Hokkaido Cherry Blossom Guide: Must-Visit Sakura Spots 2025

Explore the best Hokkaido cherry blossom spots! From the breathtaking sakura-lined parks of Central Hokkaido to the stunning vies of the Sea of Japan in Southern Hokkaido. This guide takes you through the most picturesque hanami destinations across the island.

Even if you’re not a cherry blossom enthusiast, and you’re just looking for the perfect scenic getaway, Hokkaido’s cherry blossoms promise something for everyone. So grab your camera, pack a light jacket, and dive into the best cherry blossom spots for Hokkaido 2025!

Written by Sakura Mobile Blog Team

Hello readers! Sakura Mobile is a SIM Wi-Fi service provider for international residents and tourists in Japan.

Our global editorial team living in Japan will introduce the country’s charms based on what we have experienced and felt.

Hokkaido Cherry Blossom Guide 2025

Cherry blossoms, or sakura, are an iconic symbol of Japan. With their delicate petals and vibrant colors, they capture the fleeting beauty of spring.

As cherry blossoms have finished blooming in every other region, there’s no better place to finish off the viewing season, or hanami, than in Hokkaido.

Explore the best Hokkaido cherry blossom spots in this stunning northern region!

Where is Hokkaido?

Hokkaido is Japan’s northernmost and second-largest island. It’s a single prefecture, the largest in the country.

Due to its size, it is divided into nine subprefectures for easier administration.

Hokkaido can also be divided into four regions: southern, central, eastern, and northern. 

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Different Types of Sakura in Hokkaido

Japan is home to more than 200 species of sakura. Hokkaido’s unique climate makes its sakura varieties different from those in other parts of Japan.

Here are some of the most common (and rare) cherry blossom species in the region and where to find them:

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Southern Hokkaido

📅Season: Mid-Late April
Southern Hokkaido (“Dounan”) offers breathtaking night views, considered among the most beautiful in the world. This region has a mild climate with more minor temperature fluctuations throughout the year and less snowfall, making it a perfect destination year-round.

The sea surrounds the area on three sides, and it’s one of Japan’s leading fisheries, known for its seafood.

Southern Hokkaido is rich in history, culture and cherry blossom beauty.

Top Hanami Places:

Matsumae Park

Located in southern Hokkaido, Matsumae Park is home to Japan’s northernmost castle and around 10,00 cherry blossom trees. These include 250 varieties like somei yoshino, satozakura, shidarezakura, and many more!

Because there are so many varieties, the park’s blooming season is longer than usual. This makes it an excellent spot for hanami!

Visitors can enjoy traditional foods during the cherry blossom festival here.

The historic Matsumae Castle, formerly known as Fukuyama Castle, adds to the park’s charm. Matsumae Han Yashiki theme park and two cherry blossom gardens with unique varieties of sakura further enhance the park’s appeal.

Recognized as one of Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots, Matsumae Park offers an unforgettable experience.

🕛Opening Hours: 24 hours

🚶Access: 7-minute walk from Matsushiro bus stop.

🌐Official Website: Hokkaido Matsumae Town

Kouzenji Temple

Kouzenji Temple is home to several notable cherry trees. These include varieties such as edohigan, kohigan, shidarezakura, hatsumiyozakura, and wadai. 

One of the temple’s most famous trees is the kechi-myaku cherry tree. This tree is estimated to be over 300 years old. It stands 8 meters tall, with a 5.5-meter trunk. The kechi-myaku is considered one of Japan’s most iconic cherry trees. Many believe it was brought by Kitamae ships as part of the Sea of Japan culture. It is also the parent tree of the Naden variety, which is an early-blooming cherry blossom that represents Matsumae.

Other notable trees around the temple include the Kouzenji white double cherry tree. This tree has a sense of neatness and elegance. The cherry blossoms here offer a unique and timeless sight, making the temple a must-see for cherry blossom enthusiasts.
🕛Opening hours: Gates open from sunrise to sunset

🚶Access: 10-minute walk from Matsushiro bus station

🌐Official Website: Kouzenji Temple

Ishizaki Jinushi Kai Shrine

If you visit Hakodate during sakura season, you can experience the late-blooming cherry blossoms of Ishizaki Jinushi Kai Shrine.

The Ishizaki region, located in Kameda County, is the oldest area in Hokkaido. Japanese settlers crossed the sea during the Kamakura period to settle here. In 1910, the Otsuki family arrived from Sendai to build a shrine dedicated to Saruhiko no Okami and Amaterasu Omikami deities. The Otsuki family had worshipped these deities since the Kaei period.

You can enjoy the stunning views of Mt. Hakodate and the Tsugaru Strait from the shrine.

In 1968, Matsumae-cho donated around 170 gazan trees, a variety of yaezakura, to the shrine during its renovation. These trees now form a beautiful tunnel leading to the shrine entrance.

The cherry blossom trees bloom at the same time as the azalea flowers on Mt. Esan, so visitors can enjoy both at once.

🕛Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

🚶Access: 25-minute walk from Ishizaki bus stop

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Central Hokkaido

📅Season: Late April-Early May
Central Hokkaido (“Douou“) is Hokkaido’s political and economic heart. It is home to the capital city, Sapporo, and major port cities like Otaru and Muroran. Popular destinations such as Noboribetsu, Lake Toya, and Niseko are also located here.

Known for its stunning natural beauty, Central Hokkaido is a top destination for nature experiences in Japan. The cherry blossom season usually arrives just in time for the Golden Week holiday at the end of April, offering plenty of hanami locations.

Top Hanami Places:

Yoichi River Cherry Blossom Trees

The Yoichi River Cherry Blossom Trees line both sides of the downstream Yoichi River, with nearly 400 cherry trees, mostly somei yoshino.

Planted over 10 years starting in 1993, these trees offer a breathtaking view every spring. The wide, slow-moving Yoichi River flows next to the Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery, adding unique charm to the area.

Mountains rise above Yoichi Town, creating a dramatic backdrop. During the sakura season, the famous Yoichi River Sakurazutsumi hanami event draws many visitors to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom.

This area is well-known for its cherries, apples, wines, and whiskey. It also offers an excellent experience for paddlers. Spring is the best time to paddle along the upper-beginner-friendly river, which flows east into the Sea of Japan, just outside Niseko.

🕛Opening Hours: 24 hours

🚶Access: 30-minute walk from Ginzan Station or 10-minute walk from Oe-chuo bus stop

Tomei Park

Tomei Park, home to around 2,000 cherry blossom trees, offers a stunning display each spring. The park features diverse cherry trees, including somei yoshino, ezo-yamazakura, chishima-zakura, and yaezakura. There is one particularly unique variety, with red streaks running through its petals.

Notably, the park is home to the northernmost somei yoshino sakura colony.

Opened in 1963 as a place for rest and relaxation, the park became an even more popular hanami destination after 200 cherry blossom trees were planted to enhance its appeal.

Today, it remains a beloved spot for cherry blossom viewing.

🕛Opening Hours: 24 hours

🚶Access: 47-minute walk from Bibai Station. Catching a taxi from the station is recommended.

Odori Park

An oasis in the heart of the city, the park stretches 1.5 km from east to west. It was originally constructed in 1871 as a large-scale firebreak to separate the downtown area from the administrative district to the north and the residential and commercial district to the south.

As the city grew, the park developed into a relaxing space, the park features benches where visitors can relax and enjoy the cherry blossoms, with the iconic Sapporo TV Tower in the background. The gentle sound of a water fountain enhances the peaceful atmosphere. While there are no particularly famous cherry tree groves, several spots throughout the park offer stunning views of the blossoms.

Locals often gather here for lunch and walks, with about 50 cherry blossom trees of seven different varieties scattered around 5th, 6th, 7th, and 12th Streets.
🕛Opening Hours: Information Center & Official Shop: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, Odori Park Tourist Information Center: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM

🚶Access: 14-minute walk from JR Sapporo station, 2-minute walk from Odori Station, 16-minute walk from Nishi Juitchome Station

🌐Official Website: Odori Park

Don’t let connectivity hold you back–Explore Hokkaido cherry blossom spots with confidence.🌸✨

While Japan’s friendly locals will lend you a hand, having reliable internet📶 can make your journey smoother. Since free Wi-Fi isn’t always available📱, staying connected is key.

With Sakura Mobile’s Travel SIM/eSIM or pocket Wi-Fi, you can effortlessly share your sakura adventures and enjoy every moment to the fullest!🌸📸

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Eastern Hokkaido

📅Season: Late April-Early May

Eastern Hokkaido (“Doto“) is renowned for its magnificent scenery, showcasing the natural beauty typical of Hokkaido. The region is home to three of Hokkaido’s six national parks and Shiretoko, Hokkaido’s only World Natural Heritage site.

This area features primeval forests, mysterious lakes, and rich wildlife habitats, including world-class rare plants and animals. It also boasts an abundance of hot springs with stunning views and botanical moor springs, which are rare worldwide.

With plentiful water sources, including wetlands and beautiful lakes, Eastern Hokkaido supports diverse flora and fauna.

Secluded and pristine, Eastern Hokkaido offers a perfect setting for your hanami adventures!

Top Hanami Spots:

Shintoku Shrine Mountain

Shintoku Shrine Mountain is home to around 2,300 cherry blossom trees, including the ezo-yamazakura variety, which bloom beautifully across the shrine’s grounds. Known for its illuminated sakura trees, the mountain offers a magical atmosphere during the blooming season.

The site also features Hanachouzu, floating season flowers, which add to the area’s natural charm.

Visitors are greeted by a striking torii gate at the entrance, setting the tone for a tranquil experience. The hiking trails in the area are ideal for families, offering the perfect opportunity to enjoy both the breathtaking cherry blossoms and the other nature in the area.

🕛Opening Hours: Shrine: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

🚶Access: 16-minute walk from Shintoku Station

🌐Official Website: Shintoku Shrine

Twin Cherry Blossoms Tsubetsu

In the town of Tsubetsu, you’ll find twin ezo-yamazakura trees behind the Tsubetsu Wood Crafts Museum Kinos.

These trees stand atop a hill, surrounded by a field of shibazakura, or moss phlox. The two trees appear to be snuggling close together, offering visitors a warm and inviting sight.

These twin trees also appear in a picture book by photographer Kazuma Anesaki and poet Shuntaro Tanikawa ふたごのき (Futago no Ki, “Twin Trees”).

🕛Opening Hours: 24 hours

🚶Access: 15-minute walk from Kagankoen Station, or 25-minute walk from Tsubets bus stop.

📍Located in: Tsubetsucho Gashi Park

Shimizu Park

Shimizu Park is located along National Route 274 in the southern area of Shimizu Town. It sits on a hill that offers a scenic view of Shimizu City.

This park features various outdoor facilities, including a walking plaza, boat pond, observation deck, and park golf course (free to play). Families can also enjoy the dog run and playground, making it the ideal spot for hanami.

For those looking to relax, the park has a BBQ house available for public use with a reservation. Alternatively, you can enjoy a meal at Cafe Dining Salvia, where you can also feed koi fish on the terrace.

🕛Opening Hours: sunrise to sunset, Rental Boat: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

🚶Access: 20-minute walk from Tokachi Shimizu Station

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Northern Hokkaido

📅Season: Late April-Early May

Northern Hokkaido (“Dohoku”) is known for its stunning landscapes. Furano and Biei offer picturesque countryside views and vibrant flower fields. The region is rich in natural beauty and home to diverse wildlife.

Dohoku is home to Japan’s northernmost point. It is bordered by the Sea of Japan and the Sea of Okhotsk. Visitors can also indulge in delicious local cuisine, with fresh seafood such as spring herring and hairy crabs being local specialties during this season.

Since travel distances can be long, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly.

Top Hanami Places:

Asahiyama Park

Asahiyama Park, located at the foot of Mt. Asahi, is home to 2,000 to 3,500 cherry blossom trees, making it an ideal spot for Hokkaido cherry blossom viewing.

Opened on August 15, 1963, as an urban park, it features various attractions, including a grassy square, Miura Garden, and an observatory. The park is also next to Asahiyama Zoo, making it a great family destination.

Famous for its night sakura (yozakura) festival, the park draws many visitors who enjoy the glowing beauty of the illuminated blossoms. Visitors can also enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape from the park’s high peaks.
🕛Opening Hours: 24 hours

🚶Access: 20-minute walk from Asahiyama Park Entrance bus stop

🌐Official Website: Asahikawa City

Furano Asahigaoka Park

Furano Asahigaoka Park is recognized as one of the One-Hundred Views of Japan. 

Located halfway between Furano city center and Furano Ski Resort, the park offers stunning views. Known as “Namako Yama” (Sea Cucumber Mountain), it overlooks the Furano Basin and the Tokachi Mountain Range. The best views of Furano City and the surrounding mountains can be enjoyed from the caretaker’s hut at the top.

In spring, 3,000 cherry blossoms bloom, creating a stunning display of pink. A walking path connects the caretaker’s hut to the Peace Memorial Tower, leading to the park’s summit. A parking lot near the top makes it easy to access this scenic spot.

🕛Opening Hours: 24 hours

🚶Access: 10 minutes by car (30-minute walk) from JR Furano Station or 1-minute walk from Kitanominejyutakumae bus stop

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Hanami Tips:

📅 Timing: Check the bloom forecasts and plan your visit to see the cherry blossoms at their peak.

✅Know the Rules: Not all parks allow barbecuing, drinking alcohol, or picnicking. Be sure to check your destination’s official website for any guidelines.

🌅 Arrive Early: Secure the best viewing spots by arriving early! Spread out your picnic blanket or mat and claim your space!

👜 Essentials: Bring a picnic blanket, food and drinks, and warm clothing for chilly Hokkaido evenings. Some parks may not have trash bins, so be sure to pack a plastic bag to carry your trash.

😋 Local Delights: Don’t miss out on sakura-themed treats🌸, like sakura mochi🍡! Each region may offer its own unique seasonal foods during hanami season!

🌳 Respect the Trees: 🚫Please don’t pull on the tree branches or pick the flowers! Let’s help preserve the beauty of nature!

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Conclusion:

No matter where you are in Hokkaido, the Hokkaido cherry blossoms offer a magical experience that will leave you in awe.

From the peaceful parks of Central Hokkaido to scenic coastal views of Southern Hokkaido, there’s no shortage of stunning spots to enjoy Hanami.

Whether you want to immerse yourself in nature, sample local delicacies, or simply appreciate the beauty of cherry blossoms in bloom, the Hokkaido cherry blossom season offers an unforgettable adventure.

Don’t miss the chance to experience one of Japan’s most cherished natural wonders.

And definitely don’t miss out on sharing your adventures! Get Sakura Mobile’s eSIM, SIM, or pocket Wi-Fi for your Hokkaido cherry blossom explorations! We’ll keep you connected while you navigate Hokkaido’s cherry blossom spots and check the most recent bloom updates!