Where to see the best sakura in Hokkaido, Japan

Perfect for those who missed the cherry blossoms in Tokyo, Osaka or other southern regions.

Goryokaku Park. (Source: keattisak)

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is the final destination for cherry blossom enthusiasts each spring. Unlike the rest of Japan, where sakura starts blooming as early as March, Hokkaido experiences this breathtaking spectacle much later, typically from late April to mid-May. This makes it the perfect place for travellers who may have missed the cherry blossoms in Tokyo, Osaka or other southern regions.

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When to see sakura in Hokkaido

Since Hokkaido has a colder climate, cherry blossoms bloom later than in other regions. Here’s a general timeline for when to expect sakura across the island:

• Hakodate and Southern Hokkaido: Late April to early May

• Sapporo and Central Hokkaido: Early to mid-May

• Asahikawa and Northern Hokkaido: Mid-May

If you want to experience peak bloom, it's best to keep …