The sakura season is not too far away!
Every Spring, tons of locals and tourists alike flood Japan to see the cherry blossoms reach full bloom. According to the official forecast from Japan Meteorological Corporation, the sakura season of 2019 will start mid-February in southern Japan and move northwards, hitting Kyoto and Tokyo around late March, and the northernmost regions by early May.
As the full bloom only lasts about a week, you have to fight through huge crowds at for a place to relax and take good photos. So skip the most popular viewing spots this year; hidden across Japan (even in Tokyo and Kyoto), are lesser-known but no less scenic spots full of the pink and white beauties. Even better, you have the peace and space to admire them and even picnic under the trees.
4. Takano-gawa River, Kyoto
Escape the big crowds at the more well-known Kamo-gawa River, and head eastward to the Takano-gawa River from Kyoto’s Demachiyanagi Station, where the two rivers meet. Lining the banks of the Takano-gawa River are rows and rows of cherry trees, dipping towards the waters and adding a pure whitish pink touch to the green slopes. Stroll or cycle along the walkway, and you’ll get a lovely view of the cherry blossoms over your head. Clear and free from crowds most of the time, the sakura-covered riverbanks are also an idyllic and quiet spot for a picnic.
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