Kyoto Cherry Blossom Guide: Encounter a Romantic Sea of Flowers

Kyoto in spring is adorned with blooming cherry blossoms, creating a city filled with romance. Here’s your essential guide to enjoying the cherry blossoms: Best Time In 2025, Kyoto’s cherry blossoms are expected to start blooming on March 29 and reach full bloom on April 6. The best viewing period is from April 1 to April 7. Popular Spots • Kiyomizu-dera Temple: With 1,500 Yoshino and mountain cherry trees blooming under the three-story pagoda, the blossoms resemble clouds and snow. The nighttime illumination transforms the cherry blossoms into dreamy shades of pink and purple, complemented by the vermilion pillars and the distant view of Arashiyama, creating the perfect Japanese aesthetic for photography. • Philosopher’s Path: This 2-kilometer canal-side path is lined with 400 cherry trees. The weeping cherry blossoms hang low like waterfalls, and the morning mist adds an ethereal touch, making you feel as if you’re in a ukiyo-e painting. • Daigo-ji Temple: A renowned cherry blossom viewing spot since the Heian period, the temple features centuries-old weeping cherry trees with cascading pink branches. At night, the illumination of the cherry blossoms and the pagoda at Sanpō-in creates a scene reminiscent of Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s grand cherry blossom banquet. Outfit Suggestions Wear light-colored clothing such as pastel pink or blue, paired with cherry blossom-themed hairpins and handbags to enhance the details of your look. Food Recommendations Try seasonal delicacies like cherry blossom mochi, cherry blossom soba noodles, and Sakura jelly from Eitaro. Transportation Tips Purchase an ICOCA card for convenient access to Kyoto’s subway and buses. The Kansai Airport Express Haruka + ICOCA package can help save on transportation costs.