In Hiroshima, the cherry blossoms usually bloom from late March till mid-April. The blooms reach their peak on 1st April in Hiroshima as well as on Miyajima. The Japanese would celebrate the arrival of spring by holding flower viewing parties under these trees, which is a joyous event that one should experience at least once in their lives.
Marvel at the Graceful Cherry Blossoms in Hiroshima
There are many famous hanami spots in Hiroshima. The following are recommended for their breathtaking sceneries of the cherry trees in full bloom:
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Located in central Hiroshima City, the significant Peace Park has 300 cherry trees all over, especially along the river. Local citizens often hold cherry blossom viewing parties here and if you’re lucky, you’ll be invited to join in on the fun!
Spot information
- Spot name: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
- Address: 1-1-1 Nakajima-cho, Naka-ku 730-0811, Hiroshima
- Access: About 3 minutes’ walk from Heiwa Memorial Park Bus Stop
Hiroshima Castle
If you fancy castles, then consider going to Hiroshima Castle to view the cherry blossoms so you can kill two birds with one stone. With 450 of the trees planted around the castle grounds, you’ll be presented with a stunning scenery.
Spot information
- Spot name: Hiroshima Castle
- Address: 21-1 Motomachi, Naka-ku 730-0011, Hiroshima
- Access: About 7 minutes’ walk from Shukkeien Mae Bus Stop
Shukkeien Garden
Love having peaceful strolls in a beautiful Japanese garden? Then do go to Shukkeien Garden. There are 200 cherry trees planted here and some lawn areas are available for cherry blossom viewing parties.
Spot information
- Spot name: Shukkeien Garden
- Street address: 2-11 Kaminobori-cho, Naka-ku 730-0014, Hiroshima
- Access: About 3 minutes’ walk from Shukkeien Mae Bus Stop and 15 minutes’ walk from Hiroshima Station
Momijidani Park
Situated on Miyajima island, this maple park stretches along Momijidani river. It’s considered to have one of the “Eight Most Beautiful Views” in Itsukushima. With a good number of cherry trees, the place is definitely worth checking out.
Spot information
- Spot name: Momijidani Park
- Address: Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi 739-0541, Hiroshima
- Access: About 17 minutes’ walk from Miyajima Pier (JR)
Hiroshima Cherry Blossoms 2016 - 2018
From 2016 till 2018, the cherry blossoms bloomed and reached their peak at slightly different times. In 2016, the flowers started blooming on 23rd March and reached its peak on 2nd April. In 2017, they started blooming on 27th March and reached its peak on 7th April.
This year in 2018, the flowers started blooming and reaching its peak slightly earlier. This is because the weather greatly determines when the flowers will start blooming, if it’s warm, then the flowers will bloom earlier; cold, then they will bloom later.
Do keep in mind that the cherry blossom season is quite short. Full bloom is usually reached within one week after the opening of the first blossoms, then the blooming peak is over and the blossoms start falling from the trees.
So, if you intend to view the cherry blossoms and have an authentic Japanese experience by taking part in the flower viewing parties while you’re in Hiroshima, then make sure to keep a lookout on the forecasts and plan accordingly to ensure that you get to make the most of your trip!
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