Sakura Viewing: 5 Spots in Kyoto City
Kyoto is a city where sakura (cherry blossoms) can be admired in countless locations, from parks and gardens to shrines, temples, and riversides. Some spots are so beautiful that they are considered among the best places in Japan to enjoy this seasonal spectacle.
Today, we introduce five locations in Kyoto where you can admire cherry blossoms and experience the traditional custom of hanami (flower viewing).
1. Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
Kyoto Gyoen is the vast park surrounding the Kyoto Imperial Palace. Approximately 1,000 cherry blossom trees bloom in abundance, making it one of the city’s most popular hanami spots. Many trees are associated with emperors and court nobles, such as the “Kurumagaeshi Sakura” (literally “carriage-turning cherry tree”), which is said to have been so beautiful that Emperor Go-Mizunoo ordered his carriage to turn back for another look.
Opening hours: garden: open 24 hours / Imperial Palace: 9:00 to 15:50
Price: free admission
How to reach from the hotel: take the Karasuma Subway Line from “Shijo Station” to “Marutamachi Station”.
2. Daigo-ji
Daigo-ji is famous as the temple where Toyotomi Hideyoshi is said to have hosted a grand hanami party in his later years. Around 700 cherry trees of various species bloom in succession, allowing visitors to enjoy the blossoms over an extended period. The cherry-lined approach just beyond the main gate, as well as the areas around the Reihokan and Sanboin, are particularly breathtaking.
Opening hours: 9:00 to 17:00
Price: combined ticket (spring & autumn): 1,500 yen / (winter & summer): 800 yen
How to reach from the hotel: take the Tozai Subway Line from “Karasuma Oike Station” to “Daigo Station”, then walk for around 13 minutes.
The Philosopher’s Path is a scenic walking route selected as one of “Japan’s 100 Best Roads.” Stretching approximately 2 km, the path is lined with around 450 cherry trees that form a beautiful pink tunnel along the canal. Nearby, you will also find famous attractions such as Ginkaku-ji and Nanzen-ji, along with many smaller temples and shrines.
Opening hours: open 24 hours
Price: free admission
How to reach from the hotel: take bus number 32 or 203 from “Shijo Takakura” to “Ginkaku-ji-mae”.
Hirano Shrine is one of Kyoto’s most renowned cherry blossom viewing spots and was especially loved by aristocrats during the Heian period. The shrine grounds feature approximately 400 cherry trees of about 60 different varieties.
As each variety blooms at a different time, visitors can enjoy the blossoms for nearly two months, from early March to late April.
Opening hours: 6:00 to 17:00 (until 21:00 during sakura season)
Price: free admission
How to reach from the hotel: take bus number 203 from “Shijo Takakura” to “Kitano Hakubaicho”.
Opened in 1886, Maruyama Park is Kyoto’s oldest public park. Located next to well-known sites such as Yasaka Shrine, Kodai-ji, and Chion-in, it is a favorite hanami destination for both locals and visitors, with approximately 650 cherry trees.
At the center of the park stands a magnificent 12-meter-tall shidarezakura (weeping cherry tree), which is beautifully illuminated at night and known as “Gion’s Night Cherry Blossoms.”
Opening hours: open 24 hours
Price: free admission
How to reach from the hotel: take bus numbers 31, 46, 201, or 207 from “Shijo Takakura” to “Gion”, or enjoy a 25-minute walk from the hotel.
Kyoto offers countless opportunities to enjoy cherry blossoms, making it impossible to list them all. Beyond the famous temples, shrines, and gardens, you can also discover beautiful sakura along quiet streets and in local parks.
We hope this guide helps you experience the beauty of Kyoto during the sakura season and creates unforgettable memories during your stay with us.