If you get a chance to ask a traveller from the UAE why Japan is on their bucket list, they’ll give you endless reasons — some want to attend a traditional tea ceremony, others wish to immerse themselves in Japanese culture, and many are excited to taste authentic sushi and ramen.
Ask someone who’s visiting Japan between February and May, and the first thing they might mention is watching the cherry blossoms.
According to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), about 3.26 million international travelers visited Japan in February 2025 — a 16.9% increase compared to February 2024.
If you’re planning to visit Japan from the UAE to witness the breathtaking beauty of Japan’s Cherry Blossom Season, let’s explore it together.
What is Japan’s Cherry Blossom Season?
Japan’s cherry blossom season, also known as sakura season, is one of the most beautiful and celebrated times of the year. It usually occurs between late March and early April, depending on the region and weather conditions. During this time, cherry blossom trees bloom all across Japan.
It transforms parks, streets, riversides, and even mountains into a sea of soft pink and white petals.
What it Means Culturally – Hanami
In Japan, cherry blossoms are more than just beautiful flowers. They’re deeply connected to the country’s history, culture, and identity. Sakura, the national flower of Japan, symbolizes renewal, hope, and the fleeting nature of life.
The exact origin of cherry blossoms is still unclear, but their cultural celebration began long ago. The Hanami tradition, which means “flower viewing,” is believed to have started during the Nara era around 700 AD.
Until the 1800s, Hanami was only for the royal court and nobles. It wasn’t open to the public. That changed when the Tokugawa Shogunate government planted cherry trees in parks and along city streets, and they allowed common people to enjoy them too.
In 1890, Japanese newspapers began publishing updates about the best places to see cherry blossoms.
Today, websites like Japan Live share detailed forecasts about when and where the blossoms will bloom across the country.
This makes it easier for travelers to plan their trips and choose the perfect spots to enjoy the sakura season.
During Hanami, people gather under sakura trees with friends and family, enjoying traditional foods, music, and laughter. The soft pink petals create a dreamy, magical atmosphere — a memory that stays with you forever.
The cherry blossom is also a powerful symbol in Japanese culture. It represents:
- New beginnings (coinciding with the start of the school and fiscal year)
- The beauty and shortness of life
- Hope and renewal after the cold winter
What Travelers Can Expect
If you’re visiting Japan during cherry blossom season, you’re in for a treat. Here’s what you can expect:
- Stunning Scenery: Parks like Ueno Park in Tokyo, Maruyama Park in Kyoto, and Himeji Castle offer unforgettable views of trees covered in pink and white.
- Festivals: Many towns hold sakura festivals with live music, lantern displays, and parades.
- Street Food Stalls (Yatai): Try seasonal treats like sakura mochi (pink rice cake), grilled skewers, and sweet potato chips.
- Picnics under the trees: Locals spread out blue tarps, bring food and drinks, and enjoy long, joyful hours in nature.
- Petal showers: As the wind blows, petals fall like snow, creating a magical atmosphere.
- Nighttime Illuminations (Yozakura): Some parks light up the trees at night, giving a dreamy glow.
A Look into History and Global Attention
Cherry blossoms have long been part of Japanese literature, art, and philosophy. Samurai admired the sakura for its short yet glorious life, which mirrored their code of honor.
In modern times, Japan even uses cherry blossoms for diplomacy. For example, in 1912, Japan gifted 3,000 cherry trees to Washington, D.C., symbolizing friendship with the United States. These trees bloom yearly and attract huge crowds in the U.S. capital.
Each year, international news outlets like BBC, CNN, and NHK cover the bloom forecast and show visuals of the first blossoms in places like Okinawa, moving northward up to Hokkaido.
Best Places in Japan to See Cherry Blossoms
To enjoy the Sakura, here are some colorful destinations you can visit.
Tokyo – Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen
In Tokyo, Ueno Park is a favorite spot for cherry blossom picnics. The park has over 1,000 cherry trees, and it creates a pink tunnel in spring. Shinjuku Gyoen offers a peaceful setting with wide lawns and different types of cherry trees that bloom at various times.
Kyoto – Maruyama Park, Philosopher’s Path
Maruyama Park is famous for its huge weeping cherry tree, which looks stunning at night when lit up. The Philosopher’s Path is a quiet walkway lined with cherry trees along a canal—perfect for a slow, dreamy stroll.
Osaka – Osaka Castle Park
Osaka Castle Park has cherry trees all around the castle. When the flowers bloom, the view of the historic castle with pink blossoms in the background looks magical.
Nara – Mount Yoshino
Mount Yoshino is one of the most famous cherry blossom spots in Japan. With over 30,000 trees spread across the mountain, it offers a breathtaking view that changes as you go higher.
Sapporo – For Late Blooms
If you miss the early cherry blossoms, head to Sapporo in Hokkaido. The flowers bloom later here, usually in May. Places like Maruyama Park and Hokkaido Shrine are great for seeing them
Japanese Cherry Blossom Forecast 2025
| City/Region | First Bloom | Full Bloom | Best Viewing Time |
| Tokyo | March 20 | March 27 | Late March |
| Kyoto | March 22 | March 30 | Late March – Early April |
| Osaka | March 23 | March 31 | Late March – Early April |
| Nara | March 24 | April 1 | Early April |
| Hiroshima | March 21 | March 29 | Late March |
| Fukuoka | March 20 | March 28 | Late March |
| Nagoya | March 21 | March 29 | Late March |
| Kanazawa | March 30 | April 5 | Early April |
| Sendai | April 3 | April 10 | Early – Mid April |
| Aomori | April 17 | April 23 | Late April |
| Sapporo (Hokkaido) | April 30 | May 6 | Early – Mid May |
If you’re curious to know what else you can enjoy as a tourist in Japan, read this detailed blog and get ready to enrich your experience.
How to Travel from the UAE to Japan
Japan introduced the e-Visa system for foreign travelers in March 2020, initially targeting Chinese nationals. Later, the system was gradually expanded to include other countries.
As of 2023, Japan’s e-Visa system became available to citizens of several countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and India, for short-term tourism visits (single entry, up to 90 days).
The distance between Japan and India is approximately 14,346 km. The flight time from the UAE to Japan is around 9 hours and 36 minutes.
According to reports, an average of 48 flights operate from the UAE to Japan. Among them, Emirates is the most popular airline.
If you’re looking for other popular airlines flying from Dubai to Tokyo, here are a few options:
Visa & Flights
If you are planning a trip to Japan from the UAE, make sure to check all the visa details before you go. From requirements to the application process, we’ve covered everything you need in our Japan eVisa guide for UAE residents. Looking for airline details? We’ve gathered them all here.
Here’s the list of popular airlines that fly from Dubai to Tokyo, along with how often they fly:
Emirates – Nonstop flights available
Qatar Airways – Flies daily
Air China – Flies daily
Turkish Airlines – Flies daily
China Eastern – Flies daily
Korean Air – Flies daily.
The cherry blossom season brings large crowds to Japan, but planning in advance can make your trip smoother. Here are some helpful notes recommended by travel experts.
How to Make the Most of Cherry Blossom Season in Japan
- Book Hotels Early
The cherry blossom season is very popular. Hotels in top viewing spots fill up fast. Book your stay as early as you can. - Dress in Layers
The weather is cool and can change quickly. Wear layers so you can add or remove clothes as needed. - Be Respectful
Don’t shake the branches or pick the flowers. Leave the petals where they fall. Enjoy the beauty without disturbing it. - Pack Smart
Bring a portable Wi-Fi device to stay connected. Don’t forget your power bank and some snacks for long walks and waiting times.
When you’re planning your trip from the UAE to Japan, talk to our visa consultants about your itinerary. Here’s a sample to get you started. Knowing your itinerary will help you plan your days and prioritize activities.
This is just a tip — make sure to do thorough research. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact our experts. They’ll guide you every step of the way.
Sample 7-Day Cherry Blossom Itinerary
| Day | Location | Activity |
| 1 | Tokyo | Arrive in Tokyo. Relax, check in at your hotel. Visit Shinjuku Gyoen Garden for peaceful cherry blossoms. Explore nearby shops and try local ramen. |
| 2 | Tokyo | Visit Ueno Park for a lively cherry blossom experience. Head to Asakusa Temple and shop at Nakamise Street. Enjoy a night of Hanami with snacks from local food stalls. |
| 3 | Kyoto | Take the train to Kyoto. Visit Maruyama Park and see the famous weeping cherry tree. Try a traditional tea ceremony. Walk through Yasaka Shrine in the evening. |
| 4 | Kyoto | Stroll along the Philosopher’s Path, filled with cherry trees and small temples. Visit the Gion area for a chance to spot geisha and enjoy a local dinner. |
| 5 | Osaka | Day trip to Osaka. Visit Osaka Castle Park for cherry blossoms and castle views. Try street food at Dotonbori—don’t miss takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Shop at Shinsaibashi. |
| 6 | Nara | Take a trip to Mount Yoshino—a mountain famous for thousands of cherry trees. Visit Yoshimizu Shrine and enjoy views from above. Try local sweets and relax in a traditional inn (optional). |
| 7 | Tokyo | Return to Tokyo. Do some last-minute shopping at Shibuya or Harajuku. Enjoy sushi at a conveyor-belt restaurant. Head to the airport and fly back to the UAE. |
Cherry blossom season is a special time when people from the UAE—and all over the world—travel to Japan to witness its magical beauty. Hotels, trains, and top viewing spots fill up quickly, so it’s best to book your trip as early as possible!
This is a once-in-a-lifetime spring experience. Don’t miss the chance to see Japan blanketed in soft pink flowers, enjoy delicious street food, and stroll through peaceful gardens.
Need help with your Japan visa or travel plans?
The Visa Guy is here to make the visa process quick and simple. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as a group, we guide you every step of the way—from paperwork to flight tips. We’ll even help you plan the perfect cherry blossom route so you can enjoy more and stress less.
Let The Visa Guy handle the hard part.
You just pack your bags and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!
