5 most peaceful spots in Kyoto to see Japanese cherry tree blossoms
Thousands flock to take part in annual custom of admiring flowers, known in Japanese as hanami, so we’ve picked some places far from the maddening crowd
Japan’s superlative flower show – courtesy of the blossoming of its many beautiful cherry trees – usually starts from mid March in isolated locations, before the main event unfurls across Kyushu and Honshu over the last week of March and first week of April.
The city of Kyoto's first cherry tree blooms, or “sakura”, in Japanese, are expected on March 28.
Typically it takes a week for the trees to enter full bloom, but a sudden cold snap or unseasonably strong winds can take their tolls.
While there are plenty of enchanting locations across Japan to enjoy the natural spectacle of the blossoms – a traditional custom called “hanami”in Japanese – most people will agree that Kyoto holds the prize for its wealth of prime spots.
The imperial city is home to numerous heritage buildings replete with gardens and views and with the advent of spring each year millions of tourists flow through their gates in order to catch the sights within.
The temples of Kiyomizudera and Kodaiji, and Nijo Castle are just some of the city’s more popular attractions.
The flower gazing throngs will also spill out onto Kyoto’s parks and streets, which are lined with thousands of cherry trees.