Japan is famous for its flowering cherry blossom season, which typically lasts between late March to mid-April. The blush-tinted blooms are a sought-after attraction throughout the country and bucket list experience for many. You can attend family-friendly cherry blossom festivals and join the locals in “hanami”, which are cherry blossom viewings held beneath the cherry trees to celebrate the arrival of spring.
With over 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve tracked down the best places to see Japan’s sakura (cherry trees) and the top hotels nearby. Admire the pretty collection of petals, then retreat to one of these luxury hotels with on-site spas, restaurants and rooms with city views.
Chureito Pagoda, Fuji Five Lakes (Mid April)
Chureito Pagoda is one of the top cherry blossom viewing spots in the famous Fuji Five Lakes region. It’s a popular spot for photographers throughout the year, beloved for its magnificent Mount Fuji views, but cherry blossom season brings a unique landscape of the five-storey pagoda seemingly floating above a sea of cherry trees.
Tips for Visiting Chureito Pagoda during Cherry Blossom Season
● Bring comfortable shoes, as the pagoda is nearly 400 steps up from the shrine’s main buildings.
● Arakura Sengen Shrine is a 10-minute walk from Shimo-Yoshida Station on the Fujikyo Railway Line.
● This site is also beautiful in autumn when the tree leaves feature a display of reds, also oranges and yellows.
Where to Stay near Chureito Pagoda, Fuji Five Lakes
Highland Resort Hotel & Spa
Boasting an on-site spa centre and hot spring baths, Highland Resort Hotel & Spa features one of the only views that could compete with cherry blossoms – Mount Fuji vistas. Aromatherapy and massages are also available, as well as a Karaoke Room and multiple on-site restaurants serving authentic Japanese and Chinese dishes.
All rooms have flat-screen TVs, kettles and slippers, while Higher-Floor Rooms boast striking mountain views. Upgrade to a Junior Suite for a sitting area, the Mt. Fuji Suite for a traditional tatami area or one of the cartoon-themed rooms for colourful decor and two or three twin-size beds for families.
Nearby Attractions
● Fuji-Q Highland amusement park (350 metres)
● Fujiyama Onsen (280 metres)
● Fujiyama Museum (220 metres)
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 227 – USD 12,041
Guest Rating: 8.4
Address: 5-6-1 Shin-Nishihara, Fujiyoshida, Japan
Fujisan Station Hotel
You’ll be greeted with a Japanese artwork throughout the lobby of Fujisan Station Hotel, which boasts a variety of rooms. Double Rooms are suitable for couples with Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and mini fridges, while Triple Rooms will appeal to families with three twin-size beds.
Complimentary breakfast consists of international favourites like eggs and coffee in addition to Ochazuke, which is a mix of traditional rice and soup. When you’re ready to explore, the hotel offers a free Fujikyu loop shuttle bus service.
Nearby Attractions
● Mt. Fuji Station (400 metres)
● Fujiya restaurant (190 metres)
● Fuji-Q Highland (1.7 kilometres)
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 96 – USD 202
Guest Rating: 7.8
Address: 2-7-12 Matsuyama, Fujiyoshida, Japan
Hotel Location
Hirosaki Castle, Hirosaki (Late April to early May)
The three-story Hirosaki Castle is one of the most famous cherry blossom spots in Japan. With over 2,600 trees, the four-hundred-year-old landmark is surrounded by a fortified moat and tree-lined park that illuminates in the evening. There are plenty of pleasant picnic areas with a variety of cherry trees to admire.
Tips for Visiting Hirosaki Castle during Cherry Blossom Season
● Rent a boat and float through the fallen petals in the castle’s moat.
● The annual cherry blossom festival is typically held between April 23rd and May 5th.
● The castle is a short bus ride from the JR Lines Hirosaki Station.
Where to Stay near Hirosaki Castle, Hirosaki
Dormy Inn Hirosaki
Dormy Inn Hirosaki offers its guests a chance to experience utter relaxation with its gender-segregated, top-floor natural spring. Start your day exploring Hirosaki Castle, then unwind in the hotel’s water bath and sauna or book a pampering massage, while Hatago Restaurant serves complimentary evening ramen.
Single and Double Rooms are the most economical accommodation with Wi-Fi, TVs and mini fridges, while Twin Rooms are suitable for friends or small families. Japanese-Style Rooms are traditional with tatami mats, while Universal Rooms add a cosy sitting area.
Nearby Attractions
● Hirosaki Park (650 metres)
● Chuohirosaki Station (400 metres)
● Tsugaru-han Neputa Village (1.3 kilometres)
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 72 – USD 150
Guest Rating: 9.1
Address: 71-1 Honmachi, Hirosaki, Japan
Smile Hotel Hirosaki
Located five minutes from JR Hirosaki Station, Smile Hotel Hirosaki overlooks the Iwaki River. Solo travellers can stay in a cosy Single, which has Wi-Fi, a TV and mini fridge, while couples can enjoy the extra space of double-size bed in the Business Double Room. Make the most of your stay in a Japanese-Style Room, which has a tatami mat, short-legged table and river views.
All rooms offer complimentary Wi-Fi and access to a humidifier and iron, while pre-ordered breakfast is served daily on the 1st floor. An on-site restaurant serves authentic Japanese dishes, while coin laundry and a business centre are available.
Nearby Attractions
● Hirosaki Cultural Center (950 metres)
● Hirosaki Castle Botanical Garden (900 metres)
● Chuohirosaki Station (300 metres)
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 72 – USD 217
Guest Rating: 8
Address: 73-2 Dotemachi, Hirosaki, Japan
Hotel Location
Shinjuku Gyoen Garden, Tokyo (Early April)
One of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in Tokyo, Shinjuku Gyoen Garden is a national garden with over 1,000 cherry trees. Although the 58.3-hectare park has a city-centre location, it offers a peaceful atmosphere ideal for relaxing, strolling through the park and enjoying a picnic.
Tips for Visiting Shinjuku Gyoen Garden during Cherry Blossom Season
● This is an ideal spot for visitors who arrive a week too early or too late due to its long blooming season.
● Bring cash, as the park has a small admission fee of 200 yen.
● It’s just a 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, one of central Tokyo’s main train stops.
Where to Stay near Shinjuku Gyoen Garden, Tokyo
JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom Shinjuku
JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom Shinjuku offers a prime location in Tokyo’s city centre, a three-minute walk to the JR Shinjuku Station. All rooms are equipped with plush mattresses, air purifiers and large windows with city views, while Premium Twin rooms add stunning birds-eye views of Tokyo from the 15th and 16th floor.
Before snapping photos in Shinjuku Gyoen, visit the hotel’s buffet-style breakfast or catch up with your emails in the Computer Corner. Take a break with coffee or tea at the cafe, then sample regional Kyushu dishes from the Akasaka Umaya Shinjuku’s dinner menu.
Nearby Attractions
● Odakyu Department Store Shinjuku (700 metres)
● Meiji Jingu Gaien (2.6 kilometres)
● Tokyo Toy Museum (2.2 kilometres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 169 – USD 544
Guest Rating: 9
Address: 2-6-2, Yoyogi, Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan
Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower
HotelsCombined visitors rave about the Tokyo views at Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower, which occupies the 19th through 35th floors of a striking skyscraper. Solo travellers can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and mini-fridges in the Single Room, while families will appreciate the extra twin-size bed in the Scenic Twin Room. Upgrade to an Executive Room for a separate sitting area.
Self-service is king at this hotel, from the self-service luggage carts and vending machines on every floor to the lobby-level convenience store. On-site dining is highlighted by Southern Tower Dining, which serves Western dishes alongside panoramic city views, while Horikawa features Teppanyaki and sushi.
Nearby Attractions
● Takashimaya Shinjuku (350 metres)
● Watering Hole (800 metres)
● Shinjuku Golden Gai (1.2 kilometres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 255 – USD 469
Guest Rating: 9.1
Address: 2-2-1 Yoyogi, Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan
Hotel Location
Mitsuike Koen, Yokohama (Early April)
You can see Japan’s iconic cherry blossom blooms at Mitsuike Koen in Yokohama, which is located about an hour south of Tokyo’s city centre via local transportation. The free park features three ponds and over 1,000 cherry trees of 78 different species dotted throughout an expansive forest-filled park.
Tips for Visiting Mitsuike Koen during Cherry Blossom Season
● This is an excellent spot for walking, biking or picnicking throughout the year.
● Don’t miss the tranquil Korean Garden and exploring the scenic walking paths surrounding the ponds.
● Take the city bus 104 to Mitsuike Koen Kitamon bus stop from either Shin-Yokohama Station or Tsurumi Station.
Where to Stay near Mitsuike Koen, Yokohama
Shin Yokohama Prince Hotel
Standing tall at 150 metres tall, Shin Yokohama Prince Hotel is adjacent to the Shin-Yokohama Prince PePe shopping centre. In addition to a women-only floor, accommodation ranges from cosy rooms with Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and mini fridges to lavish Suites with city views and separate living rooms.
Enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine with 40th-floor views at Hogoromo or seafood and meat dishes at Top of Yokohama, which has a chic bar that serves cocktails and desserts. There’s also an ice skating rink and luxury salon and the hotel also operates an airport shuttle bus from Haneda Airport.
Nearby Attractions
● Shin-Yokohama Station (150 metres)
● Yokohama Arena (250 metres)
● Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum (500 metres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 87 – USD 407
Guest Rating: 8.3
Address: 3-4 Shin Yokohama, Kohoku Ward, Yokohama, Japan
Jr-East Hotel Mets Kawasaki
Jr-East Hotel Mets Kawasaki sits next to Kawasaki train station, offering a range of relaxing rooms that cater to all group sizes. Single, Double and Twin rooms can accommodate two guests and include Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and mini fridges, while the Deluxe Twin can fit three guests and has a sitting area.
After seeing the springtime displays at Mitsuike Koen, visit the on-site Tsubame Grill for juicy steaks cooked to perfection or sit down at LOAF, which specializes in fresh bread and sandwiches. Free use of computers is available in the Lobby area.
Nearby Attractions
● Toshiba Science Museum (450 metres)
● Kawasaki Station (73 metres)
● MUZA Kawasaki Symphony Hall (300 metres)
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 135 – USD 246
Guest Rating: 8.3
Address: 72-2 Horikawa-Cho, Saiwai-Ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Hotel Location
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima (Early April)
Located in Hiroshima, Peace Memorial Park serves as a symbol of world peace, hope and friendship, built to memorialize those who died during the bombing. You can marvel at over 300 cherry trees here, particularly along the Motoyasu River that runs through the park.
Tips for Visiting Peace Memorial Park during Cherry Blossom Season
● Pay your respects at the memorial cenotaph and see the peace flame, which is aligned with the Atomic Bomb Dome.
● Stay until evening to see the special illuminations during cherry blossom season.
● From Hiroshima Station, take a tram (line 2 or 6) to the Genbaku-Domu Mae stop, or hop on the Hiroshima Sightseeing Loop Bus.
Where to Stay near Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima
Sotetsu Grand Fresa Hiroshima
Across the street from Motoyasu River, Sotetsu Grand Fresa Hiroshima promises a restful night with its plush Simmons beds. Other in-room perks include free Wi-Fi, LCD TVs and air purifiers, while Deluxe Twins add sitting areas. For 12th-floor views overlooking Peace Memorial Park and spacious living room, stay in a Suite.
Breakfast is served in Restaurant Viale, which also overlooks the park’s cherry blossom displays from the 15th-floor. Try Japanese specialties at Kissui restaurant or enjoy a cocktail at the lobby bar, and don’t miss the free amenity area with cleansers, facial masks and tea.
Nearby Attractions
● Peace Memorial Park (170 metres)
● Eternal Flame of Peace (550 metres)
● Chuden-Mae light rail station (330 metres)
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 52 – USD 319
Guest Rating: 8.1
Address: 3-3-1 Ote-Machi, Naka-Ku, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, Japan
Mitsui Garden Hotel Hiroshima
Mitsui Garden Hotel Hiroshima boasts interiors inspired by the nearby Seto Inland Sea. Single Rooms are budget-friendly with Wi-Fi, TVs and mini fridges, while upgraded rooms add living areas. For the best city views, the Executive Double sits at the hotel’s top floor.
Fill up before a day of sakura viewing at the Japanese and Western-style breakfast buffet or save your appetite for the on-site restaurant’s popular all-you-can-eat menu with over 50 food options. Enjoy the panoramic views from the 25th-floor, or grab a pick-me-up at 1st-floor Cafe di Espresso.
Nearby Attractions
● Fukuromachi Park (260 metres)
● Fukuromachi Station light rail station (500 metres)
● Hiroshima Castle (1.5 kilometres)
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 62 – USD 250
Guest Rating: 8.2
Address: 9-12, Naka-Machi Naka-Ku, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, Japan
Hotel Location
Philosopher’s Path, Kyoto (Early April)
Winding along a picturesque canal, the Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto is a narrow walking path lined with blossoming cherry trees. Stretching for two kilometres, the path was named after an influential 20th-century Japanese philosopher and creates a tunnel of pinks, reds and whites at peak bloom.
Tips for Visiting Philosopher’s Path during Cherry Blossom Season
● Stop at local restaurants, cafes and boutiques along the route or visit one of the smaller temples.
● Walk slowly and take it all in, as the route takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.
● The path begins at Ginkaku-ji (or Silver Pavilion), which is known for its Moon Viewing Sand Mound and perfectly raked Silver Sand Sea.
Where to Stay near Philosopher’s Path, Kyoto
Hostel Ginkakuji
Travellers on a budget will find Hostel Ginkakuji an ideal home base, offering a friendly atmosphere just five minutes from the Philosopher’s Path. Mingle with fellow travellers in the living area or whip up a meal in the communal kitchen. Rental bikes are also available if you want to explore the area on two wheels.
Tatami rooms and mix-gender dorm rooms boast air conditioning, free Wi-Fi and shared bathrooms. Guests will find slippers, complimentary toiletries and a hairdryer.
Nearby Attractions
● Jishō-ji (700 metres)
● Hakusa Sonso Hashimoto Kansetsu Garden & Museum (350 metres)
● Philosopher’s Path (550 metres)
Star Rating: No Rating
Price: USD 63 – USD 116
Guest Rating: No Rating
Address: Sakyo-ku Jyoudoji Nishidacho 58-2, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan
Heian No Mori Kyoto
Heian No Mori Kyoto offers an ideal location for exploring Kyoto’s top attractions with a collection of colourful rooms. Single Rooms include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and sitting areas while Superior Twin rooms feature a massage chair. Deluxe Triple rooms are the biggest with 34 square metres of space, ideal for larger groups.
On-site dining includes Cafe & Restaurant Kyo Warabe, which serves regional specialties, while RakuRaku has a menu of Kyoto-style cuisine. Pick up Kyoto sweets at the souvenir shop, then unwind at the large public bath that features a Zen-style landscape garden.
Nearby Attractions
● Okazaki Park (700 metres)
● Kyocera Gallery (900 metres)
● Kyoto City Zoo (500 metres)
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 113 – USD 255
Guest Rating: 7.3
Address: 51 Higasitennocho Okazaki, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan
Hotel Location
Admire Colourful Cherry Blossom Season in Japan at These Top Destinations
Every spring, travellers flock to Japan to see its blooms bursting into colour so they can experience the country’s famous cherry blossom season. Visit these diverse regions for the best views of the flowering trees and a chance to attend festivals and enjoy “hanami”, then retreat to one of these top hotels for on-site perks such as authentic restaurants, spa services, and a choice of modern or traditional rooms with tatami mats.
Where do you want to stay in Japan during Cherry Blossom Season? Let us know in the comments below.
