The Ultimate Cherry Blossom Kyoto Japan Guide 2025: 30 Must-Visit Sakura Spots

7 April 2025

Planning a spring trip to Kyoto? Discover the best cherry blossom Kyoto locations handpicked for 2025. From temples and riversides to peaceful parks and hidden photo gems, this guide highlights 30 iconic sakura spots throughout the city, categorized for easy planning.

Temples & Shrines x Sakura

1. Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Approximately 1,000 cherry trees bloom around this UNESCO World Heritage site, including Somei Yoshino and mountain sakura. The temple’s famous wooden stage offers breathtaking views over a pink-hued valley during late March to early April. Evening light-ups enhance the experience.
Access: Take the bus from Kyoto Station to Gojozaka stop, then walk 10 minutes.
Website: kiyomizudera.or.jp

2. Heian Shrine

Home to around 300 cherry trees across 20 species, Heian Shrine is especially noted for its vibrant red weeping cherry blossoms. Reflections in the Seihō Pond and the vivid shrine architecture create a striking scene. Best viewed in early to mid-April.
Access: Bus from Kyoto Station to Okazaki Park/Heian Shrine stop.
Website: heianjingu.or.jp

3. To-ji Temple

Famous for its five-story pagoda, To-ji Temple features approximately 200 cherry trees, including the massive 13-meter-high Fujizakura, which is over 130 years old. The ideal viewing period is late March to early April.
Access: About 15 minutes on foot from Kyoto Station.

4. Daigo-ji Temple

This vast temple complex is known for its early-blooming cherry trees and its variety of viewing areas. Over 1,000 trees fill the grounds, creating tunnels of blossoms throughout.
Access: From Kyoto Station, take the Tozai Subway Line to Daigo Station, then walk 10 minutes.

5. Hirano Shrine

Known locally for its cherry blossom festival, this shrine has over 400 trees, many of which are rare varieties. The festival atmosphere in early April is a local favorite.
Access: Bus from Kyoto Station to Kinugasako-mae stop.

Sakura by the River

6. Kamo River (Kamogawa)

Running through the heart of Kyoto, the Kamo River offers a classic hanami stroll along its paths. Cherry trees line the riverbanks from Demachiyanagi to Shijo, creating a long scenic walkway perfect for day or evening viewing.
Access: Easily accessible from various points, including Demachiyanagi, Sanjo, and Shijo Stations.

7. Okazaki Canal

This historic canal is especially beautiful during the sakura season, with cherry trees arching over the water. Visitors can also enjoy boat rides for a different view of the blossoms.
Access: Near Heian Shrine, a short walk from Higashiyama Station.

8. Shirakawa Canal (Gion District)

Winding through the atmospheric Gion district, this narrow canal is bordered by cherry trees and traditional teahouses. Evening visits offer romantic views with soft lantern light and reflections in the water.
Access: Short walk from Gion-Shijo Station.

9. Uji River

South of central Kyoto, Uji is known for its serene river lined with cherry trees. Visitors can enjoy the blossoms with views of Uji Bridge and Byodo-in Temple nearby.
Access: From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to Uji Station.

10. Yodo River Park

Located where the Katsura and Uji Rivers meet, this expansive riverside park is ideal for families and casual hanami. It features playgrounds, open grassy areas, and long stretches of cherry trees.
Access: Take the Keihan Line to Yodo Station.

Parks for Relaxed Hanami

11. Maruyama Park

Kyoto’s most famous public park for cherry blossom viewing is next to Yasaka Shrine. The centerpiece is a massive weeping cherry tree that is illuminated at night. A popular spot for picnics during early April.
Access: Short walk from Gion-Shijo Station.

12. Kyoto Gyoen National Garden

Surrounding the Kyoto Imperial Palace, this spacious garden features open lawns, old pine trees, and elegant cherry blossoms in a tranquil setting. Less crowded than other city spots.
Access: Walk from Imadegawa or Marutamachi Station.

13. Umekoji Park

Located near Kyoto Station, this urban park includes grassy areas, playgrounds, and a small forested zone lined with cherry blossoms. Also home to the Kyoto Railway Museum and Kyoto Aquarium.
Access: About 15 minutes on foot from Kyoto Station.

14. Takaragaike Park

Located in northern Kyoto, this lakeside park is great for leisurely walks, boating, and relaxed hanami picnics under the blossoms. Especially peaceful during weekday mornings.
Access: Take the Karasuma Subway Line to Kokusaikaikan Station.

15. Fushimi Momoyama Castle Park

This historical park features a reconstructed castle tower and a hillside covered in cherry trees. The contrast between the architecture and sakura is stunning.
Access: Take the Keihan Line to Momoyama-Goryo-mae Station.

Most Photogenic Cherry Blossom Spots

16. Philosopher’s Path

A peaceful 2-kilometer walking trail lined with hundreds of cherry trees runs between Ginkaku-ji and Nanzen-ji. This spot is incredibly photogenic, especially in early April.
Access: Walk from Ginkaku-ji Temple or Keage Station.

17. Keage Incline

An old railway track is now transformed into a cherry blossom tunnel. The blend of rustic tracks and blooming trees is a favorite for photography lovers.
Access: Short walk from Keage Station.

18. Arashiyama

This scenic district is famous not only for its bamboo groves but also for riverside cherry blossom spots near the Togetsukyo Bridge and surrounding temples. Ideal for full-day exploration.
Access: Take the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station.

19. Ninna-ji Temple

Home to a large grove of Omuro cherry trees, which bloom slightly later in the season. The low-hanging blossoms create a dreamy pink carpet.
Access: Walk from Omuro-Ninnaji Station.

20. Haradani-en Garden

A private garden known for its lush cherry blossom scenery, including rare species. Admission is charged, but the tranquil, multi-level layout is ideal for photos.
Access: Take a taxi or local bus from Kinkaku-ji.

Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Sakura Spots

21. Konkai Komyo-ji Temple

Tucked away in northern Higashiyama, this serene temple has wide stone paths lined with cherry trees and very few crowds. A peaceful alternative to more popular sites.
Access: Walk from Keage or Higashiyama Station.

22. Reikan-ji Temple

Open to the public only during limited spring seasons, this temple features elegant gardens filled with cherry and camellia trees.
Access: Near Philosopher’s Path; walk from Keage Station.

23. Jonangu Shrine

Known for its weeping cherry blossoms and landscaped Heian-style garden, Jonangu offers a unique sakura experience with seasonal flower displays.
Access: Take a bus or train to Takeda Station, then walk 15 minutes.

24. Kamigamo Shrine

One of Kyoto’s oldest shrines, Kamigamo is a tranquil riverside site where cherry trees bloom in front of ancient torii gates.
Access: Bus from Kyoto Station to Kamigamo Shrine stop.

25. Kyoto Botanical Gardens

Home to over 500 cherry trees of many varieties, this garden allows visitors to explore sakura species beyond the common types.
Access: Take the subway to Kitayama Station; the garden is just outside the exit.

26. Nakaragi Path

A quiet riverside walkway near the Botanical Gardens, lined with cherry trees and frequented by locals. Ideal for a peaceful afternoon stroll.
Access: Walk from Kitayama Station.

27. Seiryuden at Shoren-in

This scenic observation terrace offers panoramic views of Kyoto framed by blooming cherry trees in the spring.
Access: Walk from Higashiyama Station.

28. Matsuo Taisha Shrine

Located at the western end of the city, this shrine offers a peaceful atmosphere and seasonal sakura events near the Katsura River.
Access: Take the Hankyu Line to Matsuo-Taisha Station.

29. Myomanji Temple

This hillside temple in northern Kyoto features a broad stairway lined with cherry trees, offering sweeping views over the city.
Access: Take the Eizan Line to Ichihara Station, then walk 10 minutes.

30. Yoshimine-dera Temple

Situated in the mountains on the outskirts of Kyoto, this temple offers dramatic cherry blossom views over hills and cityscape. Well worth the trip for those seeking quiet and elevation.
Access: Take the Hankyu Line to Higashimuko Station, then a bus to Yoshimine-dera stop.