Spring is the busiest season in Japan, with good reason. The landscape becomes covered with the delicate pink hues of cherry blossoms reaching equally the bustling streets of its largest metropolitan areas and the peaceful parks and gardens, as well as the most historical places. This Spring itinerary covers in 14 days all the indispensable iconic landmarks taking into account the best places to admire the natural beauty of Sakura, offering an immersive experience into Japan’s rich culture, history, and traditions.
Without further ado, let’s discover the best of Japan’s springtime allure!
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▶ Book your Tokyo Wide Pass ticket here!
▶ Book your Hankyu Tourist Pass here!
▶ Book your Kansai Thru Pass (2 or 3 Days) here!
▶ Book your JR West Kansai Pass (1, 2, 3 or 4 Days) here!
▽Check our guides to Japan’s transportation passes!▽
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Days 1-2: Tokyo
▽Check some of your helpful guides for a smooth start to your trip!▽
▶How to travel to Tokyo from Narita Airport or Haneda Airport
▶Luggage Delivery from Narita and Haneda Airport to Your Hotel
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Day 1: Ueno and Asakusa
Ideally, you should arrive early enough to make the best of your first day. You may also want to stay busy as much as possible throughout the day so make sure you’re tired enough at night, that way you’ll hopefully be able to fend off the dreaded jet lag! Ok then, leave your belongings at your accommodation and head to Ueno.
Ueno Park (上野公園) is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season. This is why it’s a popular spot for “hanami” (flower viewing) due to the sheer number of sakura trees blooming in spring. Take a stroll enjoying the sights and all the cultural landmarks within the park. For lunch, Ameyoko (アメ横) is a good option!
In the Afternoon, make your way to Asakusa (浅草), home to the iconic Sensoji (浅草寺), the oldest Buddhist Temple in Tokyo. Stroll down Nakamise Shopping Street (仲見世通り), lined with stalls selling traditional snacks and souvenirs, and explore the surrounding neighborhood areas.
Towards the evening. cap off the day with a visit to Tokyo Skytree (東京スカイツリー), the tallest structure in Japan. The observation decks offer breathtaking views of the city, and there are also cafes and restaurants where you can have dinner for your convenience.
Day 2: Shinjuku and Shibuya
For your next day, head to Shinjuku Gyoen (新宿御苑), a gorgeous oasis that features traditional Japanese, English, and French garden designs, with a wide variety of cherry trees. You can have a picnic here for lunch or get something around Shinjuku Station.
In the afternoon, wander through the trendy streets of Harajuku (原宿) and Omotesando (表参道), known for their unique fashion, art, and culture. Make sure you visit Meiji Jingu (明治神宮), the most important Shinto shrine in Tokyo dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, for a nice interlude in a peaceful forested area. Come evening, and it’s time to experience the energy of Shibuya (渋谷), famous for its bustling crossing. Explore the area’s numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants.
▽More ideas around Tokyo in Spring▽
▶Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo
▶Tokyo Sakura Guide: Best Hanami Spots in Tokyo
▶Best Places to See Night Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo
Days 3-4: Kanagawa (Yokohama & Hakone)
Day 3: Day Trip to Yokohama
Yokohama (横浜), Japan’s second-largest city and just around 1 hour from central Tokyo, offers waterfront attractions and beautiful gardens. Start your visit in Sankeien Garden (三渓園), a spacious Japanese-style garden featuring historic buildings from across Japan set against a backdrop of seasonal flowers, including cherry blossoms.
For lunchtime, go to Minato Mirai (みなとみらい), a modern seaside area with shopping, amusement parks, and museums. The area’s futuristic architecture and ocean views make for a pleasant afternoon stroll with cherry blossom-lined streets. After sunset, go to Chinatown (中華街), the largest one in Japan, and spend a fun evening exploring the shops and streets lined with the most authentic Chinese cuisine.
▽More ideas of things to do in Yokohama▽
▶Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Yokohama
▶Best Things to Do in Yokohama
Day 4: Day Trip Hakone
Hakone (箱根) is one of the most popular destinations in Tokyo for its hot springs, natural beauty, and views of Mt. Fuji. It’s advisable to leave Tokyo as soon as possible in the morning, as most attractions close relatively early. Also, once you get there unless your accommodation is really close to the station, it’s probably better to leave your belongings in the station lockers and simply check-in in the evening.
Take the Hakone Ropeway from Sounzan Station for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Ashi (芦ノ湖). There’s a cafeteria in Togendai Station where you can stop for lunch.
Once there, it’s a good opportunity to get on the Pirate Ship to the other side of the lake in Motohakone Port. From there, go to Onshi-Hakone Park (箱根公園) for its stunning cherry blossoms and views of Lake Ashi. The park’s strategic location offers picturesque views of Mt. Fuji on clear days. If your accommodation in Hakone includes an Onsen, then it’s the perfect way to relax at the end of the day.
Days 5-6: Mt. Fuji Area
Day 5:
Depart Hakone in the early morning towards Kawaguchiko and start at the Northern Shores of Lake Kawaguchiko (河口湖) for breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji framed by cherry blossoms. The area offers numerous photo opportunities and plenty of beautiful sights surrounding the lake, as well as local attractions such as the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum, a European-themed park with music boxes and gardens. Have lunch in one of the local restaurants.
After lunch, head to the Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine, where the famous Chureito Pagoda (忠霊塔) is located. On a clear day, you will be greeted with one of the most iconic sights of Mt. Fuji, towering above cherry trees and framed with the beautiful pagoda on the side. It’s also a wonderful spot to see the sunset.
Day 6:
Depending on your timing, your second day in the Fuji area could be a good opportunity to attend the Fuji Shibazakura Festival (富士芝桜まつり) to see the vibrant pink moss phlox with Mt. Fuji in the background. The colorful carpet of flowers against the backdrop of the mountain is a sight to behold. There are lots of food stalls there during the festival so it’s perfect for lunch!
After lunch, visit the Fugaku Wind Cave (富岳風穴) and Narusawa Ice Cave (鳴沢氷穴), formed by lava flows from Mt. Fuji. It’s an interesting natural wonder that offers a glimpse into the volcanic activity that shaped the region. After you’re done, go to Shin-Fuji Station to ride the Shinkansen to Kyoto (about 2 hours and 30 minutes long).