Kyoto is one of the best places in Japan to experience cherry blossom season, offering a breathtaking blend of historic temples, traditional streets, and picturesque gardens covered in pink petals. Every spring, from late March to early April, the city transforms into a sakura wonderland, drawing visitors from around the world to witness its fleeting beauty.
Popular spots like Maruyama Park, home to Kyoto’s famous weeping cherry tree, and the serene Philosopher’s Path, lined with hundreds of sakura trees, provide unforgettable hanami (flower-viewing) experiences. Iconic landmarks such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Heian Shrine, and Nijo Castle offer stunning views of cherry blossoms against traditional architecture. Whether strolling along the Kamo River, exploring Arashiyama, or enjoying a peaceful moment in Shukkeien Garden, Kyoto’s cherry blossoms create a magical and timeless spring experience.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to see sakura in Kyoto and tips for an unforgettable visit. 🌸 Keep reading to get more details about must-visit places in the city during the season, cherry blossoms forecasts 2025 and day tours to join.
Kyoto Cherry Blossoms Forecast 2025
According to the data, provided by Japan Meteorological Corporation and its cherry blossoms forecast for Japan 2025, sakura season in Kyoto is expected to start on 23rd of March, it will reach full bloom on 31st of March. Please note, that the forecast provides approximate information, the actual cherry blossoms period can differ depending on the weather and temperature.
Kyoto Cherry Blossoms Day Trips
Embark on a comprehensive full-day bus tour of Kyoto’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites and historical landmarks. The journey begins at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, renowned for its wooden stage offering panoramic views of the city. Next, visit Sanjusangen-do Temple, home to 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The tour then takes you to the scenic Arashiyama district, where you’ll enjoy a Japanese buffet lunch overlooking the Togetsukyo Bridge. Afterward, stroll through the serene Sagano Bamboo Forest and explore the Tenryu-ji Temple with its exquisite gardens. The afternoon includes a visit to the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), showcasing its stunning gold-leaf-covered exterior. The day concludes at the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates. Check the price and complete booking here.
Begin your journey in the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo stalks create a serene atmosphere. Next, visit the historic Nijo Castle, once the residence of shoguns, offering a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. Marvel at the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), a Zen temple adorned with gold leaf, reflecting beautifully in its surrounding pond. The tour also includes a visit to the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, renowned for its wooden stage that provides panoramic views of Kyoto. Conclude your day at the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that wind through the forested hillside. Find more details and reserve spot here.
Join a full-day tour from Kyoto to Nara, immersing yourself in Japan’s rich cultural heritage. The journey begins with a visit to the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates. Next, explore the historic city of Nara, where you’ll encounter the friendly, free-roaming deer in Nara Park. The tour includes a visit to the majestic Todai-ji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue. Complete booking here.
5 Best Places to See Sakura in Kyoto
There are plenty of places in Kyoto prefecture where you can enjoy cherry blossoms. We’ve tried to highlight the most popular ones, that you can start with.
Nijo Castle: A Must-Visit Spot During Sakura Season 🌸🏯
Nijo Castle (二条城), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Kyoto’s most historic and visually stunning landmarks, making it a top destination for cherry blossom viewing. Built in 1603 as the residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo period, the castle is famous for its beautiful architecture, intricate wall paintings, and nightingale floors, which chirp when stepped on to prevent intruders.
During sakura season over 400 cherry trees bloom across the castle grounds, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Visitors can wander through the Ninomaru Garden and Seiryu-en Garden, where pink and white sakura petals frame the traditional Japanese landscape. The highlight is the nighttime illuminations, where the castle and cherry trees are beautifully lit, enhancing the experience.
- Address: 541 Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8301, Japan
- Opening hours: Mon – Sun – 8.45 am – 5.00 pm
- Official website: https://nijo-jocastle.city.kyoto.lg.jp/
Arashiyama
Arashiyama, located on the western outskirts of Kyoto, is one of the city’s most scenic and culturally rich areas, making it a perfect destination for cherry blossom viewing. Known for its bamboo forest, riverside beauty, and historic temples, Arashiyama transforms into a pink paradise during sakura season.
One of the best places to see cherry blossoms in Arashiyama is Togetsukyo Bridge, where sakura trees bloom along the Hozu River. Nearby, Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a stunning Zen garden framed by cherry blossoms. The Sagano Bamboo Forest adds a unique touch to your visit, allowing you to experience both sakura and towering bamboo groves in one trip.
You can enjoy walks along the Katsura River, lined with cherry trees in full bloom. During the cherry blossom season, Arashiyama can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and peak bloom days. It’s advisable to plan your visit accordingly and arrive early in the day to avoid the crowds.
- Address: Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-0007, Japan
Maruyama Park
Maruyama Park is a picturesque public park located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto, Japan. Located near Yasaka Shrine, this spacious park is filled with hundreds of cherry trees, making it the perfect place for a picnic under the blossoms. It’s renowned for its stunning cherry blossoms during the spring season, making it one of the most popular spots for hanami, or cherry blossom viewing, in Kyoto.
The highlight of Maruyama Park is its iconic weeping cherry tree (shidare-zakura), a massive, beautifully illuminated tree that becomes a must-see spectacle at night. The park transforms into a lively hanami hub, with food stalls, festival vibes, and evening illuminations.
In addition to cherry blossoms, Maruyama Park features ponds, walking trails, and various species of trees and flowers, offering visitors a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
- Address: Maruyamacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0071, Japan
- Entrance: Free
Ninna-ji Temple
Ninna-ji Temple (仁和寺), a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northwestern Kyoto and is one of the many temples that make up Kyoto’s Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto. It is also one of the best places to see cherry blossoms, especially for those visiting later in the season.
Unlike many Kyoto sakura spots that peak in late March to early April, Ninna-ji is famous for its Omuro-zakura cherry trees, which bloom around mid-April, making it a perfect destination for late-season hanami.
The temple complex features several buildings, including the main hall (Kondo), the five-story pagoda, the Goten (former palace), and various sub-temples and gardens.One of the most famous features of Ninna-ji Temple is its Omuro cherry trees, known as late-blooming cherry variety.
- Address: 33 Omuroouchi, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8092, Japan
- Opening hours: daily, 9.00 am – 4.30 pm
- You can buy entrance ticket here.
Philosopher’s Path
Philosopher’s Path (Tetsugaku no michi) is a picturesque walking trail located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto, Japan. It follows a canal lined with hundreds of cherry trees, making it one of the most popular spots for cherry blossom viewing in Kyoto during the spring season.
The name “Philosopher’s Path” comes from Nishida Kitaro, a famous Japanese philosopher who was said to have used this path for daily meditation while he was a professor at Kyoto University.
The path stretches for approximately two kilometers from Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) in the north to Nanzen-ji Temple in the south, passing through residential neighborhoods, small shops, cafes, and temples along the way.
During the cherry blossom season the Philosopher’s Path comes alive with vibrant pink and white cherry blossoms. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists to stroll and relax.
Aside from the cherry blossoms, the Philosopher’s Path is also beautiful throughout the year, with seasonal changes offering different scenery. It’s particularly tranquil and serene, making it a perfect place for contemplation and relaxation.
