Cherry blossoms, or sakura, are flowers symbolic of spring, often alluded to the promise of a new beginning in many Japanese literature. | Photo by Dawn Sim
A symbol of new beginnings and hope, spring is a season in Japan eagerly anticipated by residents and visitors alike. From its arrival in March to the comfortable weather of April and May, spring brings with it a plethora of activities and festivals to celebrate this fresh start. As cities and towns across the country host these events, an exhilarating sense of anticipation fills the air.
Heading to Japan this April and May? Take a look at these seven things you can do this spring season that you shouldn't miss out on!
1. Cherry Blossom Viewing (Hanami)
Families and friends gather at Kamogawa Delta in Kyoto to welcome spring through hanami. | Photo by Dawn Sim
No other flowers spell spring as much as the cherry blossom, or sakura (桜), does. The gorgeous flowers typically bloom in the southernmost part of Honshu starting from mid to late March and reaching the northernmost parts of Japan by early May, transforming the entire nation into different shades of pink and white. During this time, numerous individuals commemorate the ephemeral beauty of cherry blossoms through the tradition of hanami (花見), where locals come together in parks to enjoy beer, food, and companionship while appreciating the cherry blossoms.
Historic cities like Kyoto and Nara present a captivating fusion of history and natural beauty — majestic temples nestled amidst mountainous landscapes are adorned with the delicate hues of white and pink cherry blossoms, reminiscent of scenes depicted in ukiyo-e paintings. Among Kyoto's most sought-after hanami locations is the Kamogawa Delta (鴨川デルタ), where two rivers converge. Given the high demand for prime spots, it's advisable to arrive early to secure a favourable picnic spot beneath the stunning cherry blossoms.
Sakura trees along the Meguro River. | Photo by photoAC
In Tokyo, the Meguro River (目黒川) is renowned as one of the prime locations within the 23 wards for cherry blossom viewing. As evening descends, the cherry blossoms lining the river are illuminated, offering spectators one of the finest yozakura (夜桜) experiences in the vicinity.
2. Other Spring Blooms: Wisteria and Moss Phlox
Illumination of wisteria blooms at Ashikaga Flower Park. | Photo by PhotoAC
Although the sakura is Japan's most iconic flower, the country boasts numerous other varieties, including notable ones such as wisteria (藤 fuji) and moss phlox (芝桜 shibazakura). While the arrival of spring is often heralded by the early blooming of pink plum blossoms in February and March, the period from April to May is truly the best time to enjoy Japan's many blooms.
From mid-April to mid-May, the annual wisteria blooms at the Ashikaga Flower Park (あしかがフラワーパーク) in Tochigi Prefecture, presents another breathtaking spectacle of spring. A highlight of the park is the majestic 150-year-old Great Wisteria Tree (大藤 Ofuji), boasting an astonishing 80,000 individual purple blossoms. During the evenings, the tree is illuminated, creating a stunning display reflected in the still waters that surround it.
A replica of Mount Fuji sculpted with shibazakura in front of the majestic Mount Fuji. | Photo by GoodFon
Another captivating spring bloom to behold at is the moss phlox, typically reaching its peak from mid-April to May, coinciding with the Golden Week (ゴールデンウィーク) holidays. Among the premier locations to admire these enchanting flowers is Fuji Motosuko Resort (富士本栖湖リゾート) in Yamanashi Prefecture, where the stunning sight of expansive flower carpets, adorned with vibrant pink and white hues, in full bloom, provides a breathtaking backdrop against the majestic Mount Fuji.
3. Cycling
Shimanami Kaido is a 70km bicycle route offering some of the most picturesque views of the Seto Inland Sea. | Photo by PhotoAC
Cycling in Japan during spring can be an exceptionally relaxing experience with the blossoming flowers providing a delightful visual treat as you effortlessly glide through the pleasant spring temperatures.
One of the most renowned and visually captivating cycling routes is the Setouchi Shimanami Kaido (瀬戸内しまなみ海道), spanning 70km and linking Onomichi City in Honshu with Imabari City in Shikoku. A relatively manageable route for beginners, this route traverses six islands and nine bridges, providing a comprehensive exploration of the Seto Inland Sea. You can also enjoy an unobstructed panorama of the area from the Hanaguri Seto Observation Deck (鼻栗瀬戸展望台) on Omishima Island.
Would you cycle 200km around Japan's largest lake? | Photo by photoAC
Another popular cycling route takes you around Lake Biwa (琵琶湖), Japan's largest lake located in Shiga Prefecture. While the lake's 200km circumference may initially appear daunting, amateur cyclists can typically complete the course in just 2–3 days.
Lake Biwa is home to numerous captivating sightseeing spots, including Hikone Castle, the former merchant town of Omihachiman City, and the enchanting floating torii (鳥居) gate of Shirahige Shrine (白髭神社), which resembles an entrance to another realm.
4. Strawberry Picking
Reward yourself by picking some of the largest and sweetest strawberries in a strawberry farm in Japan. | Photo by PhotoAC
Cultivated in temperature-controlled greenhouses, Japan's strawberry season begins in the heart of winter, typically lasting from December to May. Renowned for producing some of the finest strawberries globally, Japan offers an exceptional strawberry-picking (イチゴ狩り ichigo-gari) experience that is a must-try during spring. From January to mid-April, you can indulge in an all-you-can-pick session at one of the strawberry farms, allowing you to savour the fresh and juicy strawberries at their peak. These farms often provide a complimentary condensed milk dip, which you can use to enhance the sweetness of your strawberries.
For strawberry enthusiasts, a trip to a strawberry farm in Tochigi Prefecture could offer an unforgettable experience. Renowned for its abundant nature, fertile soil, and pristine water sourced from the areas of Nikko and Nasu, Tochigi Prefecture provides ideal conditions for cultivating some of Japan's finest strawberries and stands as Japan's largest strawberry-producing region. Yoshimura Strawberry Park (吉村農園), situated in the Mashiko area, allows visitors to not only delight in unlimited strawberries and compare various types, including Tochigi's renowned Tochiotome (とちおとめ) and Skyberry (スカイベリー) varieties but also bring home the taste of spring.
5. Celebrate Children’s Day
Thousands of carp streamers 🎏 are flown annually during the Carp Streamer Festival at Tsuetate Onsen in Kumamoto Prefecture. | Photo by PhotoAC
Children’s Day (こどもの日 Kodomo no Hi) in Japan is an annual national holiday observed on May 5th, dedicated to celebrating the joy and well-being of children and showing appreciation for their mothers. This holiday marks the conclusion of Japan's Golden Week, which also includes Showa Day (昭和の日 Showa no Hi), Constitution Memorial Day (憲法記念日 Kenpo Kinenbi), and Greenery Day (緑の日 Midori no Hi), all occurring between late April to early May.
Traditional decorations like carp streamers (こいのぼり koinobori) are prominently displayed outdoors on public buildings or private residences. These decorative windsocks, fashioned in the likeness of carp fish, are hoisted atop tall poles, symbolising attributes of strength and determination thought to bring upon success in life. Parents often display them with the aspiration that their children will come to embody these virtues.
During the Carp Streamer Festival, held annually in spring at Tsuetate Onsen (杖立温泉) in Kumamoto Prefecture, approximately 3,500 koinobori take to the skies above the Tsuetate River (杖立川), forming a breathtaking spectacle, appearing to swim downstream, or soaring toward the sky, lending an almost lifelike quality to the scene. During nightfall, these koinobori are illuminated, transforming the ambiance and creating a mystical scene.
5. Shiohigari
Families engage in shiohigari, a leisure activity popular during spring and summer. | Photo by Adobe Stock
Since the Edo Period, shiohigari (潮干狩り), or “low-tide gathering”, has remained a beloved recreational pursuit, particularly during the spring and summer seasons. Typically between March and June, when tidal flats expand along gently sloping beaches, this outdoor pastime is commonly enjoyed by families and groups of friends to dig for shellfish.
Although May and June might offer optimal conditions for “hunting”, this period coincides with Golden Week, when beaches are bustling with peak crowds. Each year, thousands of Japanese make their way to the shores to gather these shellfish, which are later cooked and savoured in a delicious meal.
Odaiba Seaside Park (お台場海浜公園) is renowned as a prime location for shiohigari, as it not only serves as a fantastic retreat after a day of shopping but is also the nearest shiohigari spot from central Tokyo boasting a variety of shellfish, including asari (あさり short-neck clam), shiofuki (潮吹き thin-shelled surf clam), aoyagi (青柳 surf clam), and numerous others. However, visitors should be mindful of certain regulations at each shiohigari site, such as refraining from collecting clams smaller than 2cm and limiting the total weight of clams taken home to 2kg. These rules are in place to promote environmental awareness and ensure an enjoyable experience while digging for these delectable shellfish.
7. Enjoy Seasonal Foods
Bamboo shoots is a must-try during spring in Japan. | Photo by photoAC
A spring trip would simply be incomplete without having a taste of the seasonal local delicacies. While enjoying the stunning spring landscapes and activities, remember to savour seasonal foods that will surely enhance your experience of spring in Japan.
In harmony with the cherry blossom season, sakura-flavoured delights captivate the nation. Among them, sakura mochi (桜餅), a traditional Japanese sweet featuring pink-coloured mochi filled with red bean paste and wrapped in a pickled sakura leaf, stands out as one of the must-try foods. While traditionally enjoyed during Hina Matsuri (雛祭) on 3rd March, sakura mochi is also a popular treat at cherry blossom viewing picnics.
Additionally, spring brings forth an abundance of fresh produce. Sea bream, known as tai (鯛), reaches its peak weight and fattiness during this season, rendering it exceptionally delicious. Moreover, the word tai makes up part of the word “medetai” (めでたい), referring to a happy event, making it an auspicious fish loved by many.
Another prevalent spring delicacy is the bamboo shoot, known as takenoko (たけのこ), commonly enjoyed with rice as served in takenoko gohan (筍ご飯). Otherwise, it can be savoured as tempura (天ぷら). The tender and sweet tip of the shoot, coupled with its delicate and earthy aroma, makes it one of the most symbolic foods representing spring.
It’s Time to Visit Japan in Spring!
A time of vibrant renewal and celebration, there is much to enjoy during this enchanting season. Whether partaking in a hanami session, or simply indulging in the season’s freshest produce, spring offers a treasure trove of experiences for locals and visitors alike. Before the season draws to close, make sure to have your fill of this mesmerising season until its return next year.
In the meantime, you can experience spring in the comforts of your own home with JAPAN RAIL CLUB! Titled “Spring Beginnings”, April 2024’s Omiyage Snack Box features a delightful range of sakura- and plum-flavoured snacks that will surely remind you of your time frolicking amongst cherry blossoms in Japan.
Keen to get started? Subscribe to a subscription plan of your choice at JAPAN RAIL CLUB. Check-out by 30 April 2024 with the promo code “SPRING14” to enjoy discounts of up to USD33 and get ready to receive seasonal and regional treats from all over Japan every month. Happy spring!
