Cherry trees in Japan, perhaps best represented by the delicate pinks of the Somei Yoshino, begin blooming in spring, but spring arrives at different times, depending primarily on latitude. Lines indicating when blossoming will start are plotted on a map to indicate a cherry blossom front. Every year, Japanese people consult such a map as they await the arrival of spring.

From early March to the second half of April, the front moves up from south to north. The map indicates the best time for hanami, an outdoor party beneath the cherry blossoms, which is one of the country’s favorite pastimes.

The cherry tree named Miharu no Taki-zakura is more than 1,000 years old, earning it the national government's designation of Natural Treasure. Its weeping branches remind one of cascading water, and its blooming view is one of the representative scenes of spring in Fukushima Prefecture.

Takada Castle is listed as one of Japans three best places to view cherry blossoms after dark. When the approximately 4,000 trees are illuminated, their reflection in the water of the castle moat creates a world of dreams.

The park has been a favorite spot for cherry blossom viewing since the Edo Period (1603-1867). lt boasts more than 40 types of cherry tree, including kan-zakura, which begin blooming around early February. Many of the cherry trees here bloom in the second half of April, attracting crowds under them.

The Okawa River flows through Osaka, the city of water. When spring has truly come, cherry trees make for a beautiful walk for about 4.2 kilometers (2.6 miles) along the river, from Kemasakura-no-Miya Park to Tenma-bashi Bridge. The locals especially enjoy the view from a "water bus" boat.

Ondo-no-Seto Strait in Kure, Hiroshima Prefecture, has a bright red bridge that forms a wonderful contrast with the blue of the sea. The cherry blossoms are at their best around early April, adding even more color to enjoy.

Akizuki deserves its nickname, "The Little Kyoto of the Chikuzen District," partly because it is one of the best places in Fukuoka Prefecture to view cherry blossoms. About 200 cherry trees line the street called Sugi no Baba Dori, adding to the beauty of this historical castle town.