A Cherry Blossom Adventure in Kyoto – 13 Secret Sakura Spots Discovered on a 30,000-Step Day

#cherryblossom25
Finally, during the spring of April, I ventured to the Land of the Rising Sun for a seven-day cherry blossom extravaganza. The fleeting beauty of the blossoms felt like a dream — as if captured in one of Hirokazu Kore-eda’s films, frozen in time. Here are the 13 enchanting sakura spots I found during my 9-day journey from April 2nd to 10th, where I was fortunate to witness the full bloom of Somei Yoshino and Shidarezakura in Kyoto, Osaka, Lake Yamanaka, and Lake Kawaguchi.

Kyoto's Cherry Blossom Gems
🌸 Rokkaku-do (Six Sided Temple)
A 120-year-old Shidarezakura tree created a pink waterfall of blossoms — lucky for me, it was right near my hotel, so I enjoyed it during my morning walk. No admission fee, and you can sit under the tree for some lovely photos.

🌸 Kodaiji Temple
Here, within the Zen garden, a 400-year-old Shidarezakura tree blooms beautifully. The peaceful surroundings and dry landscape garden make this spot wonderfully serene. ¥600 entry fee.

🌸 Nanzen-ji Temple
A place I’ve visited for its stunning autumn foliage, but I found it even more magical during cherry blossom season. The combination of blossoms and ancient buildings creates some iconic photo opportunities.

🌸 Shinjo-ji Temple
I stumbled upon this gem by chance, and was blown away. It’s peaceful and quiet, and the three-story pagoda surrounded by cherry trees is absolutely picturesque.

🌸 Tachiwaki Inari Shrine
Here you can capture the perfect shot of torii gates framed by cherry blossoms — a beautiful combination.

🌸 Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine
The breathtaking Sakura River offers the chance to experience a cherry blossom shower as you take a boat ride — pure magic.

🌸 Bekawaji Temple’s 1.4km Cherry Blossom Tunnel
Known as the “ceiling of cherry blossoms,” this 1.4km-long avenue is one of the best places to admire sakura in Kyoto.

🌸 Nara's Saho River
I’m in love with this spot! Both sides of the river are lined with cherry trees, and it’s perfect for capturing photos of sakura with a passing cherry blossom train in the background.
#travel