10 Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms - A Guide to Enjoying Spring's Delicate Beauty

Springtime is one of the most spectacular seasons of the year. As the cold winter winds start to fade away, nature awakens, and landscapes color themselves with vibrant flowers. Specifically, Japan and Korea are famous for their cherry blossom blooms. The soft pink petals scattered over the greenery make for a breathtaking sight. Visiting these ten places during the cherry blossom season is an experience unlike any other - not to mention, a serious Instagram opportunity!

1. Yoshino, Japan

Yoshino is located in Japan's Nara prefecture and is considered the best place for cherry blossom viewing. The town is famous for its thousands of cherry trees that line the hillsides. The most impressive spot is Mount Yoshino, which is home to more than 30,000 cherry trees!

2. Hirosaki, Japan

Hirosaki is a small city in Japan's Aomori prefecture that was home to the Samurai lords of the Tsugaru clan. Today, it's one of Japan's most popular cherry blossom viewing spots, featuring more than 2,600 cherry trees. The Hirosaki Castle Park is the most popular place to enjoy the blossoms.

3. Seoul, South Korea

Seoul holds a lot of cultural importance for Koreans. It has several cherry blossom viewing spots that you can enjoy, such as Yeouido Park, Seokchon Lake, and Namsan Park. During cherry blossom season, the city comes to life with festive spirit and bustling energy.

4. Nakameguro, Japan

Nakameguro is one of Tokyo's most trendy neighborhoods, and during cherry blossom season, it transforms into a picturesque, pink paradise. The Meguro River is one of the city's most famous spots, and the trees lining both sides of the river look particularly enchanting at night.

5. Gyeongju, South Korea

Gyeongju is a historic city in South Korea that has been home to ancient kingdoms and dynasties. The city's cherry blossom season is quite spectacular and centered around the Bomun Lake and the Gyeongju National Park - where you can witness the cherry trees in full bloom, spreading their rosy petals everywhere.

6. Ueno Park, Tokyo

Ueno Park is one of Tokyo's largest parks and is usually crowded with visitors enjoying the cherry blossoms. The park has more than one thousand cherry trees, creating a magnificent sight when they bloom.

7. Maizuru Park, Fukuoka, Japan

Maizuru park is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot in Fukuoka, Japan. It's a lovely place for a picnic under the shade of cherry blossoms. The best time to visit is during the second half of March, when the Sakura Festival is held.

8. Philosopher's Path, Kyoto

Kyoto's Philosopher's Path is an enchanting spot that's best visited during the cherry blossom season. The path, which follows a canal and is lined with cherry blossoms, is a feast for the eyes and makes for a magical walk.

9. Himeji Castle, Japan

Himeji Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Himeji, Japan. During the annual cherry blossom season, the castle grounds are filled with stunning pink trees, making for an unforgettable experience. The best time to visit is in late March and early April.

10. Jinhae, South Korea

Jinhae is a small city in South Korea that's known for its impressive cherry blossom festival that draws crowds of visitors every year. The city has an abundance of cherry blossom trees, making it one of the best places for cherry blossom viewing in Korea.