Kanazawa’s Cherry Blossom Season
Kanazawa Cherry Blossoms: Early April Peak at Historic Gardens & Geisha Districts
Kanazawa's cherry blossom season typically occurs in early April, about a week later than Tokyo and Osaka, with peak bloom around April 1st lasting approximately one week. The city's top viewing spots include Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's three most beautiful gardens featuring 420 cherry trees of various varieties with free admission and evening illuminations during peak season, and the adjacent Kanazawa Castle Park where cherry blossoms frame the historic castle walls and moats. The Kazuemachi Chaya District, a former geisha quarter across the Asanogawa River, offers a charming arcade of cherry trees along the riverbank paths, providing a more traditional and intimate hanami experience. The combination of Kanazawa's well-preserved Edo-period architecture, stunning gardens, and historical significance makes it an exceptional destination for experiencing Japan's iconic cherry blossom season away from the larger crowds of Tokyo and Kyoto.
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Best Cherry Blossom Festivals and Viewing Spots in Kanazawa
Top Popular Celebrations
A Kanazawa Cherry Blossom Tour combines history, artistry, and nature at their most graceful. Whether wandering through Kenrokuen’s gardens, admiring castle moats draped in pink, or exploring geisha streets framed by blossoms, Kanazawa offers an intimate and timeless hanami experience that captures the refined soul of Japan’s spring.
Kenrokuen Garden (兼六園)
Ranked among Japan’s “Three Great Gardens,” Kenrokuen is Kanazawa’s most famous cherry blossom spot. Over 400 cherry trees bloom around its ponds and teahouses, creating a breathtaking harmony of pink petals and refined landscape design. The garden offers nighttime illuminations during peak bloom, casting reflections across the Kasumigaike Pond.
Kanazawa Castle Park (金沢城公園)
Adjacent to Kenrokuen, Kanazawa Castle Park features over 400 cherry trees lining its moats and castle walls. The sight of soft pink blossoms against the white plaster walls and black tile roofs captures the city’s samurai-era elegance. It’s especially beautiful at sunset when the castle glows in the golden light.
Saigawa and Asanogawa Rivers (犀川・浅野川)
The twin rivers that flow through Kanazawa are lined with cherry trees on both banks, perfect for tranquil riverside strolls. The Saigawa River embankment offers wide walking paths and picnic areas, while the Asanogawa River, flowing past the Higashi Chaya Geisha District, provides a romantic blend of water, wood, and blossoms.
Utatsuyama Park (卯辰山公園)
Located on a hill overlooking the city, Utatsuyama Park features around 250 cherry trees and panoramic views of Kanazawa’s skyline and the Sea of Japan. It’s a favorite among locals for evening picnics and photography, especially during the park’s seasonal light-up events.