The beauty of seasonal flowers in Japan is a topic that deeply resonates with the country’s cultural ethos, reflecting life’s fleeting moments and the cyclical nature of renewal. The revered cherry blossoms may be the most famous abroad but they’re just one among many more cherished floral celebrations across the nation. The influence of these varied floral displays can be seen across Japan in its traditions and arts.
This way, each flower type holds a special significance and often become an important part of the local culture, as well as the local economy on many of the places where renowned blooming spots can be found. After all, we can’t deny the strong impact thousands or millions of visitors have in those places, where flowers are part of the main attraction.
And with good reason, many of these flowers are well worth a day trip to experience the joy of contemplation and aesthetical appreciation!
1. Cherry Blossoms
Cherry blossoms, or Sakura, are a symbol of Japan and a central element of spring celebrations. The tradition of Hanami, enjoying the transient beauty of flowers, dates back centuries. Cherry blossoms bloom brilliantly but fleetingly, symbolizing the ephemeral nature of life. With over 200 varieties, the cherry blossom season spans from early blooms in late winter to late-blooming types extending the spectacle into early summer.
Best time to see them:
The most popular and widespread variety is the Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms. Its blooming period is usually between late March to early April in most regions, extending to early May in colder areas like Hokkaido.
Early bloomers like Kanzakura and Kanhizakura kick off the cherry blossom season, with some starting as early as January. Kawazu Zakura is particularly noteworthy for its early and long-lasting blossoms, which can be enjoyed for about a month starting in early February.
For those who miss the peak season, late-blooming varieties like Yamazakura, Oyamazakura, and Ukonzakura offer a second chance to enjoy the cherry blossoms, typically blooming from mid-April to early May.
Where to see them:
The Somei Yoshino can be found all over the country. Some of the most famous spots include Tokyo, with its numerous festivals and parks like Shinjuku Gyoen and Ueno Park; the areas surrounding Mt. Fuji like Kawaguchi Lake or Chureito Pagoda; Osaka Castle in Osaka; Mount Yoshino in Nara or the Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto, among countless other places nationwide.
For early blooming varieties, some of the best spots are in Kawazu Town in Shizuoka, Miura City and Matsuda Town in Kanagawa.
Late blooming varieties can be found mostly in the northern regions, like Fort Goryokaku in Hakodate City in Hokkaido, or Hirosaki Castle in Aomori Prefecture. We can also find late varieties in Tokyo in Shinjuku Gyoen or Showa Memorial Park
More info: Cherry Blossom Forecast in Japan
10 Best Places to View Cherry Blossoms in Japan
Best Early Blooming Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan
Best Spots to See Late Blooming Cherry Blossoms in Japan
2. Plum Blossoms
Plum blossoms, known as Ume in Japan, herald the approach of spring with their early blooms from February to March. Less crowded than cherry blossom spots, plum gardens offer a serene and lengthy blooming period, making them a splendid alternative for flower enthusiasts seeking tranquility and beauty.
Best time to see them: Plum blossoms bloom from February to March, providing a longer viewing period than cherry blossoms.
Where to see them: Notable spots include Kairakuen Garden in Mito, known for its impressive collection of over 3,000 plum trees, and Hanamiyama Park in Fukushima, where the blossoms paint the mountainside. Other significant locations include Yushima Tenmangu in Tokyo and Inabe Plum Grove in Mie Prefecture.
More info: Plum Blossoms in Japan: Best Places to See
3. Tulip
Tulips in Japan offer a colorful interlude in spring, capturing hearts at the Sakura Tulip Festa in Chiba. This largest tulip festival near Tokyo showcases around 700,000 tulips in 100 varieties. The scene is enhanced by a Dutch-style windmill, creating a picturesque setting for leisurely walks and photo opportunities.
Best time to see them: The festival runs from early to late April, offering a splendid display of tulips in full bloom.
Where to see them: Sakura Oldness & Open Space in Sakura City, Chiba Prefecture, is the main venue. Easily accessible from Tokyo, it provides a delightful escape with additional attractions like traditional Dutch costume rentals and boat cruising on Lake Inba.
More info: Sakura Tulip Festa
4. Shibazakura
Shibazakura, or moss phlox, transforms landscapes into vibrant carpets of pink, white, and purple, creating an ethereal beauty that complements the tail end of cherry blossom season. This ground-hugging bloom offers a different yet equally mesmerizing floral experience, with several spots around Tokyo becoming must-visit destinations during its peak season.
Best time to see them: The best viewing time for Shibazakura is from mid-April to late May, with the peak usually in early to mid-May.
Where to see them: Key locations include the Fuji Shibazakura Festival in Yamanashi, with the majestic Mt. Fuji as a backdrop, Hitsujiyama Park in Saitama for its colorful tapestry of blooms, and Tokyo German Village in Chiba, offering a unique Shibazakura experience with a German twist.
More info: Best Places to See Shibazakura around Tokyo
7 Best Shibazakura Festivals in Japan
5. Wisteria
Wisteria blooms captivate with their cascades of purple, pink, and white, succeeding cherry blossoms in heralding spring. These flowers, deeply embedded in Japanese culture, symbolize grace and the transient nature of life. Japan’s ancient temples, parks, and gardens become wonderlands under the enchanting canopies of wisteria, often accompanied by illuminations, making them a must-visit for floral enthusiasts.
Best time to see them: The prime viewing time for wisteria is from late April to early May, with some locations offering stunning night illuminations.
Where to see them: Noteworthy spots include Ashikaga Flower Park in Tochigi, known for its vast and aged wisteria trees, and Kameido Tenjin Shrine in Tokyo, where wisteria drapes over a scenic pond. Kawachi Wisteria Garden in Fukuoka and Tennogawa Park in Aichi are also celebrated for their extensive wisteria tunnels and trellises.
More info: 10 Best Places to See Wisteria in Japan
6. Nemophila
Nemophila, or “baby blue eyes,” create dream-like blue vistas across Japan’s parks and hillsides, symbolizing clear skies. These delicate blooms form a sea of blue, often merging with the sky above, providing a tranquil and refreshing sight in contrast to the vibrant hues of other spring flowers.
Best time to see them: The peak season for Nemophila is from mid-April to early May, coinciding with the lush spring bloom.
Where to see them: Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki is renowned for its Nemophila Harmony event, where millions of these flowers cover the Miharashi Hills. Other significant sites include Nagai Uminote Park Soleil Hill in Kanagawa and Yamanakako Hanano Miyako Park in Yamanashi, offering picturesque settings with Mount Fuji in the backdrop.
More info: 10 Best Places to See Nemophila in Japan