Every spring, Japan’s cherry blossoms paint the country in delicate shades of pink and white, creating an ephemeral spectacle that captivates millions. The tradition of hanami, or flower viewing, dates back over a thousand years, with locals and travellers alike gathering under the blooming sakura trees for picnics, poetry, and quiet reflection.
The fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms symbolises the transient nature of life, making their arrival a deeply cherished and almost sacred event in Japan. From Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path to Tokyo’s Ueno Park, the sight of sakura in full bloom is nothing short of magical.
That being said, the charm of cherry blossoms is not confined to Japan alone, though most people are unaware. Across the globe, numerous destinations boast breathtaking sakura displays, offering a unique yet equally enchanting experience. There are countless places to embrace the beauty of spring, and here are eight destinations outside of Japan where you can witness this spectacular seasonal bloom.
Washington, D.C., USA
The National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C., is one of the most famous sakura celebrations outside Japan. The 3,000 cherry trees, a gift from Tokyo in 1912, form a stunning pink canopy around the Tidal Basin, with views of the Jefferson Memorial and the Washington Monument adding to the allure.
Best spot: Tidal Basin
Seoul, South Korea
South Korea comes alive with cherry blossoms in April, with Seoul offering some of the top spots to enjoy them. The Yeouido Spring Flower Festival showcases rows of pink and white blooms along the Han River, while Seokchon Lake affords a fairytale-like setting with the cherry trees reflecting in the water.
Best spots: Yeouido Park and Seokchon Lake
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver’s cherry blossom season is a highly anticipated event, with over 40,000 trees spread across the city. The annual Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival highlights the most popular viewing spots, including the picturesque Queen Elizabeth Park and the scenic trails of Stanley Park. Don’t miss all the food, drinks, performances, music, and art, as well as other fun events happening throughout the festival!
Best spot: Queen Elizabeth Park and Stanley Park
Paris, France
Cherry blossoms add a soft blush to the already romantic streets of Paris. While you can spot them across the city, Parc de Sceaux is a hidden gem with vast cherry tree groves and also hosts an annual cherry blossom festival with a rich program of events for the entire family. Besides that, Jardin des Plantes presents a beautiful springtime escape within the heart of the capital.
Best spot: Parc de Sceaux and Jardin des Plantes
Bonn, Germany
The charming city of Bonn transforms into a pastel dream each spring, particularly along Heerstraße, also known as Cherry Blossom Avenue. The tunnel of blossoms in the historic Altstadt district draws photographers and nature lovers alike. If you’d like to get good photos for the ‘gram sans the crowds, get there early in the morning before 11AM. Like Parc de Sceaux, Bonn also hosts an annual cherry blossom festival right around April.
Best spot: Heerstraße and Altstadt (Old Town)
Taipei, Taiwan
There are several locations in Taipei to admire the mesmerising cherry blossoms, but Yangmingshan National Park stands out with its lush landscapes and diverse cherry tree varieties. When compared to Japan’s crowded hanami spots, the cherry blossom festival here is much more serene and you won’t have to fight your way to secure the best seats under the trees.
Best spot: Yangmingshan National Park
Stockholm, Sweden
Cherry blossoms in Sweden? Absolutely! Stockholm’s Kungsträdgården Park bursts into colour each April, with rows of sakura trees – presented by Japan to Sweden in 1998 – creating a striking contrast against the city’s elegant architecture. Every year, the park hosts a Cherry Blossom Day, celebrating Japanese culture with workshops, stage performances, and activities.
Best spot: Kungsträdgården
New York City, USA
New York City’s Brooklyn Botanic Garden plays host to a spectacular hanami celebration, featuring hundreds of cherry trees in full bloom. The Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden is a tranquil space to enjoy the blossoms while embracing Japanese-inspired aesthetics. There are 26 varieties inside the garden alone, and each species blooms at varying times.
Best spot: Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Featured image: Andy He
