Hakodate Cherry Blossom Season
Hakodate
The cherry blossom season in Hakodate usually takes place in late April to early May, depending on the weather and other factors. During the cherry blossom season, Hakodate is transformed into a beautiful pink paradise.
The city has many places where you can enjoy cherry blossoms, such as Goryokaku Park, which is a famous spot for cherry blossom viewing in Hakodate. This park is located in the center of the city and is one of the few star-shaped fortresses in the world. It has over 1,600 cherry trees, including someiyoshino, yaezakura, and weeping cherry trees, which create a stunning scenery.
Another popular cherry blossom spot in Hakodate is the Onuma Quasi-National Park. This park is located about 30 minutes from the city center and has a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains. The park has over 10,000 cherry trees, which bloom in late April to early May.
In addition to these spots, there are many other places in Hakodate where you can enjoy cherry blossoms;
Hakodate Park: Located on a hill overlooking the city, Hakodate Park offers a serene and picturesque setting for cherry blossom viewing. The park is filled with cherry trees, and visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll while admiring the beautiful flowers.
Motomachi: This historic district is known for its Western-style architecture and charming atmosphere. The streets are lined with cherry trees, creating a romantic and nostalgic ambiance.
Mount Hakodate: For a truly unforgettable experience, take a cable car up to Mount Hakodate and enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding area. The mountain is a popular spot for viewing cherry blossoms, especially at night when the city is illuminated.
Tsugaru Strait: The Tsugaru Strait, which separates Hokkaido from the main island of Honshu, offers stunning views of the cherry blossoms in bloom. Visitors can take a boat tour or simply enjoy the view from the shore.
Cultural Events and Traditions
The cherry blossom season in Hakodate is celebrated with a variety of cultural events and traditions. One of the most popular events is the Hakodate Cherry Blossom Festival, which takes place in late April or early May. The festival features a variety of activities, including food stalls, live music, and traditional performances.
Another popular tradition is hanami, which means "flower viewing." During hanami, people gather under the cherry trees to enjoy picnics, drink sake, and socialize with friends and family. Hanami is a popular activity in Japan and is considered a symbol of spring and renewal.
Overall, the cherry blossom season in Hakodate is a magical time of the year when the city is filled with stunning pink hues and joyful festivities. Below are a selection of images, there are plenty more in the main Hakodate Gallery. We visited in the 3rd week of April, so the blossom season wasn't in full swing. We nonetheless, we got to some great images.
