Gardens By The Bay Brings A Slice Of Japan To You This March With Sakuras And Cosplay

Have you been to Japan in Sakura season? If you haven’t, then we’ve got some good news for you.

No, we’re not sponsoring any flights to Japan in Sakura season. Gardens By The Bay is bringing Sakura season to Singapore!

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For the Pokemon fans, there will be Pokemon game booths and even a Pikachu parade (OMG!?!?!?).

[caption id="attachment_33411" align="aligncenter" width="768"] Image Credit: Also read If You Love Muah Chee, You’ll Love This New Bubble Tea By Playmade

(Header Image Source: Unsplash)

2017 Cherry Blossoms In Japan: Here’s Everything You Need To Know For A Trip There

Every year, throngs of people make their way to Japan in Spring just to participate in Hanami. It’s more commonly known as the Cherry Blossom viewing and it refers to the age-old Japanese custom of appreciating the delicate sakura blooms.

The cherry trees bloom all over Japan at different times. They are known to be at full glory after their first week of blossoming when they’re at their fullest. However, it’s a short time frame and the flowers are unpredictable.

To ensure you don’t miss the 2017 cherry blossoms in Japan, here’s a look at the cherry blossom schedule:

Tokyo

Home of the famed Tsukiji Fish market, Disneyland and sea, Tokyo offers a mix of the modern and traditional.

You can take part in the peaceful Hanami tradition, and slip right back into the bustle of city life without missing a beat.

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2017 cherry blossoms in Japan: Tokyo
Estimated Opening:
March 26
Estimated Best Viewing: April 2 – 10
Best Viewing Spots:
Shinjuku Gyoen (10 minute walk from Shinjuku Station)
Ueno Park (a few steps from Ueno Station)
Sumida Park (a few steps from Asakusa Station)

Kyoto

Previously the ancient capital of Japan, Kyoto has much to show from its beautiful past.

Here, you will be able to experience one of Japan’s few still-operational geisha districts, as well as visit a collection of UNESCO World Heritage sites. Not forgetting the most well-known site, the Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine with its impressive views and photo-worthy captures.

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2017 cherry blossoms in Japan: Kyoto
Estimated Opening:
March 29
Estimated Best Viewing: April 4 – 12
Best Viewing Spots:
Philosopher’s Path (between Ginkakuji and Nanzenji Temples)
Maruyama Park (next to Yasaka Shrine)
Arashiyama (northwest of central Kyoto)

Osaka

Japan’s second most populous city, only after Tokyo, is a unique blend of cosmopolitan style and country charm.

There’s something for everyone –  kids can enjoy a fun day out at Universal Studios Japan and the Osaka Aquarium, while adults can enjoy the friendly vibes and night scenes at Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori.

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2017 cherry blossoms in Japan: Hiroshima
Estimated Opening: March 28
Estimated Best Viewing: April 3 – 11
Best Viewing Spots:
Hiroshima Peace Park (next to Genbaku Domu Mae tram stop)
Shukkeien Garden (15 minute walk from Hiroshima Station)
Hiroshima Castle (10 minute walk from Kamiyacho-nishi or Kamiyacho-higashi tram stop)

Essential information for 2017 cherry blossoms in Japan

Although there are no direct flights to Kyoto and Hiroshima, these places are easily accessible by train or connecting flights.

Prices are most inexpensive for direct flights to Tokyo during the first week of April, with Osaka, Fukuoka and Nagoya being comparable.

We hope that you’ve enjoyed this small glimpse into what you could witness in real life yourself. While we’ve covered Japan’s most beautiful 2017 cherry blossom viewing spots, there are still other locations to be discovered.

So have fun planning your trip to Japan and be sure to enjoy these transient beauties, as well as the many historical and culinary delights from the Land of the Rising Sun!

Also, read Forget Tokyo, Niigata Is The Next Top Japan Travel Destination!