Spring has officially sprung in Japan, with the iconic pink sakura flowers already approaching full bloom in many cities across the country. According to our Destination Asia Japan team, the blooms opened considerably earlier than usual. In Tokyo, they equalled last year’s record by opening on 14 March, while in Kyoto they broke the city’s previous record by opening on 16 March.
One of the most popular seasonal activities in Japan during the spring is the act of ‘hanami’ or the viewing of the flowering cherry blossoms. While parks around the country remain closed and many sakura festivals have been cancelled to prevent further spread of COVID-19, virtual hanami has seen an uptake in popularity.
To facilitate virtual hanami, the Japanese weather channel Weather News has released a variety of 360-degree videos for online users to virtually experience the flowers in full bloom. Originally released in 2017, the videos explore some of the best cherry blossom attractions throughout Japan, including Ueno Onshi Park, along the Meguro River, Osaka Castle Park, and Arashiyama, among others.
Click here or on the videos below and select 4k in your YouTube settings menu for best viewing.
If you would like to find out more on how to explore the Cherry blossoms in Japan in 2022, then contact our dedicated local experts at [email protected].
Ueno Onshi Park, Tokyo
Chidorigafuchi Park, Tokyo
Along the Meguro River, Tokyo
