Brief yet breathtaking, cherry blossom season heralds spring like nothing else. Here are the best places around the world to experience this fleeting spectacle.
Tokyo, Japan
Springtime is awaited in Japan with keen anticipation and the cultural events surrounding hanami (cherry blossom season) are unparalleled. The best place to go in Tokyo is Ueno Park, where more than 1,200 cherry trees grow. More than 2 million people visit the park over two weeks and enjoy picnics with family and friends.
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View BookKyoto, Japan
With the parks and temples dusted with delicate pink and white, cherry blossom season brings an extra touch of magic to the already enchanting city of Kyoto. Stroll along the canal-side Philosopher's Path, winding your way through the Higashiyama District from Kiyomizu-dera Temple to Ginkaku-ji (the Silver Pavilion).
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View BookSeoul, South Korea
Yeouido’s riverfront is the standard viewing area for Seoulites looking to enjoy the gorgeous pink cherry blossoms in April, though those in the know make a beeline for the less crowded Seoul Grand Park.
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View BookNew York City, USA
Central Park is New York City’s greatest green space, offering respite from Manhattan’s thronging streets. Spring brings an abundance of blossoming cherry trees that only add to the attraction of this oasis.
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View BookWashington, DC, USA
Originally a gift from Japan, thousands of cherry trees now stand in the Mall area of Washington, D.C creating a beautiful contrast to the marble monuments. Few delights can compare to walking beneath this candy floss canopy.
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View BookLondon, UK
The Royal Botnic Gardens, Kew, are a World Heritage Site on the leafy outskirts of London. As well as the 30,000 plants on display here, Kew is home to 161 cherry trees of 63 varieties and species, making it a splendid place to enjoy cherry blossom season.
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View BookBonn, Germany
Walk the streets of the Altstadt district of Bonn in April and you might think you’ve been transported to Japan: pastel-pink cherry blossoms line the avenues, forming delicate tunnels of flowers.
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View BookCopenhagen, Denmark
The 200 cherry blossom trees in Copenhagen’s Langelinie Park are frothing with pink in April. Bispebjerg Cemetery and Sønderboulevard are particularly beautiful this time of year.
Copenhagen Like a Local
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The 5 best trips to take in Europe in April
With springtime sweeping across the continent in a riot of color, April is a spectacular time to travel in Europe. Whether you want to experience two seasons in one cruise in Norway or the natural theatre of springtime in the Netherlands, read on to discover the best destinations in Europe to visit in April.