Heian Shrine
With a history of over 1,100 years, Heian Shrine is one of Kyoto’s famous cherry blossom spots. The most beautiful view here is the weeping cherry tree near the pond in the Shrine’s garden. Every April, the tree’s blossoms droop like tassels, creating a stunning scene. Around the Seiryo Pond, you can also see over a thousand cherry trees in bloom, along with koi fish and turtles swimming in the pond. It’s recommended to take a leisurely stroll along the pond and enjoy the reflection of the cherry blossoms in the water.
• Best Viewing Time: Late March to Mid-April
• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
• Address: Okazaki Nishitenno-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
• Admission: 600 yen
• Transportation: Take the Subway Tozai Line to Higashiyama Station, then walk about 10 minutes.
Ninna-ji Temple
Ninna-ji Temple, with a history of over 1,100 years, is famous for its late-blooming Omuro cherry blossoms. Here, you can enjoy cherry blossoms until mid-April, making it a great spot for visitors who want to experience sakura beauty in April.
• Best Viewing Time: Early April to Mid-April
• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
• Address: Omuro Ouchi, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
• Admission: 500 yen
• Transportation: Take the city bus to “Omuro Ninna-ji” and walk to the temple.
Arashiyama
Located in the northwest of Kyoto, Arashiyama is a famous scenic area. It’s a top destination for both cherry blossom and autumn foliage viewing, attracting many visitors every spring and fall. During cherry blossom season, the lush green mountains are beautifully contrasted with blooming sakura, creating a vibrant landscape. After crossing the Togetsu Bridge, the view is truly breathtaking.
• Best Viewing Time: Late March to Early April
• Opening Hours: All day
• Address: Sagano, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
• Transportation: Take the Hankyu Arashiyama Line or the Randen Arashiyama Line to Arashiyama Station, then walk about 5 minutes, or take the JR Sagano Line to Saga Arashiyama Station and walk about 15 minutes.
Daigo-ji Temple
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Daigo-ji Temple is one of Kyoto’s important temples. During the spring, the cherry blossoms here create a heavenly atmosphere. Some of the cherry trees at the temple are over 100 years old, and the cherry blossom tunnel along the worshipping path is particularly stunning.
• Best Viewing Time: Late March to Early April
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:00 PM)
• Address: 22 Daigo Higashioji-cho, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto City,