It is that time of the year again when you are probably thinking of the best places with the best view to visit in Japan. Most of the time, when people ask this question, the answer is usually Hokkaido, which has its aesthetic and beautiful cherry blossom spots. It is usually a sweet and refreshing sight!
It is a unique place to visit either as a tourist, student, or a foreigner on vacation, or you are simply trying to explore awesome places in Japan.
Get your outfit checked, your phone or camera, your selfie stick, and wifi from OMORIWIFI, and let’s get ready for a beautiful nature feast with this article that will guide you to explore the best cherry blossoms in Hokkaido, 2025.
Where is Hokkaido in Japan?
Hokkaido has a late blooming season. It is known as the second-largest island in Japan and it is located in the most northern part of Japan.
Unlike Honshu, popularly known as the main island of Japan, which is usually busy, Hokkaido offers a soft, nature-friendly atmosphere, which is very noticeable in Spring.
The artistic beauty of the snowy mountains and the pretty flowers in Spring provide the best spots to see cherry blossoms in Hokkaido.
The Different Types of Sakura Cherry Blossoms in Hokkaido
Japan is widely known for its unique and picture-perfect cherry blossoms like the image above. Although these cherry blossom trees do not produce fruits, you are promised beautiful white or pink flowers every spring.
Cherry blossom trees can also be called Sakura. They are a beautiful sight. After reading about the different charming Sakuras below, I bet you will have no choice but to agree with me. Here are some of the well-known Sakuras:
Somei Yoshino (Also known as Yoshino Cherry): Meet the most famous and charming cherry blossoms, ever conspicuous with their lovely pink petals. Legend has it has the most planted cherry blossom trees in Japan, making up 80% of the cherry blossoms in Hokkaido.
Ezoyamazakura (Also known as Hokkaido’s Wild Cherry): It is fair to call it second to Somei Yoshino with its deep pink variety peculiar to the region. Although it is recognized for its early blooming period, it usually blooms slightly later than Somei Yoshino.
It has high cold resistance, which makes it a dominant Sakura in Japan.
Shidarezakura (Weeping Cherry Blossom): A favourite cherry blossom for poets, flower enthusiasts, and nature- photographers. Its unique posture of drooping branches which paints a picture of a weeping flower makes it ever outstanding hence where it gets its name.
Its appearance, especially when the petals begin to fall like water droplets, exudes a beauty that connects emotionally and physically to its audience. It is seen as one of the most elegant Sakura in Japan.
Yaezakura (Double-layered Cherry Blossoms) – The dramatic-looking flower. Its fuller and ruffled unique petals remind you of a beautiful and rich extrovert.
Because of their multiple layers, they are referred to as “double or multi-layered Sakura”. It is a late bloomer.
Prunus Kanzan ( Also known as the Kwanzan Cherry Tree) – This cold-resistant flower is grown majorly for its aesthetics. It produces about 20-50 petals per blossom giving it a very appealing full look.
It is also a double-layered flower. Its deep pink petals make it rather very charming and conspicuous. It is unique for its colour transformation which ranges from deep pink buds to vibrant pink flowers to its leaves that cast a reddish colour before turning a wholesome green.
Turmeric/Ukon Cherry Blossom Tree (Prunus serrulata ‘Ukon’)
It is named due to its unique appearance that is different from the usual blossoms which are usually pink or white but Ukon has a rare green-yellow blossom that resembles Turmeric which is generally used as an herb in traditional medicine.
It is one of the late-blooming trees. Their unusual look makes them stand out among the different Sakura. Regardless of this, it is one of the best cherry blossoms in Hokkaido.
The best answer to when cherry blossoms bloom in Hokkaido varies according to the region and weather conditions of the season.
Usually, you get to see a lot of cherry blossoms in Hokkaido around late April to the middle of May. I guess that makes it safe to say that when it’s Spring in Japan, it is time to anticipate cherry blossoms in Hokkaido!
Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Hokkaido
Hokkaido is very large and vast with different regions and cherry blossoms blooming a little earlier or later than each other.
It would be wise to have a descriptive guide on where to see cherry blossoms in Hokkaido.
Northern Hokkaido
Asahikawa’s Tokiwa Park: From late April to early May, you are guaranteed a gorgeous view of cherry blossoms lined up by the riverside, giving you the double delight of the island and the sakura at the park.
Wakkanai Park – This is known as the park that has its Sakura spot in the most northern part of Japan. It offers an ocean view amidst the cherry blossoms. The perfect backdrop for your picture!
Southern Hokkaido
Goryokaku Park (Hakodate) – Have you seen a fortress before? Let alone a star-shaped Fortress! Whew! Sounds like a fantasy come alive. This park is famous for its fortress and has over 1,500 cherry blossoms to make your journey worth it!
Matsumae Castle –
Known as the “Himeji of the North”.
Speak of cherry blossom varieties, and you will hear of Matsumae Castle. It is a historic castle park with over 200 varieties of cherry blossoms. It’s a buffet of Sakuras!
Eastern Hokkaido
Kushiro Shitsugen National Park – Talks about everything regarding nature; this park is famous for its wildlife and tranquil natural atmosphere.
It has a great view with amazing spots where cherry blossoms bloom against an area of low, wet land, often with tall grass.
Lake Akan – The combination of the lake and cherry blossoms just leaves butterflies dancing in your stomach. The shimmering reflection of cherry blossoms in Hokkaido on the glossy lake surface is usually magical.
Central Hokkaido
Maruyama Park (Sapporo) – This is probably the first place you will hear when asking where to see cherry blossoms in Hokkaido. It is one of the most famous parks for viewing cherry blossoms. Foreigners and locals do not hesitate to lay a mat under the cherry trees for a cheerful picnic.
Moerenuma Park – This park was beautifully designed by a known architect; Isamu Noguchi. It brings a beautiful style to art and modern nature.
It is no wonder the photographers do not bother going along with a backdrop when going for a shoot at their favourite spot.
These iconic parks provide the perfect blend of art and nature that leaves you feeling refreshed and culturally aware.
Stay Connected as You Explore
The best trips are the ones when you have your Internet locked in as you enjoy each scenic view and adventure.
Meeting new people, exploring, taking cool selfies, enjoying the season, and checking for the best cherry blossoms in Hokkaido. You need a reliable Internet connection and OMORIWIFI is just right!
OMORIWIFI offers affordable SIM cards for travellers, tourists, locals, students or foreigners in Japan. Our pocket wifi and router provide fast high-speed internet and save you the stress of data restrictions. All of which you can get at a payment plan convenient for you.
The best part is you don’t have to worry about shipping or English support while using our services throughout your stay in Japan.
With easy connectivity, you can enjoy all of Japan’s beauty without worrying about your Internet connection or getting out of touch with your family.
In Summary
The best cherry blossom experience is definitely in Hokkaido with lots of varieties, lots of scenic spots, lots of beauty, and cultural significance. The artistry of the cherry blossom is definitely worth the trip.
Hokkaido is the perfect place to find your favourite cherry blossom spots in 2025.
For the most unforgettable hanami, you might want to set your calendar for April to mid-May.
Get your WiFi from OMORIWIFI, pack your bags, and get ready for a beautiful adventure. You are about to be mesmerised!
Have a great trip! 良い旅を (Yoi tabi o)
