It’s one of the most beautiful (and busiest) times in Japan, and as cherry blossom trees begin to burst into flower all across the country, so too comes the explosion of tourists to see them.
Japan is currently in the midst of “sakura season”, with Tokyo in full bloom and cities such as Kyoto, Osaka and Sapporo predicted to follow suit with flowering cherry blossom trees in mid to late April.
However, as crowds flock to enjoy the spectacular sight of this stunning flower and enjoy “hanami” aka flower watching, Natalie Kidd, Managing Director for Asia at Intrepid Travel, explains there are some things travellers should be aware of when it comes to respecting local customs and culture at this busy time.
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For locals, the arrival of cherry blossoms also marks the start of spring. (Getty Images/iStockphoto)Tips for viewing cherry blossoms
As one of Australia’s favourite holiday destinations, chances are there will be countless Aussies in Japan keen to experience this incredible event.
“Japan has been super popular, particularly post-pandemic. Every year it just keeps growing and growing,” Natalie tells 9Travel.
“Looking at our numbers in the Australian market, this year over last year, it’s up another 23 per cent – people just keep loving it.”
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With huge numbers of tourists (reports claim 3.1 million people visited Japan in March 2024) and locals alike travelling within the country to get a glimpse of these gorgeous flowers, it pays to be aware of crowd etiquette when visiting one of the many popular viewing sites.
From parks to suburban streets, there are plenty of places to see the stunning cherry blossoms. (Getty)
“Japan’s a big country – there’s a lot of space and other places to go – but the issue is when everyone tries to cram into particular areas all at the one time,” says Natalie. “On top of that, often it’s the behaviour of people in those environments that really starts driving the issues and the pushback [from locals].”
Natalie’s top tips include making sure your backpack isn’t intruding on anyone’s personal space, and being mindful of your behaviour when surrounded by lots of people.
“If you’ve got a backpack on, put it on your front or down by your side because you will be crammed in with other people during peak hour,” she says.
“Be aware of how you behave and keep as much to yourself as you possibly can. When being out in public in general, [Japanese people are] far more polite in terms of not standing and talking really loudly on the phone, so be aware of the people around you.”
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(Nine/Graphic: Polly Hanning)
Natalie also suggests planning your day to avoid peak times if possible.
“For the really popular places, go super early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the most crowded times,” she says.
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Japan’s popularity as a holiday destination continues to skyrocket, leading to increasing reports of overcrowding and attempts to limit tourist numbers.
According to Natalie, there are a few dos and don’ts that can help travellers make the experience more positive for everyone.
Public behaviour
While most of us don’t think twice about sipping on a takeaway coffee or fuelling up with a snack on the go as we wander the streets, Natalie explains eating, drinking and smoking is generally frowned upon in Japan while on the move.
Eating while walking in the street is generally frowned upon by locals. (Getty)
“Generally with anything like that, you find your space and you do it in your own space,” she explains.
“Having a meal on an intercity train such as a bento box is a great part of their culture and absolutely something you do, but what you wouldn’t necessarily do is buy takeaway food, a meal or an ice cream and then walk down the street and have it like we would here.”
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Being respectful
While it’s all too easy to get caught up in the excitement of capturing holiday memories, Natalie explains it’s important to remember that being considerate is key when out and about.
“People’s individual privacy is really important in Japan,” she says.
“If you’re taking a [photo of a] scene, be aware of who might be in that photo and put some thought into being discreet, or try to exclude people from the photo if you possibly can.”
Kyoto’s traditional alleyways have become a tourist favourite. (Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Natalie uses the example of Kyoto’s picturesque area of Gion, and tourists hoping to spot iconic geisha strolling through the streets.
“It’s still a residential zone and one of the classic examples of overtourism where because it’s so atmospheric and beautiful, people have loved it to death and take photos in people’s front yards,” says Natalie.
“You’ve [also] got the chance of the geiko or maiko coming down these alleyways, and it has become a bit of a paparazzi situation.”
AloJapan.com