The cherry blossom, or sakura, is a symbol of renewal and the fleeting nature of life. Every spring, these delicate pink and white flowers bloom in a dazzling display that draws visitors from all corners of the globe. While Japan may be the most famous destination for cherry blossom viewing, or “hanami,” there are several other places around the world where the arrival of these blooms is celebrated with equal fervor. Here are seven of the best places to see cherry blossoms in 2024, each offering a unique experience amidst the beauty of spring.
Yoshino, Japan
Yoshino is perhaps the most iconic cherry blossom destination in Japan. With thousands of cherry trees carpeting the mountainsides, the view is nothing short of spectacular. The area is so revered that it has been celebrated in poetry and literature for centuries. Visitors can enjoy traditional hanami picnics under the blooming trees, accompanied by local treats like sakura mochi.
Washington, DC
The National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, DC, is a spring highlight, marking the gift of cherry trees from Tokyo to the city in 1912. The Tidal Basin, surrounded by blooming cherry trees, becomes a picturesque spot for both locals and tourists. The month-long festival includes parades, cultural performances, and fireworks.
Macon, Georgia
Dubbed the Cherry Blossom Capital of the World, Macon boasts more cherry trees than Washington, DC. Each March, the city is transformed by the pink blossoms of 350,000 cherry trees. The celebration includes concerts, street parties, and the unique Cherry Blossom Anthem, making it a festive time to visit.
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver’s cherry blossoms are a legacy of gratitude, with the first trees planted in honor of Japanese-Canadian soldiers who served in WWI. Today, the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates the blooming of over 43,000 trees throughout the city with community picnics, bike rides, and cultural events.
New York, New York
New York City may be known for its skyscrapers, but come April, parts of the city burst into color with cherry blossoms. The Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s Sakura Matsuri Festival is a highlight, while Riverside Park’s Cherry Walk and the Central Park Reservoir also offer stunning vistas.
Paris, France
Spring in Paris is synonymous with romance, and the cherry blossoms add to the city’s charm. From the gardens of the Eiffel Tower to the enchanting paths of the Louvre, the city is adorned with pink blossoms. The Parc de Sceaux, just outside Paris, features rows of cherry trees and is a popular spot for picnics.
Valle del Jerte, Spain
In Spain’s Extremadura region, the Valle del Jerte comes alive with the white blossoms of 1.5 million cherry trees. The Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates this annual spectacle, which transforms the valley into a sea of white. The beauty of the blooms is complemented by cultural events and tastings of local cherry products.
These seven destinations offer some of the best cherry blossom viewing experiences in the world. Whether you’re participating in age-old traditions in Japan, celebrating historical legacies in Canada, or enjoying the natural beauty of Spain, the cherry blossom season is a reminder to savor life’s fleeting moments.