders with our meticulously crafted itinerary. This immersive experience takes you on a seamless exploration of Tokyo, Nagoya, Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima, and Osaka, unveiling the rich tapestry of Japan's history, traditions, and modern allure. If you are energetic and hope to extend your Japan Sakura tour to Korea at spring season, you can also embark on an 18-day multinational tour across Japan and South Korea.
How Late to Book Trip to Japan for Cherry Blossoms?
Booking a trip to Japan for cherry blossoms can be a wonderful experience. The timing of cherry blossoms varies each year, but they typically bloom in late March to early April. To catch the cherry blossoms at their peak, it's recommended to book your trip several months in advance, ideally around 4-6 months before your planned travel dates.
Here is the Sakura forecast that may be helpful for you to plan a Japan cherry blossom trip, or you can check our Japan Sakura Forecast for more details.
Prefecture
| Location
| Forecasted Flowering Date | Forecasted Full Bloom Date |
| Hokkaido | Sapporo | May 2 | May 6 |
| Aomori | Aomori | Apr 21 | Apr 25 |
| Miyagi | Sendai | Apr 8 | Apr 12 |
| Tokyo | Tokyo | Mar 23 | Mar 30 |
| Ishikawa | Kanazawa | Apr 1 | Apr 7 |
| Nagano | Nagano | Apr 6 | Apr 12 |
| Aichi | Nagoya | Mar 21 | Mar 31 |
| Kyoto | Kyoto | Mar 23 | Apr 1 |
| Osaka | Osaka | Mar 25 | Apr 1 |
| Wakayama | Wakayama | Mar 23 | Mar 31 |
| Hiroshima | Hiroshima | Mar 22 | Apr 1 |
| Kochi | Kochi | Mar 18 | Mar 26 |
| Fukuoka | Fukuoka | Mar 21 | Mar 30 |
| Kagoshima | Kagoshima | Mar 22 | Apr 3 |
To get the most accurate information for the current year, you may want to check cherry blossom forecasts closer to your planned travel dates. Keep in mind that the timing can be influenced by factors like temperature and weather conditions, so it's always a good idea to stay updated as your travel dates approach.
How Much Does a Trip to Japan Cost?
How much for a trip to Japan? Is $5000 enough for a trip to Japan? Here is the price list of Japan trip cost for reference:
●Family private tours (3-5 people): Approx. $350-500 per person a day
●Couple's private tour (2 people): Approx. $450 per person a day
Thus, the cost for a trip to Japan is around US$5,000 to $7,000 for a 2-week trip in Japan and US$2,500 to $3,500 for a 1-week tour in Japan.
| Percentages of Tour Costs Going Toward Services |
| Service | Percentage of Tour |
| Private Car & Driver | 40% |
| Private Guide | 30% |
| Local 4-Star Hotel & Breakfasts | 15% |
| Sightseeing & Activities | 10% |
| Train Rides & Flights within Japan | 5% |
March and April are the peak Japan travel months because of the Japanese cherry blossom season, with services usually doubled or even tripled in cost. Therefore, we recommend reservations on Japan cherry blossom tours be made at least 6 months prior to departure.
Japan Sakura Trip to Kanto, Kansai, or Hokkaido: Where to Go?
The cherry blossoms in Japan are gorgeous but short-lived. It usually only lasts a week from the time the flowers bloom to the time they wither. To grasp the best cherry blossom viewing time, you need to know the blooming time in various places. From the end of March to the end of April, you can enjoy the Japanese cherry blossoms in a month. Where is the best place to go for such beautiful Sakura scenery? How to plan a Sakura tour to Japan? Here are our recommendations for your cherry blossom in Japan trip at Kanto, Kansai, and Hokkaido.
Tokyo & Mt. Fuji for First Time Cherry Blossom Viewing in Kanto, Japan
The flowering period in Kanto is always earlier than that in Kansai. People who can't wait to enjoy cherry blossoms can choose the Tokyo & Mount Fuji route for the Sakura tour and travel. Stroll on the streets of Tokyo and enjoy the fluttering pink in the gaps between the modern high-rise buildings. It feels like walking on in comics. When you feel tired, you can go into a roadside shop to eat, drink, and shop. When you walk out, you will immediately return to the magical reality. Enjoy the Meguro River cherry blossom viewing and shopping in the gorgeous night view of Tokyo, and soak in a traditional Japanese Hakone ryokan onsen. This is a great choice for your first experience of cherry blossom viewing in Japan.
Kyoto & Nara & Osaka in Kansai: Stroll in the Ancient Capital under Cherry Blossom
Kansai is a healing cherry blossom viewing destination. There are countless scenic spots here, full of ancient charm. Strolling through Kansai where cherry blossoms are falling, shrines, temples, streets, and parks are all worthy of your stay, and every place is the most beautiful background. Put on a kimono, stroll in Osaka Castle Park, purify your soul at Daigoji Temple in Kyoto, meet a geisha in Gion, and enjoy the nighttime cherry blossoms along the Shirakawa River. In Nara Park, change into another kimono of your choice and dance with the deer amidst the cherry blossoms. If you are energetic, you can also head to Mount Yoshino to admire the Hitome-senbon Sakura.
Hokkaido to Appreciate the Latest Cherry Blossom in Japan at the End of Spring
The spectacular Sakura scene of May in Honshu is over, but the cherry blossoms in Hokkaido are beginning to bloom. The cherry blossom season in Hokkaido is from late April to early May. If you miss the cherry blossom festivals in other Japanese cities in April, you can choose to tour Hokkaido at the end of spring. Hokkaido is the last stop on Japan's cherry blossom front. The main varieties of cherry blossoms here are Chishimazakura, Bloodline Cherry Blossoms, etc. and the best viewing spots include Matsumae Park in Sapporo and Goryokaku Park in Hakodate.
Japan Cherry Blossom Tours: Why Travel to Tokyo, Fuji, Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka?
Why do so many people choose to visit Tokyo, Fuji, Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka for Japanese cherry blossom viewing when planning cherry blossom tours Japan? Here are the reasons:
Tokyo: Enjoy the Beauty in the Midst of Bustle
Late March is the time when the cherry blossoms in Tokyo are in full bloom. In spring, Tokyo is covered with pink Sakura in romantic colors, and there are countless cherry blossom viewing spots in Tokyo, where the cherry blossom branches on both sides of the road intertwine to form a dreamy "Cherry Blossom Tunnel", and the rivers are dyed pink by the falling cherry blossoms.
Tokyo Cherry Blossom Viewing Time: Late March to Early April
Cherry Blossom Varieties: Somei-yoshino, Ezo-yamazakura, Satozakura, etc.
Entertainment Recommended: Nighttime cherry blossom viewing and shopping
The Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo: Shinjuku Gyoen, Ueno Park, Chidorigafuchi
Mount Fuji: Soak in the Hot Springs and Enjoy the Cherry Blossoms
Mt. Fuji, like the cherry blossoms, is a symbol of Japan. Whether you're sitting in a sea of cherry blossoms at Sengen Shrine or taking a boat ride in Lake Kawaguchi when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, Mt. Fuji is there and will never grow old. In Lake Kawaguchi, there are also many hot spring hotels with chic floor-to-ceiling windows where you can not only enjoy the comfortable hot springs but also enjoy the cherry blossoms in Fuji Mountain. And you will feel that the hot springs, cherry blossoms, and Mt. Fuji reflect each other.
Mt. Fuji Cherry Blossom Viewing Time: Early April to Late April
Cherry Blossom Varieties: Somei-yoshino, Ezo-yamazakura, Satozakura, etc.
Entertainment Recommended: Hot Springs, Sakura Matsuri Festival
Best Place to See Mount Fuji Cherry Blossoms: Lake Kawaguchiko
Transportation: Take the Fujikyu bus from Shinjuku Station to Kawaguchiko Station for about 2 hours.
Kyoto: Immerse in the Sea of Pink Clouds
Kyoto is the only cherry blossom viewing destination you can't miss, especially for a cherry blossom walking tour. There are ancient temples in dark brown, serene shrines in vermillion, and small trains slowly traveling through ancient houses, all of which exude a quaint and gentle atmosphere against the backdrop of large clusters of Japanese cherry blossoms, giving you a taste of the ancient capital under the Sakura tree during the Kyoto Cherry Blossom Season.
Kyoto Cherry Blossom Viewing Time: Late March to Mid-April
Cherry Blossom Varieties: Shidarezakura, Ezo-yamazakura, Omuro Zakura, etc.
Entertainment Recommended: Cherry blossom viewing at ancient temples, cherry blossom viewing on the Arashiyama Train, traditional geisha encounters in Gion
Best Viewing Spots for Kyoto Sakura: Kiyomizu Temple, Arashiyama, Philosopher's Path
Nara: Play with Deer under the Cherry Blossom Trees
There are two ways to enjoy Japan cherry blossom tours, one is to admire the cherry flower quietly and the other is to enjoy it joyfully. Playing with deer under the cherry blossom trees at Nara Sakura Season is one of the most popular ways of enjoying the cherry blossoms festival in Japan. The deer under the Sakura trees are even more charming and adorable, and Nara is the gathering place for the deer.
Nara Cherry Blossom Viewing Time: Late March to Mid-April
Cherry Blossom Varieties: Shidarezakura, Ezo-yamazakura, Omuro Zakura, etc.
Entertainment Recommended: Play with deer at Nara Park and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and enjoy cherry blossoms at Mount Yoshino
Best Places to View Nara Cherry Blossoms: Nara Park, Mount Yoshino
Osaka: Gourmet Food and Cherry Blossoms
Osaka is a romantic city and a gourmet city. The most iconic experiences in Osaka are strolling under the cherry blossom trees with the aroma of gourmet food, viewing the cityscape from the Osaka Castle Park's Tenshukaku, and taking in the splendor of Osaka cherry blossoms in this ancient castle.
Osaka Cherry Blossom Viewing Time: Late March to Mid-April
Cherry Blossom Varieties: Somei-yoshino, Sekiyama cherry blossom, etc.
Entertainment Recommended: Taste all kinds of food and enjoy the panoramic view of Osaka from Tenshokaku.
Best Place to See Osaka Cherry Blossoms: Osaka Castle Park
Transportation: Take JR Osaka Loop Line to Osaka Castle Park Station or Morinomiya Station and then walk for 15-20 minutes.
What We'd Like to Say
Here we have shared the Japan Sakura tours of 1-week itinerary and 2-week itinerary, the cherry blossom forecast in Japan, the cost for a trip to Japan, and the highlights of the cherry blossoms in Tokyo, Fuji Mountain, Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka, and how to choose the Japan cherry blossom tours in Kanto, Kansai, and Hokkaido. It's your time to tailor your private trip to Japan to enjoy the charming cherry blossom season now.