Cherry blossom season is one of the most anticipated times of the year for travelers, drawing visitors to parks and gardens filled with delicate pink and white blooms. With so many stunning festivals worldwide, knowing which ones truly stand out can be a challenge.
To help cherry blossom enthusiasts plan their perfect trip, Japan Rail Pass has analyzed top festivals based on factors like flower vibrancy, Instagram popularity, and visitor experience, revealing the best cherry blossom festivals to visit in 2025.
1. National Cherry Blossom Festival – Washington, D.C., USA
Topping the list with an impressive 8.43/10 score, the National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C., is the world’s best place to admire these stunning blooms. The festival has deep historical roots, dating back to 1912 when Japan gifted the U.S. 3,000 cherry trees as a symbol of friendship.
With a flower vibrancy score of 8.19/10 and over 13,700 Instagram hashtags, this festival is a social media favorite. Visitors can enjoy parades, cultural performances, and waterfront strolls beneath a canopy of breathtaking pink blossoms along the Tidal Basin.
2. Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival – Canada
Canada’s Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival secures second place with a score of 8.41/10. Founded in 2005, this festival celebrates the 43,000 cherry trees that transform the city into a pink paradise each spring.
Vancouver’s cherry blossoms receive a flower vibrancy score of 7.52/10, with community events, live music, and outdoor picnics making it a must-visit destination. Visitors can capture the stunning blooms in Queen Elizabeth Park, Stanley Park, and VanDusen Botanical Garden, where the trees put on a spectacular show.
3. Nihonbashi Sakura Festival – Tokyo, Japan
In third place, with a total score of 7.8/10, is Japan’s Nihonbashi Sakura Festival. Known for seamlessly blending tradition and modernity, this festival features breathtaking illuminated cherry blossom displays that create a dreamlike experience.
With a remarkable flower vibrancy score of 8.02/10, visitors can enjoy the beauty of Tokyo’s sakura trees while indulging in sakura-infused teas, desserts, and seasonal delicacies at local cafes.
Meguro River Cherry Blossom Festival – Tokyo, Japan
Japan claims another spot in the ranking with the Meguro River Cherry Blossom Festival, which earns a score of 7.69/10. Located in Tokyo, this festival is famous for its illuminated cherry blossoms reflecting on the water, creating one of the most photogenic hanami (flower-viewing) experiences in the world.
With a flower vibrancy score of 8.11/10, the stunning contrast of soft pink petals against the calm waters of the Meguro River makes this an unforgettable springtime destination.
Copenhagen Sakura Festival – Denmark
Rounding out the top five is the Copenhagen Sakura Festival, held in Langelinie Park in Denmark’s capital. With a score of 7.63/10, this festival has been an annual tradition since 2008, celebrating Japan’s cultural connection with Denmark.
Visitors are treated to traditional Japanese performances, tea ceremonies, and martial arts demonstrations, all while enjoying cherry blossoms that received a flower vibrancy score of 8.19/10.
| Rank | Flower Spot | Location | Review Rating | Instagram Hashtags | Flower Vibrancy/10 | Score/10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | National Cherry Blossom Festival | United States (Washington, D.C.) | 4.5 | 13,700 | 8.19 | 8.43 |
| 2 | Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival | Canada | 5 | 1,000 | 7.52 | 8.41 |
| 3 | Nihonbashi Sakura Festival | Japan | 4 | 100 | 8.02 | 7.8 |
| 4 | Meguro River Cherry Blossom Festival | Japan | 4.5 | 100 | 8.11 | 7.69 |
| 5 | Copenhagen Sakura Festival | Denmark | 4.5 | 100 | 8.19 | 7.63 |
| 6 | Kawazuzakura Festival | Japan | 4.5 | 100 | 9.39 | 7.5 |
| 7 | Matsumae Cherry Blossom Festival | Japan | 4.5 | 100 | 6.39 | 7.47 |
| 8 | Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival | Japan | 4.5 | 1,000 | 7.94 | 7.42 |
| 9 | Bokutei (Sumida Park) Cherry Blossom Festival | Japan | 4 | 0 | 6.06 | 7.01 |
| 10 | Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival | Japan | 4.5 | 100 | 5.96 | 7.02 |
Where Will You See Cherry Blossoms This Spring?
With so many breathtaking festivals around the world, cherry blossom lovers have no shortage of travel inspiration. Whether you prefer the historic trees of Washington, D.C., the serene parks of Vancouver, or the vibrant festivals of Japan, spring 2025 promises unforgettable experiences for flower enthusiasts.
Which cherry blossom festival is on your bucket list? Let us know in the comments!
