7 Best Places Worldwide to see Cherry Blossoms

Cherry blossoms, with their delicate petals and ephemeral beauty, have captivated people around the world for centuries. Every spring, nature transforms various corners of the globe into a canvas of pink and white hues as cherry trees burst into full bloom. While most people would flock to Japan to see cherry blossoms, did you know that there are actually many other destinations in the world that also have amazing cherry blossoms? Let's take a look at 7 of the best destinations worldwide for cherry blossoms!

1. Japan

Undoubtedly, Japan stands as the epitome of cherry blossom festivals. The pink and white cherry blossoms paint a picturesque view all over Japan as Spring approaches. From Ueno Park in Tokyo to the iconic Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto or Osaka Castle in Osaka, you can enjoy cherry blossoms no matter which part of Japan you are in.

Cherry blossoms in Japan typically start blooming in the middle of March, but the dates of bloom varies across different cities. Check out our guide to sakura viewing in Japan to help you plan your upcoming trip!

2. South Korea

South Korea in recent years has also started to gain popularity as a cherry blossom destination. And, it is not just about the iconic cherry blossom festival at Yeouido Hangang Park in Seoul. Other cities outside the capital of Seoul are also known to have some amazing cherry blossom sights. In fact, the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival (nearer to Busan than it is to Seoul) is the largest and most popular cherry blossom festivals in South Korea!

Cherry blossoms in South Korea bloom around the same time as they would in Japan, although the dates are usually slightly later in comparison - typically from early April. If you will be in Seoul for the cherry blossom season this year, here are some of the best places you can go for cherry blossom viewing!

3. Taiwan

Also in the same region as Japan and South Korea - but much less well-known as a cherry blossom destination - is Taiwan. Taiwan has a few key spots for cherry blossom viewing, with most of them being up in the mountains. The Yangmingshan National Park in Taipei, the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village in Nantou (close to Taichung), and the Alishan National Scenic Area near Chiayi are some of the best areas for cherry blossom viewing.

The dates for cherry blossoms in Taiwan are much earlier - with cherry blossoms being available from as early as February in Yangmingshan. The flowers in Alishan bloom slightly later, towards the end of March.

4. Vancouver, Canada

Moving out of Asia, Vancouver also offers a unique perspective on cherry blossoms! Cherry blossoms in Vancouver originated as a gift from the cities of Kobe and Yokohama, in honour of the Japanese Canadians who fought in the First World War. From an initial 500 trees, Vancouver is now home to over 40,000 cherry trees. You can find these trees in many of the city's streets and parks, including the famous Stanley Park.

There is an annual month-long cherry blossom festival held in Vancouver, which typically takes place from late March to April. This year, the cherry blossom festival will take place from March 29 to April 25.

5. Washington DC, USA

Come spring every year, the Tidal Basin becomes a sea of pink and white blooms, creating a stunning backdrop for photo ops. Some of the best spots for photo ops are near the Jefferson Memorial, Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival that is held annually, usually from late March to early April, offers a unique American twist to the traditionally-Japanese flowers. This year, the festival is expected to run from March 20 to April 14.

6. Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm is one of the most popular Scandinavian cities for cherry blossom viewing. Although you can't expect to see cherry blossoms everywhere along the streets like you would in Japan, you can head to Kungsträdgården for some of the most majestic views of cherry blossoms in Europe. Located in the heart of Stockholm, this grand park transforms into a stunning pink-and-white, a beautiful contrast against the city's modern skylines.

Cherry blossoms in Stockholm are usually available in the second half of April. Stockholm also has an annual Japanese festival during this period, featuring craft stands and street snacks.

7. London, England

London has a number of parks and gardens that feature an abundance of cherry trees. While London may not be as globally renowned for cherry blossoms, it isn't difficult for you to find cherry blossoms there! In fact, most of the major parks and gardens in London will feature cherry blossom trees. Some of the best places in London to go for cherry blossoms is Greenwich Park, Kensington Garden, or Regent's Park.

The best time for cherry blossoms in London is typically from late March to early April, but depending on weather conditions, the flowers could sometimes bloom as early as February or as late as May.