Kuroda Kanbei's Himeji Castle

Across Regions: The Best Hanami Spots in Japan

            Not only weather is forecasted in Japan, even the blooming time of the cherry trees is. Every year, the sakura forecast is anticipated by locals and tourists alike who are eager to schedule their trips to the best spots in the country for hanami. The cherry blossoms usually start to bloom from the West of Japan gradually going up to the East. People can view the cherry blossoms as early as the first week of March in the Western end and as late as May on the other side. Japan is composed of five islands divided in eight regions, each region boasting itsperfect spots for hanami:

            Goryokaku Park, Sapporo.This park is a star-shaped fortress completed in 1864. It was constructed by the Tokugawa Shogunateto protect the Tsugaru Strait from a possible Russian invasion. Around 1, 600 cherry trees line the park that highlight its beautiful shape even more. A stroll around the park would be nice in a breezy Spring day, but a good view of the island is best seen from the 107-meter observation deck of the Goryokaku Tower.            

Hirosaki Park, Aomori.Castles are popular hanami spots in Japan, Hirosaki Castle, built in the 17^th Century, being one of them. There are more than 2,500 cherry trees planted around the castle. These are said to be hundreds of years old already. There are also other areas of interest around the castle such as the Nakamichi Buke-Yashiki or the old samurai houses, the Choshoji Temple, and the Saisho-in Temple that houses a five-storied pagoda.

            Chureito Pagoda, Yamanashi. Built only in 1963 as a peace memorial, this pagodaoffers an amazing view of Mt. Fuji, somehow making the cherry blossoms just an added bonus. Sitting on a hill, it takes 400 steps from the main buildings of the ArakuraShengen Shrine to climb up to this beautiful spot. It may be tiring, but its definitely worth the sweat.

            Takato Castle Ruins Park, Nagano. There are around 1,500 cherry blossoms planted around the park including kohigan cherry trees, which are said to have been planted as far back as 1875 when the park was first opened to the public. The Onkyo Bridge, found at the center of the park, is one of the most famous spots to view the cherry blossoms. After a stroll, the Shinshu Takato Art Museum, found at the southern part of the park, is another option to see.

            Himeji Castle, Hyogo.This Unesco World Heritage Site, fully re-opened again to the public after five years of restoration, is not only rich in centuries of history but also an eye candy for cherry blossoms fanatics. It is considered as one of the top three best castles in Japan.During peak seasons, the number of visitors allowed to enter the main castle keep are limited. Better check the people forecast (yes, they do have it!) on their website to see which dates are expected to be crowded.  

            Miyajima, Hiroshima. Though famous for its giant torii gate that seems to float on water during the high tide, this island is also good for cherry blossoms viewing. On this island, you can see the World Heritage Site, Itsukushima Shrine, with around 1,900 cherry blossoms lining the island. 

            Mt.Shiunde, Kagawa.Viewing the cherry blossoms with the Setoinland sea in the background would definitely be priceless. Climbing up the mountain, which is 352 meters high, may take around an hour, but the view is worth the hike because the spot gives an unobstructed view of the island and the surrounding waters. On a clear day, you might catch a glimpse of the tip of Honshu.

Kumamoto Castle, Kumamoto. This castle, built in 1607, is surrounded by 800 cherry trees. Together wih Himeji Castle and Matsumoto Castle, it is regarded as one of the top three castles in Japan. Its beauty exudes a different charm in autumn and winter, but the cherry blossoms in spring add a layer of elegance to its famous stone walls called Mushagaeshi and the long wall called the Naga-bei.