Full bloom cherry blossom Kyoto, Japan
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Sakura means cherry blossoms in Japanese and these beautiful pink and white flowers symbolize spring and a time of renewal and hope. These lovely trees have strong significance to Japan’s history, culture, and identity.
“Originally used to divine the year’s harvest, sakura came to embody wabi-sabi philosophy and Shinto ideals of impermanence, hope and renewal and are now one of Japan’s most iconic natural symbols.”
Japan National Tourism Organization
Cities around the world celebrate cherry blossoms with events and festivals and in Japan they even have flower watching parties known as hanami. It’s the perfect time to put on your favorite pink outfit, pack a picnic lunch, and take in the beauty of nature. Timing of each city’s cherry blossoms depends on their local weather and blooms typically lasts for 10 – 14 days. Keep reading for five destinations with gorgeous flowering cherry trees.
Kyoto, Japan
Gion Shirakawa, Kyoto, Japan in spring, cherry blossoms.
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Spring in Japan is synonymous with cherry blossoms with heavenly landscapes across the country. The iconic and beloved blooms can be seen all over the country, including the city of Kyoto. Kyoto is home to four major festivals and there are multiple ways to experience traditional culture such as Japanese dance and the dramatic Kabuki. The Kyoto Cherry Blossom Calendar is packed with dozens of places to witness these breathtaking flowering trees. Their comprehensive guide explains the bloom progression of each spot from buds to full bloom so you can plan accordingly. Kurama-dera Temple is a historic mountain temple with flowering trees expected to last until late April; Kyoto Botanical Garden is a beautiful hidden gem with 12,000 species of plants that’s accessible by subway or consider renting a bike; and Byodo-in Temple and Uji Bridge is an extraordinary temple to visit dating back to the 11th century. Regardless where you choose to see the famous Sakura – you are in the right city.
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Amsterdam, Netherlands
Kersenbloesempark flower park There are 400 cherry trees in the Amsterdamse Bos, In the spring you can enjoy the beautiful cherry blossom or Sakura. Netherlands
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Amsterdam, the bustling capital of the Netherlands, has unique museums, varied neighborhoods, local markets, fun pubs and restaurants, canal cruises, and hidden gems like Nemo’s Roof for spectacular views of downtown. Amsterdam is home to famous flowers beyond cherry blossoms such as their annual Tulip Festival happening all of April. These colourful and joyful spring flowers spanning multiple locations include streets, parks, malls, bridges, gardens, and railway stations. As for their magnificent pink and white cherry blossoms, check out Cherry Blossom Park Amstelveen that has 400 flowering trees and a wonderful garden to connect with nature. (Bike rentals are available.) Other places for cherry trees include Westerpark, Vondelpark, and Museum Square. Keukenhof Gardens is a wonderful spring garden open until May 11 and will be exhibiting multiple flower and plant shows including orchids, roses, and daffodils.
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Toronto, Canada
Toronto, famous Sakura (cherry) blossom in High Park in April, Ontario, Canada.
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Toronto is one of the most diverse cities in the world so it makes sense that my hometown’s motto is “Diversity, Our Strength.” This fabulous city is packed with dozens of vibrant neighbourhoods including The Beaches, The Annex, Cabbagetown, Church Wellesley Village, Kensington Market, Yorkville, Distillery District, and my favorite, the Toronto Islands. There are multiple places to view Toronto’s beautiful cherry blossoms including Toronto Music Garden, University of Toronto’s Robarts Library, Trinity Bellwoods Park, Edwards Gardens, Centennial Park, and High Park. The flowering Sakura trees in High Park lasts about a week and usually happens in late April to early May but is dependent on the weather. It’s a wonderful place for a picnic and is easily accessible by public transit.
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Washington DC, USA
Washington Monument and cherry trees, USA
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The famous capital of the United States is stunning in the spring and Washington DC is a fun city to explore for all ages. From Smithsonian Museums to the Lincoln Memorial to the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial to family friendly trip ideas – you will never be bored here. Happening now until April 13 is The National Cherry Blossom Festival that includes interesting events, Art in Bloom installations, hotel stays, and a parade on April 12 with elaborate floats, marching bands, entertainers, and performers. If you visit after the cherry blossom season has ended you can still check out Washington DC’s beautiful parks and gardens including Rock Creek Park , a pretty natural oasis with snapping turtles, hiking trails, picnic spots under trees, and a flowing creek.
Paris, France
Paris, France in the springtime, cherry blossoms.
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The city of romance is extra special in the spring so start practicing your French. Paris, home to world famous top sights like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the magnificent Louvre Museum, also boasts beautiful cherry trees in multiple neighbourhoods. Catch the white and pink blooms at famous parks and near monuments including Jardin des Plantes, Tuileries Garden, Jardin des Tuileries, along the Promenade Plantée, and across from the Eiffel Tower at the stunning Jardins du Trocadéro. Pick up some iconic French pastries like macaroons and croissants to enjoy as you walk outside.
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