Tuesday 5 March 2013

Tops Tuesdays: Top 5 Hanami Spots in Japan

Cherry blossom season is upon us and the days are warming up. Join me for my top 5 hanami spots in Japan as you decide where to stake out for your own cherry blossom-viewing itinerary...


5. Shinjuku Gyoen


If you want a picnic in the park conveniently located in the heart of Tokyo, this is it...
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4. Sankeien Garden

This garden in Yokohama is a truly stunning spot for a hanami picnic in early April...

3. Matsumoto Castle

Many castles around Japan are beautiful spots for Hanami but Matsumoto in particular is stunning and makes for the perfect day-trip from Tokyo. The cherry blossoms around Matsumoto Castle ( or "Crow Castle" as it is sometimes refereed to because of its black colour) will be at their peak around mid April.

2. The Philosopher's Path, Kyoto

Enjoy a pleasant stroll along this path which picks its way between some of Kyoto's famous temples and will be canopied with cherry blossoms in early April.

1. Fuji Five Lakes

Who can resist all those cherry blossoms with Mt. Fuji as your backdrop? It is the quintessential experience of Japan. The best viewing spot is the Northern shores of Lake Kawaguchi but don't forget to check out the Chureito Pagoda (pictured, entry free) too! 


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What's your favourite hanami spot in Japan? 

2 comments:

  1. Matsumoto Castle is one of my favourites with around 300 trees. I would also add Yoshino in Nara with over 30,000 trees covering the mountain, it is considered the most famous place in Japan for cherry blossom viewing. Osaka Castle is another one that comes to mind with over 4000 trees on its grounds and is amazing at night when all lit up.

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    1. Maybe I'm biased because Fuji Five Lakes is so close to where I live but I think the shores of Kawaguchi Lake are pretty stunning during spring. Definitely, Japanese castles are another top place for hanami. :)

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