Hokkaido Cherry Blossom 2026: Enjoy the Late Japan Sakura Season

If you miss the Tokyo Cherry Blossoms viewing in March, then the Hokkaido Cherry Blossom in May is your great alternative during your trip to Japan 2026. Hokkaido's Sakura is not as popular as Tokyo's cherry blossom season, and instead of being crowded with people, you can feel the romantic atmosphere that Japanese cherry blossoms bring to people. When people think of Hokkaido, they think of skiing and hot springs. In fact, Hokkaido has many natural scenery spots to view Japanese cherry blossoms in spring and foliage in fall. In this article, we have selected some representative spots to see Sakura in Hokkaido and Tohoku, and welcome to fill out this form if you need any help in making the itinerary for your cherry blossom tour 2026 to Hokkaido and Tohoku.

Table of Contents

1. Hokkaido Cherry Blossom 2026 Forecast

2. Ways to Celebrate the Hokkaido Sakura Season 2026

3. Crafted 6-Day Hokkaido Cherry Blossom Itinerary

4. Best Place to See Cherry Blossom in Hokkaido 2026

4.1 Famous Attractions for Sakura Viewing in Sapporo

4.2 Must-visit Cherry Blossoms Spots in Hakodate

4.3 Cannot-Miss Sakura Spots in Otaru

4.4 Other Places to See Sakura in Hokkaido

5. Hokkaido's Sakura Alternative: Shibazakura

6. Spring in Hokkaido 2026: What to Do Besides Cherry Blossom Viewing

1. 2026 Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast for Hokkaido and Tohoku

Cherry blossoms are the national flower of Japan. When can you see Sakura in Hokkaido 2026? From the middle of March, cherry blossoms will bloom in order from Western Japan to Eastern Japan. Generally, Tokyo cherry blossoms bloom around March 25. In Kansai, Osaka cherry blossom date and Kyoto Sakura time, and Nara cherry blossom viewing is on March 26. In the southern part of the Tohoku region, it is in early April, and in Hokkaido at the beginning of May. Based on the cherry blossom Japan forecast announced by the Japan Meteorological Society in previous years, the following is a forecast of the blooming time for each region in the Tohoku area and Hokkaido in the Japan cherry blossom season 2026. In short, late April to early May is the best time to enjoy cherry blossom season in Hokkaido 2026.

Hokkaido Cherry Blossom Forecast 2026

Tohoku Cherry Blossom Forecast 2026

Please keep in mind that this is just the Sakura forecast according to the cherry blossoms season information of the previous years. Please check out the related resources such as the Japan Meteorological Corporation, to confirm the final cherry blossom dates in 2026.

2. How to Participate in the Hokkaido Cherry Blossom Season 2026

For the cherry blossom season Hokkaido 2026, people celebrate it with various activities as follows, just enjoy the beauty and serenity of the Sakura in Hokkaido.

1) Having a Hanami picnic under the cherry blossom trees is a traditional way to enjoy the blossoms.

2) Enjoy the Sakura festivals and illuminations that also showcase the beauty of the season.

3) Take strolls in famous viewing spots like Maruyama Park, Goryokaku Park, and Moerenuma Park, etc.

4) Experience traditional activities like tea ceremonies and calligraphy classes.

5) Capture the most beautiful moment of the weeping cherry tree with a camera or smartphone.

6) Taste the delicious sakura-themed food or snacks in street stands or restaurants.

7) Buy cherry-themed special local products if you like.

8) Go hiking to explore the captivating natural scene while appreciating the charming pink cherry blossoms.

Let us know your idea on experiencing the Hokkaido Sakura season and we will tailor the perfect Hokkaido cherry blossom itinerary 2026 for you.

3. 6-Day Hokkaido Cherry Blossom Tour: A Perfect Spring Getaway

If you want to experience the best of Hokkaido’s cherry blossoms and more, this 6-day itinerary is a fantastic choice. Designed especially for seniors and sakura lovers, it’s available from April 25th to May 10th — the peak cherry blossom season in Hokkaido.

-Days: 6 (Customizable)

-Available: Only Available from April 25th to May 10th

-Cater for: Seniors, Hokkaido Sakura Viewers

-Quick Access>>>6 Days Sapporo - Otaru - Lake Toya – Hakodate Tour

Quick Route Overview: Sapporo → Otaru → Lake Toya → Hakodate

Here’s a snapshot of what you’ll enjoy on this trip:

●Days 1-2: Sapporo

Start with the iconic Hokkaido Jingu Shrine, then visit the whimsical Shiroi Koibito Park—home to Hokkaido’s famous chocolate treats. Take a stroll along the scenic Otaru Canal and learn about traditional sake brewing at Tanaka Sake Brewery with a tasting experience.

●Day 3: Lake Toya

Explore the stunning volcanic landscapes from the Usuzan Toyako Observation Deck and take a ride on the Usuzan Ropeway. Relax by the tranquil Lake Toya and Lake Shikotsu, and don’t miss a night at a lakeside onsen hotel to soak in hot springs while savoring local cuisine.

●Days 4-6: Hakodate

Witness breathtaking cherry blossoms at Goryokaku Park with a panoramic view from the observation deck. Wander through the historic Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse and ride the Hakodate Mountain Ropeway to catch the spectacular city lights from Mt. Hakodate. Early risers will love the vibrant Hakodate Morning Market, known for fresh seafood like giant crabs. Wrap up with nature at Onuma Quasi National Park and a cultural visit to Matsumae Clan Hekirichi Jinya Ruins.

Highlights You’ll Love

◆Capture nostalgic photos during a leisurely walk along Otaru Canal

◆Taste famous Shiroi Koibito biscuits and chocolate delights

◆Discover the sake brewing tradition with a tasting at Tanaka Sake Brewery

◆Soak in a lakeside onsen hotel overlooking Lake Toya

◆Experience Hokkaido’s most beautiful cherry blossom views at Goryokaku Park

◆Enjoy one of Japan’s top night views from Mt. Hakodate

◆Dive into local flavors at Hakodate Morning Market with fresh seafood treats

This itinerary perfectly blends iconic sakura spots with cultural, culinary, and natural experiences—making it a memorable spring adventure in Hokkaido. Contact us to help prepare your Hokkaido cherry blossom itinerary to your preferences for an unforgettable trip.

Why Choose Our Private Guided Tour for the Hokkaido Cherry Blossom Season 2026?

Traveling during cherry blossom season in Hokkaido is magical—but it can also be a bit overwhelming, especially if it's your first time in Japan or you're trying to catch the fleeting bloom at just the right moment. That's where our private guided tour really shines. Here's why many travelers choose our custom tours for their Hokkaido Sakura adventures:

Stress-Free Travel, Start to Finish

No need to worry about transportation, language barriers, or figuring out where the cherry blossoms are actually blooming—your private guide handles it all. Just relax and enjoy the beauty of Hokkaido.

See the Best Sakura, at the Right Time

Cherry blossoms are famously unpredictable, but our professional team checks out the sakura forecast daily. We'll adjust your itinerary on the go if needed to make sure you catch the flowers at their peak.

Custom Itineraries Just for You

Traveling with kids? Want a slower pace for seniors? Prefer more foodie stops or scenic photo spots? No problem. Every trip we plan is fully customized around your interests and travel style.

Private Vehicle & Local English-speaking Guide

You'll have your own comfortable vehicle with a local guide who speaks English and knows Hokkaido inside out. They're not just drivers—they're storytellers, translators, and your go-to travel support.

Unique Local Experiences You Might Miss on Your Own

Whether it’s a hidden onsen with lake views, a seasonal market treat, or a cultural spot not in the guidebooks, your private guide can take you off the beaten path for moments you won’t forget.

Planning a sakura trip to Hokkaido? Let us help you make it effortless and unforgettable with a private guided tour tailored just for you.

Real Trustpilot Reviews from Travelers Who Explored Hokkaido with Our Private Guided Tours

Still hesitate to book our private guided tour package? Just see what some of our recent guests had to say on Trustpilot  after returning from their custom spring adventure in Hokkaido:

#Reviews 1: "We had the most amazing trip to Hokkaido"

-★★★★★Karen Toda, US (Travel Date:  May 31, 2025)

"We had the most amazing trip to Hokkaido thanks to our coordinator Ivan and tour guide Yuya! Ivan did a great job planning the itinerary for our family of four with our preferences in mind. This was not our first trip.to Japan, but it was by far our most enjoyable. UME travel handled all of the details so that we didn't have to worry about anything. Our accommodations were first rate, and our tour guide Yuya was awesome! We've had many tour guides over the years, but he's #1 in our book! He taught us a lot about Japan and Hokkaido's history and culture, and his passion for it was evident. He was very easy to get along with, patient, and helpful in tailoring the pace to fit our needs. And our driver Trevor was aweome too! We always felt safe and that they were looking out for us. We will definitely use UME travel again!"

#Reviews 2: "Smooth organization and enchanting locations make a memorable trip"

-★★★★★Petar Denoble, US (Travel Date: April 14, 2025)

"Steven and Greg of UME organized for two OI us a 21-day trip to Japan and Korea. In the process of developing the itinerrary they were very attentive to our wishes, provided a plenty of input and alternatives, and always reacted promptly to our comments. Our final itinerary included multiple locations in south-west Honshu, Hokkaido and Seoul, multiple flights, trains, and private car. We were met and guided by five different guides, all knowlegable, english speaking and considerate professionals. We knew our schedule in advance. Guides and drivers were always on time, and catered to our needs. In summary, thanks to UME staff, this long trip was very enjoyable and effortles for a couple of seasoned travelers in their seventies."

These travelers made unforgettable memories—and you can too. Our private guided tours are designed around what you love most. Reach out now to start crafting your own Hokkaido cherry blossom adventure.

4. Best Spots to Enjoy Hokkaido Cherry Blossom 2026

Where to see cherry blossoms in Hokkaido 2026? There are so many spots to view Sakura Hokkaido 2026, if you take a visit to Sapporo, you can admire the cherry blossom in Hokkaido Shrine, if you go to Hakodate, Goryokaku Park should be your top one place for Hakodate Sakura viewing, and Matsumae Park is a favorite spot for Matsumae cherry blossom season. Here we are to list the Sakura spots in Hokkaido and Tohoku for you to experience the Japan cherry blossom Festival 2026.

4.1 Famous Attractions for Sakura Season Hokkaido 2026 in Sapporo

●Maruyama Park: Sapporo's Must-see Sakura Viewing Spot

Best Time to View Sapporo Cherry Blossom 2026 at Maruyama Park:  April 28 - May 3

Nearby Station: Maruyama-Koen Station

Address: 3 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Chuo Ward, Miyagaoka 064-0959

Opening Time: Open 24 hours

Tel: +81 11-621-0453

Is there Sakura in Sapporo? Yes, Maruyama Park is a popular place to see cherry blossom Sapporo 2026. Located in the city of Sapporo, Maruyama Park is a large park covering 600,000 square meters with lush forests of Quercus serrata, Japanese balsam trees, parkas, and maple trees, which have been designated as a national natural monument. Maruyama Park, like the adjoining Hokkaido Shrine, has been a famous place for Hokkaido cherry blossom viewing since ancient times and is loved by the public. More than 150 cherry trees are planted in the park. During the Sapporo Sakura season, many people will come to picnic under the trees, eat snacks, drink, take photos, chat about gossip, and enjoy the Sapporo Hanami. The transportation here is very convenient, making it an ideal location for people to go to Hokkaido in May during the best time for Sakura in Sapporo 2026. It is also one of the best spots to view autumn leaves in Hokkaido from mid-October to late October.

●Moerenuma Park: Popular Cherry Blossom Viewing Spot in Sapporo

Best Time to Enjoy Sakura Sapporo 2026 at Moerenuma Park: April 29 - May 4

Nearby Station: Kanjodor-higashi Station

Address: 1-1 Moerenumakoen, Higashi Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 007-0011

Opening Time: Closed at 10 PM

Tel: +81 11-790-1231

Located in Higashi-ku, Sapporo, Moerenuma Park was designed by world-renowned sculptor Isamu Noguchi. The park is known as "a park where nature and art merge" and has many attractions, such as Mount Moerenuma which offers a panoramic view of Sapporo from where you can view the Sapporo cherry blossom, a glass pyramid that has a strange shape, and the Sea Fountain which can spout water up to 25 meters high, etc. 1,900 cherry blossoms are planted around the area, and 126 sculptures of various shapes and colors are scattered throughout the seven sculpture zones A-G. In May every year when it is the cherry blossom season in Hokkaido, cherry blossoms in full bloom color the sculpture area with a touch of pink.

●Hokkaido Shrine: Best Sapporo Spot to View Sakura and Plums at the Same Time

Best Viewing Time for Hokkaido Shrine Sakura 2026: April 28 - May 4

Address: 3 Miyagaoka, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido

Hokkaido Shrine, adjacent to Maruyama Park, has been one of the popular spots for Hanami season in Japan since the Meiji era. It was originally established as a temporary shrine to enshrine the three main gods who were responsible for the pioneering work of Hokkaido and became known as the "Sapporo Shrine" after it had grown in size. Later, as more gods were enshrined, the name was changed to Hokkaido Shrine in 1964. In addition to the long history of the shrine, the Hokkaido Shrine features the blossoming of cherry blossoms and plum blossoms, which is a rare scene throughout Japan due to the special climate, making it a great place in springtime to admire the beauty of the flowers in Japan. From late April during the Hokkaido Sakura season 2026 dates, more than 1,400 cherry blossoms and 250 plum blossoms bloom at the same time in the shrine. And there are also many stalls selling Sakura-themed snacks in the shrine. Don't forget to have a taste if you are interested.

●Makomanai Park: a City Park Suitable for Hanami, Hiking and Strolling in Hokkaido

Best Time to Appreciate the Cherry Blossom Hokkaido 2026 at Makomanai Park: April 27 - May 3

Nearby Station: Makomanai Station

Address: 3-1 Makomanaikoen, Minami Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 005-0017, Japan

Opening Time: Closed at 9 PM

Tel: +81 11-581-1961

Hokkaido Makomanai Park may not be as famous as Maruyama Park and Hokkaido Shrine, but it was actually the main venue park for the 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympics and has been open to the public free of charge since August 1975. It covers an area of 800,000 square meters and it is planted with about 13,200 trees. Now, the park also has plazas and forested areas that are perfect for walking, viewing, or as a place for hiking and bird watching. From late April when it is the best time for Sapporo cherry blossom season 2026, more than 1,000 Japanese cherry blossoms, mainly Yamazakura trees bloom in the park, giving off a sense of pinkness like a young girl with light makeup. The park is also one of the most popular spots for maple viewing in the area.

●Former Hokkaido Government Office Building: An Iconic Symbol of Hokkaido with American Neo-baroque Style

Best Time to See Hokkaido Sakura 2026 at Former Hokkaido Government Office Building: April 27 - May 4

Address: 6-chome, Kita 3-jo Nishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido

Access: About a 5-minute walk from JR Sapporo Station or Odori Subway Station

Built in the Meiji era, the Former Hokkaido Government Office Building, located in the center of Sapporo, is a baroque-style European-style government office building that was constructed of red bricks, so it is also known as the Red Brick Hall, a symbol of Hokkaido, and has also been designated as a nationally important cultural property of Japan. The exterior of the building is very beautiful, with red bricks and green tiles in a clash of colors without being tacky. Flower beds and old trees can be seen everywhere along the pond in the front garden. In summer, the grass and trees are lush and cool, while in winter, snow covers the entire roof and garden with snowflakes, making it beautiful and peaceful. In the Former Hokkaido Government Office Building, the cherry blossoms in full bloom, together with the elegant red-brick hall building, are indescribably beautiful, making it an excellent Hokkaido Sakura spot to photograph the best Japanese flower tree at cherry blossom season Japan 2026.

 4.2 Must-visit Hokkaido Cherry Blossom Spots in Hakodate 2026

●Goryokaku Park: A Stunning Sakura Spot with Pink Five-pointed Star City Shape

Best Time to View Hakodate Cherry Blossom 2026 at Goryokaku Park: April 28 - May 5

Address: 44-2 Goryokakucho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0001, Japan

Nearby Station: Hakodate Station

Opening Time: Closed at 7 PM

Tel: +81 138-31-5505

You must be wondering where can I see the cherry blossoms in Hakodate 2026. Goryokaku Park is the most famous viewing spot for the Hakodate cherry blossom 2026. It is in Hakodate City, Hokkaido, and was constructed in the Edo Period and has a unique overall shape of a five-pointed star. The Goryokaku Park Sakura usually start blooming at the end of April or the first half of May, and the cherry blossom dates in Goryokaku Park are more than a month later than the Sakura time in Honshu Island. The pentagon-shaped land is covered with more than 2,000 cherry trees, mainly Yoshino cherry trees, and when they are in full bloom, the petals of the Sakura trees flutter in the wind, immersing you in a magical world of pink. Climbing up the white tower in the grounds and watching the cherry blossoms turn the park's star-shaped silhouette pink is a special treat, and this moment will be one of the unforgettable memories of your hokkaido cherry blossom itinerary 2026.

●Hakodate Park: One of Japan's Top 100 Historical Parks

Best Time to Enjoy Hakodate Sakura 2026 at Hakodate Park: April 27 - May 3

Address: 17 Aoyagi-machi, Hakodate City, Hokkaido

Nearby Station: Hakodate Station

Opening Hours: 24 Hours

Tel: +81 138-22-6789

Hakodate Park is one of the representative urban parks of modern Japan, and it was selected as a nationally designated cultural property and a "registered monument" in 2006. It is known as a "Northern Gardening Heritage", and has a long history since its opening in 1879. The park contains a variety of facilities, including the amusement park "Children's Country" and the municipal Hakodate Museum. More than 400 Japanese Sakura trees are planted in the park, and the height of the park is undulating, so you can enjoy the beautiful trees in Japan from many angles during the Sakura Season Hokkaido 2026. Since the park is very close to the sea, it is a highlight of the park that you can admire the sea view and the Hakodate cherry blossom 2026 at the same time. Moreover, the park is illuminated at night, and vendors set up stalls along the park's footpaths, offering everything from grilled squid to fruits, and you can buy some and spread out a picnic mat under the cherry blossom trees to enjoy the romance of cherry blossom viewing, which is also one of the favorite ways to celebrate the cherry blossom season Japan.

4.3 Cannot-Miss Sakura Spots in Otaru 2026

●Otaru Park: One of the Best Locally Viewing Places for Cherry Blossom in Otaru

Best Time to Enjoy Hokkaido Flower Season 2026 at Otaru Park: May 6 – May 13

Address: 5 Chome-3 Hanazono, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0024, Japan

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Phone: +81 134-32-4111

Otaru Park, opened in 1893, has a history of over 120 years. It is popular as a resting place for local people, and in addition to the representative azaleas, there are large birch forests and cherry blossoms. More than 1,000 cherry trees, mainly Someiyoshino cherry blossoms trees and Yaezakura, are planted in the park, and the best time to see Otaru cherry blossom 2026 in Otaru Park is from mid to late May. Since the park is on high ground, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Otaru's harbor and streets while enjoying the cherry blossom season in Japan, adding a sense of tranquility to Otaru Park under the flowering trees.

●Temiya Park: A Park Where You Can Enjoy Cherry Blossoms and Sea View at the Same Time

Best Time to Admire Hokkaido Japan Cherry Blossom 2026 at Temiya Park: May 7 – May 14

Address: 2 Chome-5 Temiya, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0041, Japan

Access: Take the Chuo Bus and get off at "Teshigaya Taiminaru" and walk for about 10 minutes

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Otaru, in the center of Hokkaido, is a popular destination for travelers who take a tour to Japan, and Temiya Park is a favorite park for Otaru residents, with many cherry blossom trees. The park occupies the entire slope, and the view of the sea from the high point is unforgettable, as you can admire the beauty of the cherry flowers and the sea reflecting each other in spring during Hokkaido cherry blossom 2026 dates.

 4.4 Other Places to See Cherry Blossom in Hokkaido 2026

●Matsumae Park: One of the Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan

Best Time to Experience Cherry Blossom Season Japan 2026 Hokkaido at Matsumae Park: April 27 to May 4

Nearby Station: Kikonai Station

Access: Take a 95-minute bus ride from Kikonai Station.

Opening Hours: 24 hours

Admission Fee: Free

Tel: +81 139-42-2275

Matsumae Park is ranked third in the newly released list of popular cherry blossom viewing spots in Hokkaido. There are 10,000 cherry blossoms of 250 species in the park, which is an extremely large number of cherry blossoms in Japan. The park is one of the "Top 100 Sakura Spots" and is known throughout Japan as the "Home of Cherry Blossoms". Since it is located in the southernmost part of Hokkaido, the cherry blossom time in Matsumae Park is relatively early. There are many different types of cherry blossom trees, which are divided into early, mid and late Sakura depending on Hokkaido cherry blossom time of the year, and the cherry blossom viewing period lasts up to a month. The cherry blossoms bloom from late April to late May. Tenshu Pavilion is recognized as the best photography location, because from here you can take excellent pictures of the Tenshu and the cherry blossoms complementing each other. The Matsumae Park's cherry blossom festival is held every year for about 3 weeks from late April.

●Nijukken Road Cherry Blossoms Lane: Spectacular Sakua Tunnel in Shinhidakacho

Best Time to Enjoy Cherry Blossom Season Hokkaido 2026 at Nijukken Road Cherry Blossoms Lane: May 4 - May 11

Address: Shizunaitahara, Shinhidaka-cho, Hidaka-gun, Hokkaido 056-0144

Nearby Station: Shizunai Station

Opening Hours: 24 hours

Admission Fee: Free

Tel: +81 146-42-1000

In recent years, the Nijukken Road Cherry Blossoms Lane has become more and more popular in Hokkaido for viewing cherry blossoms in Japan and it is one of the best things to see in May. Located in Shizunai-cho in the Hidaka area of Hokkaido, two rows of cherry blossom trees line both sides of the 36-meter wide road that stretches for 7 kilometers, and when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom in Sakura season Japan 2026 Hokkaido, you can see a pink tunnel of cherry blossoms as far as the eye can see. This rare sight has been selected as one of the "100 Famous Places for Cherry Blossoms" and "100 Best Roads in Japan". The cherry blossoms are usually in full bloom from early to mid-May, and there is nothing more romantic than walking slowly under the beautiful cherry blossom trees and enjoying the scenery.

●Kakunodate: One of Favorite Towns in Tohoku to View Best Sakura in Japan

Best Viewing Time for Kakunodate Cherry Blossom 2026: April 27 - May 3

Address: 394-2 Kamisugasawa, Kakunodate-cho, Senboku-shi, Akita, 〒014-0369

Access: About 1 hour from Akita Station to JR Kakunodate Station

Kakunodate, located in the eastern part of Akita Prefecture, has a quiet atmosphere and is surrounded by hills on three sides, making it known as the minor Kyoto of northeastern Japan. There are two spots to view Kakunodate cherry blossom 2026. You can dream of the Edo period by strolling along the Takeya Yashiki Path and enjoying the graceful weeping cherry blossoms overhanging the black-paneled walls of the path. And the nighttime cherry blossoms here are also beautiful. The cherry blossoms along the embankment of the Hinoki Uchikawa River are also the highlight of the Kakunodate Sakura season 2026 here, and you can enjoy the flowering cherry blossom trees on a rickshaw in a unique way. Kakunodate holds the Kakunodate Cherry Blossom Festival from April 20 to May 5 every year. There are activities such as the "Hipster Clothing Experience", and you can rent a kimono. In addition, the nighttime illumination of the Takeya Yashiki Path is to celebrate the Kakunodate cherry blossoms season. There are about 400 cherry trees in Kakunodate. Since the weeping cherry blossoms on the Takeya Yashiki Path and the Someiyoshino cherry blossoms on the Hinoki Uchikawa Embankment bloom at different times of the year, so the cherry flower blooming period in Kakunodate is longer, making it one of the unique attractions of Kakunodate in spring time

●Hirosaki Park: One of the Hot Destinations for the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival

Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms Japan 2026 at Hirosaki Park: April 28 - May 4

Address: Japan, 〒036-8356 Aomori, Hirosaki, Shimoshiroganecho, １

Nearby Station: Hirosaki Station

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Admission: 300 yen

Tel: +81 172-33-8733

The number of cherry blossom trees in Hirosaki Park and its outskirts is very impressive, and it is estimated that there are about 3,000 Yoshino cherry trees, nearly 1,500 Satozakura, and 500 Shidarezakura. The entire Hirosaki Park is drenched in the pink color of cherry blossoms during the Hirosaki Hanami season, and the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival during the hanami time is one of the most important events in Tohoku, attracting more than 2 million tourists every year to enjoy the Tohoku cherry blossom in Hirosaki Park. During the Hirosaki Sakura festival 2026, nighttime cherry blossom viewing event takes place to celebrate the happy time.

●Seiryuji Temple: A Buddhist Temple Famous for the Latest Blooming Cherry Blossom in Japan

Best Time to Enjoy Japan Cherry Blossom Festival 2026 at Seiryuji Temple: May 4 - May 11

Address: 2-2, Matsumoto-cho, Nemuro, Hokkaido 087-0044, Japan

Opening Hours: Closes 5:30 PM

Tel: + 81 153-23-2942

Seiryuji Temple in Hokkaido is famous for having the latest cherry blossoms during the whole period of the Sakura season in Japan 2026. Seiryuji is also the place where the most Chishima Cherry Blossoms are planted in Japan. The history of Chishima Cherry Blossoms is traced back to the Meiji period when one of the lords of the area brought them back from Kokugojima Island, and the oldest cherry tree is already 150 years old. The cherry blossoms here are lovely in the early stage of blossoming with a light pink color and then turn all white when in full bloom, giving off a very strong fragrance that makes you want to linger. While enjoying the cherry blossoms during the Aomori Sakura season 2026, you can also watch the festival of Seiryuji Temple. Seiryuji Temple is definitely one of the best places to see cherry blossoms for the last time for your entire itinerary during the Japan trip.

Apart from what we have mentioned above, Lake Tōya in Abuta and Kozenji in Matsumae are also stunning spots to admire Sakura in Japan, These attractions may seem remote even to the Japanese people, and deserve to be taken seriously if you would like to explore more off-the-beaten-path Sakura spots for the Japan Sakura season, but it will be an amazing experience when you soak in the Japanese outdoor Onsen while appreciating the charming Hokkaido cherry blossoms 2026.

5. Hokkaido Shibazakura Worthy of Visiting for Japan Spring Travel 2026

It is known to all that there are many Shibazakura festivals in Japan. Many people may hear of the Mt. Fuji Shibazakura Festival. However, the Shibazakura in Hokkaido is also very stunning. If you missed the Hokkaido cherry blossom season 2026, there is still Shibazakura waiting for you. Shibazakura Takinoue Park at Takinouecho turns into a pink world from early May to early June every year. The Shibazakura Festival is held in May and June every year, and you can take a rare helicopter tour to see the carpet of flowers from the air, so you can see the whole of the pink Shibazakura from a different angle. During the Shibazakura Festival 2026, you can enjoy the lively atmosphere of the festival with stage performances and the Yosakoi Dance Festival. The pink blossoms that cover the park and the hills are so romantic that you feel like you are on a thick carpet of Shibazakura when you walk through it. To get there, take the bus from Furano Station and get off at Kisen. In addition, Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park at Ozoracho and Mishima-San's Shibazakura Garden at Kutchancho are also great places to enjoy Japan shibazakura festival 2026.

6. More Than Just Blossoms: Other Must-Do Experiences in Hokkaido During Sakura Season 2026

Yes, cherry blossoms are stunning—but Hokkaido in spring has so much more to offer! If you’re already making the trip up north, why not turn your sakura getaway into a full-blown Hokkaido adventure? Here are a few experiences you won’t want to miss:

◆Try Fresh Seasonal Seafood (Especially in Hakodate)

Spring means the start of the sea urchin and squid seasons. Head to the Hakodate Morning Market for ultra-fresh sushi bowls, grilled seafood skewers, or even live squid sashimi (if you’re feeling adventurous!).

◆Enjoy a Relaxing Onsen with Mountain Views

There’s nothing like soaking in an outdoor hot spring while cool spring air brushes your face. Noboribetsu, Jozankei, and Toyako all offer gorgeous onsen experiences with sakura views or snow-capped mountains in the distance.

◆Sample Hokkaido's Famous Dairy and Sweets

Creamy soft-serve ice cream, cheese tarts, and rich puddings—Hokkaido’s dairy treats are a must. Don’t miss seasonal flavors like sakura or melon that often pop up in spring.

◆Visit a Local Spring Festival

Besides cherry blossoms, you might catch local matsuri (festivals) in April or May, with traditional performances, food stalls, and cultural parades. The Matsumae Sakura Festival is a good one to watch for.

◆Hike or Stroll in Nature Beyond Cherry Trees

Spring is when Hokkaido’s forests and hills come alive again. For peaceful, flower-filled walks, try parks like Moerenuma Park in Sapporo or the flower fields near Furano if you're extending your trip into late spring.

Ready to Go Beyond the Blossoms?

Hokkaido in cherry blossom season is magical—but don’t stop at just the sakura. Whether you're soaking in an onsen, tasting fresh seafood, or catching a local festival, these extra experiences will make your trip even more unforgettable. So why not plan a few days to explore beyond the cherry trees? Hokkaido Spring 2026 is full of surprises—you just have to be there to feel it.

What We'd Like to Say

Okinawa welcomes Japan's earliest cherry blossom, however, Hokkaido is the place where cherry blossoms bloom the latest in Japan. So, if you don't have time to embark on a Japan cherry blossom tour 2026 during the busy month of April, or don't want to admire the earliest Sakura in winter, just come to Hokkaido in May, as the Japan cherry blossom season 2026 has just begun here and it is the month to enjoy Hokkaido Sakura in full bloom. Hokkaido, which is famous for its natural beauty, is by no means worse than other places in Japan for Sakura Hanami. Submit your inquiry to tailor-make your Hokkaido cherry blossoms tours now.