16 March 2026
Japanese local reveals how to enjoy cherry blossom season without the crowds.
Japan travel expert says tourists should consider alternative locations to enjoy cherry blossom season without crowds
Cherry blossom season draws millions to Japan every spring.
But one travel expert says visitors can still experience the famous blooms without battling overwhelming crowds by taking a more flexible and local approach.
Across Japan, the delicate pink and white flowers known as sakura bloom for a brief period each year, typically lasting only a week or two in each location. The blossoms begin appearing in the south in Okinawa before gradually moving north through the country and eventually reaching Hokkaido.
With the British pound currently strong against the Japanese yen, the season is expected to attract large numbers of international travellers eager to witness the spectacle.
However, the fleeting nature of the blossoms and the surge of tourists can make planning a trip challenging.
Takao Nishina, Head of Japan at GetYourGuide, said travellers should treat cherry blossom viewing as an entire season rather than focusing on a single day, as forecasts predicting peak bloom can often change.
He said visitors may have a more relaxed experience by exploring quieter neighbourhoods rather than flocking to famous parks in Tokyo.
Nishina also recommends arriving early at popular locations to avoid the busiest crowds. Parks such as Ueno Park and Shinjuku Gyoen attract large numbers of visitors during peak bloom.
He said: “When Tokyo has passed its peak, northern regions such as Tohoku are just beginning. Places like Hirosaki Castle Park offer remarkable experiences with far fewer crowds.”
Nighttime blossom viewing can also offer a quieter atmosphere. Illuminated trees known as yozakura create a striking purple-pink glow along rivers and walkways, offering a different perspective from the daytime displays.
Nishina added that visitors should also consider experiencing cherry blossoms from the water, particularly along the Meguro River, where food stalls, cafés and boat trips provide scenic views of the blooms.
The tradition of hanami – gathering for picnics beneath the flowering trees – remains a central part of the season. Locals often celebrate with food and drinks under the blossoms, and visitors are welcome to join so long as they respect local customs.
Nishina said travellers should also consider supporting local guides and businesses while exploring lesser-known viewing spots.
He aded: “I don’t think the problem is that iconic places are too popular, it’s that equally beautiful alternatives are harder to discover. When travelers can easily find and book these alternatives, they are usually happy to explore them. When they widen their lens, the experience becomes calmer and just as memorable.”
AloJapan.com