JAPAN
Japan’s cherry blossom season, or sakura, is a fleeting spectacle of delicate pink blooms that drift through the air like whispered secrets. Each spring, these blossoms appear for just a brief moment, transforming cities into ethereal dreamscapes. Beneath the petals, the tradition of hanami invites quiet reflection, gatherings, and moonlit revelry as the blossoms glow in the night during yozakura. Symbolizing the transient beauty of life, sakura reminds us that even the most exquisite moments must pass, leaving behind only a trace of their soft, mysterious allure.
What is Cherry Blossom?
Cherry blossoms, known as sakura in Japan, are delicate, pale pink or white flowers that bloom on cherry trees each spring. These blossoms are famous for their beauty and short-lived nature, typically lasting only one or two weeks. They hold deep cultural significance, symbolizing the fleeting beauty of life and the concept of impermanence. Cherry blossoms are celebrated across Japan with festivals, gatherings, and the tradition of hanami (flower viewing), where people admire the blossoms and reflect on the transient, precious nature of existence.
When is the best time to see Cherry Blossom in 2025?
Japan Travel Itinerary :
Dates: 26-Mar-04-Apr
Day 1 Fly India to Tokyo
Day 1 Explore Tokyo
Day 2 Tokyo
Day 3 Mount Fuji
Day 4 Mount Fuji
Day 5 Bullet Train Ride To Kyoto
Day 6 Explore Kyoto
Day 7 Explore Osaka: Bamboo Tree Forest
Day 8 Explore Osaka: Osaka Castle Park
Day 9 Fly from Osaka/Tokyo to India
Day 1:
Tokyo:
Tokyo is a dynamic blend of tradition and modernity. The city is known for ancient sites like Sensoji Temple and Meiji Shrine, alongside futuristic districts like Shibuya and Akihabara. It offers serene parks like Shinjuku Gyoen, vibrant shopping in Harajuku, and world-class dining from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants. Tokyo’s unique energy lies in its constant evolution, where history and innovation meet.
Day 1: Tokyo Arrival & City Exploration
- Arrive in Tokyo: Settle in and rest after your flight.
- Asakusa & Sensoji Temple: Explore this historic area and visit the famous Sensoji Temple.
- Sumida Park: One of Tokyo’s best sakura viewing spots along the Sumida River.
- Evening in Shibuya: Explore the vibrant Shibuya Crossing and enjoy a meal.
- Stay in Tokyo
Day 2: Tokyo Cherry Blossoms
- Post breakfast, today we will explore the city.
- Ueno Park: One of the most famous spots for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in Tokyo.
- Chidorigafuchi: Take a boat ride under the blossoms near the Imperial Palace.
- Shinjuku Gyoen: A beautiful, spacious garden with early and late-blooming cherry trees.
- Evening in Odaiba: Head to Odaiba for a futuristic experience with views of Tokyo Bay.
- Stay in Tokyo
Day 3 & 4: Hakone for Hot Springs & Fuji Views
- Post breakfast, we will board a train to Mt. Fuji.
- Travel to Mt. Fuji: Famous for hot springs, scenic views of Mt. Fuji, and traditional inns.
- Hakone Ropeway: Enjoy views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi.
- Open-Air Museum: Explore this outdoor museum with beautiful art pieces set among cherry trees.
- Onsen Experience: End your day relaxing in a hot spring bath.
- Stay in Mount Fuji
Day 5: Kyoto Arrival & Gion District
- Post breakfast, we will board a train to Kyoto and explore places to see Cherry blossoms
- Travel to Kyoto: The ancient capital, renowned for its temples and cherry blossoms.
- Maruyama Park: Famous for its weeping cherry trees.
- Gion District: Walk through the historic streets, and maybe spot a geisha or two.
- Kiyomizu-dera: Visit this famous temple and enjoy the stunning views of cherry blossoms.
- Philosopher’s Path: A scenic walk along a canal lined with cherry trees.
- Heian Shrine: Explore its beautiful garden filled with cherry blossoms.
- Nijo Castle: A historic site with a stunning cherry blossom garden.
- Evening at Pontocho: Enjoy dinner in this traditional alley full of restaurants by the Kamogawa River.
- Stay in Kyoto
Day 6: Nara Day Trip
- Post breakfast, we will board a train to Nara and explore this mysterious city
- Travel to Nara: Known for its temples, friendly deer, and sakura trees.
- Nara Park: Explore this vast park where cherry blossoms bloom and deer roam freely.
- Todaiji Temple: Visit the world’s largest wooden structure housing a giant Buddha statue.
- Kasuga Taisha Shrine: A beautiful shrine in a forest with lantern-lined paths and cherry blossoms.
- Stay in Kyoto
Day 7: Arashiyama & Bamboo Forest
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Walk through the famous bamboo forest.
- Tenryu-ji Temple: A beautiful temple with a garden perfect for cherry blossom viewing.
- Togetsukyo Bridge: Iconic bridge surrounded by cherry blossoms, offering picturesque views.
- Iwatayama Monkey Park: If you like, you can also hike to see monkeys and a view of Kyoto from above.
- Stay in Kyoto
Day 8: Osaka
- Post breakfast, we will board a train to Osaka and explore it before we come back to India
- Travel to Osaka: If you have time, explore Osaka before your flight.
- Osaka Castle: The area surrounding the castle is filled with cherry blossoms.
- Dotonbori: Enjoy some street food and last-minute shopping.
- Stay in Osaka
Day 9 : Fly Back
Fly back with happy memories
- Departure: Head to Kansai International Airport for your flight.
We will share a detailed itinerary near the travel dates.
Package For Japan
- Stay in Hostels 9 days
- Breakfast (8)
- 7-Day Japan Rail Pass costing 20000
- Airport Transfers (From Haneda airport only)
- A trip leader from Travel Buddies Talk
Excludes
- Airfare
- Visa (our agent can help with visa)
- Lunch/Dinner
- Any activity
Photos of our 2019 Japan Trip
Who we are?
Travel Buddies is a solo traveller’s community with a concept of travelling with strangers and come back with friends. We started 3 years ago as a meetup group and grew continuously, currently, we have 17000 members on FB group and 10000+ members on our multiple meetup groups and website members.
Why this trip?
After doing trips like 4000km road trip in New Zealand & 2000 km road trip in Iceland we were looking for a unique experience for our members so that is why we are going for this trip.
感謝 (kansha) means Thanks in Japanese
Team TBT