Be The First To Catch The Cherry Blossoms (Sakura) In Japan 2018

Cherry Blossoms 2018
Shu Yi
Shu Yi 
Updated
| 2 min read

Mid-January hails the appearance of the Cherry Blossoms (Sakura). With hues of pink adorning the landscape, the scenic view is often marred by the hordes that arrive to appreciate the flower as it blooms. Read on to find out how you can dodge the crowds, and find a measure of peace and tranquility to view the Sakura flowers.

You might wonder where? - The answer can be found in the Okinawa Prefecture

Okinawa Cherry Blossoms 2018
Source: Pexels

Be the first to see the Cherry Blossoms!

Sakura flowers blossom southward and Okinawa’s northern means you will catch the beautiful lilac rain before visitors in Tokyo or Kyoto. You will also beat out the hordes of admirers that form in Tokyo and Kyoto, both major destinations by heading over to Okinawa. With this, you will be able to enjoy your viewing experience.

If you head to Okinawa to view the Cherry Blossoms, make sure to attend the events as well!

1. Sakura avenue @ World heritage Nakijin Castle(今帰仁城跡)

Sakura Avenue @ World Heritage Nakijin Castle (今帰仁城跡)
Source: Pexels

Okinawa has its share of architectural beauty with the Nakijin Castle, a World Heritage. Witness this scenic backdrop as the Sakura season comes in, a recipe for perfect Instagram shots. Check the website for schedule updates!

Sakura avenue @World heritage Nakijin Castle(今帰仁城跡)

Address: Nakijin Castle Remains, 5101 Imadomari, Nakijin, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture 905-0428, Japan

Website: Nakijin Castle


There’s more to Okinawa than just Cherry Blossoms. If you are looking for more activities, here are some ideas for your first day in a 3D2N Itinerary for Okinawa.

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2. Nago Cherry Blossoms festival

Nago Cherry Blossom Festival
Source: Pexels

One of the first hanami (Cherry Blossom viewing) in Japan, the Nago Cherry Blossoms festival takes place across multiple venues, providing varied backdrops for photo opportunities. With 20,000 Cherry trees in the Nago Central Park, you can head into a sea of pink, or head up to the observatory for a wider view.

Nago Cherry Blossom Festival

Address: Nago Chuo Park, Sakura Park, Nago Main Crossroad, and Nago Fishing Port

Admission: Free

Duration: 27 January 2018 - 28 January 2018


While sipping tea makes for a soothing experience while viewing the Cherry Blossoms, it does not curb one’s hungry just as well. Find out about the things you can sate your appetite for day 2 in this Okinawa Itinerary.

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3. Yaedake Sakura festival @ Motobe cho (本部町並里)

Yaedake Sakura Festival @ Motobe Cho (本部町並里)
Source: Pexels

If you find yourself in the Motobu Peninsula, why not head up to Yaedake for the Yaedake Sakura festival. Held in northern Okinawa, experience one of earliest festivals hailing the arrival of the Cherry Blossom season. The mountain, covered with 7000 cherry trees will transform as the flowers bloom. The weekend plays host to a series of events, including the Miss Sakura Beauty Pagent and a local folk song competition.

Yaedake Sakura festival

Address: 〒905-0222 921, Namizato, Motobu-cho, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa

Admission: Free

Duration: 20 January 2018 - 4 February 2018


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4. Yaese Sakura festival @ Yaese park (八重瀬公園)

Yaese Sakura Festival @ Yaese Park
Source: Pexels

If you are not satisfied with the majestic Cherry Blossoms, the Yaese Sakura festival features performances, exhibitions, guided tours, and Awamori, an alcoholic beverage unique to Okinawa! Be sure to come down during the light up period, where the Cherry Blossoms are illuminated as the sunset.

Yaese Sakura festival

Address: Yaese Park 1607 Tomori, Yaese, Okinawa 901-0402

Website: Yaese Cherry Blossom Festival

Admission: Free

Duration: 4 February 2018 - 12 February 2018, 6 pm to 9 pm


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5. Naha Sakura festival @ Yogi Park (与儀公園)

Naha Sakura festival @ Yogi Park (与儀公園)
Source: Pexels

Late to the party? Head over to the Yogi Park, where the Naha Sakura festival takes place late February. Spread out the picnic mat and enjoy a peaceful respite surrounded by Cherry Blossoms. Market stalls will be set up in the park as well.

Naha Sakura Festival

Address: 1-1-1, Yogi, Naha-shi, Okinawa 902-0076

Website:

Duration: 21 February 2018 - 25 February 2018, 10 am to 8 pm


Wrap up your journey on a high note by embarking on the adventures on final day in our ultimate 3D2N Okinwana guide.

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Don't miss out on these fantastic sights

Okinawa Cherry Blossoms 2018
Source: Pexels

An appreciation of the Cherry Blossoms goes beyond the physical. Taking the time and effort to stop and appreciate the short-lived Blossoms gives pause to the hectic lifestyle employed by many. Cherry Blossoms are often likened to new beginnings, with the end of its season coinciding with the start of the financial and academic year in Japan.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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