Did you know that the 'local cherry blossoms' are just as beautiful as the ones in Japan? In Southeast Asia, we have pretty Tecoma, Konjil, Balayong, and Chompoo Pantip trees that recreates the cherry blossom season in Japan and Korea. To see it for yourself, check out these scenic places in Southeast Asia to experience 'cherry blossom season'!
1. Cibodas, Indonesia
You can enjoy the beauty of the local cherry blossoms at Cibodas Botanical Garden twice a year. Come between February and March or July and August to enjoy a scenic picnic under the cherry blossom trees. You can also plan a staycation in Puncak with your family before having a picnic at Cibodas Botanical Garden.
2. Sumba Timur, Indonesia
Who would have thought that you could see cherry blossoms on Sumba Island? Come to Maudolung Village, Hambapraing Village, East Sumba. The locals would refer to this local cherry blossom by the name 'konjil'. These pink flowers usually bloom in early October and wither at the end of the month.
3. Kedah, Malaysia
Every February to April, the locals in Kedah can enjoy the sight of blooming 'cherry blossoms', namely the Tecoma tree. This hanami-like view is even more beautiful along Jalan Kuala Kedah and Jalan Langgar.
4. Penang, Malaysia
Some streets in Penang are decorated with Tecoma trees, and that gives locals and visitors another thing to do in Penang, also known as the street food capital of Malaysia. Every year, these 'cherry blossoms' will bloom from February to April. So make sure to plan your trip accordingly and enjoy the view.
5. Palawan, Philippines
Not only famous for its stunning beaches, you can also spot beautiful 'cherry blossoms' in Palawan. Here, the 'cherry blossoms' are called Balayong or Palawan Cherry. The good news is, the local government has recently made the effort to cultivate this tree to recreate a cherry blossom garden in Palawan!
6. Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
Besides shopping and visiting the temples, there are many things to do in Thailand. Make a quick stop at Kasetsart University where you'll spot hundreds of Chompoo Pantip trees that are similar to cherry blossoms. This tree only blooms once a year, from March to April. The falling flower petals will remind you of hanami in Tokyo's Ueno Park!
7. Da Lat, Vietnam
Known as the City of Flowers, Da Lat has thousands of cherry trees that bloom at the start of the year. Unlike the Japanese cherry blossoms, the Vietnamese cherry blossoms are a little darker in color. When the height of spring arrives, the city is adorned with a pretty pink hue around its parks and cities.
8. Gardens By The Bay, Singapore
From 8 March 2024 until 10 April 2024, step into the wonderful world of sakura as you enjoy the cooling environment surrounded by beauty and wonder.
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953
Opening hours: 9am-9pm daily
If you're planning to experience the cherry blossom season in Japan and South Korea once the situation gets better, stay inspired with our recommended reads below!