If there's one thing we miss about Japan is the annual cherry blossom chase. Depending on where you are in Japan, the cherry blossoms bloom as early as January in Okinawa or as late as May in Hokkaido. While we're experiencing another year without this seasonal beauty, there are many virtual ways you can experience Japan's cherry blossoms wherever you are in the world. Here are some videos that'll make you miss Japan even more!
1. Yamanashi
If there's a place we hope to escape in Japan, it's the sunny prefecture of Yamanashi. Backed by cloudless sky and birds chirping, there's no better way to experience the majestic beauty of Japan's famous cherry blossoms.
2. Tokyo, Kyoto, and Himeji
Experiencing the cherry blossom season in Tokyo, Japan and Himeji is not to be missed. Before the pandemic hits, these places were teeming with locals celebrating the cherry blossom festivals by throwing a hanami (flower viewing) with their loved ones.
3. Kyoto
If you need another reason to add Kyoto to your travel bucket list, let it be the stunning cherry blossom experience. Known as the former capital of Japan, the mountainous landscapes and scenic rivers make it a iconic site to visit for the yearly cherry blossom chase.
4. Evening cherry blossoms in Tokyo and Kyoto
Cherry blossoms are as beautiful in the evening as they are in the day - perhaps even more dramatic as they take centre stage in light-up events. It doesn't matter if you're planning to visit Tokyo and Kyoto someday, both locations are equally stunning.
5. Cherry blossoms in various locations in Japan
If you want to see how the cherry blossom experience is like in other parts of Japan, this video will take you to both familiar and hidden cherry blossom spots around the country. Seeing clouds of cherry blossoms from a bird's eye view will refresh your perspective on how beautiful Japan's iconic flowers are.
It may be awhile before Japan opens its borders to international travellers but we remain hopeful that we'll experience the cherry blossom season in Japan again when the time is right.