When it comes to spring in Japan, cherry blossoms and hanami (flower viewing) immediately come to mind. And for many, one of the highlights of traveling in Japan is visiting hot springs. In fact, there are many hot spring resorts across Japan where you can enjoy both at the same time. Soaking in a warm onsen while gazing at the soft pink cherry blossoms is a luxurious experience unique to Japan. In this article, we have carefully selected famous hot spring destinations known for their cherry blossoms, including Gero Onsen, Dogo Onsen, and Kawazu Onsen. If you are planning a trip to Japan in spring,we hope you will find this article helpful.
*If you purchase or book products introduced in this article, a portion of the sales may be returned to FUN! JAPAN.
🚅 Reserve your Shinkansen tickets with NAVITIME Travel! 👉Click here
😄 Make your trip in Japan even more comfortable with NAVITIME eSIM! 👉Click here
The Charm of Enjoying Cherry Blossoms and Hot Springs Together
Cherry Blossoms as a Symbol of Japanese Spring
Cherry blossoms hold a special place in the hearts of Japanese people. From March to May each year, the “cherry blossom front” moves from south to north across the Japanese archipelago, and cherry trees bloom in full glory in each region. The culture of “hanami” (flower viewing) has a history of over 1,000 years, and enjoying meals or taking photos under the cherry blossoms is loved not only by Japanese people but also by travelers from all over the world.
Moreover, the cherry blossom season lasts only about one to two weeks, and this fleeting beauty is part of what makes them so captivating.
Related Articles
- What is spring in Japan? 50 “Spring Traditions” including nature, food, flowers other than cherry blossoms, and events
- When do cherry blossoms bloom in Japan? Best viewing times and famous spots by region from south to north!
The Relaxing Effects of Hot Springs
Japan is one of the world’s leading hot spring nations, with about 3,000 hot spring resorts nationwide. Soaking in an onsen promotes blood circulation, helps relieve fatigue and stress, and is perfect for healing the weariness of travel. If you soak in an open-air bath while gazing at cherry blossoms, the visual beauty and the healing effects of the hot spring work together to refresh both body and mind. This is a luxurious experience unique to Japan.
Related Articles
- What is the definition of “onsen”? Japanese literature related to hot springs and “Onsen Day”
- [Japanese Culture] Do you know the rules to follow at Japanese hot springs?
When is the Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in 2026? Tips for Planning a Hot Spring Trip
Estimated Blooming Periods by Region
This map was created based on information from the Japan Meteorological Agency.
The timing of cherry blossom blooming varies greatly depending on the region and variety. The forecasted blooming periods for 2026 are as follows:
- Kyushu Area: Late March to early April
- Kansai, Chugoku-Shikoku, and Tokai Areas: Late March to early April
- Kanto Area: Mid to late March
- Tohoku Area: Early to late April
- Hokkaido: Late April to early May
*However, early-blooming varieties such as "Kawazu-zakura" are best viewed from late January to February.
Since the blooming period can shift depending on weather conditions, we recommend checking the latest cherry blossom forecasts about 2–3 weeks before your trip. You can find up-to-date information on the Japan Weather Association and local tourism websites.
Recommended Timing for Reservations
The cherry blossom season is one of the busiest travel periods in Japan. Especially in popular hot spring areas, accommodations start to fill up 3–4 months in advance. If you want to secure your preferred lodging, be sure to book at least two months ahead. Rooms with open-air baths or views of cherry blossoms are particularly popular, so even earlier reservations are recommended.
Weekends and Japanese public holidays (especially Golden Week: late April to early May) are extremely crowded. If possible, we recommend visiting on weekdays. Also, the days just before and after the expected full bloom are especially busy, so aiming for the period right after blooming begins or when the petals start to fall allows for a more relaxed experience. Early mornings are a hidden gem, with fewer tourists and a peaceful atmosphere for cherry blossom viewing.
[Kanto Area] Hakone Onsen, Minakami Onsen. Popular areas with excellent access from Tokyo
The Kanto area, easily accessible from Tokyo for a day trip or an overnight stay, is a popular hot spring destination for international travelers as well.
Hakone Onsen (Kanagawa Prefecture)
The hot springs scattered throughout the Hakone volcanic area offer an exceptionally wide variety of spring types, earning Hakone the nickname "department store of hot springs." There are many cherry blossom spots throughout the area. The "Hayakawa River embankment in Miyagino" features about 120 cherry trees stretching for about 600 meters, perfect for a riverside stroll. At "Hakone Gora Park," you can enjoy a spectacular view of both cherry blossoms and Mt. Fuji at the same time.
Hakone offers plenty of attractions besides hot springs. At the "Hakone Open-Air Museum," you can enjoy the collaboration of outdoor sculptures and cherry blossoms, while "Hakone Shrine" is a famous spiritual spot known for its torii gate floating on the lake. At "Owakudani," you can witness volcanic activity up close and try the local specialty, black eggs. Even traveling on the Hakone Tozan Railway or ropeway is a sightseeing experience in itself.
🏨Book your stay at Hakone Onsen! [Jalan]
Best Time for Cherry Blossoms and Access
- Best viewing period: Late March to early April
- Access: Hakone-Yumoto Station
Minakami Onsen (Gunma Prefecture)
Minakami Onsen is a hot spring area stretching along the Tone River in northern Gunma Prefecture, known for its rich natural surroundings and beautiful scenery in every season. Surrounded by mountains such as Mt. Tanigawa, you can enjoy fresh greenery in spring, river activities in summer, autumn foliage, and snowy landscapes in winter, each offering a different charm throughout the year.
The surrounding areas of "Suwakyo Gorge" and "Minakami Park" are lined with beautiful cherry blossom trees, creating a stunning contrast between the gorge's natural beauty and the blossoms. Especially along the walking paths of Suwa Gorge, there are many scenic spots where you can enjoy both the clear stream and the cherry blossoms at the same time. Due to the high elevation, the cherry blossoms bloom later here than in urban or lowland areas.
🏨Book your stay at Minakami Onsen! [Jalan]
Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms & Access
- Best viewing period: Late April to early May
- Access: About 40 minutes by local bus and taxi from Minakami Station. About 20 minutes by car from Minakami IC on the Kan-Etsu Expressway.
[Tokai Area] Gero Onsen, Kawazu Onsen, Shimoda Onsen. Early-blooming Cherry Blossoms and Japan’s Three Famous Hot Springs
Gero Onsen (Gifu Prefecture)
Gero Onsen is one of Japan’s three most famous hot springs, alongside Arima Onsen and Kusatsu Onsen. In spring, about 250 cherry trees bloom along the Hida River, turning the entire hot spring town pink. The "Gero Onsen Gassho Village" is especially attractive, where you can enjoy a quintessentially Japanese scene of gassho-style houses and cherry blossoms. At night, the area is illuminated, allowing for a magical night-time cherry blossom viewing experience.
At "Gero Onsen Gassho Village," you can experience traditional Japanese culture with gassho-style houses relocated from Shirakawa-go. "Onsenji Temple" is located on a hill overlooking the hot spring town, making it a fantastic spot for photos of both the cherry blossoms and the townscape. Be sure to try dishes made with Hida beef as well.
🏨Book your stay at Gero Onsen! [Jalan]
Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms & Access
- Best viewing period: Mid-April
- Access: 10 minutes on foot from Gero Station on the Takayama Main Line
Kawazu Onsen, Shimoda Onsen (Shizuoka Prefecture)
Kawazu-zakura is one of the earliest blooming cherry blossoms in Japan, known for its deep pink color. At Kawazu Onsen, about 850 Kawazu-zakura trees line a 4 km stretch along the Kawazu River, and around 8,000 cherry trees bloom throughout the town. During the "Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival," about one million people visit. In the Shimoda Onsen area, you can also enjoy Kawazu-zakura at places like Shimoda Park, where the combination of historic streets—famous for the arrival of the Black Ships—and cherry blossoms is especially charming.
The Izu Peninsula is known for its mild climate and beautiful coastline. "Shirahama Beach" is famous for its crystal-clear waters, and at "Shimoda Aquarium," you can interact with dolphins. The "Perry Road" walking path is also recommended for experiencing the history of Japan’s opening to the world at the end of the Edo period. The area is also rich in seafood, such as simmered splendid alfonsino (kinmedai), wasabi, and dried fish.
🏨Book your stay at Kawazu Onsen! [Jalan]
🏨Book your stay at Shimoda Onsen! [Jalan]
Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms & Access
- Best viewing period: Mid to late February
- Access: Kawazu Onsen: Kawazu Station, Shimoda Onsen: Shimoda Station
[Kansai Area] Arashiyama Onsen. The Atmosphere and History of an ancient capital
Arashiyama is one of Kyoto’s most famous sightseeing spots, where around 1,500 cherry trees bloom around the Togetsukyo Bridge and Arashiyama Park. The scenery created by the Togetsukyo Bridge, cherry blossoms, and the backdrop of Arashiyama is an iconic image of Japan. Don’t miss the cherry blossoms in the gardens of Tenryu-ji Temple or the cherry blossom tunnel seen from the Sagano Scenic Railway.
The Bamboo Grove Path is a magical walkway surrounded by towering bamboo. Tenryu-ji Temple is renowned for its beautiful gardens and is a famous spot for both cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. The Nonomiya Shrine, known as a spiritual spot for matchmaking, and the thrilling Hozugawa River Boat Ride are also popular attractions. Be sure to try Kyoto’s traditional dishes such as Yudofu (tofu hot pot) and Kyoto Kaiseki cuisine.
🏨Book your stay at Arashiyama Onsen! [Jalan]
Best Time for Cherry Blossoms & Access
- Best viewing period: Late March to early April
- Access: Saga-Arashiyama Station
[Shikoku & Kyushu Area] Dogo Onsen, Kirishima Onsen. Magnificent Nature and the Blessings of Volcanoes
Dogo Onsen (Ehime Prefecture)
Dogo Onsen is one of Japan’s oldest hot springs, with a history of about 3,000 years. Around 300 cherry trees bloom in Dogo Park (the site of Yuzuki Castle), where you can enjoy the combination of cherry blossoms and the historical atmosphere created by the remaining moats and stone walls. The cherry blossoms are illuminated at night, adding to the charm of the hot spring town.
The Dogo Onsen Honkan, a nationally designated Important Cultural Property, is said to be one of the inspirations for Hayao Miyazaki’s film “Spirited Away.” Here, you can experience retro architecture and hot spring culture. Matsuyama Castle is also a famous cherry blossom spot, with about 200 cherry trees coloring the castle grounds. The area is also associated with Natsume Soseki’s novel “Botchan.”
🏨Book your stay at Dogo Onsen! [Jalan]
Best Time for Cherry Blossoms & Access
- Best viewing period: Late March to early April
- Access: Dogo Onsen Station
Kirishima Onsen (Kagoshima Prefecture)
Kirishima Onsen is a hot spring area located at the foot of the Kirishima mountain range, where about 200 cherry trees bloom around Kirishima Shrine. The spectacular scenery of the sacred shrine, cherry blossoms, and the majestic Kirishima mountains in the background is breathtaking. At Kirishima Shinwa-no-Sato Park, you can enjoy cherry blossoms with a view of Mount Kirishima.
The nearby Kirishima Open-Air Museum is also recommended, where you can enjoy both art and nature. You can also savor Kagoshima’s gourmet specialties such as Kurobuta pork, Kuroge Wagyu beef, and sweet potatoes.
🏨Book your stay at Kirishima Onsen! [Jalan]
Best Time for Cherry Blossoms & Access
- Best viewing period: Late March to early April
- Access: About 16–33 minutes by bus from Kirishima Onsen Station
[Tohoku Area] Tendo Onsen, Owani Onsen. Late-Blooming Cherry Blossoms and Golden Week Destinations
Tendo Onsen (Yamagata Prefecture)
Tendo Onsen is famous as a production area for shogi pieces. Along the Kuratsu River, which flows through the center of the Tendo Onsen area, about 1.4 km of weeping cherry trees are planted, and in spring, pale pink flowers bloom on both banks. About 2,000 Somei Yoshino cherry trees are planted in Tendo Park (Mt. Maizuru), turning the entire mountain pink. From the summit, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Tendo city and the cherry blossoms, making it a popular photo spot.
In the surrounding area, you can visit the “Tendo City Shogi Museum,” where you can watch live demonstrations of shogi piece making, and the “Michi-no-Eki Tendo Onsen,” which offers a variety of local specialty products.
🏨Book your stay at Tendo Onsen! [Jalan]
Best Time for Cherry Blossoms & Access
- Best viewing period: Mid-April to late April
- Access: About 10 minutes by local bus from Tendo Station
Owani Onsen (Aomori Prefecture)
Owani Onsen is a historic hot spring resort with a history of about 800 years. Nearby, Chausuyama Park is home to thousands of cherry trees, which usually reach their peak around Golden Week. This is a luxurious hanami spot where you can enjoy cherry blossoms and a variety of other spring flowers all at once.
Aomori Prefecture is also famous nationwide for the cherry blossoms at Hirosaki Castle, which is about a 30-minute drive from Owani Onsen. Around 2,600 cherry trees bloom at Hirosaki Castle, and the combination of the blossoms reflected in the moat and the castle keep is truly a breathtaking sight.
🏨Book your stay at Owani Onsen! [Jalan]
Best Time for Cherry Blossoms & Access
- Best viewing period: Late April to early May
- Access: Owani Onsen Station
The Ultimate Japan Trip: Cherry Blossoms and Hot Springs!
Hot spring resorts where you can enjoy both cherry blossoms and onsen are special places where you can fully experience the charm of spring in Japan. From the early-blooming Kawazu cherry blossoms to the late-blooming ones in Tohoku, you can enjoy hanami over a long period from February to May. Each destination has its own unique appeal, such as the beautifying waters of Gero Onsen, the history of Dogo Onsen, and the stunning views of Mt. Fuji and cherry blossoms at Hakone Onsen. The healing power of hot springs and the beauty of cherry blossoms will make your trip truly special.
🚅Book your Shinkansen tickets with NAVITIME Travel! 👉Click here
😄Make your trip in Japan even more comfortable with NAVITIME eSIM! 👉Click here
Comments