For a few magical weeks every spring, cherry blossoms paint select cities in delicate pinks and whites, creating breathtaking landscapes. From Japan’s serene temple gardens to the bustling streets of Seoul, from Washington, DC’s historic Tidal Basin to Vancouver’s scenic parks, cherry blossom season is a fleeting wonder worth planning for. Here’s how to make the most of it!
Best Time to Visit
🌸 Japan: Late March–early April
🌸 Seoul: First two weeks of April
🌸 Washington, DC: Late March–mid-April (peak bloom expected March 28th-31st)
🌸 Vancouver: Early–mid-April
Need to Know
Cherry blossom season is incredibly popular, meaning accommodations, tours, and activities book up fast. Plan ahead, avoid peak crowds by visiting early in the morning, and opt for public transport, biking, or walking to navigate busy streets easily.
Respect the blooms: Don’t shake branches, climb trees, or block walkways for photos. If picnicking, clean up after yourself and be mindful of local customs.
Where to Stay
Whether you prefer luxury or boutique charm, these hotels offer stunning stays near prime cherry blossom spots.
Japan
The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon – Chic urban escape with a rooftop terrace and speakeasy.
The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto – A serene riverside retreat blending tradition with modern luxury.
HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO – A restored samurai residence with private onsen baths.
Seoul
Conrad Seoul – Overlooks cherry-blossom-lined Yeouido Park.
Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul – Luxurious hillside retreat with private pools.
Signiel Seoul – Ultra-luxury stay in Lotte World Tower with Michelin-star dining.
Washington, DC
Riggs Washington, DC – Stylish Art Deco hotel near the National Mall.
The Dupont Circle – Modern elegance with floor-to-ceiling window views.
Salamander Washington, DC – Luxury by the Tidal Basin with a Forbes-rated spa.
Hot Tip: Pick up some sandwiches and Cherry Blossom Shortbread Cookies from local and woman owned bakery, Uncle Chips.
Visitor Information:
The 2025 National Cherry Blossom Festival is scheduled to run from March 20 to April 13, 2025.
Here are the scheduled dates and times for some of the key events.
- Opening Ceremony: Saturday, March 22, 2025 / 5-6:30pm
- Kite Festival: Saturday, March 29, 2025, 10am-4pm
- PetalPalooza: Saturday, April 5, 2025 / 1-9pm
- Parade: Saturday, April 12, 2025 / 10am-12pm (seating area tickets)
More to do in Washington DC:
Stumpy’s Petals and Paddles – March 20
In honor of Stumpy, the cherry tree that reached viral fame, the National Cherry Blossom Festival is set to inaugurate the first-ever pedal boat race at the Tidal Basin.
Opening Ceremony – March 22
The National Cherry Blossom Festival's official Opening Ceremony at The Warner Theatre will feature an artistic display to pay tribute to Japan's gift of cherry trees to the United States, and the countries' enduring friendship. Tickets are available now. They're free, but there's a $5 transaction fee when you purchase them online.
Blossom Kite Festival and Sakura Taiko Fest – March 29
The fan-favorite kite festival is coming back to fill the skies around the Washington Monument with colorful, soaring kites! Get ready to enjoy youth and adult kite-making competitions, special demonstrators and performances bound to take your breath away. To participate in the kite-making competition, sign up ahead of time online or same-day in the registration tent.
Visitors are also welcome to come by and fly their own kite for fun – or simply take in the views. The Blossom Kite Festival runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Bloomaroo - March 29
While not an official event with the National Cherry Blossom Festival, The Wharf's celebration will be pretty in pink featuring live music, kids' activities and a fireworks finale about 8:30 p.m. It's free and open to anyone.
Sakura Sunday – March 30
The National Cherry Blossom Festival comes to National Harbor for Sakura Sunday featuring free cultural activities including an artisanal Japanese marketplace, cultural performances, culinary delights, a Sakura Spirits Garden and a water lantern festival. It's free and open to the public.
Vancouver
Fairmont Pacific Rim – A contemporary waterfront stay with top-tier dining.
Rosewood Hotel Georgia – Historic elegance with a world-class spa.
Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge – An exclusive safari-style retreat in nature.
Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms
Tokyo
🌸 Shinjuku Gyoen & Ueno Park – Expansive gardens perfect for a hanami picnic.
🌸 Meguro River – Stroll under a tunnel of blossoms, beautifully lit at night.
🌸 Imperial Palace & Kitanomaru Park – A peaceful retreat with historic charm.
Kyoto
🌸 Philosopher’s Path – A stone-lined walkway flanked by cherry trees.
🌸 Maruyama Park – Kyoto’s most famous hanami spot with an iconic weeping cherry tree.
🌸 Arashiyama – A dreamy mix of bamboo groves, rivers, and blossoms.
Seoul
🌸 Seokchon Lake – A scenic stroll with sakura reflections in the water.
🌸 Yeouido Park – Home to the vibrant Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival.
🌸 Namsan Park – Sweeping city views framed by pink blossoms.
Washington, DC
🌸 Tidal Basin – Iconic cherry blossoms with stunning memorial backdrops.
🌸 East Potomac Park – A tranquil alternative to the bustling Tidal Basin.
🌸 National Arboretum – A lesser-known but beautiful spot to avoid crowds.
Vancouver
🌸 Stanley Park – Cherry blossoms with mountain and harbor views.
🌸 Queen Elizabeth Park – Gorgeous gardens perfect for a picnic.
🌸 VanDusen Botanical Gardens – A 55-acre paradise with themed landscapes.
If You Miss Cherry Blossom Season…
Japan (Fall Foliage): Vibrant autumn colors at Lake Chuzenji and Kyoto’s temples.
Netherlands (Spring Tulips): Visit Keukenhof, the world’s largest flower garden.
Mexico City (Jacaranda Blooms): Purple blooms take over Paseo de la Reforma.
New Zealand (Winter Lupins): Pink and purple wildflowers bloom around Lake Tekapo.
Spring’s cherry blossoms are fleeting, but their beauty makes the journey unforgettable. Ready to plan your trip? Let’s make it happen!