[2026] 12 spots to enjoy spring flowers in Kansai (Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe area)!

Spring is the season when all the plants and flowers that have been sleeping begin to move at once. Why don’t you go out to see colorful plants and flowers that give you a warm spring feeling? Here are some spots where you can enjoy flowers and plants in Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe.   -INDEX- [Nemophila] Osaka Maishima Seaside Park, Osaka [Nemophila]Kobe Agri Park “Nemophila Hill 2025”, Kobe [Poppy] Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, Osaka [Aomomiji] Minoh Park, Osaka [Yamabuki] Matsuo-taisha Shrine, Kyoto [Kirishima Azalea] Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto [Peony] Otokunidera, Kyoto [Water Lily] Ryoanji Temple, Kyoto [Wisteria flowers] Nakayamadera, Takarazuka [Azalea] Sorakuen Garden, Kobe [Rose] Aramaki Rose Park, Itami [Japanese Primrose]Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, Kobe Nemophila is a small, lovely flower of clear blue. It is a popular flower in recent years because of its spectacular view of the whole area spreading out like a blue carpet.   Approximately 1 million nemophila flowers bloom across the 44,000-square-meter grounds of Osaka Maishima Seaside Park, which overlooks the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. On weekends and holidays, the park extends its hours so visitors can enjoy the sight of the setting sun sinking into the nemophila fields and the landscape as it turns orange.   There is also an area in the park where visitors can enjoy cherry blossoms and tulips with nemophila, so if you are coming to Japan in spring, be sure to visit Osaka Maishima Seaside Park.   Nemophila Festival: April 11 (Sat) – May 10 (Sun), 2026 Usual viewing time: early April to early May   Kobe Agri Park’s “Nemophila Hill”,  a new spring attraction featuring approximately 1 million blooming nemophila flowers, has opened in Kobe! The harmony between the nemophila flowers that blanket the hill in blue and the clear blue sky creates a breathtaking panorama you’ll want to capture in photos.   Kobe Agri Park also has restaurants, barbecue facilities, a winery, a ceramics museum, and other facilities, allowing visitors to enjoy “food” and “agriculture” in various ways along with the nemophilas. Nemophila Hill 2026: Saturday, April 18, 2026 – Sunday, May 17, 2026 Usual viewing time: late April to early May Poppy is a member of the poppy family that has long been cultivated for ornamental and medicinal purposes. The seeds are also used in cooking. The Expo ’70 Park’s Shizen Bunka-en (Nature Park) and Hana-no-oka (Flower Hill) are decorated with approximately 380,000 poppies. The contrast of colors between the yellow and orange poppies and the fresh blue nemophila can also be enjoyed.   Usual viewing time: early April to early May Aomomiji refers to the leaves of maple trees that turn from young leaves in spring to increasingly darker green. You can enjoy the fresh and crisp leaves of ao-momiji until they turn red in the fall. Minoh Park is famous for its autumn leaves, but it is also very beautiful in the fresh green season. Enjoy forest bathing surrounded by the sparkling green maples in the sunlight while listening to the murmuring of a mountain stream and the chirping of wild birds.   Usual viewing time: Late April to late May ▼Check this article▼ 8 recommended gourmet restaurants in Minoh Waterfall! Cafes & Shops to stop by for sightseeing Note on how to get to Minoh Waterfall! Points that international travelers should know before going there Yamabuki is a deciduous shrub in the rose family with beautiful, almost orange-yellow flowers. The flower has been familiar to the Japanese people since ancient times.   Matsuo-taisha Shrine, known as a place of famous water, has about 3,000 yamabuki trees, which turn the shrine grounds yellow. The Yamabuki Festival is held every year when the flowers are at their best.   Usual viewing time: mid-April to early May It is very familiar in Japan and is often planted as a roadside tree or garden tree. It is loved by many people for its very vivid flowers.   Vivid Kirishima azaleas are in full bloom at Hachijogaike Pond at Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine. The crimson-tinged path surrounded by azalea plantings more than 2 meters high is magnificent.   Usual viewing time: Late April – early May The peony is a plant that symbolizes beauty and has long been used as a design for crafts and paintings. It produces beautiful and large flowers like roses.   There are 2,000 peony plants of about 30 varieties at Otokunidera Temple. Protected by white Japanese umbrellas for sun protection, the bright pink and red buttons bloom in large profusion.   Usual viewing time: mid-April to early May Water lilies are striking aquatic plants with flowers that seem to float above the water. It is widely distributed in ponds and swamps.   Kyoyoike Pond at Ryoanji Temple, a World Heritage site, is famous for its water lilies. Not only white but also red and pink flowers cover most of the pond. The flowers often open in the morning and close at noon, so the best time to see them is in the morning.   Usual viewing time: Mid-May to late August The Japanese Wisteria flowers is a species endemic to Japan and is mentioned in the Manyoshu(Collection of Ten Thousand Leaves, refers to the extensive collection of poems compiled during the Nara period in Japan). The long, hairpin-like flowers hang down in a drooping manner. Purple flowers are common, but white and pink flowers also exist. At Nakayama-dera Temple’s Star Plaza, there is a magnificent wisteria trellis that stretches about 80 meters. The rows of white wisteria flowers look like “clouds floating in a blue sky. The sweet fragrance of the flowers can also be enjoyed.   Usual viewing time: Mid-April to late April ▼Check this article▼ 7 Best Spots for Wisteria Flowers in Kansai: The Spring filled with purple flowers Sorakuen garden is Kobe City’s only Japanese garden, covering an expansive area of approximately 20,000 square meters, where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the seasons. In early summer, approximately 4,000 brightly colored white and pink azaleas fill the garden. Every spring, an event called “Tsutsuji Yuusan” is held, during which important cultural properties are opened to the public, musical concerts, tea ceremonies, and other events can be enjoyed.   Usual viewing time: Late April – early May Roses have long been cultivated for perfumery and medicinal purposes.” It is said to be “the flower that symbolizes love,” and is often used in arrangements and bouquets because of its gorgeous appearance and wide variety of types and colors.   At Aramaki Rose Park in Itami, approximately 10,000 roses bloom in a stylish southern European-style garden. The view of the park, with its sloping terrain and colorful colors, is a must-see.   Usual viewing time: Mid-May to mid-June Japanese Primrose is the largest member of the primrose family, with flower stalks that can reach 80 cm in length. It grows in clusters in wetlands at the foot of mountains.   At the Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, numerous alpine plants bloom from May to June. The 5,000 or so Japanese Primrose that fill the wetlands are especially breathtaking.   Usual viewing time: Mid-May to late May ▼Check this article▼ Mt.Rokko, Kobe-1 Day Trip｜Perfect Panoramic Views and Outdoor Adventure Park! The colorful flowers that bloom in spring are a source of comfort and relaxation for those who see them. Why don’t you take advantage of the warm, sunny weather and visit some of the best places and spots for flowers in Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe?

Top 5 Marathons in Japan: How to Apply, Access & Travel Tips

Japan is highly regarded by runners around the world for being safe and easy to run in, as well as for its beautiful cityscapes. From cherry blossom-lined routes in Tokyo and Kyoto to unique winter runs on snow in Hokkaido, the country offers a wide variety of unforgettable courses. In this guide, we introduce some of the best marathon events in the Kansai region—where you can not only enjoy the race itself, but also explore nearby attractions and indulge in local cuisine.   Index 1. Kobe Marathon [Scheduled for Sunday, November 15, 2026] 2. Nara Marathon [Held annually in December] 3. Kyoto Marathon [Held annually in February] 4. Osaka Marathon [Held annually in February] 5. Himeji Castle Marathon [Held annually in February] 6. Recommended “City Run” Spots in Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe One of the highlights of the Kobe Marathon is the chance to run past stunning waterfront scenery unique to this port city, including views of the Kobe waterfront and the iconic Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. The course features minimal elevation changes, making it beginner-friendly and ideal for those aiming to achieve a personal best. With convenient access to the старт area, participants can join the race with ease and minimal stress.   ・Date: Scheduled for Sunday, November 15, 2026 ・Entry Period: Applications open from mid-April ・Entry Method: Lottery system ・Start Location: In front of Kobe City Hall ・Access: 5 min walk from “Kobe-Sannomiya Station” on the Hankyu and Hanshin lines ・Nearby Hotels: Numerous options available around Kobe-Sannomiya Station   ▼Kobe Sightseeing & Gourmet Info▼ First Time in Kobe. 21 Best Things to Do! Sightseeing, Spots, Dining, Model Course 10 Delicious Gourmet Foods in Kobe! Local Specialties and Local Foods Recommended by Locals   The Nara Marathon offers a truly unique course that takes runners past historic landmarks such as Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park, both recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites. While the second half is known for its challenging hills, the sense of accomplishment upon finishing is incredibly rewarding.   ・Date: Held annually in December ・Entry Period: Applications typically open from mid-June (based on 2025 schedule) ・Entry Method: First-come, first-served ・Start Location: Rohto Field Nara (based on 2025) ・Access: 20 min walk from Kintetsu-Nara Station /  30 min walk from JR Nara Station ・Nearby Hotels: Numerous options available around JR Nara Station   ▼Nara Sightseeing & Gourmet Info▼ Enjoy the Great Buddha of Nara, the pride of Japan’s World Heritage and power spot The Kyoto Marathon showcases the very best of the city, taking runners past iconic sights such as Arashiyama and Ninnaji Temple, along the scenic Kamo River, and finishing at Heian Jingu Shrine. While the first half features some gentle inclines, the charming, historic scenery provides plenty of motivation along the way. Its popularity is also boosted by the convenient location, just steps from the nearest station.   ・Date: Held annually in February ・Entry Period: Applications expected to open from mid-July (for 2026) ・Entry Method: Lottery system ・Start Location: Takebishi Stadium Kyoto ・Access: Next to “Nishikyogoku Station” on Hankyu Kyoto line ・Nearby Hotels: Numerous options available around “Kyoto-kawaramachi Station” on Hankyu Kyoto line   ▼Kyoto Sightseeing & Gourmet Info▼ Within Walking Distance from Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station: Easy-to-Visit Popular Sightseeing Spots 7 Japanese Sweets “Wagashi” in Kyoto. To taste, to buy, to know, to experience. One of the largest marathons in Japan, the Osaka Marathon is a lively, festival-like event with an incredible atmosphere. The area, located in front of the Osaka Prefectural Government Office, is right next to Osaka Castle—offering beautiful views of its iconic main tower. The course takes runners through the heart of Osaka, including major streets like Midosuji and Dotonbori, with nonstop cheers from spectators energizing participants along the way.   ・Date: Held annually in February ・Entry Period: Applications expected to open from late July (for 2026) ・Entry Method: Lottery system ・Start Location: In front of the Osaka Prefectural Government Office Building ・Access: About 10 min walk from “Tanimachi 4-chome Station” on the Osaka Metro Chuo and Tanimachi line ・Nearby Hotels: Numerous options available around “Osaka-umeda Station” on the Hankyu line   ▼Osaka Sightseeing & Gourmet Info▼ Half-Day Tours in Osaka! 8 Local Trip Recommendations [2025] Best 11 Food in Osaka Umeda: From the Newest Restaurants to Classic Japanese Cuisine 5 Private Onsen & Baths to enjoy in Osaka! Hot spring resorts to stay overnight or enjoy on a day trip Due to parking facility renovation work around the venue, the event is scheduled to be suspended in 2027. We look forward to its return! Even outside of official races, there are plenty of great spots in Kansai where you can enjoy a casual run while traveling. Here are some recommended running courses:   Osaka Castle Park (Osaka) Approximately 4 km per loop. This open and scenic course lets you run while enjoying views of Osaka Castle. With few traffic lights and beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, it’s a favorite among runners.   Kamo River (Kyoto) A classic running route with no traffic lights and soft dirt paths that are gentle on your legs. You can start anywhere along the river—such as Shijo or Sanjo—and run at your own pace, making it very convenient.   Nijo-jo Castle (Kyoto) Approximately 3.3 km per loop. Run alongside the historic stone walls of the castle on a traffic-free course. It’s well-lit at night, making it ideal for a safe and enjoyable night run.   Himeji Castle (Kobe・Himeji) Approximately 3 km per loop. This course offers close-up views of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Himeji Castle. The castle is illuminated from sunset until midnight, allowing you to enjoy a truly special night run.   How did you like these options? Kansai offers a wide range of marathon events and running spots where you can not only enjoy the run itself, but also explore local attractions and indulge in regional cuisine. Find the perfect race or route for you, and experience the joy of running through Japan’s vibrant cities!

Kyoto Kifune Shrine｜Perfect guide of Access, Highlights, Charms, and Goshuin Stamps

Kifune Shrine, one of the most famous power spots in Japan, is a small shrine located in Kifune-cho, at the foot of Kurama Mountain in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, and is dedicated to the god of water. Located at the source of the Kamo River that flows through Kyoto, it is also called “Kyoto’s inner city” because it is filled with cool air even in mid-summer. In this issue, we will introduce Kifune Shrine’s benefits, access, attractions, charms, and goshuin. Kifune Shrine enshrines the god of water, the source of life, and is the main shrine of the water gods, numbering 2,000 shrines throughout Japan. The date of its founding is extremely old, and although the origin of the shrine is unknown, it is one of the oldest shrines in Japan, as there is a record of the rebuilding of the shrine about 1,300 years ago. Kifune Shrine is located in the deep forest between Mount Kibune and Mount Kurama. The shrine tends to be crowded during the spring and fall holiday seasons and on weekends, so it is best to use public transportation. From Hankyu Kyoto Kawaramachi Station, transfer to a Keihan train bound for Demachiyanagi to the last stop, Demachiyanagi Station. Then transfer to the Eizan Train bound for Kurama and get off at Kibune-guchi Station. From there, take Kyoto Bus No. 33 and get off at the Kibune stop. A 5-minute walk will take you to Kifune Shrine. Kifune Shrine has three Shinto shrines, and the official way to visit the shrine is to make a pilgrimage to the three shrines, which are ” Main Shrine”, ” Rear Shrine”, and ” Yui no Yashiro”, in that order. Start your tour of the three shrines from Kibuneguchi Station on the Eizan Electric Railway. Walk along the Kibune River from Kibune-guchi Station for a while, and you will see a large rock on the right side. This is called Hotaruiwa (firefly rock). Fireflies are not easily seen in central Kyoto, but Kibune is still famous for its clear water and fireflies. A five-minute walk further north from Hotaruiwa is Umemiya-sha. It is a small shrine attached to Kifune Shrine. It is really small, so be careful not to miss it. Further upstream from Umemiya-sha, you will find Shiraishi-sha. Passing through a street lined with ryokan (traditional Japanese inns), you will see a vermilion torii (shrine gate). That is the second torii gate of Kifune Shrine. It is the entrance to the Main Shrine. After passing through the torii gate, you will see vermilion-lacquered kasuga lanterns and stone steps on both sides. There are 87 stone steps. This is a must-see spot to take pictures when you visit Kifune Shrine. Let’s go up the stone steps step by step. At the top of the stairs is the sacred Katsura tree. The tree is 400 years old and 30 meters high, almost reaching to the sky. Its many overlapping branches, spreading out in all directions, resemble a dragon ascending to the heavens. Originally, the Main Shrine was located at the present Rear Shrine site, but due to repeated flood damage, it was moved to its present location in 1055. The present one was rebuilt in 2005. The water is located right next to the Main Shrine. It has been gushing out of the rocks for thousands of years without ceasing. The water is somewhat divine in its flowing appearance. Of course, this water is drinkable. You can also take it home in a plastic bottle or water bottle that you brought with you. *If you drink the water you brought home the next day, it is recommended that you boil it before drinking it. Finally, we will go to the Rear Shrine. There is a hand-watering basin in front of the Rear Shrine, so cleanse your hands here before praying. Legend has it that there is a large hole, called a “Ryuketsu(dragon hole)”, directly below the main shrine of the Rear Shrine. However, no one is allowed to look into the hole. The Rear Shrine is considered to be a particularly powerful place in the Kifune Shrine. The Yui no Yashiro, also called Nakamiya, is located between the Main Shrine and the Rear Shrine and is believed to be the god of marriage. Those who wish for a good marriage should write their feelings in a “Knot Letter” and deliver it to the Yui no Yashiro. Kifune Shrine is open until 8:00 p.m., and at sunset the Kasuga lanterns are lit, creating a very magical atmosphere. During the fall foliage season, lanterns are lined up and illuminated along the Ryokan street and along the road from the Main Shrine to the Yui no Yashiro and Rear Shrine. In winter, a light-up event is held only during snowfall. When visiting a shrine, it is not out of the question to receive a fortune or an omikuji (charm). Here, we introduce you to the Kibune Shrine and its amulets. Kifune Shrine is known for its “mizuura-mikuji”. It is an unusual omikuji in that when the paper of the omikuji is floated in water, the words of the god emerge. Since the god of water is said to be able to foresee all things, this mizuura-mikuji has a reputation for being accurate. The most famous amulet at Kifune Shrine is the Musubi-mamori. This amulet, which brings good luck for good luck in marriage, is available in two types: a pouch type and a letter type. The bag type is embroidered with the two main characters of a love story, while the letter type is shaped like a Knot Letter of the Yui no Yashiro. Kifune Shrine’s original Goshuin book has a wonderful design. Gold, pink, and black are available. Also stylish are the bags for carrying Goshuin book made in collaboration with Shinzaburo Hanpu, a long-established canvas store in Kyoto. There are many temples and shrines that sell Goshuin book, but it is rare to find a Goshuin book bag. How about one as a souvenir of your visit to the temple? Walking along the flow of the Kibune River, you will find a row of small ryokan (Japanese-style inns) in the mountains. These ryokans offer kaiseki cuisine served on the floor of the Kibune River. Surrounded by mountains on three sides, Kyoto is a basin area, and summers are especially hot, so in summer, Kibune is crowded with people seeking cooler weather.   ▼Check out this article for more on riverside dining▼ Top 8 Kawadoko River Dining Restaurants in Kyoto (Kamogawa, Kibune & Takao) How was it? The name of the place, Kibune, is read as “Kibune,” but Kifune Shrine is read as “Kifune-jinja” . It is said that the name of Kifune Shrine is a prayer that the pure water will never become muddy. Visiting such a Kifune Shrine, you will be filled with gratitude for the water of life, and you will feel a sense of strength. We hope you will visit Kifune Shrine, too.   ▼Check out this article▼ Kyoto Goshuin Guide: 6 Goshuin from Famous Shrines to Recommended Goshuincho 6 Shrines to Visit in Osaka & Kyoto for Trending “Transparent Omamori” on SNS

6 Shrines to Visit in Osaka & Kyoto for Trending “Transparent Omamori” on SNS

Have you heard about the “transparent omamori” that have recently gone viral on Japanese social media for their breathtaking beauty? Unlike traditional fabric charms, these clear, skeleton-style omamori feature delicate embroidery or lace designs, offering a refined elegance that feels almost spiritually uplifting just to carry. In this article, we introduce shrines in Osaka and Kyoto where you can receive these stylish and meaningful charms. From customizable designs to those with unique blessings, discover a wide variety of fashionable yet auspicious omamori to suit your personal taste.   Index 1. [Osaka] Hokoku Shrine – A power spot within Osaka Castle 2. [Osaka] Otori Taisha Shrine – Cute charms symbolizing a clear future 3. [Osaka] Tsuyunoten Shrine (Ohatsu Tenjin) – Get a one-of-a-kind charm 4. [Kyoto] Shimogamo Shrine – Popular delicate lace charms 5. [Kyoto] Mikami Shrine – Japan’s only shrine dedicated to the god of hair 6. [Kyoto] Heian-Jingu Shrine – Choose charms in your favorite color Hokoku Shrine Osaka enshrines the great warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who rose from humble origins to become one of Japan’s most powerful leaders. The shrine is well known for its blessings of success, career advancement, and protection from misfortune. Located within Osaka Castle Park, it’s a perfect stop to visit alongside sightseeing at Osaka Castle. Inspired by the in-house Wakunaga Shrine, the popular “Kagayaki Mamori” (Radiance Amulet) carries the wish for “eternal youthfulness and lasting beauty.” Its charming embroidered design, featuring a plant that always grows upward in search of sunlight, symbolizes positivity and vitality, making it a beloved talisman for beauty, health, and longevity. Otori Taisha Shrine is a historic and prestigious shrine known as the Ichinomiya (highest-ranked shrine) of the former Izumi Province. It enshrines the legendary hero Yamato Takeru and Otorinomuraji no Oyagami. Based on the many tales of Yamato Takeru overcoming great challenges, the shrine is believed to grant blessings for victory and protection from misfortune. Its clear acrylic omamori, symbolizing the idea of “seeing clearly into the future,” has become a huge hit on social media. It is said that if you hold the charm up toward the main hall and take a photo, it brings even greater blessings. When held to the light, the design shines in rainbow colors, as if illuminating your path ahead with good fortune. Tsuyunoten Shrine—affectionately known as Ohatsu Tenjin—is famous as the setting of Chikamatsu Monzaemon’s masterpiece Sonezaki Shinju (The Love Suicides at Sonezaki). Inspired by the deep love of the story’s protagonists, the shrine has become a well-known spot for love and relationship blessings, attracting many visitors.   One of its highlights is the “Momoiro Omamori”, which allows you to create your own personalized charm. You can choose from over 50 types of delicately embroidered pouches and combine them with a wish card of your choice. Since the embroidery designs are updated regularly, you can create a one-of-a-kind omamori that is truly unique to you. Shimogamo Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in Kyoto and is registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. It enshrines Kamo Taketsunumi no Mikoto, the deity said to have helped develop ancient Kyoto, and Tamayori Hime no Mikoto, a goddess associated with mystical legends. The shrine is widely known for its blessings related to love, safe childbirth, and beauty. Its “lace omamori”, created to bring good fortune and happiness, has become especially popular among women. Featuring delicate embroidery on a transparent fabric, the design is said to embody the wish that the divine power of the gods can be received more strongly, making it both a beautiful and meaningful charm. Mikami Shrine is located near the famous bamboo grove in Arashiyama and is the only shrine in Japan dedicated to the god of hair. The enshrined deity is Fujiwara no Masayuki, a real historical figure from the Kamakura period who served as an official court hairdresser. Today, professionals in the beauty and hair industry, as well as those wishing for beautiful, healthy hair, visit from all over Japan. One of its most popular charms is the “Fukugami Mamori”, featuring a transparent pouch with motifs of scissors and combs. Since ancient times, combs have been considered protective items against evil, and well-maintained hair is said to attract good fortune. This charm is cherished for its blessings of protecting hair health and enhancing its beauty and shine. Heian Jingu Shrine is one of Kyoto’s most iconic shrines, known for its massive torii gate set against the blue sky and its vivid vermilion shrine buildings. It enshrines Emperor Kanmu, who moved the capital to Kyoto in 794, and Emperor Komei of the late Edo period. The shrine is believed to offer a wide range of blessings, including protection from misfortune, love and relationships, and academic success. Its beautifully translucent “Kanau Mamori” (Wish-Granting Charm) features designs inspired by weeping cherry blossoms and irises found within the shrine grounds. The charm strings come in 10 different colors, allowing you to choose your favorite—or even your oshi (favorite idol or character) color. It’s a stylish and meaningful charm, perfect for adding a personal touch to your visit and even supporting your oshi-katsu! Transparent omamori, with their delicate and beautiful appearance, make wonderful souvenirs that are sure to be appreciated. After taking a moment to clear your mind through shrine visits, why not bring home a piece of that experience in the form of a beautifully crafted charm?   ▼Check these articles▼ 8 Must-Visit Shrines in Kobe: Perfect to Pair with Nearby Attractions Unusual red seals and good luck charms! 12 Shrines and Temples in Kansai related to the Chinese Zodiac

7 cherry blossom illumination in Kyoto, Osaka and Hyogo. Fantastic Japanese Spring Nights

Cherry blossoms are an essential part of the spring scenery in Japan. Many people choose to visit Japan during the cherry blossom season to enjoy the scenery. While it is nice to visit famous cherry blossom viewing spots during the daytime, the fantastic scenery of cherry blossoms illuminated at night is also very tasteful. This article introduces spots in Kyoto and Hyogo where cherry blossoms are illuminated at night.   🌸2026 Cherry Blossom Forecast 🌸 The long-awaited cherry blossom season begins. On March 19, Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC) released its 9th cherry blossom forecast for 2026 season.Thanks to a warm spring, the blossoms are expected to pop earlier than average nationwide!     *Please note that the admission fees and charges for viewing cherry blossoms illuminated at night may differ from the regular admission fees and charges.   -INDEX- 【Kyoto】World Heritage Site Nijo-jo Castle/Nijo-jo Catsle 2026 SAKURA NIGHT 【Kyoto・Higashiyama】Kodai-ji Zen Temple/Spring Night Special Entrance(illumination) 【Kyoto・Higashiyama】Chion-in Spring Illumination 2026 【Kyoto・Okazaki】Heian Jingu Shrine/Sakuraotoyo 2026 【Osaka】Expo’70 Commemorative Park/Cherry blossom trees along Higashioji Street illumination 【Hyogo・NIshinomiya】Shukugawa Park/Sakura Illumination Kurakuen 【Hyogo・Himeji】Himeji Castle/Himeji Castle Night Cherry Blossom Viewing Party Dates: Thursday, March 19, 2026 – Sunday, April 19, 2026 Nijo-jo Castle, a World Heritage Site, is home to approximately 300 cherry trees of 50 varieties. Cherry blossoms are usually short-lived, but the blooming period of cherry trees at Nijo-jo Castle differs depending on the variety, allowing visitors to enjoy them for as long as one month.   Night Event “Nijo-jo Catsle 2026 SAKURA NIGHT” will be held. Four events will run concurrently during the period. 1. World Heritage Site Nijo-jo Castle × Japan Academy Prize-winning director’s immersive theater “Shirogeki” *Dates are limited; please check the official website in advance. 2. Special Nighttime Viewing of the National Treasure Ninomaru Palace 3. Projection Mapping Featuring Cherry Blossoms and Light 4. Enjoying Kyoto Cuisine and Traditional Crafts with Nighttime Cherry Blossoms   Experience the quiet nighttime viewing within the National Treasure Ninomaru Palace and enjoy the projection mapping, where history and cutting-edge digital art fuse together, featuring cherry blossom petals as its motif.   Event Hours: 18:00–22:00 (Last entry at 21:00)   ▼Check this article▼ 5 castles in Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo. From World Heritage Sites to the Newest Castles, Places to Visit for Sightseeing Dates: Friday, March 13, 2026 – Wednesday, May 6, 2026 Higashiyama is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kyoto. Kodai-ji Zen Temple is one of the most popular temples. During this period, the entire temple grounds, including the hall, garden, and bamboo grove, will be illuminated. The cherry blossoms in the Hashin-tei garden in front of the Hojo (main building) are especially wonderful when illuminated. The pink cherry blossoms standing alone in the white sand garden of Karesansui (dry landscape garden) are showered down like a shower. The dignified appearance of the cherry blossoms in the spotlight is a sight to behold.   Illumination Hours:17：00～21：30 (Last entry at 21:30) ▼Check this article▼ 22 Cherry Blossom Spots in Kansai (Kyoto, Osaka, Hyogo) Dates: Wednesday, March 25, 2026 – Sunday, April 5, 2026 Jodo Shu head temple Chion-in is especially famous for the cherry blossoms in front of its national treasure, Sanmon. The beauty of the pretty pink cherry blossoms against the massive and powerful Sanmon is nothing short of impressive. In addition to the approximately 200 cherry trees, the National Treasure Mieido and Daishoro, an important cultural property, are also illuminated, making it a must-see.   From Chion-in to Maruyama Park and Kodai-ji Zen Temple, famous for the “Gion-no- Yozakura” (cherry blossoms at night in Gion), and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, it is recommended to visit all the famous night cherry blossoms in Higashiyama, Kyoto, at the same time.   Illumination Hours: 5:45PM-9:30PM (Last entry at 9PM)   ▼Check this article▼ Within Walking Distance from Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station: Easy-to-Visit Popular Sightseeing Spots Dates: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 – Sunday, April 5, 2026 The Shinen of Heian Jingu Shrine is a Japanese garden representative of the Meiji era. Of the vast grounds totaling approximately 33,000 square meters, the red weeping cherry trees in the south and east shrine gardens are famous, and are illuminated at night.   Illumination Hours: 6:15PM-9PM (Last entry at 8:30PM)   * A separate ticket is required for the concert. There are two ticket options: Concert Admission: Includes access to Higashi Shin’en (concert venue) and Minami Shin’en (cherry blossom illumination). General Admission: Grants access to Minami Shin’en (cherry blossom illumination only).   ▼Check this article▼ Kyoto Goshuin Guide: 6 Goshuin from Famous Shrines to Recommended Goshuincho Dates: Friday, March 20, 2026 (National Holiday) to Sunday, April 5, 2026 Expo ’70 Commemorative Park is one of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in Osaka, selected as one of the 100 best cherry blossom viewing spots. cherry blossoms start blooming around mid-March and the park is dyed in beautiful pink. Until early April, the cherry trees along Higashioji Street will be illuminated. The rows of lustrous cherry blossoms lining both sides of the road are a sight to behold. During the daytime, there will be special openings of the “Pan-an and Banri-an” tearooms in the vast Japanese garden, and tea ceremonies at the “Pan-an” (for a fee). Why not experience a typical Japanese spring scene with cherry blossoms and tea?   ▼Check out this article too▼ Expo ’70 Commemorative Park is a great place to visit in Osaka! Highlights Explained! Dates: Late March to early April About 10 minutes by Hankyu train from Kobe-Sannomiya station, and about 20 minutes by Hankyu train from Osaka-Umeda station. The rows of cherry trees along the riverside, which can be seen from the platform of Hankyu Shukugawa Station, are one of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in Hyogo Prefecture, selected as one of the 100 best cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan! Approximately 1,660 cherry trees and 1,520 pine trees are planted along the riverside avenue. In particular, the view of Mt.Kabuto and the cherry blossoms from the bridge just outside Hankyu Kurakuen-guchi Station is spectacular.   The area around Kurakuen-guchi Station is a residential area, so there are many families and unique restaurants scattered around the area. This is a spot where you can fully enjoy the charm of cherry blossoms from the perspective of everyday Japanese people. Dates: Friday, March 27, 2026 – Sunday, April 5, 2026 Himeji Castle, designated as a World Heritage Site and a National Treasure, is also famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot. At night, around 100 cherry trees in the Nishi-no-Maru Garden, an area normally closed to the public, are beautifully illuminated. This creates a breathtakingly magical atmosphere, offering a completely different experience from the daytime scenery. Himeji Castle is also called “Shirasagi-jo” (White Egret Castle) because it looks like a white egret with its wings spread. The collaboration of its majestic figure, which rises white in the darkness under the lights, and the cherry blossoms is a sight to behold.   Illumination Hours: 6:30PM-9PM (Last entry at 8:30PM)   ▼Check this article▼ 5 castles in Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo. From World Heritage Sites to the Newest Castles, Places to Visit for Sightseeing The cherry blossoms are illuminated only for a short period of time in spring! Enjoy the heart-stopping scenery and make it a precious memory of your trip.

Kyoto-Half Day Trip｜Tour of architect Kengo Kuma’s designs and architectural creations

Rakusaiguchi, Kyoto-1 Day Trip｜Let’s Go Cycling in The Bamboo Grove!

Kyoto-1 Day Trip｜Enjoy Handmade Experience! Yuzen Dyeing and Wagashi (Japanese Sweets)

【Kyoto】1 Day Trip｜Let’s walk around Higashiyama, Kyoto to see the autumn leaves!

Arashiyama, Kyoto-1 Day Trip｜From Popular Spots to Best Kept Secret Spots!