All About Japan

Gorgeous Sakura-Carpeted Landscapes

A little off the beaten track, these pictures of pink petals scattered over rivers and pathways rival even the fully blossomed cherry trees.

Top 9 Sakura Spots in Tohoku & Hokkaido

Since northern Japan gets its cherry blossoms later than the rest of the country, even if you've missed the first round of 'sakura' to the south, you can often catch late blooms in Tohoku and Hokkaido as late as the end of April or even early May.

Sip on Sakura Soda Under the Cherry Blossoms

No cherry blossom viewing party would be complete without at least one bottle of 'sakura'-infused cola!

Top 5 Hanami Spots in the Tokai Area

Want to see some beautiful cherry blossoms this year? Then check out these Top 5 sites that promise some gorgeous pictures and fantastic views!

The 3 Great Cherry Trees of Japan

The only thing more jaw-dropping than their beauty is just how long these cherry trees have been around!

5 Fantastic Websites for Fall Foliage

These five sites will make sure you don’t miss a beat as the leaves change color from north to south across the country!

Sakura in Hirosaki City

Hirosaki is a city in western Aomori Prefecture known for its beautiful castle and cherry blossoms. The city holds a Cherry Blossom Festival every year from April 23 to May 5.

Quiz! Cherry or Plum Blossom?

Think you know your 'ume' from your 'sakura'?

Kanazawa: Traditional Scenes Among the Sakura

Known for retaining much of its feudal, old-city atmosphere, Kanazawa is a castle town that boasts beautiful landmarks that can be enjoyed in every season. However, the spring cherry blossom season is in a class of its own.

9 Reasons Why I Love 'Hanami'

'Hanami' literally means flower-viewing, but it actually refers to picnic parties that appear under the blooming cherry trees all across Japan every spring. Grace from Texan in Tokyo offers us her Top 9 reasons to love them!

5 Lesser-Known Sakura Spots Around Tokyo

There are a number of gorgeous cherry blossom spots just waiting to be enjoyed in the greater Tokyo area that are virtually unknown to visitors.

Top 5 Sakura-Viewing Sites in Osaka

From castles to riverbanks, Osaka has some amazing spots for viewing cherry blossoms with your friends and family. Check out these sites during your next visit!

Why Japanese People are Obsessed with Sakura

Cherry blossom viewing parties aren't just an excuse to get drunk in a public place, but a traditional practice of celebrating the coming of spring that has become an important part of Japanese custom.

How to 'Hanami' Like A Pro

Whether you're going with your family, friends or co-workers, here's what you need to know to enjoy your cherry blossom viewing to the fullest!

11-Day Sakura & Word Heritage Tour of Japan

Get to know the beauty of Japan on an 11-day, all-inclusive tour with a licensed English-speaking guide!

10 Top Nighttime Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots

Between March and April, people flock outdoors to enjoy the brief life of Japan's blooming cherry blossoms. But just because the day ends doesn't mean the 'hanami' (flower viewing) has to as well. Take a look at our 10 recommended night viewing spots!

Japan's Top 5 'Hanami' Hikes

Japanese culture is deeply tied to nature, and there's no better time to appreciate the Japanese wilderness than cherry blossom season.

4 Spots for Sakura Along the Water in Tokyo

If you want ideas besides picnics for your cherry blossom viewing, how about walking along the river? You'll definitely appreciate the beauty of sakura from another angle!

3 Breathtaking Cherry Blossom Spots in Toyama

Every spring, Toyama Prefecture's cherry trees come to full bloom, and a few places are popular nationwide. We have three fabulous viewing spots to share with you!

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