Reading · InsideKyoto.com Newsletter

Here are the best places in Kyoto to see the cherry blossoms based on my experience of about 20 cherry blossom seasons in the city. Some of these places are well known and can get a bit crowded, but they’re worth it for their magnificent cherry trees.

Kyoto has some of the best boutique hotels in Japan – stylish hotels designed to reflect the artistic traditions of the city. Here is a carefully curated list of Kyoto’s best boutique hotels, all personally inspected.

The best place to see “snow monkeys” – actually called Japanese macaques – is at Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, a short walk from the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.

From my very first cherry blossom viewing (hanami) party at Maruyama Park in 1992, I’ve always looked forward to spring in Kyoto. Hanami is when the Japanese really let loose and foreigners are always welcome to join the fun. Here’s our guide to the Best Places For A Cherry Blossom Viewing Party (Hanami Party) in Kyoto.

For all the essentials, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
For ideas on how to structure your trip, see my list of Kyoto Itineraries
Here’s a comprehensive list of Things To Do In Kyoto for inspiration and to book ahead where necessary
Do you want help planning your Japan trip? My team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
See my one page guide on Where To Stay In Kyoto for the best neighborhoods and my top hotel picks in every price range
Consider staying in a Kyoto ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn. It’s a quintessential Japanese experience. My comprehensive Kyoto ryokan guide explains what to expect from a stay
There have been some superb new hotels opening in Kyoto in recent years – see Kyoto’s Best New Hotels for an overview
You can buy a Japan eSim SIM card or an unlimited data pocket wifi router online before you arrive in Japan for collection on arrival
View my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
See if the Japan Rail Pass can save you money during your trip
Why it’s essential to have travel insurance for Japan
Travellers to Japan no longer need to supply proof of Covid vaccination or a negative test. We have all the latest news on visiting Japan

The Best Place To See The Cherry Blossoms In Kyoto