As cherry blossom season approaches, Kyoto is buzzing with excitement. According to the Meteorological Agency, the expected date for cherry blossoms to bloom in Kyoto in 2025 is March 26. With buds swelling day by day, now is the perfect time to start planning your hanami (flower viewing) outings.
This year, visitors can enjoy the stunning cherry blossoms in Kyoto’s famed districts of Higashiyama and Arashiyama, which are set to feature special temple openings for a limited time this spring. The cherry blossoms, particularly the early-blooming Kawazu variety, are already making an appearance, as seen on March 25 at the Sanjo Ohashi bridge, where these blossoms are known to bloom relatively early in the city.
Historically, the Kawazu cherry blossoms were discovered in Kawazu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture, and were registered as a variety in 1974. This early-blooming cherry tree offers a vibrant start to the season, and the blossoms at Kyoto's Sanjo Ohashi bridge are a highlight for locals and tourists alike.
In recent weeks, the weather has been a mixed bag, with a cold snap affecting temperatures across Japan. Last week, snow fell in Tokyo, temporarily halting the growth of cherry blossom buds. However, a warm weekend has since boosted growth, and forecasts suggest that spring-like weather will continue until March 28, 2025. This is great news for cherry blossom enthusiasts, as both western and eastern Japan are expected to see blossoms blooming throughout March.
As we move into April, the cherry blossoms will continue to spread northward. In Hokuriku and Tohoku, blooms are expected to start appearing in early April, with Fukui set to see blossoms on April 2, and Fukushima and Sendai on April 5. The cherry blossom front will reach Hokkaido by late April, with Hakodate expected to bloom on April 22 and Sapporo on April 24.
In Tokyo, the cherry blossoms are predicted to reach full bloom on March 30, with Osaka following closely behind on April 4 and Nagoya on April 5. Notably, famous viewing spots such as Ueno Onshi Park in Tokyo and Kochi Park in Kochi Prefecture are both expected to reach peak bloom on March 25, while Arashiyama in Kyoto is set for March 29.
The cherry blossom forecast for 2025 indicates blooming will occur around the average year or later than average nationwide. However, areas like Tokyo, Hokuriku, and Tohoku will have earlier blossoms than usual. This year, the Kawazu cherry blossoms in Shizuoka Prefecture will provide an early spring experience, with the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival extending its dates until March 9 due to a delay in blooming.
For those planning to visit Kyoto, the Kyoto Botanical Garden is a must-see destination. Opened in 1924, it celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2024 and features approximately 24 hectares of land with about 12,000 species of plants. The garden boasts around 180 varieties and 500 cherry trees, providing a spectacular display from early-blooming varieties in early March to late-blooming varieties in late April.
The cherry blossom season at the Kyoto Botanical Garden is expected to span from mid to late March for early-blooming types like the Kawazu cherry blossoms, from late March to early April for Daigozakura and Somei Yoshino, and from early to late April for late-blooming varieties such as Satozakura.
One of the highlights of the garden is the 'Nakagi-no-Michi,' an approximately 800-meter promenade along the Kamo River, lined with Yaebeni Shidarezakura trees. This picturesque path features around 70 trees and transforms into a stunning “cherry blossom tunnel” when in full bloom.
Walking from Kitayama Station to Kamigamo Shrine offers a serene experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the peaceful cherry blossom scenery alongside the flowing Kamo River. Kamigamo Shrine, one of Kyoto's oldest shrines, is home to several prized cherry trees, including the 'Saiou-zakura' and 'Misogi-zakura,' which are known for their unique beauty.
Admission to the Kyoto Botanical Garden is reasonably priced, with fees set at 200 yen for general admission until March 31, 2025. From April 1, the fee will increase to 500 yen, which includes access to the greenhouse. Discounts are available for students and seniors, while children under junior high school age can enter for free.
In addition to the botanical garden, visitors can explore other cherry blossom spots in Kyoto. The scenic 'Hannaki-no-Michi' along the Kamo River is another excellent location for cherry blossom viewing. This promenade is particularly beautiful in spring when the pink blossoms create a stunning contrast against the blue sky and flowing water.
As the cherry blossom season unfolds, it’s important to plan ahead. With the blossoms expected to reach their peak in various regions throughout Japan, including Kyoto, this is an ideal time for families and friends to gather for hanami festivities. Whether picnicking in a park or visiting a temple, the beauty of cherry blossoms brings people together.
For anyone looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and celebrate the arrival of spring, Kyoto offers a plethora of options. From the historic temples to the vibrant city parks, the cherry blossoms will surely create unforgettable memories for all who visit.
As the cherry blossoms bloom across the country, the anticipation and joy of this seasonal spectacle remind us of the fleeting beauty of nature. So grab your picnic blanket and camera, and get ready to enjoy one of Japan’s most cherished traditions!
