Springtime is approaching once again, which means that it’s Hanami time in Japan! This centuries-old tradition takes places each year where residents all over the country gather in outdoor spots to watch the blooming of the cherry blossom (Sakura) trees. Hanami means “flower viewing” in Japanese, and it’s very popular around late March/early April. Many people organize picnics and parties to celebrate the event, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead, pick your spot and get there early to avoid being crowded out.

There are some great Hanami sites in Kobe. Here is a selection of the best ones. Check this weather map (in Japanese) for information on the best time to go as it can vary each year, depending on the seasonal climate. Full bloom (mankai) period is typically around end of March/start of April.

Sumaura Park

Long established as one of the best Hanami spots in Kobe, this luscious park sits on the slopes of Mt. Tegai and Mt. Hachibuse and has around 3,200 cherry trees of several varieties that usually hit full bloom at the end of March. The park’s popularity is partly due to the great views on offer as you enjoy the blooming of the trees. You can see the Seto Inland Sea, Awaji Island, the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and Kobe port in the background, and Suma beach sits beneath the park. The park also contains many literary monuments due to the fact that poet Masaoka Shiki visited during the Hanami season.

The park is open 24 hours and is free to enter. There is a ropeway if you don’t want to walk up the steps to reach the grounds. Restaurant and amusement park facilities are available on site.

Website: Sumaura Park

Oji Zoo

Kobe’s famous zoo is the place to head to for Hanami if you want to combine tree blossoming with cute creatures roaming around. Oji Zoo has around 800 animals – including koalas and giant pandas – and over 500 cherry trees. The zoo also opens at night for three nights each year during Hanami where visitors can see the blossoming trees lit up by fantastic illuminations. Bear in mind, however, that the zoo itself will be shut at this time and you won’t be able to see the animals.

Website: Oji Zoo

Himeji Castle

One of Japan’s most treasured castles, this six-story building has stood for 400 years and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s hugely popular with visitors from across the country during Hanami on account of having several spectacular viewing spots to gaze at the 1,800 or so cherry trees, mainly of the Somei Yoshino variety. Perhaps the best spot is from the rooftop garden of Eagle Himeji just south of the castle, where the building appears as if it’s floating on a sea of pretty trees. The castle holds a series of Hanami events each year, including night-time illuminations. Entry is free.

Website: https://www.himejicastle.jp/en/

Akashi Park

One of Japan’s top 100 Hanami spots, this large park is in Akashi city just west of Kobe (around 15 minutes by train from Sannomiya station). The park surrounds the ruins of Akashi castle and contains around 1,400 cherry blossom trees, a great many of them lining the wondrous Ko-no-ike lake. This beautiful spot is popular for Hanami picnics. Park entry is free and there are Hanami festivals each year.

Address: 1-27 Akashikoen, Akashi, Hyogo 673-0847

Hana no Michi

Literally meaning “flower road”, Hana no Michi is a picturesque promenade running alongside the Mukogawa river and linking Takarazuka rail station with the city’s grand theater. It’s a little further out. Takarazuka is 30 km east of Kobe and takes around 40 minutes to reach from Sannomiya station. However, the trip is well worth the effort if you fancy a gorgeous springtime stroll. The promenade is lined with shops and restaurants, making it possible to turn your Hanami into a day out.

Address: 1-1-9 Sakaemachi, Takarazuka City, Hyogo 665-0845

Oren Rozen, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons