While Japan is synonymous with cherry blossoms, there are many stunning places around the globe to enjoy the magic of sakura

Himeji Castle, Japan

While Japan is the origin of sakura viewing, Himeji Castle stands out as one of the most breathtaking spots to experience it. The pristine white castle, surrounded by a sea of pink blooms, creates a majestic scene that encapsulates the beauty of Japanese culture. The castle grounds are home to over 1,000 cherry trees, drawing visitors from around the world each spring.

Seoul, South Korea

Seoul offers spectacular cherry blossom viewing opportunities at spots like Yeouido Park along the Han River and the grand Gyeongbokgung Palace. The annual Yeouido Spring Flower Festival draws visitors to see thousands of cherry trees lining the park. The beauty of the blossoms juxtaposed with Seoul's vibrant urban landscape makes it a must-visit destination for sakura lovers. Namsan Park and Seokchon Lake are other excellent spots to catch the blooms from late March to mid-April.

Washington, D.C., USA

Washington, D.C., hosts one of the most famous cherry blossom festivals outside Japan, celebrating the 3,000 cherry trees gifted by Tokyo in 1912. Each year, the National Cherry Blossom Festival attracts thousands of visitors to the Tidal Basin, where they stroll beneath clouds of pink blossoms with the iconic monuments in the background. The festival is typically held from late March to early April, marking the peak bloom and offering a magical scene of beauty and history.

Jinhae, South Korea

Jinhae, home to South Korea's largest cherry blossom festival, is an enchanting city filled with sakura trees that draw millions of visitors each year. The Jinhae Gunhangje Festival offers a true cherry blossom spectacle, with popular spots like the Yeojwacheon Stream and Gyeonghwa Station, where pink petals frame railway tracks and riversides, creating a picturesque environment for visitors to enjoy in early April.

Paris, France

Few cities match Paris's elegance, and cherry blossoms add another layer of enchantment in the spring. The Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral provide the backdrop for some of the most iconic cherry blossom photography. Parc de Sceaux, a short train ride from Paris, offers a more peaceful retreat with hundreds of cherry trees blooming in wide-open spaces. Wander along the Seine River, where blossoms enhance the romantic ambiance of the city.

Vancouver, Canada

In Vancouver, cherry blossom season is a grand event celebrated with the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival, a month-long tribute to the arrival of spring. The city's streets and parks come alive with over 40,000 cherry trees, many of which are found in Stanley Park and Queen Elizabeth Park. Blossoms generally reach their peak in April, providing both locals and visitors with the perfect opportunity to enjoy pink-canopied strolls and cultural activities.

Edinburgh, Scotland

In Edinburgh, cherry blossoms brighten The Meadows, a vast public park that becomes lined with pink and white blossoms in April. The paths under the trees offer scenic views and a peaceful environment for both locals and travelers. Cherry blossoms add an extra layer of beauty to the city's historic architecture, making spring one of the most charming times to visit Scotland's capital.

Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm's Kungsträdgården, or King's Garden, is a top destination for cherry blossom viewing in Sweden. The park's central avenue transforms into a pink paradise during April, making it a favorite spot for locals and tourists to celebrate the arrival of spring. The sight of pink blooms against the clear Scandinavian sky is particularly stunning, creating a scene straight out of a fairy tale.

Taipei, Taiwan

Yangmingshan National Park is a favorite spot for cherry blossom viewing in Taipei. From February to March, this mountainous park showcases a variety of cherry trees that blanket the landscape in a stunning display. For those seeking more off-the-beaten-path locations, Alishan offers a more rural, peaceful cherry blossom experience surrounded by Taiwan's beautiful natural scenery.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

In Amsterdam, the cherry blossoms in Amsterdamse Bos offer a European twist to hanami season. This vast park on the outskirts of the city is home to 400 cherry trees, making it an ideal spot for a springtime picnic or stroll. The Sakura Festival, held annually in the park, brings together people to celebrate the season in a uniquely Dutch-Japanese fusion.

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Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Washington, D.C., or the peaceful parks of Stockholm, cherry blossom season is a universally celebrated event that brings together people, culture, and nature. While Japan remains the heart of sakura, these stunning locations across the globe offer their own unique spin on the cherished tradition, making cherry blossom viewing a global spectacle. Sign up for the R&R Travel™ newsletter to stay updated on our upcoming trips and exclusive offers!