Japan Cherry Blossom Itinerary

Japan Cherry Blossom Itinerary

Hello! I am [YOUR NAME] from [YOUR COMPANY NAME]. I'm excited to be your guide for this wonderful journey to witness Japan's iconic cherry blossoms. From the aged majesty of Kyoto to the dazzling energy of Tokyo and stunning vistas beyond, this itinerary is designed to immerse you fully in the nation's rich culture, beautiful landscapes and, of course, its floral spectacle. Let's embark on an unforgettable Sakura adventure!

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

Welcome to Tokyo, the heart of Japan! After settling in, kick off your trip with a leisurely stroll around Ueno Park, one of Tokyo's best spots for cherry blossom viewing. Enjoy dinner at a traditional izakaya and get some rest for the adventure-filled days ahead.

Time

Activity

Description

03:00 PM

Arrival in Tokyo

Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport, meet with guide, and transfer to hotel

06:00 PM

Check-in & Relax

Check-in to hotel, freshen up, and relax after the journey

08:00 PM

Ueno Park Exploration

Evening stroll in Ueno Park, known for its early cherry blossom blooms

Day 2: Tokyo's Cherry Blossom Sites

Spend your day exploring Tokyo's famed cherry blossom spots, including the Chidorigafuchi moat and Shinjuku Gyoen. Wrap up the day with a delightful dinner cruise on the Sumida River, underneath a canopy of blooming Sakura.

Time

Activity

Description

09:00 AM

Chidorigafuchi Moat

Visit Chidorigafuchi Moat, a popular spot for rowboat cherry blossom viewing

12:30 PM

Shinjuku Gyoen Gardens

Explore the expansive Shinjuku Gyoen Gardens, filled with diverse cherry blossom varieties

05:30 PM

Sumida River Cruise

Enjoy a dinner cruise on the Sumida River, surrounded by illuminated cherry blossoms

Day 3: Visit Nikko

A day trip to Nikko offers cultural treasures and cherry blossom views. Visit the Tosho-gu Shrine, then meander through the Kanmangafuchi Abyss where Sakura trees line the scenic riverwalk.

Time

Activity

Description

08:00 AM

Depart for Nikko

Travel to Nikko by train, approximately 2 hours

01:00 PM

Tosho-gu Shrine Visit

Explore the ornate Tosho-gu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

03:00 PM

Kanmangafuchi Abyss

Stroll along the Kanmangafuchi Abyss, lined with cherry blossom trees by the river

Day 4: Travel to Kyoto

Travel to Kyoto by Shinkansen, the Japanese bullet train. Upon arrival, explore the Philosopher's Path, a classic Sakura viewing spot lined with hundreds of cherry trees.

Time

Activity

Description

09:00 AM

Check-out & Departure

Check-out from Tokyo hotel, travel to Kyoto via Shinkansen (bullet train)

12:00 PM

Arrival & Lunch

Arrive in Kyoto, check-in to hotel, and enjoy lunch

02:30 PM

Philosopher's Path

Walk along the serene Philosopher's Path, lined with cherry blossoms

Day 5: Discovering Kyoto's Cherry Blossoms

Savor the historic beauty of Kyoto by visiting iconic Sakura spots including Maruyama Park and the Heian Shrine. Don't forget to revel in a Hanami (flower viewing) party under a Sakura tree!

Time

Activity

Description

08:30 AM

Maruyama Park

Explore Maruyama Park, one of Kyoto's oldest and most famous cherry blossom spots

12:30 PM

Heian Shrine Visit

Visit the striking Heian Shrine, surrounded by cherry trees

06:00 PM

Hanami Party

Join a Hanami (flower viewing) party under the blossoming cherry trees

Day 6: Day Trip to Nara

Enjoy a day trip to Nara, home to beautiful parks and temples adorned with cherry blossoms. Spend the evening exploring Nara Park and partake in the nightlife revelry amidst illuminated Sakura.

Time

Activity

Description

09:00 AM

Depart for Nara

Travel to Nara, approximately 1 hour by train

01:00 PM

Todai-ji Temple Visit

Visit Todai-ji Temple, housing the Great Buddha and surrounded by cherry trees

07:00 PM

Evening in Nara

Experience the serene evening atmosphere in Nara Park, illuminated with cherry blossom lights

Day 7: Farewell Day

Immerse yourself in Tokyo's rich urban culture and do some last-minute shopping. Celebrate your final night in Japan by experiencing the stunning Sakura illumination at Rikugien Garden.

Time

Activity

Description

09:00 AM

Tokyo Exploration

Explore Tokyo's neighborhoods, do some last-minute shopping

03:00 PM

Rikugien Garden Visit

Visit Rikugien Garden for the stunning Sakura illumination

06:30 PM

Farewell Dinner

Gather for a farewell dinner, reminiscing about the Sakura adventure


Cultural Guidelines:

  1. Respect for Cherry Blossoms (Sakura):

    • Cherry blossoms hold deep cultural significance in Japan. Treat the trees and flowers with respect, avoiding picking or damaging them.

  2. Hanami Etiquette:

    • During hanami (flower viewing) parties, reserve a spot early and lay out a picnic blanket. Avoid stepping on others' blankets and keep noise levels moderate.

  3. Bowing and Greetings:

    • Bow slightly when greeting others, especially in formal situations. "Konnichiwa" (hello) and "Arigatou gozaimasu" (thank you) are common greetings.

  4. Eating Etiquette:

    • When dining, wait for everyone to be served before starting. Slurping noodles is acceptable, but loud chewing is not common.

  5. Public Behavior:

    • Keep public spaces clean and quiet. Avoid speaking loudly on public transportation and use headphones when listening to music.

  6. Photography Etiquette:

    • Always ask before taking photos of individuals, especially in temples and shrines. Some places may have designated no-photo zones.

  7. Temple and Shrine Visits:

    • When visiting temples or shrines, follow the purification rituals by washing hands and mouth at the chozuya (water basin).


I look forward to guiding you on this journey. Feel free to reach out to me at [YOUR EMAIL] should you have any questions. You may also visit our company's website [YOUR COMPANY WEBSITE] for more details or to explore other amazing trips.

Safe travels!
[YOUR NAME]

Itinerary Templates @ Template.net