Cherry Blossom Tour
Experience Kyoto at its most beautiful during sakura season. This curated route takes you to the finest cherry blossom viewing spots, from the famous Philosopher's Path to hidden gardens, with timing optimized for peak bloom. Perfect for spring visitors from late March through early April.
Cherry Blossom Season Timing
Kyoto's cherry blossoms typically bloom from late March to early April. Peak season usually occurs around April 1-10, but varies yearly based on weather. Monitor Japan's cherry blossom forecast (sakura zensen) starting in February.
Day 1: Eastern Kyoto Blossoms
Maruyama Park, Philosopher's Path, and Evening Illuminations
Maruyama Park
Kyoto's oldest public park and most famous cherry blossom spot. The centerpiece is a magnificent weeping cherry tree (shidarezakura) that's illuminated at night. Over 850 cherry trees create a pink canopy.
Philosopher's Path
A 2km stone path alongside a canal lined with hundreds of cherry trees on both sides. Named after philosopher Nishida Kitaro who used it for meditation walks. One of Japan's most scenic cherry blossom walks.
Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)
The elegant Silver Pavilion surrounded by cherry blossoms creates a serene spring scene. The temple's refined gardens with moss and sand contrast beautifully with pink petals.
Heian Jingu Shrine Garden
The shrine's spacious garden features over 300 cherry trees, including spectacular weeping cherries around the pond. One of Kyoto's finest paid gardens in spring.
Evening Illuminations
Return to Maruyama Park or visit Gion area for cherry blossom night illuminations. The lit-up blossoms create a magical atmosphere.
Day 2: Western & Southern Highlights
Arashiyama, Daigo-ji, Kiyomizu-dera, and Kamo River
Arashiyama & Togetsukyo Bridge
The scenic Arashiyama district with cherry trees lining both sides of the Hozu River. The iconic Togetsukyo Bridge framed by mountains and cherry blossoms is stunning. Visit Tenryu-ji temple garden too.
Daigo-ji Temple
One of Kyoto's finest cherry blossom sites with over 1,000 trees. Famous since Toyotomi Hideyoshi held a massive hanami party here in 1598. Spectacular tunnel of cherry trees along the approach.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
The famous wooden stage surrounded by cherry trees. Combining the iconic architecture with spring blossoms makes this one of Kyoto's most photographed scenes.
Kyoto Imperial Palace Park
Spacious park surrounding the Imperial Palace with wide lawns and hundreds of cherry trees. Free entry and less crowded than popular temples. Great for picnic hanami.
Kamo River Evening Walk
End your cherry blossom tour with a relaxing walk along the Kamo River. Cherry trees line sections of both banks. Join locals sitting on the riverbanks enjoying the season.
Hanami (Cherry Blossom Viewing) Guide
📸 Photography Tips
- • Early morning (6-8 AM) for best light and no crowds
- • Overcast days create soft, even lighting
- • Frame blossoms with architecture or bridges
- • Capture petals floating on water
- • Night illuminations create magical shots
🎒 What to Bring
- • Picnic blanket for hanami parties
- • Light jacket (evenings can be cool)
- • Snacks and drinks from convenience stores
- • Cash for temples and food stalls
- • Fully charged phone/camera
⚠️ Important Warnings
- • Don't shake or climb trees for photos
- • Take all trash with you
- • Respect quiet zones in temple grounds
- • Book accommodation months in advance
- • Weather dependent - have backup plans
🗓️ Bloom Forecast Resources
- • Japan Meteorological Agency (official)
- • Weather Japan (English forecasts)
- • Start checking forecasts in February
- • Peak lasts only 7-10 days
- • Full bloom + 2-3 days is ideal timing