As the winter chill begins to fade and the days grow longer, anticipation builds across Japan for the annual arrival of spring’s most dazzling display: the cherry blossoms. From bustling cities to quiet country towns, the entire nation seems to come alive with the vibrant hues of delicate pink and white blossoms that adorn the trees, creating a breathtaking spectacle that must be seen to be believed.
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When the first blooms begin to appear, people of all ages flock to parks, gardens, and riverbanks to take in the stunning display. Young couples walk hand-in-hand beneath the trees, while families spread out blue tarps for picnics. Office workers shed their jackets and ties and relax with colleagues, sipping some sake or beer and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
As the day turns to evening, the cherry blossoms take on a new level of magic, as paper lanterns are lit and the trees are illuminated from below, casting a soft and romantic glow over the surroundings. The air is filled with the sounds of laughter, music, and the rustling of cherry blossom petals in the breeze.
For many Japanese, cherry blossom viewing is not just a beautiful natural display, but a time to reflect on the beauty of life and the fleeting nature of existence. It’s a reminder to appreciate each moment and to find joy in the simple things, like a warm spring day and the company of loved ones.
As the cherry blossoms begin to fall, signaling the end of the season, there is a sense of melancholy and nostalgia. But even as the blossoms fade and fall to the ground, they leave behind a lasting impression on those who have witnessed their beauty, and a promise of renewal and hope for the coming year.
Cherry Blossoms in Kobe and Neighbouring Towns
The cherry blossom spots in Kobe are usually in bloom around the final week of March to mid April. Although this can change depending on the weather through the year. Most of the big parks have special sakura festivals.
In alphabetical order, here are our top 5 cherry blossom spots in Kobe and neighboring towns in Hyogo Prefecture.
Akashi Park
Akashi Park is one of Japan’s top 100 cherry blossom spots. It is a beautiful wide open park with sakura trees lining the central lake. There are plenty of spots around the park for a picnic under the blossoms. The site of the former Akashi Castle (only 2 towers remain now), Akashi Park is a great place for hanami with the family.
Entrance to the park is just in front of JR Akashi Station. Akashi is just 15 minutes on the JR train from Kobe (JR Sannomiya Station).
Himeji Castle Park
The World Heritage listed Himeji Castle is considered by many to be the greatest castle in Japan. Add around 1000 cherry blossom trees in full bloom and you have one of the most picturesque places in Japan for Cherry Blossom Viewing!
The sakura are also illuminated at night with special events and a festival like atmosphere¥. It’s no wonder Himeji Castle Park is also in Japan’s list of the top 100 cherry blossom viewing spots.
Himeji is 40 minutes on the JR train from Kobe. Himeji Castle Park is about a 20 minute walk from JR Himeji Station, a bus also available.
Oji Zoo
A zoo might not sound like the best place to view cherry blossoms but with around 700 cherry blossom trees planted in and around the Oji Zoo / Oji Park complex it is quite a unique area.
The highlight of the sakura season at Oji Zoo is the night viewing event with illuminated sakura.
Manichi Shinbun wrote a nice article about the 2022 Oji Zoo blossoms here.
To reach Oji Zoo, catch the Hankyu train to Oji Koen Station and walk 3 minutes.
Shukugawa Park
Shukugawa Park is a beautiful 2.7km long riverside park with cherry blossoms on both sides. Located in Nishinomiya, it is also designated as one of the top 100 spots to view sakura in all of Japan. While it is a tranquil spot when the crowds are away it can get quite busy during peak hanami season with people arriving in the early morning to claim the best spots.
On the Hankyu line get off at Shukugawa station. Or on the JR line get off at Sakura-Shukugawa.
Sumaura Park
Last but not least on our top 5 cherry blossom spots in Kobe and surrounding area is Sumaura Park. You can get stunning views of Akashi, Awaji and Kobe while enjoying over 3000 cherry blossom trees on the mountain.
Due to the slightly higher altitude the sakura bloom a little later than in other parts of Kobe. So if you think you have missed your chance head up to a Sumaura Park to catch a glimpse of the last blooming sakura in the region.
Catch the Sanyo line (from Hanshin Sannomiya) to Sumaurakoen Station and you can hike up or catch the ropeway.
Honorable mentions for other great cherry blossom spots in Kobe include Ikuta River Park, Myohoji River Park, Okamoto Sakura-Mori Park and Suwayama Park.
One more thing..
As we head up north into Hyogo Prefecture there is the magnificent town of Kinosaki Onsen. Here you can see beautiful cherry blossoms lining the old roads.
