In Kyoto, there are over 2000 temples and shrines - which means that there are almost as many spots to view cherry blossoms. With the strands of cherry trees lining the canals feeding off of the Kamo River or Lake Biwa as well, the city is known across the country as one of the top places for admiring sakura. when cherry blossom season actually begins, many tourists from around the country, not to mention the world, visit Kyoto, and the whole city becomes all the busier.
This time, we will introduce you to some of these flower viewing spots in Kyoto. From famous places to little-known gems, there are over 40 locations to choose from.
Feel free to refer to this guide the next time you visit Kyoto :)
8. Kyoto Gyoen(Kyoto Imperial palace)
On this vast plot of land stand over one thousand cherry trees, whose viewing period extends from the end of March to the middle of April. From the Goshomi kurumagaeshi variety of cherry blossom (lit. "The turn of the royal carriage") - which takes its name from an interesting anecdote at the beginning of the Edo period, when the then ruler Emperor Gomizu was passing by this plot, he was so overwhelmed by its beauty that he ordered the carriage to turn around for another look - to the yamazakura (Hill cherry), satozakura, kasumizakura (Mist cherry), uwamizuzakura (Japanese bird cherry), and more, you can enjoy a wide array of sakura here. While leisurely strolling around the expansive premises and gazing up at the cherry trees, you can take in an amazing range of cherry blossoms.
| Address |
KyotoGyoen, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto 京都府京都市上京区京都御苑3 |
|---|---|
| Tel | 075-211-6348 |
| Reference | more detailed information about Kyoto Gyoen(Kyoto Imperial palace) |
| Open | All day |
| Access | 1 minute walk from Subway Marutamachi Station10 minute walk from Keihan Jingu-Marutamachi Station |
| Map |