Sakura Season in Asia
Cherry blossoms are one of nature's most dazzling displays. Each spring, much of northern Asia is bathed in the beautiful pale pink hues of "Sakura," the traditional Japanese name for this exquisite annual spectacle. These delicate flowers bloom in March and April each year, but their appearance signifies more than just the beginning of spring; They also represent hope, destiny and renewal and are a defining symbol of Asian grace and elegance. The practice of viewing cherry blossoms dates back centuries and even has its own name, "hanami" with special annual festivals dedicated to these ethereal pastel-pink blooms. But the spectacular blossoms are not only found in Japan; cherry, plum and peach trees are prevalent all across Asia's northern temperate regions, including Taiwan, China and South Korea. Here is a guide to the sakura season, as we reveal the best Asian destinations to discover this natural springtime phenomenon.
Hanami festivals are believed to have originated in Japan's Imperial Palace, and Tokyo remains a wonderful place to experience the magic of sakura. Located in the heart of the city, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden dates back to 1906 and was considered one of the most important gardens of the Meiji era. Just a short walk from Shinjuku Station, this part is home to hundreds of cherry trees that bloom in spring and create an impressive spectacle. Don’t miss out the best time to catch the full bloom in early April.
If any country captures the spirit of springtime, it is Japan. Every year, the “Land of the Rising Sun” blooms with pink, white and purple flowers, and visitors flock to parks around the country to celebrate “Hanami”, the annual cherry blossom festival. In Kyoto, Japan's ancient capital and cultural heart, visitors can view plum blossoms in March, before the cherry trees start to flourish in April. There are plenty of opportunities to see Sakura in Kyoto, especially at Kitano Tenmangu, Maruyama Park, the Philosopher's Path, Arashiyama and Haradani-en Garden.
Jeju, South Korea's UNESCO World Heritage-listed island. Jeonnong-ro is an exceptional place to witness the beauty of the cherry blossoms. Located in the capital area of Jeju. The "Cherry Blossom Road" is lined with centuries-old cherry trees that offer an impressive springtime spectacle. A cherry blossom festival is held in Jeonnong-ro every year as the flowers falling from a soft pink carpet lining the street. The street is particularly attractive when it is illuminated at night and the beautiful blossoms can be seen for weeks, from the end of March to the second week of April.
Wuhan is the capital of Hubei Province and one of the most dynamic cities in China. It is also blessed with many scenic natural areas, the largest of which is East Lake Park, which covers over an amazing 73 square kilometers. East Lake Park is stunning year-round, but it really blooms in spring, when cherry, plum, and peach trees cast an elegant rosy glow across the gardens. Guests should head to the Mo Hill Scenic Area in late March through early April to witness the most spectacular visual spectacle.
Located in southern Taiwan. Kaohsiung has a warm subtropical climate all year round. In spring however, the rising temperatures bring the country’s fruit trees into bloom a full month before Japan. Across the city’s parks and gardens, guests can stroll amid sakura-lined streets and be showered with ethereal flowers from February onwards. One of the best places to see these iconic attractions is Bao Shan Er Ji Tuan Cherry Blossom Park.