This year’s spring flowering dates for Somei Yoshino cherry trees have been released
It's the prettiest time of year in Tokyo – see the 2022 cherry blossom forecast, best sakura viewing spots, and more
Sakura, or cherry blossoms, are synonymous with Japan. Mention spring and, chances are, you'll imagine trees bursting with delicate blooms of white and pink lining the rivers and dotting the parks everywhere in Tokyo.
There's a ritual of sorts (known as hanami) that locals adhere to when enjoying this fleeting season, which lasts only for a couple of weeks at most. However, rest assured, even after the flowers have withered, you'll still find the essence of the season in the city's many food and drink offerings, from sakura-flavoured lattes to pretty desserts featuring the beautiful petals.
Although hanami will look a little different this year as large gatherings are discouraged at many Tokyo parks, we've pulled together a guide to help you make the most of the sakura season – yes, Instagram inspiration included. Plus, we've also compiled a list of sakura facts that will make you seem like an expert in no time.
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This year’s spring flowering dates for Somei Yoshino cherry trees have been released
Where to see the sakura – Tokyo parks, gardens and more great hanami spots
Sakura are gorgeous during the day, but these light-ups at parks and shrines prove they’re even better at night
No need to worry about mapping out your hanami route – you can book a tour or cruise that’ll take you around some of the most beautiful cherry blossom destinations in Tokyo
For an enjoyable sakura season minus the crowds, check out these parks and green spaces
Get your sakura fix at these cherry blossom-themed events and food promotions around the capital
Here are the tastiest, most beautiful sakura sweets in Tokyo right now
Can't get enough cherry blossoms in Tokyo? Here are the best spots to catch sakura across Japan, from Fukuoka to Sapporo
To make sure you’re not missing out on the season altogether, we’ve compiled a collection of stunning high-definition sakura videos from Japan for you to put on at home, in the park, or wherever you may be
You can see the influence of sakura everywhere in Japan, but especially in the Japanese language itself
There's more to the bloomin' pink flowers than you think. Here's all you need to know about cherry blossoms before getting drunk at a hanami party
Cherry-blossom viewing, or hanami, is the highlight of spring for many Tokyoites. Here's how to appreciate the sakura like the locals
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