Cherry blossoms are one of the most beloved of all sites in Japan, and the country is full of literally hundreds of spots famous for "hanami," or flower viewing. Although it can be hard to miss the gorgeous blossoms if you're in the right place in the right time, following the right route can make it easier to make the most of your time in Japan during it's most beautiful season. That's one of the aims of our Spring Golden Route Tour which combines a trip through Japan's essential spots with an emphasis on seeing the best of cherry blossoms in Tokyo, Kyoto, and more. Here are a few of the spots we'll be seeing, so take a look whether you're considering signing up for the tour or just want to see some pretty photos!

1. Chidori-ga-fuchi (Tokyo)

Chidori-ga-fuchi is actually a moat surrounding the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, first constructed in the Edo Period. Despite it's deep historic roots and traditional purpose, the site offers some stunning views of Tokyo's skyscrapers, and during the right season, many flock there to also see the hundreds of cherry trees that are in full bloom there, making a wall of pink around the waterway. Rental paddle boats are also available, making for a pleasant way to see the ephemeral blossoms while floating yourself!

2. Ueno Park (Tokyo) 

Ueno Park is a popular spot year round in Japan, near the National Museum and the beautiful Shinobazu Pond, and a hangout and relaxation space for many Tokyoites. For a short period in spring, parts of the park are completely canopies by cherry blossoms, and the ground filled with picnicers and revellers looking to soak in the beauty of the flowers. This is one of the quintessential urban "hanami" spots, or a place for viewing flowers.

3. Sensoji (Tokyo)

Sensoji is the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo and one of the grandest in Japan- a majestic traditional site that matches the exuberence of the city that surrounds it despite its traditional structure. During this period, pink petals will surround the temple as well as "Nakemise," the shopping street full of more traditional goods than you could ever consider purchasing, giving an extra seasonal festivity to the already culturally thick air.

4. Kiyomizudera (Kyoto)

Kyoto's wonderful Kiyomizu temple is famous for its magnificent view, an everchanging vista of a modern Kyoto seen from a still and ancient spiritual standpoint. One of the most prized features of the view is how it reflects the best of each season, and spring is certainly no exception- every year the ancient temple is greeted with the rebirth of soft beautiful petals.

5. Todaiji (Nara)

A capital more ancient even than Kyoto, the nieghboring Nara to some overwhelming monuments, such as Todaiji, home to the largest Buddha in Japan, and Nara Deer Park, where these animals considered messengers of the gods roam freely and interact with pilgrims and visitors. It also celebrates the cycle of life by donning the beautiful pink garment of cherry blossoms.

WANT TO VISIT THEM ALL?

We're sure you've enjoyed just dreaming about it, but being there yourself just takes signing up. These spots are just a fraction of the many places we'll go on our Spring Golden Route Tour, so don't miss this chance!