The Somei Yoshino is the most widely cultivated cherry blossom variety in Japan. These trees bloom progressively across the country, starting in late March in Kyushu and Shikoku, reaching Tokyo in early April, and continuing as late as May in northern regions like Aomori.

This single-flowering variety features five-petaled blossoms that are so pale pink they often appear almost white. The flowers bloom in dense clusters, emerging before the leaves, creating a striking contrast.

When do Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms bloom in Tokyo?
Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms typically start blooming in early April in Tokyo.

The Yamazakura, or Hill Cherry, is the most commonly seen wild sakura in Japan, often dotting the country’s mountainous landscapes. Similar to the Somei Yoshino, its blossoms feature five light pink petals, but one key difference is that its flowers bloom alongside its leaves rather than before them.

When do Yamazakura cherry blossoms bloom in Tokyo?
Yamazakura cherry blossoms typically bloom between March and April in the Kanto region, emerging at the same time as the tree’s new leaves.

Named for its gracefully drooping branches, the Shidarezakura, or Japanese Weeping Cherry Tree, is one of the most elegant cherry blossom varieties. It is also the official flower of Kyoto Prefecture.

Shidarezakura typically bloom about a week earlier than Somei Yoshino, making them one of the earliest varieties to bloom each season. Among the most famous is the Miharu Takizakura (Miharu Waterfall Cherry Tree) in Fukushima, a stunning tree over 1,000 years old and one of Japan’s five great cherry trees.

When do weeping cherry blossoms bloom in Tokyo?
In Tokyo, weeping cherry blossoms usually start blooming in early April.

The Edohigan is one of the earliest blooming cherry blossom varieties in Japan. Its name comes from its timing—blooming around the spring equinox (higan) in western Japan. The blossoms are small and pale pink, and they can be recognized by their round, swollen calyx at the base of each flower.

One of Japan’s most revered cherry trees, the Yamataka Jindai Sakura in Yamanashi, is an Edohigan. This ancient tree, estimated to be over 2,000 years old, blooms between early and mid-April.

The Kanzan cherry blossom belongs to the Yaezakura category, also known as "double-blossom" sakura, which includes any cherry blossom variety with more than five petals per flower.

Among these, Kanzan is particularly spectacular, featuring blossoms with as many as 50 petals each. These late-blooming flowers are easily recognizable by their rich pink color and voluminous clusters, making them a striking sight in full bloom.

When do Kanzan cherry blossoms bloom in Tokyo?
Kanzan cherry blossoms usually start blooming in mid-April in Tokyo.

The name Ichiyou (一葉) means "one leaf," referring to the single pistil that emerges from the center of the blossom when fully open, resembling a tiny leaf. This double-blossom sakura features 20–40 petals per flower, with delicate white inner petals encased in a soft pale pink outer layer. The contrast with its bright green leaves gives Ichiyou a distinct and elegant appearance.

When do Ichiyou cherry blossoms bloom in Tokyo?
Ichiyou cherry blossoms are especially prominent in Asakusa, where a festival is held in April to celebrate their beauty.

Cherry blossoms aren’t exclusive to mainland Japan—Okinawa’s Kanhizakura thrives in the warm southern climate and stands out with its deep fuchsia, bell-shaped flowers. Unlike the delicate pastel shades of most sakura, Kanhizakura’s vibrant color and downward-facing blossoms give it a distinct look. Also known as the Taiwan cherry, Bellflower cherry, or Formosan cherry, this variety is celebrated not only in Japan’s Ryukyu Islands but also in Vietnam, China, and Taiwan.

When do Kanhizakura cherry blossoms bloom in Tokyo?
As one of the earliest blooming sakura, Kanhizakura can begin flowering as early as January, though they are more commonly seen in Okinawa rather than Tokyo.

The Kikuzakura, or "Chrysanthemum Cherry Blossom," gets its name from its resemblance to the kiku (chrysanthemum), one of Japan’s most iconic flowers. This sakura variety is known for its lush, pom-pom-like appearance, with each blossom featuring an impressive 80 to 130 soft pink petals. The large green leaves surrounding the flowers further enhance their voluminous look.

When do Kikuzakura cherry blossoms bloom in Tokyo?
Kikuzakura blooms later in the season, with flowers sometimes lasting until early May in the Tokyo area.

While most sakura bloom in shades of white and pink, the Ukon cherry blossom stands out with its rare yellow-tinged petals. The name "Ukon" comes from the Japanese word for turmeric, the spice that gives Indian curry its yellow hue—and a well-known ingredient in hangover remedies in Japan.

This yaezakura (double-blossom) variety features 15 to 20 petals per flower, giving it a delicate yet distinctive appearance.

When do Ukon cherry blossoms bloom in Tokyo?
Ukon cherry blossoms bloom around the same time as Ichiyou, typically in mid-April in Tokyo.

The Fugenzou cherry blossom has a name as unique as its appearance. In Japanese, "Fugenzou" translates to "Samantabhadra Elephant", referring to the Bodhisattva Samantabhadra, often depicted riding an elephant in Buddhist art. During the Muromachi Period (1336–1573), people believed that the pistils of this sakura resembled the image of the deity’s elephant, giving the flower its distinctive name.

Fugenzou blossoms are characterized by their abundance of petals, sometimes reaching 40 per flower, and jagged-edged leaves. The blossoms are predominantly pink with a subtle red hue, making them stand out among other sakura varieties.

When do Fugenzou cherry blossoms bloom in Tokyo?
Fugenzou is a late-blooming cherry blossom, typically reaching its peak in mid to late April in Tokyo.

As the cherry blossom venue is expected to be very crowded, we recommend that you make reservations in advance to enjoy the cherry blossoms in a safe and relaxing atmosphere.