Hokkaido’s Cherry Blossoms: A Bloomers’ Guide to Sakura Season in Japan

Missed the peak bloom of the cherry blossom season in Tokyo or Kyoto? No worries—Hokkaido welcomes sakura lovers with a later blooming season in spring, from late April to early May. This gives you a second chance to experience the breathtaking pink blooms while enjoying fresh seasonal cuisine, outdoor onsens, and scenic landscapes. If you’re planning a trip down north to Japan, consider staying at Wyndham Garden Sapporo Odori for easy access to the best cherry blossom viewing spots in Hokkaido. 

With longer daylight hours and milder weather, spring in Hokkaido is an ideal time to enjoy nature and culture at a slower pace. From romantic picnics under the blossoms to day trips through charming countryside towns, Hokkaido’s version of spring is as refreshing as it is unforgettable. Whether you’re a nature photographer, foodie, or just in need of a tranquil getaway, this northern gem has something for everyone. 

Why Visit Hokkaido in Spring?

Spring in Hokkaido is unlike anywhere else in Japan. With longer daylight hours and milder temperatures ranging from 8°C to 18°C (46°F to 64°F), it’s an ideal season for exploring without the intensity of summer heat or winter snow. The slower pace of life here lets you appreciate the sakura without rushing, and the fresh countryside air adds an extra layer of rejuvenation to your trip. 

Beyond the cherry blossoms, springtime in Hokkaido is a festival of seasonal flavours, scenic adventures, and cultural charm—from snow-capped mountain views and wildflower-strewn hills to relaxing onsen towns and rustic fishing villages. It’s a destination made for nature lovers, photographers, foodies, and anyone craving a tranquil escape. 

Best Places to Visit in Hokkaido in Spring for Cherry Blossoms

Maruyama Park & Hokkaido Shrine (Sapporo)

One of the top things to do during spring in Hokkaido, this popular hanami (flower-viewing) spot offers a picturesque setting with sakura trees surrounding the historic Hokkaido Shrine. Enjoy a traditional Japanese spring experience while strolling through the blooming park. 

Combine your visit with a stroll through the serene Hokkaido Shrine grounds, where Shinto architecture and spring blooms harmonize beautifully. 

A modern, artistic park designed by renowned sculptor Isamu Noguchi. It features a cherry blossom forest with over 2,000 trees, making it one of the best places to visit in Hokkaido during the spring season. The combination of contemporary art and nature creates a unique hanami experience. 

It’s the perfect spot for photography enthusiasts or anyone looking for a peaceful afternoon surrounded by both natural and man-made beauty. 

This star-shaped fortress-turned-park is one of the most iconic sakura viewing locations in Hokkaido. With 1,600 cherry trees lining its moats and ramparts, the views from above (especially from Goryokaku Tower) are breathtaking. During peak bloom, the fortress becomes a sea of soft pink encircling the historic Edo-period structure. 

Even on ground level, the pathways offer dreamy strolls and serene picnic spots ideal for families, couples, and solo travellers alike. 

Home to over 10,000 cherry trees of varying species, Matsumae Park guarantees an extended bloom period. This historical site is recognised as one of the top places to visit in Hokkaido in spring for its castle backdrop and vast sakura displays. 

It’s a bit off the beaten track, but perfect for travellers looking for a cultural deep dive paired with a floral spectacle. Don’t miss the local festival held during peak bloom, which features samurai parades, tea ceremonies, and street performances. 

Things To Do in Hokkaido in Spring Beyond Sakura Viewing

Enjoy Fresh Seasonal Cuisine

Spring brings an abundance of fresh seafood to Hokkaido. Savor delicacies like uni (sea urchin), crab, and sakura shrimp at Sapporo’s famous Nijo Market or the Hakodate Morning Market. Hokkaido in spring is a paradise for food lovers. 

In addition to seafood, spring vegetables like asparagus and takenoko (bamboo shoots) also take center stage on local menus. Farm-to-table dining is widely celebrated, especially in smaller towns and farm villages throughout the region. 

Nothing beats soaking in a warm onsen while admiring cherry blossom in Hokkaido. Popular hot springs spots like Jozankei Onsen (near Sapporo) and Noboribetsu Onsen offer rejuvenating experiences with picturesque springtime surroundings. 

You can even find open-air rotenburo (outdoor baths) that allow you to soak beneath sakura petals gently drifting down from nearby trees — an experience that perfectly captures the spirit of Japanese spring. 

Not all flowers in Hokkaido in spring are cherry blossoms! Witness a sea of vibrant pink moss phlox (shibazakura) covering rolling hills, providing a unique floral spectacle beyond the usual sakura. 

Held from early May to early June, the Higashimokoto Shibazakura Festival is a lesser-known but equally breathtaking floral event. Visitors can enjoy walking paths, food stalls, and panoramic hilltop views — perfect for family outings and couples alike. 

Spring in Hokkaido means you can enjoy both flowers and snow! Head to Niseko or Furano for late-season skiing, where you’ll experience milder weather with breathtaking views of snow-covered cherry trees. 

The contrast of snow-capped mountains and budding blossoms creates postcard-worthy landscapes. Plus, spring skiing often means fewer crowds, lower prices, and a more relaxed atmosphere. 

Where to Stay: Wyndham Garden Sapporo Odori

For those exploring cherry blossom in Hokkaido, Wyndham Garden Sapporo Odori offers an ideal location close to Maruyama Park and Moerenuma Park. With modern and comfortable accommodations, it’s the perfect base for your springtime adventure. 

Enjoy convenient amenities, friendly service, and easy access to shopping, dining, and cultural experiences in central Sapporo — all while being just a short stroll or train ride from iconic cherry blossom sites. 

Experiencing Hokkaido in spring provides a unique and less crowded hanami experience compared to Tokyo or Kyoto. With historic parks, scenic landscapes, and a wealth of cultural and outdoor activities, there’s no shortage of incredible things to do in Hokkaido in spring. 

Whether you’re chasing the last of the cherry blossoms in Japan season, sampling local delicacies, or simply unwinding in a hot spring with a view, Hokkaido delivers an unforgettable spring escape. 

Don’t miss the next cherry blossom in Japan season! Book your stay at one of our exclusive Japanese resorts and unlock special membership benefits from Club Wyndham Asia for the perfect sakura adventure. 

Where to Stay: Wyndham Garden Sapporo Odori

For those exploring cherry blossom in Hokkaido, Wyndham Garden Sapporo Odori offers an ideal location close to Maruyama Park and Moerenuma Park. With modern and comfortable accommodations, it’s the perfect base for your springtime adventure. 

Enjoy convenient amenities, friendly service, and easy access to shopping, dining, and cultural experiences in central Sapporo — all while being just a short stroll or train ride from iconic cherry blossom sites. 

Experiencing Hokkaido in spring provides a unique and less crowded hanami experience compared to Tokyo or Kyoto. With historic parks, scenic landscapes, and a wealth of cultural and outdoor activities, there’s no shortage of incredible things to do in Hokkaido in spring. 

Whether you’re chasing the last of the cherry blossoms in Japan season, sampling local delicacies, or simply unwinding in a hot spring with a view, Hokkaido delivers an unforgettable spring escape. 

Don’t miss the next cherry blossom in Japan season! Book your stay at one of our exclusive Japanese resorts and unlock special membership benefits from Club Wyndham Asia for the perfect sakura adventure.