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Where To See Cherry Blossoms in Okinawa

While mainland Japan waits for spring to see its famous cherry blossoms, Okinawa’s unique hikanzakura cherry trees burst into bloom as early as mid-January. These deep pink blossoms, more intensely colored than their northern cousins, create a striking contrast against Okinawa’s subtropical landscape. From mountain parks to castle ruins, this guide will cover the best places to experience this pink phenomenon before everybody else.

 

When do the cherry trees in Okinawa bloom?

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Okinawa’s cherry blossom season arrives remarkably early, offering visitors the unique opportunity to experience hanami (flower viewing) while the rest of Japan is still in winter. The blooming typically begins in mid-January, with the Motobu Peninsula and its surrounding area offering the most popular displays.

Okinawa’s blooming period often extends through mid-February, giving visitors a broader window to plan their trips, but for the best experience, aim to visit in late January when most locations are in full bloom and the festivals are in full swing.

1.   Mount Yae

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Home to more than 7,000 cherry trees, Mount Yae on the Motobu Peninsula offers one of Okinawa’s most impressive cherry blossom displays. A winding 2.5-mile (four-kilometer) road lined with cherry trees leads to the mountain’s summit, making it perfect for driving and walking tours. The site typically sees its first blooms in mid-January, with peak viewing lasting until early February.

Getting there: If you’re coming from Tokyo, take a direct flight to Naha International Airport (about three hours), the main airport of Okinawa Island. From there, the journey to Mount Yae takes about 90 minutes by car via the expressway to Motobu. Those using public transportation can take a highway bus to Nago Bus Terminal (one hour), followed by a local bus to Motobu (40 minutes). A rental car is highly recommended as public transportation to the mountain is limited. The cherry blossom-lined road is well marked, offering plenty of parking spots and photo opportunities.

 

2.  Nakijin Castle Ruins

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Set atop a limestone ridge on the Motobu Peninsula, not far from Mount Yae, the Nakijin Castle Ruins are considered one of Okinawa’s most impressive historical sites. Built around the 13th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site served as the fortress of the northern principality during the Ryukyu Kingdom era. While the castle’s ancient limestone walls and sweeping ocean views captivate visitors year-round, the site transforms into something magical when cherry blossoms bloom in late January.

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Hundreds of cherry trees scatter their pink petals throughout the castle grounds, creating stunning contrasts against the weathered grey limestone walls. The most photographed spot lies among the main stone staircase, where cherry trees arch overhead to form a natural tunnel of the blossoms. From the castle’s highest point, visitors can capture amazing photos that combine cherry blossoms, ancient walls, and the blue expanse of the East China Sea in a single frame.

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Evening visits are equally enchanting during the cherry blossom season, as special nighttime illuminations highlight the blossoms and the castle walls.

Getting there: From Naha International Airport, drivers can reach the castle in about 90 minutes via the expressway. Public transportation is also viable, with an express highway bus from the airport to Nago Bus Terminal (one hour), followed by a local bus for the Nakajin Castle Ruins (60 minutes).

 

3.   Nago Castle Park

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Conveniently located within Nago City, Nago Castle Park hosts the famous Nago Cherry Blossom Festival in late January. Over 20,000 cherry trees here cover the hillsides, with paved paths making viewing accessible for all ages. During the festival, the park is also brought to life by performances such as local music and dance.

Getting there: From Naha International Airport, the drive to Nago Central Park takes about 90 minutes via the expressway. If you plan to use public transportation, take an express bus to Nago Bus Terminal, then take a local bus to the park. The site gets particularly crowded during the Nago Cherry Blossom Festival, so we recommend visiting earlier in the morning!

 

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