Japan in spring, particularly in March and April, is a beautiful time to visit, especially because of the cherry blossom (sakura) season. Here are some of the best cities to visit, an overview of expenditures, and must-do activities during this period: Best Cities to Visit
Tokyo: Highlights: Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Chidorigafuchi for cherry blossoms.
Activities: Visit temples like Senso-ji, explore vibrant districts such as Shibuya and Akihabara, and enjoy the city's shopping and dining options.
Kyoto: Highlights: Maruyama Park, Philosopher's Path, and Kiyomizu-Dera for cherry blossoms.
Activities: Explore historical temples and shrines, traditional tea houses, and the beautiful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
Osaka: Highlights: Osaka Castle and Kema Sakuranomiya Park for cherry blossoms.
Activities: Enjoy street food in Dotonbori, visit Universal Studios Japan, and explore the Osaka Aquarium.
Nara: Highlights: Nara Park and Mount Yoshino for cherry blossoms.
Activities: Visit Todai-ji Temple and interact with the free-roaming deer in Nara Park.
Hiroshima: Highlights: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Shukkeien Garden for cherry blossoms.
Activities: Visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima Castle, and take a day trip to Miyajima Island.
Fukuoka: Highlights: Maizuru Park and Nishi Park for cherry blossoms.
Activities: Visit Fukuoka Tower, explore local food stalls (yatai), and relax at Ohori Park.
Expenditure
Accommodation: Budget: ¥3,000-¥8,000 per night for hostels or budget hotels.
Mid-range: ¥10,000-¥20,000 per night for 3-star hotels or ryokan.
Luxury: ¥30,000 and above per night for 4-5 star hotels or luxury ryokan.
Food: Budget: ¥1,000-¥2,500 per day for meals at convenience stores, street food, or budget restaurants.
Mid-range: ¥3,000-¥6,000 per day for meals at mid-range restaurants.
Luxury: ¥10,000 and above per day for high-end dining experiences.
Transportation: Japan Rail Pass (7 days): ¥29,650, which is ideal for traveling between cities.
Local transportation (subway, buses): ¥200-¥500 per trip.
Taxis: Starting fare around ¥400-¥700, with additional costs per kilometer.
Attractions: Temples and shrines: Often free or around ¥300-¥600.
Museums and parks: ¥500-¥2,000.
Special experiences (tea ceremonies, traditional performances): ¥2,000-¥5,000.
Must-Do Things
Cherry Blossom Viewing (Hanami): Join locals in parks for picnics under cherry blossom trees. Popular spots include Ueno Park (Tokyo), Maruyama Park (Kyoto), and Osaka Castle Park.
Visit Historic Temples and Shrines: Explore the rich cultural heritage by visiting famous sites like Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, Senso-ji in Tokyo, and Todai-ji in Nara.
Experience Japanese Cuisine: Try sushi, ramen, tempura, and street foods like takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Don’t miss out on seasonal sakura-flavored treats.
Traditional Japanese Experiences: Participate in a tea ceremony, wear a kimono, or enjoy a hot spring bath (onsen).
Shopping: Shop for souvenirs, electronics, fashion, and traditional crafts in districts like Ginza (Tokyo), Shinsaibashi (Osaka), and Gion (Kyoto).
Seasonal Festivals and Events: Attend local spring festivals and events such as the Hanami festivals, which celebrate the cherry blossoms with performances, food stalls, and cultural activities.
Travel Tips
Language: While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic Japanese phrases can be very helpful.
Weather: Spring weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and a light jacket.
Cherry Blossom Forecast: Check the cherry blossom forecast as the blooming period varies slightly each year and region.
Enjoy your spring trip to Japan!Ja
Hi Nishank, Japan is beautiful in Spring, here is a list of places you must not miss during that time:
Shinjuku, Tokyo: you just can not miss the Cherry blossoms of Tokyo if you are visiting in Spring time.
Fushimi-ku, Kyoto: Daigo-Ji Temple
Takayama, Gifu: Takayama Old Town
Sapporo, Hokkaido: Odori Park and Kawashimo Park
Yubetsu, Hokkaido: Kamiyubetsu Tulip Park
Hitachinaka, Ibaraki: Hitachi Seaside Park
During the time of Spring a lot of traditional festivals are being held all around Japan, so you must not miss them.
The expenditure will depend upon the places you are staying and the way you are travelling.
In spring (March/April), best cities to visit in Japan are Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima for cherry blossoms, temples, and cultural experiences. Expenditure: ₹1,00,000–₹1,50,000 for 7-10 days. Must-dos: Hanami (cherry blossom viewing), visit temples, explore Mount Fuji, enjoy local street food, and try onigiri or ramen. 🌸