Guide To Different Varieties Of Cherry Blossom In Japan And Where To View Them
Springtime in Japan means one thing: cherry blossom season! One of the most eagerly anticipated times of the year as the country transforms into a pink and white wonderland. But did you know that there are numerous different varieties of cherry blossoms in Japan? In this guide, we'll explore some of the cherry blossom varieties in Japan and where you can view them.
Shidarezakura
Shidarezakura, also known as the Japanese weeping cherry tree, is one of the most unique and beautiful cherry blossom trees you can find in Japan. With its long, drooping branches and delicate pink or white flowers, the Shidarezakura is a stunning sight to behold during the spring season.
Source: Japan Web Magazine
One of the best places to capture the beauty of Shidarezakura is Heian Shrine, Kyoto Prefecture, built in 1895 to commemorate the 1,100th anniversary of Kyoto's reign as the capital of Japan.
The place boasts over 300 cherry trees where you can get ready to snap Instagrammable pictures with the Shidarezakura against the picturesque backdrop of the shrine's buildings and pond.
Best time to catch: Early to mid-April
Ukon
Add a pop of yellow to your cherry blossom viewing experience this year with the Ukon cherry blossom tree! Ukon cherry blossom, also known as Golden Cherry or Yellow Cherry, is a type of cherry blossom tree known for its unique and vibrant yellow blooms that give a fresh twist to the typical pink and white cherry blossom scene.
Source: Tokyo Cheapo
While Ukon cherry blossom trees are not as common in Japan, you can view them during the spring season. One of the top places to view them in Tokyo is Shinjuku Gyoen, a cherry blossom hotspot that boasts 68 varieties of cherry blossom trees, including the Ukon. For those who prefer a quieter spot, Koishikawa Botanical Garden is also a great option to see these vibrant yellow blooms.
Best them to catch: Mid-April
Somei Yoshino
Somei Yoshino is one of the most common cherry blossoms you often see in Japan. These delicate pink flowers bloom in abundance each spring, drawing in crowds from around the world to witness their beauty.
If you're looking for the ultimate Somei Yoshino cherry blossom experience, look no further than Ueno Park in Tokyo. The park boasts over 1,000 Somei Yoshino cherry blossom trees where you can feast your eyes on the stunning beauty of these pink petals against the tranquil Shinobazu Pond or the striking red five-story pagoda at Kaneiji Temple.
Source: Japan Web Magazine
Other spots to catch Somei Yoshino cherry blossom in Japan include Hirosaki Park in Aomori Prefecture, boasting over 2,500 cherry blossom trees. Don't miss the chance to view them at night when the Hirosaki Castle is lit up, providing a picturesque backdrop to your cherry blossom viewing.
Source: Japan Travel
Time to catch: Late March to early April
Edo Higan
Edo Higan is another popular variety of cherry blossom trees in Japan, named after its blooming time that coincides with the spring equinox celebration in Western Japan, known as higan. This type of cherry blossom features a sweet pinkish-white bloom and is known for its delicate and elegant appearance.
Source: Amnet
Besides, what sets Edo Higan apart is its remarkable longevity, as it can live for over 1,000 years. Take a trip to Hokuto City, Yamanashi prefecture, to see the oldest Edo Higan cherry tree, the Yamataka Jindai Sakura, estimated to be 2,000 years old and still blooming beautifully.
Best time to catch: Early to mid-April
Kanhizakura
Ending our list is the exquisite winter cherry blossom, Kanhizakura, a rare and unique type of cherry blossom tree found in Japan. Unlike other cherry blossoms, which bloom in spring, Kanhizakura blooms from November to January, featuring small and delicate flowers in shades of pink and white with a hint of yellow, providing a beautiful contrast to the snowy landscapes.
Head to Mount Yae in Okinawa Prefecture, which boasts around 10,000 Kanhizakura trees, to capture the beauty of these cherry blossoms. Take a scenic hike through the forest and witness the stunning beauty of the Kanhizakura blooms against the picturesque mountain landscape.
Best time to catch: Early January
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