Nara: The Cherry Blossoms at Saho River—A Dream Come True! 🌸

#cherryblossom25 After being a bit disappointed by the sakura at Backsagoe, I found my heart and camera healed by the beauty of the cherry blossoms along Saho River! The sakura here are at 80-90% bloom (as of March 30, 2025), and some parts of the river have begun to drop petals like snow. This weekend will be the peak bloom period, so don’t miss it! 🌸 I’m sharing the best photo spots and a one-day sakura itinerary in Nara—get ready to be inspired! Itinerary for Cherry Blossom Viewing in Nara: Starting Point: Shin-Omiya Station End Point: Kintetsu Nara Station Total Length: About 2km You can also walk the route in reverse! The core viewing spots are at Saho River Sakura and Kawaji Sakura along the river road. Top Cherry Blossom Spots Along the Route: Mizube no Gakko (Water’s Edge School) 🌸 Location: Near the Saho River, perfect for walking up to the riverbank to enjoy the sakura close up. Highlights: You can get up close to the cherry blossoms as they drape over green grass. The scene will remind you of Backsagoe, and the area is full of local charm with live music performances and families picnicking or fishing by the river! Best Time for Photos: Early in the day or before sunset for the golden light filtering through the blossoms. Saho River Sakura Railway 🚂 Location: From Daibutsu Railway Park, head to the Saho River Sakura Railway. Why Visit: This area sees fewer tourists, and the frequent trains passing by (every 2-3 minutes) provide perfect opportunities for shots of sakura and trains—an iconic Japanese scene! Best Time for Photos: When trains pass, as the sakura frame the railway tracks in a picturesque scene. Kawaji Sakura (川路桜) 🌸 Location: After crossing the railway, this area is often less crowded, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful photo session with the blossoms. Why Visit: The cherry trees here form a beautiful path, and it’s quieter, allowing for more intimate photos and a relaxed experience. Daibutsu Railway Park (大佛鉄道公園) 🚂 Location: Close to Kintetsu Nara Station (about 8 minutes walk). Highlights: This park has a beautiful pink weeping cherry tree at the entrance, perfect for photos! If you’re not interested in seeing Yoshino cherries, you can skip this park and head straight to the other areas. #travel