Best Places to see Cherry Blossom in Hokkaido
Japan’s northernmost prefecture is renowned for its snowy landscapes, ice festivals, and its distinctive history and culture as the homeland of the Ainu people. But like the rest of the country, springtime enlivens the scenery of Hokkaido with pale pink and white sakura cherry blossoms.
Due to variations in climate, some cherry trees in Hokkaido may not bloom until later in the season, such as late April or early May. It’s best to double-check seasonal predictions for the specific locale you want to visit to properly time your trip.
Below are some of the top spots in Hokkaido for partaking in hanami — the Japanese cultural practice of appreciating flowers in bloom — along with a hotel recommendation for each site.
1. Hokkaido Shrine (Sapporo)
Hokkaido Shrine in the prefectural capital of Sapporo was constructed in the late 1800s by decree of Emperor Meiji. The shrine was intended to serve as a community gathering spot in the newly established city of Sapporo, as well as a spiritual pillar for those living on the Japanese frontier.
Around 1,100 cherry trees and 120 plum trees here bloom in spring, lending an ethereal charm to the elegant wooden structures and surrounding landscape. The shrine has been a popular hanami location for Sapporo residents for over a century. During Japan’s Golden Week holiday in late April and early May, food vendors operate in the area and offer a cheerful atmosphere for visitors and passersby.
The shrine is ensconced by Maruyama Park, which has an expansive zoo and athletic field, among other attractions. It takes around 15 minutes to walk from Maruyama-koen Station to Hokkaido Shrine.
Where to stay
Lestel Maru Maruyama Sapporo offers bright, modern lodgings at very reasonable prices for those who want to stay in the Maruyama district of Sapporo, where Hokkaido Shrine is located. There are dormitory-style rooms for solo travelers and other types for groups of different sizes. Coin laundry and free Wi-Fi ensure that you have a relaxing and comfortable stay while soaking in the beauty of springtime Sapporo.
2. Goryokaku Park (Hakodate)
The city of Hakodate is located in southern Hokkaido and was one of the first Japanese cities to be opened to foreign trade in 1854. Splendid blooms of cherry trees in the star-shaped Goryokaku Park are a sight to behold in spring.
Goryokaku was originally constructed as a fortress when Japan was still under shogunate rule. The five-pointed star shape was a strategic measure to allow for better defensive and offensive capabilities alike.
Today, Goryokaku Park is a designated national special historic site. From the nearby 107-meter-tall Goryokaku Tower, you can enjoy stunning views of the star-shaped fortress in all its glory. The sight of nearly 1,600 blossoming cherry trees will etch an unforgettable scene into your memory. The trees are illuminated at night and create a magical atmosphere for those who visit later in the day. You can reach the park on foot in around 13 minutes from the Goryokaku-koen-mae tram stop.
Where to stay
Located 15 minutes south of Goryokaku Park on foot, Hotel MyStays Hakodate Goryokaku is a comfortable lodging in the city's heart with affordable rates and excellent amenities. It offers a buffet breakfast with Japanese and western choices, as well as an in-house sushi restaurant featuring seasonal fish from the Hakodate area. The hotel has several room types to suit your travel needs. Higher floors have views of Goryokaku Tower and the surrounding area.
3. Nijukken Road (Shinhidaka)
In early May, a seven-kilometer stretch of road in the town of Shinhidaka comes alive with color as over 2,000 cherry trees bloom in the area. Visitors from around Japan come for the beautiful scenery of Nijukken Road, the backdrop for the Shizunai Cherry Blossom Festival. During the festival, vendors convene along the route, offering food, drink, souvenirs, and other goods.
Initially, this route was constructed in the early 20th century for the Japanese imperial family to traverse en route to a ranch, and the cherry trees were planted for their viewing pleasure. Now, the picturesque environment is a prime spot for hanami that anyone can enjoy; just be sure to time your visit accordingly.
The Nijukken Road area can be reached on foot in around 20 minutes from the Sakuragaoka Shogakko-mae bus stop or in around 20 minutes by car from Shizunai Station.
Where to stay
Shinhidaka is a small town located two hours south of Sapporo by car or about three hours by train and bus. A few standard hotel options are available for those wishing to stay overnight. Hotel Laurel provides a relaxing atmosphere for travelers to Nijukken Road and the surrounding natural landscapes of Shinhidaka. Guests can choose from several room types, including single, twin, and double rooms.
4. Matsumae Castle (Matsumae)
Matsumae Castle, also known as Fukuyama Castle, is the northernmost castle in Japan and the only traditional Japanese-style castle in Hokkaido.
Around 10,000 cherry trees of 250 different varieties bloom here in April and May, making it one of the most popular hanami destinations in the prefecture. A cherry blossom festival at the end of April offers a prime opportunity to picnic and relax in the beautiful surroundings.
There is a bus stop for Matsumae Castle, from which it takes around 10 minutes to reach the area. The nearest train station, however, is in the town of Kikonai, the first stop on the Shinkansen coming from the mainland. A bus from Kikonai to Matsumae takes around 90 minutes.
Where to stay
Classe Inn Kikonai is a comfortable gateway for travelers to Hokkaido. The rooms are non-smoking, modern, and cozy, and there is a hot spring on its premises where you can unwind before or after your excursions. Foodies will enjoy the gourmet offerings from nearby restaurants, such as wagyu beef and seafood from the Tsugaru Strait. Best of all, the hotel is a three-minute walk from Kikonai Station, ensuring that you can get to and from your other travels with ease.