Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

In Hokkaido's vast expanse, you can see a variety of cherry blossoms, including the Somei Yoshino, which accounts for 80% of Japan's cherry trees, the Ezo Mountain Cherry (Ezoyamazakura) that blooms throughout Hokkaido and represents the region, and the Chishima Cherry (Chishimazakura), which is the latest-blooming cherry in Japan.

The Ezo Mountain Cherry, having endured harsh cold, displays a deep pink color, exuding a sense of strength and resilience. A distinctive feature is its overall reddish appearance, as red leaves begin to sprout simultaneously with the blossoms.

Cherry blossoms herald the arrival of spring in Japan. While cherry trees in Honshu typically bloom in March, Hokkaido's blossoms appear about a month later, with the best viewing period from late April to early May.

The optimal viewing times vary by region:

- Hakodate and Matsumae: Late April

- Sapporo and surrounding areas: Early to mid-May

- Eastern Hokkaido: Mid-May

The Chishima cherry in eastern Hokkaido, particularly in Nemuro, is the latest-blooming cherry in Japan, typically reaching full bloom in mid-May.

For the most accurate timing, it's recommended to check the latest bloom forecasts.

Goryokaku Park (Hakodate City): Admire the star-shaped fortress outlined in pink

Best viewing period: Late April to early May

Goryokaku, designated as a Special National Historic Site, is a striking cherry blossom spot known for its star-shaped fortress.

At Goryokaku, approximately 1,600 Somei Yoshino cherry trees bloom spectacularly along the fortress walls. Visitors can enjoy the cherry blossoms spread across the distinctive star-shaped expanse. The reflection of the blossoms on the moat's surface and the petals covering the water towards the end of the season create a poetic scene.

After enjoying the view from ground level, be sure to ascend the Goryokaku Tower. The observation deck of the approximately 90-meter-tall tower offers a 360-degree glass-walled view overlooking the entire Goryokaku. The breathtaking vista of cherry blossoms filling the moat and highlighting the star shape of Goryokaku is truly awe-inspiring. This unique pink-tinted star formation is a spectacular sight that can only be witnessed here.

The Harmony of Castle Town Atmosphere and 250 Varieties of 10,000 Cherry Trees <Matsumae Park (Matsumae Town)>

■ Best viewing period: Late April to early May

Matsumae Town, Japan's northernmost castle town, retains an Edo-period atmosphere in areas like Temple Town, offering a spectacular combination of historical townscapes and cherry blossoms.

With early, mid, and late-blooming varieties, visitors can enjoy cherry blossom viewing for about a month. Matsumae boasts approximately 250 varieties and 10,000 cherry trees, including vibrant blossoms and new species born in Matsumae. The cherry trees in Matsumae are said to have originated from wealthy merchants in the castle town and the feudal lord's wives from Kyoto who planted them in remembrance of their hometowns, as well as samurai who brought them back from Edo during their alternate attendance duties.

Matsumae Park, where Matsumae Castle is located, features about 8,000 cherry trees, including the Naden variety, which represents Matsumae's cherry blossoms. This is the only place in Hokkaido where you can enjoy the elegant scenery of a castle with cherry blossoms. Don't miss the "Meoto Zakura" (Couple Cherry Tree) where Somei Yoshino and Naden bloom from the same root, the "Kechimyaku Zakura" (Blood Lineage Cherry Tree) estimated to be over 300 years old, and the "Ezo Kasumi Zakura" (Ezo Mist Cherry Tree) standing in the grounds of Ryuun-in, the oldest temple in Matsumae. Within the park, you can also enjoy the beautiful harmony of cherry blossoms with Matsumae Castle, the last castle built in Japan!

300-Year-Old Weeping Cherry Tree! Enchanting Night View with Illumination <Hoki-ji Temple Weeping Cherry Blossom (Hokuto City)>

■ Best viewing period: Early to mid-May

The weeping cherry tree in the grounds of Hoki-ji Temple in Hokuto City is estimated to be 300 years old, standing about 12 meters tall, with flowers blooming all over its drooping branches. Its popular for its spectacular appearance, with flowers blooming abundantly on the large, curved, hanging branches. Such a massive and magnificent weeping cherry tree is extremely rare in Hokkaido, and its beauty is truly awe-inspiring to all who see it.

While the daytime view is recommended, during the full bloom period, the "Hokuto Cherry Blossom Corridor" illumination event takes place. This event includes nighttime illumination of not only the Hoki-ji Temple weeping cherry tree, but also the cherry blossom tunnel at the Matsumae clan's Hekirichijinya ruins, the cherry tree-lined Ono River, and the thousand cherry trees of Kiyokawa. The illuminated view is particularly ethereal and captivating.

Enjoy Barbecue Under Fully Bloomed Cherry Blossoms! <Maruyama Park and Hokkaido Shrine (Sapporo City)>

■ Best viewing period: Early May

Maruyama Park is Sapporo's representative cherry blossom viewing spot. When spring arrives, it becomes crowded with many people, along with the adjacent Hokkaido Shrine. Enjoying barbecue during cherry blossom viewing is the Hokkaido style. In Maruyama Park, the use of fire is permitted exclusively during the cherry blossom season, and the aroma of Genghis Khan, Hokkaido's local cuisine, fills the air. Why not try this unique Hokkaido-style hanami, enjoying Genghis Khan with family and friends while viewing the cherry blossoms?

Hokkaido Shrine is not only for worship but also offers the opportunity to enjoy both cherry and plum blossoms simultaneously, as both types of trees are planted there. At Hokkaido Shrine, about 1,100 cherry trees, including Ezo Mountain Cherry, Somei Yoshino, and Yae-zakura, along with about 200 plum trees, bloom mainly along the main approach. Coinciding with the cherry blossom blooming, many street stalls line up, attracting numerous visitors.

*Currently, the use of fire and electricity is prohibited in Maruyama Park.

A 7km Stretch of Cherry Blossom Trees <Shizunai Nijukken Road (Shinhidaka Town)>

Best Viewing Time: Early May

Known for its about 7km straight road, "Shizunai Nijukken Road" is one of Japan's premier cherry blossom spots, with around 2,200 cherry trees blooming on both sides of the road, surrounded by expansive pastures. In the middle of the road, there is a 300m walking path called the "Flower Tunnel." The road is narrower than Nijukken Road, so the cherry trees on both sides literally cover the sky like a tunnel. It's not uncommon to see ranchers leading horses along the road in this area. Such a peaceful scene is sure to become a memorable part of your trip.

Enjoy Both Cherry Blossoms and Plum Blossoms Around Lake Toya <Sobetsu Park and Others (Toyako Town, Sobetsu Town)>

Best Viewing Time: Early to Mid-May

Lake Toya Onsen, a hot spring area with abundant hot water and many inns, is surrounded by cherry blossom viewing spots such as observatories, parks, and cherry blossom-lined walking paths around the about 43km lakeshore. The cherry blossoms against the backdrop of Lake Toya are beautiful, offering a spot where you can enjoy the harmony with the surrounding nature.

Sobetsu Park, located on a hill a short climb up a mountain path from the southeastern side of the lakeshore, offers breathtaking views of Lake Toya, Mount Usu, Showa Shinzan, and Mount Yotei, also known as Ezo Fuji. This park is also famous for its plum blossoms, with around 300 plum trees reaching their peak bloom from early May. The unique feature of Hokkaido is that you can enjoy both cherry and plum blossoms at the same time.

Popular for BBQs and Night Cherry Blossoms! <Asahiyama Park (Asahikawa City)>

Best Viewing Time: Early to Mid-May

About a 30-minute drive from the center of Asahikawa City, this park is adjacent to Asahiyama Zoo, making it a popular spot for families. Located on the slopes at the foot of Asahiyama, it offers beautiful views from the hilltop. From early to mid-May, you can enjoy the sight of approximately 3,500 Ezoyamazakura cherry trees in full bloom and clusters of katakuri flowers. The atmosphere changes dramatically at night with the enchanting light-up, making it a must-see.

Enjoy the Collaboration with Remaining Snow: The Lone Cherry Tree <Kamigoryo (Furano City)>

Best Viewing Time: Early to Mid-May

This lone cherry tree stands in the pastures of Kamigoryo, Furano City. Located near Furano Ski Resort and Ningle Terrace, the best viewing time is from early to mid-May. During this period, the tree often stands against a backdrop of Furano Nishidake with lingering snow, evoking thoughts of the harsh winter it has endured. Capturing the tree along with the mountains in a single photo will create a picture-perfect scene.

Seeking Japan's Latest Blooming Cherry Blossoms in the Easternmost Town <Seiryuji Temple (Nemuro City)>

Best Viewing Time: Mid to Late May

Nemuro City is known as the final destination of the cherry blossom front. You can enjoy Japan's latest blooming cherry blossoms at the city's famous cherry blossom spot, Seiryuji Temple, from mid to late May. The main variety seen here is the Chishimazakura, a rare type that can only be found in high mountainous areas in Honshu. These flowers are lighter in color compared to the Ezoyamazakura commonly seen in Hokkaido, and their pale pink blossoms beautifully adorn the old and quaint main hall. If you visit Nemuro during this period, this spot is a must-see along with other local attractions.