Grab your JR Pass here and start planning your spring itinerary!

1. Kanazawa Castle (Kenroku‑en) — Elegant Historic Garden

Why go: Kenroku‑en is one of Japan’s “three great gardens,” and the expertly sculpted ponds, lanterns, and pines create a picture‑perfect backdrop for sakura.

2026 Hanami Timing: Kenroku‑en’s sakura in Ishikawa Prefecture typically blooms late March to early April, with peak viewing often in early April — ideal timing if your trip hits this period.

How to get there: Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo or Toyama to Kanazawa Station. Kenroku‑en is a short bus or taxi ride from the station. Many tourists walk through Omicho Market.

Hanami tip: Early mornings help you beat the crowds for photos at the main scenic spots like the central pond and bridges.

• JR Pass coverage: JR Pass covers Kanazawa Station

• Regional pass option: JR Osaka–Tokyo Hokuriku Arch Pass covers travel from Osaka to Kyoto but not from Tokyo.

👉 Check Hotels in Kanazawa here

2. Himeji Castle Park – Himeji, Hyogo

Why Visit: Only a 10-minute walk from Himeji Station, Himeji Castle Park offers iconic views of Japan’s White Heron Castle framed by cherry blossoms. The castle grounds are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see during spring.

Access & Pass: Covered by JR Pass and a few JR Regional Pass including Hokuriku Pass (Sanyo Shinkansen)

👉 Check Hotels near Himeji Station

3. Toyama Castle Park – Toyama, Toyama Prefecture

Why Visit: Just a 5-minute walk from Toyama Station, Toyama Castle Park surrounds a reconstructed castle keep with cherry trees lining the moat. Its compact layout makes it easy to explore in a short visit.

Access & Pass: Covered by JR Pass and a few JR Regional Pass including Osaka Tokyo Hokuriku Arch Pass (Hokuriku Shinkansen)

👉 Check Hotels near Toyama Station

Kanazawa Castle

Himeji Castle

Toyama Castle

4. Odawara Castle Park – Odawara, Kanagawa

Why Visit: A short stroll from Odawara Station, Odawara Castle Park features hundreds of cherry trees around the historic castle moat. Early April is the ideal time to enjoy the blossoms along the castle walls.

Access & Pass: Covered by JR Pass

👉 Check Hotels near Odawara Station

5. Yamagata Kajo Castle Park – Yamagata, Tohoku

Why Visit: Within walking distance from Yamagata Station, Kajo Castle Park features cherry trees along historic castle walls. Its spacious grounds make it perfect for relaxed hanami strolls with scenic views of the castle ruins.

Access & Pass: Reachable with JR Pass and JR EAST PASS (Tohoku Area)

👉 Check Hotels near Yamagata Station

Odawara Castle

Yamagata Kajo Castle

More information about Sakura spots in Japan

• Top 5 Sakura Spots Accessible with the JR Osaka–Tokyo Hokuriku Arch Pass (with 2026 Hanami Dates)

• When Will Sakura Bloom in Japan This Spring (2026)? — Latest Forecast & Travel Guide

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