Cherry blossoms, or sakura, are likely one of the most magnificent natural phenomena you can see. Every spring, the delicate pink flowers bloom in various places around the world, attracting tourists, photographers, and nature lovers. If you plan on visiting cherry blossoms in 2025, here’s a list of the 10 best places to visit, plus the best months to see cherry blossoms and the top things to do at each location. The Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the primary highlights in many of these places and includes cultural events, parades, and gorgeous views.
1. Taipei, Taiwan – February to March
Taipei’s cherry blossoms bloom earlier than most places, making it a great option for early travelers.
Main Attractions & Activities:
- Visit Yangmingshan National Park for breathtaking cherry blossom scenery.
- Experience the Beitou Hot Springs, surrounded by blooming sakura.
- Explore Wuling Farm, one of Taiwan’s top cherry blossom spots.
- Attend the Taipei Cherry Blossom Festival, blending floral beauty with Taiwanese culture.
2. Tokyo, Japan – March to April
Tokyo is one of the best places in the world to witness cherry blossoms. The city is adorned with sakura trees in parks, gardens, and along riverbanks.
Main Attractions & Activities:
- Visit Ueno Park and Shinjuku Gyoen for breathtaking views.
- Enjoy a hanami (flower viewing) picnic under the cherry blossoms.
- Take a scenic boat ride on the Chidorigafuchi Moat.
- Attend the Cherry Blossom Festival in different parks featuring food stalls and performances.
3. Kyoto, Japan – March to April
Kyoto, with its ancient temples and historic charm, is another must-visit location during cherry blossom season.
Main Attractions & Activities:
- Stroll along the Philosopher’s Path, lined with sakura trees.
- Visit Maruyama Park for a mesmerizing night illumination.
- Experience a traditional tea ceremony with cherry blossom-themed treats.
- Participate in the Kyoto Cherry Blossom Festival, celebrating Japan’s rich culture.
4. Washington D.C., USA – March to April
The U.S. capital is famous for its National Cherry Blossom Festival, a gift from Japan in 1912.
Main Attractions & Activities:
- Walk along the Tidal Basin to admire the blossoms near the Jefferson Memorial.
- Attend cultural performances and parades during the festival.
- Take a boat cruise for stunning views of the blooms.
5. Paris, France – March to April
Paris, the city of love, turns into a fairy-tale destination with cherry blossoms decorating its iconic landmarks.
Main Attractions & Activities:
- Visit the Eiffel Tower gardens for a picturesque cherry blossom backdrop.
- Explore Parc de Sceaux, home to one of the best cherry blossom collections in France.
- Enjoy a relaxing Seine River cruise with cherry blossom views.
- Experience Paris’s springtime Cherry Blossom Festival with art and music.
6. Jinhae, South Korea – Early April
Jinhae hosts South Korea’s biggest Cherry Blossom Festival, attracting millions of visitors annually.
Main Attractions & Activities:
- Walk through the cherry blossom tunnel at Yeojwacheon Stream.
- Visit Gyeonghwa Station, where train tracks are surrounded by pink petals.
- Enjoy cultural performances and street food festivals.
7. Seoul, South Korea – April
Seoul’s cherry blossom season transforms the city into a pink wonderland.
Main Attractions & Activities:
- Attend the Yeouido Spring Cherry Blossom Festival for live performances and street food.
- Walk through the Seoul Forest, a peaceful escape with cherry blossom-lined paths.
- Explore the palaces like Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, which look magical under sakura trees.
8. Vancouver, Canada – April
Vancouver’s Cherry Blossom Festival is a delight for nature lovers.
Main Attractions & Activities:
- Visit Queen Elizabeth Park and Stanley Park for stunning cherry blossom views.
- Join bike tours through streets lined with sakura trees.
- Participate in poetry readings and musical performances during the festival.
9. Stockholm, Sweden – April
Kungsträdgården Park in Stockholm is the best place to enjoy cherry blossoms in Sweden.
Main Attractions & Activities:
- Take a peaceful stroll through Kungsträdgården, a park filled with cherry trees.
- Enjoy cherry blossom-themed food and drinks in nearby cafes.
- Join local photography walks and workshops.
- Witness Sweden’s unique Cherry Blossom Festival, combining nature and Nordic traditions.
10. Shillong, India – November
India is also home to a spectacular Cherry Blossom Festival, making Shillong one of the best places to experience this seasonal wonder.
Main Attractions & Activities:
- Attend the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival with cultural performances and live music.
- Participate in photography contests and fashion shows.
- Enjoy local delicacies at food stalls set up during the festival.
- Explore Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, and local markets for an immersive experience.
Final Thoughts
If you fall into the category of a nature lover and you want to experience cherry blossom season at its best, you need to visit these places. Whether you prefer the historic charm of Kyoto, the urban vibrance of Tokyo or to get lost in nature in Shillong, there are many occasions to admire God’s earth-shaping work. The Cherry Blossom Festival is not just about cherry blossoms; it is the celebration of spring and spring-like events – culture, performances and traditions, etc!
From the spectacle of the Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington D.C., to Shillong’s unique celebration, some great alternatives exist to celebrate hanami! So, start planning your cherry blossom adventure for 2025 now and enjoy their beauty and the magic of these fleeting pink petals!
For more travel inspiration, check out our Travel Guide for 2025, and for travel bookings, check out Booking.com for exciting offers on your travel!
