As winter fades and hints of spring begin to bloom, cherry blossoms burst into vibrant colors, transforming landscapes into seas of pink hues. This ephemeral beauty has captivated travelers worldwide, drawing them to countries celebrating this seasonal wonder. Here’s a guide to the 12 most beautiful cities to witness the cherry blossoms in full glory.
Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is a haven for cherry blossom fans. Visit Ueno Park and Shinjuku Gyoen for breathtaking Sakura displays. The city’s lively hanami (flower viewing) parties, complete with food stalls and traditional music, make the experience unforgettable.
Washington, D.C., USA
The capital city is famed for its cherry blossoms, gifted by Japan in 1912. A must-see is the National Cherry Blossom Festival at the Tidal Basin, which provides world-renowned views of the Jefferson Memorial surrounded by flowers.
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto’s historic temples and shrines provide a serene backdrop for cherry blossoms. Maruyama Park and the Philosopher’s Path are particularly delightful, offering a blend of nature and tradition.
Seoul, South Korea
In Seoul, cherry blossoms create a pink canopy over the city’s parks and streets. Yeouido Park and the banks of the Han River are typical spots for locals and tourists to enjoy the pristine beauty of the blossoms.
Paris, France
Paris in spring is enchanting, and cherry blossoms add to its allure. Jardin des Plantes and Parc de Sceaux are prime locations to behold the city’s sakura, which adds a romantic touch to the City of Light.
Vancouver, Canada
Queen Elizabeth Park and the VanDusen Botanical Garden offer breathtaking panoramas of cherry blossoms — Vancouver’s mild climate nurtures a variety of these delicate blooms. To truly immerse yourself in the magic of the season, be sure to catch the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival.
Stockholm, Sweden
The best time to see cherry blossoms in Stockholm is usually late April to early May as Kungsträdgården, or the King’s Garden, becomes a floral wonderland in spring. The park’s cherry trees, lined up in rows, produce a spectacular corridor of blooms, perfect for leisurely strolls and photography.
Taipei, Taiwan
Snuggled just outside the bustling city, Yangmingshan National Park serves as a sanctuary where nature’s artistry is fully displayed. The park transforms with a colorful palette of pink and white once winter recedes, courtesy of the blooming cherry trees that dot its landscape.
Jinhae, South Korea
Jinhae is popular for its cherry blossom festival, the largest in South Korea. The city’s streets and parks are adorned with blossoms, and the picturesque Yeojwacheon Stream, with cherry trees bordered, is truly stunning.
Bonn, Germany
Bonn’s Heerstraße, also known as Cherry Blossom Avenue, is a fantastic sight in spring. The tunnel of pink florals over the cobblestone streets creates a fairy-tale atmosphere, enticing visitors from all walks of life.
New York City, USA
The best places to see cherry blossoms in New York City are Central Park and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. The annual Sakura Matsuri festival in Brooklyn showcases the splendor of the blooms alongside Japanese cultural activities.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Delicate cherry blooms grace Amsterdam’s canals and parks, with a haven of 400 cherry trees found in the Amsterdamse Bos. This park, a thoughtful gift from the Japanese Women’s Club, offers a tranquil escape from the city’s buzz, allowing you to admire the blossoms in blissful peace.
