Japan has given the world karaoke, sushi, and bullet trains. However, the Land of the Rising Sun is most often associated with cherry blossoms. Every year, a delicate pink carpet of fragrant flowers becomes one of the most impressive sights in all corners of the planet. Nevertheless, these famous trees grow not only in Asia. Read our selection of the best places to see cherry blossoms and plan your trip before the long-awaited season begins.
Japan
Time: March-April
Japan takes the top spot in our ranking. This country considers the cherry blossom to be its symbol and attaches great cultural significance to it. These bright flowers can be found on numerous souvenirs, clothing, and even in national cuisine. The Japanese themselves organize entire festivals and celebrations dedicated to the cherry blossom.
Of course, you can experience the local flavor and enjoy the beauty of Japan even on a regular walk down the street. But for a more memorable and emotional experience, we recommend visiting one of the following places.
Hirosaki Park will wow you, even if you think nothing can surprise you anymore. Just imagine a landscape where 2,500 flowering trees surround a 400-year-old castle with a rich history. Can you believe this is real in Hirosaki? By the way, we recommend renting a boat to explore this amazing place from the water and immerse yourself in a sea of fragrant petals.
You can also see the blossoms at the medieval Koto Castle. Just a 45-minute drive away is the magnificent Nishigawa Park, where you will find not only cherry blossoms but also bright rapeseed flowers. And if you plan to stay in Japan for a week, check out our itinerary and discover the Land of the Rising Sun from an unusual perspective.
Washington, USA
Time: late March to early April
We guarantee that you would never expect this from the US capital. Back in the early 20th century, Asians sought to establish contacts with other countries and gave them cherry seedlings as a friendly gift. Washington received more than 3,000 trees, which became a real hallmark of the city.
Every year, thousands of people come to the District of Columbia to see the legendary plants in famous places, including the Roosevelt and Jefferson memorials. What's more, Americans have established an official cherry blossom festival, which in 2024 will run from March 20 to April 14. Incredible landscapes, memorable souvenirs, and, of course, the best views of the city await you.
In 2019, I arrived in Washington at the height of cherry blossom season, as Americans call this period. To be honest, I didn't have high hopes for the sakura, because I dreamed of seeing the White House, the Capitol, and the Lincoln Memorial, which are featured in all the tourist guidebooks and Hollywood movies. However, the reality exceeded my expectations several times over.
During my 10 days in the US, it was the blossoming trees that made the biggest impression and became the main symbol of the "American dream." Every corner of the city was literally covered in pink cherry blossoms, and the number of people wanting to take photos with them clearly exceeded the queue for photos near the White House.
By the way, the capital's main attractions have been greatly transformed by the cherry blossoms and have become less formal. Several years later, I remember what I saw as a real miracle, and my emotions from the cherry blossoms still linger. I sincerely wish you to see Washington in bloom in person. And, of course, I am leaving a few photos.
São Paulo, Brazil
Time: July-August
Today, São Paulo is home to one of the largest Japanese communities in the world. During emigration, people took with them not only household items, money, and documents, but also sakura seedlings. Cultivation of these species in Brazil began at the start of the last century.
Just imagine that São Paulo is the city with the second largest number of cherry trees outside Japan, surpassing even Washington. For an unforgettable experience, head straight to Carmo Park, where more than 4,000 trees delight visitors every year during the summer months.
Don't miss the chance to join the themed festival organized by Hisae Kato many years ago. At the festival, you can hide from the sun in the shade of mighty trees, watch traditional Japanese dances, and listen to songs. Try national cuisine and immerse yourself in the cultural life of an entire nation! Don't miss the first events, which start on July 31! Our previous article will help you prepare for your trip to Brazil and make sure you don't forget anything important. articlewill help you prepare for your trip to Brazil and not forget anything important.
Dublin, Ireland
Time: April-May
Sakura appeared in the Irish capital not thanks to Japanese immigrants and not as a gift. Local residents loved the flowering trees so much that they could not leave the country's main city without this miracle of nature. In the 1950s and 1960s, the Irish planted cherry seedlings throughout the capital on their own. However, they later had to correct this enthusiasm, as many trees grew in less than ideal locations. As a result, the authorities moved the plants to specially designated locations where both the root system and fans of Asian trees would be equally comfortable.
Where is the best place to see the blooming carpet? Feel free to look for the famous Trinity College, Herbert Park, St. Stephen's Green, and the National Botanic Gardens on the map. And if you have the opportunity to drive just an hour from Dublin, you are truly lucky. Be sure to set aside time for the Irish National Stud in Kildare. It has been operating for over 100 years, and its gardens feature unique Japanese cherry trees that are sure to impress you.
Due to the climate, the season in Ireland begins in April. However, if weather conditions permit, the first flowers can delight locals as early as March.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Time: January-February
Many travelers choose Thailand as a place to spend the winter. This decision is quite justified: pleasant climate, warm sea, and affordable prices. However, few people know that one of the most beautiful places with cherry blossoms is hidden here. Bangkok gradually turns pink in January, but don't think that all the best is reserved for the capital. How about exploring the northern part of the country? In addition to new locations, you will see the blossoms earlier than anywhere else, because thanks to the high temperatures, the season here begins in late December.
Where are we going? To Chiang Mai! Don't worry if you haven't heard of this region before. Welcome to unique hiking trails and mountain roads surrounded by pink plants on all sides. By the way, every February, a famous themed festival with a 40-year history takes place here. Over the course of three days, see how much the locals are inspired by sakura, visit exhibitions, and become part of a large-scale street parade with a variety of flower platforms.
You already know that winter is the best time to visit Thailand when it is in bloom. In January and February, the cherry blossoms reach their peak and show off all their beauty. Don't forget to apply for a visa; we have left the details of how to obtain one here.
Cowra, Australia
Time: September-October
What should you do if autumn is approaching and your desire to see cherry blossoms is stronger than ever? Buy tickets to Australia! To be more precise, look for the city of Coora in New South Wales on the map. We guarantee that at first glance, you won't be able to tell this place apart from the historical homeland of cherry trees.
The locals have become so fond of plants that they have created a themed Japanese garden, where they hold a large-scale festival called "Sakura Matsuri" every year. It is dedicated to the arrival of spring, seasonal blooming, and Japanese culture. What's more, it starts in September, so you have every chance of catching it live.
In addition to the trees themselves, you will immerse yourself in Japanese culture, try your hand at traditional dances and sumo, and participate in a mysterious tea ceremony. What's more, we recommend buying a ticket to a taiko drumming show and visiting the craft market.
If you visit Kourou in early September, you will be able to enjoy the fragrant pink flowers for about another month. Don't forget to take a walk deep into the garden to see the apricots, plums, and amazing magnolias that are ready to bloom for every visitor.
How can I see cherry blossoms in bloom?
We are sure that at least once in your life you have dreamed of touching a blossoming sakura tree in real life. Admit it, how many times have you saved pictures from the internet and secretly looked at them again? Give yourself a long-awaited gift, go on a trip, and experience the best moments of your life. Madera Travel is ready to help you with airline tickets and visa processing so that you can make your dream come true as soon as possible.
