Japanese Festivals: Hanami
Cherry blossom vewing, or 'hanami,' has a long tradition in Japan. Today people head out in droves to picnic beneath the blooming cherry trees, while more than a millennium ago, members of the royal court composed poetry just for cherry blossom viewing!
Discover the Beauty of Tohoku
Japan's northeastern Tohoku region offers the comforts of refreshing nature, beautiful scenery and time-tested traditions—concentrating the best of Japan into a single incredible area!
4 Cool & Classic Souvenirs from Japan
‘Cool Japan’ is a government-sponsored campaign to promote Japan internationally through local products. And we've got our own ideas for some 'cool' and classic souvenirs!
Cherry Blossoms & Climate Change
Will rising temperatures change the tradition of viewing cherry blossoms?
These Sakura Petals Float on a Moat
Missed out on the blooming sakura in Tokyo? Why not head north to view the cherry blossom flower rafts in Aomori Prefecture?
5 Tokyo Cafés for Sakura-Themed Treats
Let the atmosphere of the cherry blossom season linger as you enjoy sakura-themed treats and more at these chic Tokyo cafés.
Tokyo's Final Photos of the Sakura Season?
As the spring breeze kicks up, cherry blossom petals get whisked away where they scatter on rivers and sidewalks, giving us one last dazzling display.
How to Keep Track of Japan's Cherry Blossoms
Since cherry blossoms only last about two weeks in any given area, the progressing 'cherry blossom front' is carefully tracked on the morning TV weather reports. If you want to follow along online, look no further than the JNTO!
Kyoto's 5 Best Cherry Blossom Views
Kyoto should be on the top of your travel list at any time of the year, but the city makes a truly special transformation in early spring.
Top 6 'Hanami' Spots in Shikoku
While Shikoku might be a bit off the grid when it comes to mass tourism, this island region is full of hidden natural gems—including gorgeous cherry trees!
Sakura Beer is Back!
You won't want to miss this bubbly brew that is infused with cherry blossom petals.
Get the Lowdown on Sakura-Themed Treats!
As cherry blossoms overwhelm Japan, all the big players step up with 'sakura'-flavored snacks and drinks. Check out this year's offerings from Starbucks, McDonald's, Max Brenner, Hotel Conrad and more!
Above the Sakura & into the Sky
This amazing video takes us above the canopy of Nakameguro for a truly spectacular view of Tokyo's cherry blossoms.
The Earliest Blooming Sakura on Mainland Japan
People around the country are sharing stunning photos of the early blossoming sakura in full bloom.
4 Sakura Vocaloid Songs for Spring
Many Japanese artists have at least one song dedicated to cherry blossoms, and the Vocaloid genre is no exception.
Pack Your Bags for Yamaguchi
After seeing these pictures it'll be hard not to make a stop in Yamaguchi Prefecture during your visit to Japan!
Japan’s Three Famous Castles
Called 'sanmeijo' in Japanese, the three castles on this list have been chosen based on their significance to history and culture, as well as their scale and grandeur.
10 Beautiful Spots to Take Photos in Japan
Photography Japanese Countryside
It's hard to take a bad picture at these gorgeous locations!
Top 10 'Hanami' Spots in Japan
Historical Site Cherry Blossoms
The transient nature of cherry blossoms is an essential part of their beauty, but no one wants to be left in the dark when it comes to finding the perfect spot to see them.
Top 6 'Hanami' Spots in Kyushu
Kyushu is where you can see some of the earliest cherry blossoms in full bloom!
