2019 Tokyo Sakura Season Officially Begins!
As of Thursday, March 21, the flower frenzy that sweeps the nation has officially begun in Tokyo!
New Japan-Only KitKats Combine Berries & Nuts
These two new spring flavors utilize Nestlé Japan's new ruby chocolate, as well as simple everyday snacks that are sure to please.
Aomori's Stunning Winter "Cherry Blossoms"
These "cherry blossoms" at Hirosaki Castle in Aomori Prefecture are bringing some much needed warmth to Japan's wintery north.
Riding Through the Heart of Shikoku
The charming sightseeing train known as Shikoku Mannaka Sennen Monogatari is a three-hour ride through two of Shikoku's beautiful prefectures.
Surreal Combo of Sakura & Jellyfish at Skytree
The surreal and beautiful combination of cherry blossoms and jellyfish is part of a seasonal event at the Sumida Aquarium.
Whisk Yourself Away to a Land of Wisteria
Isn't spring just the best? Sure, the cherry blossoms may be on their way out, but Japan’s amazing wisteria flowers are here to make us all forget about them!
Incredible Drive-By Hanami on a Tokyo Train
Tokyo's extensive rail network isn't only extremely convenient—it can also be extremely beautiful, especially during cherry blossom season!
Rep Your Ryukyu Pride with Okinawa Coca-Cola
The latest addition to Coca-Cola's regional, limited-edition bottles is Okinawa! Quench your thirst and show your pride with this beautiful bottle.
Perfectly Pink Sakura-Flavored Baum Cake
The German treat is a Japanese favorite, and popular purveyor Nerinya gives it the spring sakura treatment!
Flowers & Sakura at Seaside Park in Fukuoka
Compared to some places, Kyushu's Fukuoka Prefecture isn't particularly famous for its cherry blossoms. But these shots—accompanied by gorgeous baby blue flowers—makes us think it should be!
Snow & Sakura Make for Incredible Hanami
The weather is fickle in Japan as the seasons change, and occasionally this results in the beautiful and unlikely combination of snow and cherry blossoms!
Connecting the City with Nature in Aizu
The Aizu Railway in Fukushima Prefecture is a vital means of transportation for residents, but it offers so much more than just a way to get around.
Hanami Starts in Tokyo with Index Tree
How is the official start of hanami season determined in Tokyo? The Japan Meteorological Agency uses a special 'index tree' located at Tokyo's Yasukuni Shrine.
All Aboard the Mickey Mouse Bullet Train!
Japan's iconic bullet trains are no strangers to pop culture makeovers, but this latest sees the shinkansen take a note from the Magic Kingdom!
Tokyo Hanami Hot Spot: Ueno Park
This expansive park in eastern Tokyo is one of the most popular places to enjoy cherry blossoms, and with good reason!
Incredible Cherry Blossoms in Kagawa
Learn about Shiudeyama, a beautiful cherry blossom spot in Kagawa Prefecture which was featured in the New York Times’ as one of Japan's must-visit destinations!
The Akiyoshidai Fire Festival
People come to the Akiyoshi Plateau in Yamaguchi Prefecture to watch rolling grasslands burn with strips of open flame, and to explore the famous giant cave and fascinating geology of the Quasi-National Park.
Tokyo Hanami Hot Spot: Inokashira Park
Inokashira Park is a beloved spot in Tokyo for cherry blossom viewing. With some 200 cherry blossom trees, it's easy to see why!
Sakura-Inspired Torch for the 2020 Olympics
The design for the torch, which will kick off the 2020 Olympic & Paralympic Games in Tokyo, has been revealed. Unsurprisingly, it takes inspiration from Japan's favorite flower!
A Crash Course on Tokyo's Plum Blossoms
Spring is one of Japan's most anticipated times of year, with good reason! Plum blossoms pop up in late February, and are the herald of the changing season. Find out what they are, how they're different and where you can see them in Tokyo!