Spring brings longer days, warmer weather, and one of nature’s most stunning displays: cherry blossoms in full bloom. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a bucket-list trip, these seven destinations offer some of the most breathtaking floral scenes on the planet.
Best time to visit: A quick guide
1. Kyoto, Japan
If there’s one place that defines cherry blossom season, it’s Kyoto. Every spring, sakura season turns the city into a dreamy pink paradise, with locals and travelers alike gathering for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) picnics under the falling petals.
Top viewing spots include the Philosopher’s Path (early April) and Haradani-en Garden (mid-April). And for an extra magical experience? Visit at night when many trees are illuminated, creating a surreal atmosphere.
Check out a list of other recommended places here.
2. Washington, D.C, USA
You don’t need to travel far to experience cherry blossoms in full bloom. Since 1912, Washington, D.C. has been home to thousands of cherry trees gifted by Japan, making it one of the most celebrated spring destinations in the U.S.
The National Cherry Blossom Festival kicks off in late March and lasts into early April, featuring parades, cultural performances, and even a Pink Tie Party. Want to make an impact? Adopt a cherry tree through The Trust for the National Mall and help preserve this beloved tradition.
3. Jerte Valley, Spain
For something a little different, head to Spain’s Jerte Valley, where over two million cherry trees bloom in brilliant white. Just three hours from Madrid, this breathtaking landscape reaches peak bloom in mid-March, turning the valley into a fairytale scene.
Beyond the blossoms, locals celebrate with medieval markets, music, and open-air festivals dedicated to spring’s arrival. It’s an experience that blends nature and culture like nowhere else.
4. Paris, France
Paris in spring? Already dreamy. But when the cherry blossoms bloom, the city looks straight out of a postcard. While many head to the Eiffel Tower for their floral fix, quieter spots like Jardin du Ranelagh in the Passy neighborhood offer a more peaceful way to enjoy the blooms.
Want to avoid the crowds? Stroll through Parc de Sceaux, just outside the city, where cherry blossoms explode in color every April. Pack a picnic, grab a croissant, and let spring in Paris work its magic.
For more inspiration on where to go, check out this list, offering popular and hidden gem locations throughout the city.
5. Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver knows how to do cherry blossoms—after all, it has over 40,000 cherry trees lining its streets and parks. As the rainy season ends in early April, the city bursts into pink and white, making it one of the best places in North America to experience sakura season.
Top spots? Queen Elizabeth Park and the VanDusen Botanical Garden, where dozens of cherry tree varieties bloom at different times, offering a longer viewing season. And don’t miss the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival, a citywide celebration of spring.
6. Seoul, South Korea
Seoul knows how to put on a cherry blossom show. With parks, palaces, and entire streets covered in pink, the city feels like a fairytale during peak bloom.
Yeouido Park is a top spot, home to the Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival, where thousands of trees line the Han River. For a more tranquil experience, head to Seokchon Lake, where delicate petals reflect on the water, making for a picture-perfect scene.
7. Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm takes cherry blossom season seriously—so much so that Kungsträdgården (the King’s Garden) is home to Sweden’s biggest cherry blossom display, celebrated on an official Cherry Blossom Day. Visit in late March or early April, when the park turns into a pink wonderland, complete with a show put on by the Bunraku puppet theater from Chiryu-city (a UNESCO world heritage), an annual festival celebrating Japanese culture, food, and music.
8. London, England
London may not be the first place that comes to mind for cherry blossoms, but come spring, the city is filled with delicate pink blooms. From hidden gardens to royal parks, there are plenty of spots to soak in the magic.
For an iconic experience, head to Kew Gardens, where cherry trees line the pathways near the Palm House, creating an unforgettable spring scene. Want something a little more zen? Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden is a tranquil escape, featuring cherry blossoms, koi ponds, and a traditional Japanese landscape that makes you feel like you’ve traveled halfway across the world—without ever leaving London.
Cherry blossom travel tips
- Avoid the crowds: Visit early in the morning for the best, uninterrupted views. If you’re in Washington, D.C., check the National Park Service Cherry Blossom Tracker for real-time updates.
- Capture the perfect shot: Soft, overcast days help enhance the pink hues in your photos. For photography inspiration, check out Shutterstock’s guide to photographing cherry blossoms.
- Check bloom forecasts: Cherry blossoms are fleeting—use local websites to track peak bloom times. For Japan, visit the Japan Meteorological Corporation’s Cherry Blossom Forecast, and for the U.S. try Cherry Blossom Watch.
- Pack the essentials: A light jacket, camera, and comfortable walking shoes are must-haves. Need recommendations? REI’s Travel Gear Guide has great options for spring trips.
Spring is calling—are you ready?
No matter where your cherry blossom adventure takes you, don’t let travel hiccups spoil the fun. Bring Faye Travel Insurance along for the journey, so you can focus on enjoying every petal, stress-free.
These activities and websites are suggestions and Faye is in no way associated with them. This post is meant to give you ideas and inspiration for where to see cherry blossoms in the spring.
