It’s March already?! I can’t believe how fast time is flying! Here in Fukuoka, the weather is getting warmer (though there is still the occasional rain storm), vibrantly colored flowers are blooming in parks around the city, and best of all, cherry blossom (sakura) season is upon us! ?
The most wonderful feeling is walking around, turning a corner, and suddenly being met with a row of beautiful pink trees. Sakura season is such a special (though very short) period in Japan that I am trying to take in and enjoy as much of it as possible.
Today I ventured to two of Fukuoka’s famous cherry blossom spots (Nishi Park and Maizuru Park). I was a bit too early for optimal viewing though as only a few of the trees had flowers. Luckily I found a small patch of early bloomers whose canopy of pink I could enjoy from underneath.
Small flower petals fluttered down from above as little birds flitted in the branches. It was beautiful! In about a week, these parks will be completely transformed with blossoms, so I just have to be patient and wait a little bit longer…
There are many varieties of cherry blossom trees that grow in Japan, each with their unique color, petal formation, and blooming schedule. My favorite trees are the bright pink ones, though the most common is the Somei-yoshino variety known for its white petals and faint hues of pink. The anticipation of the beauty that comes when sakura trees reach their full bloom is what makes the cherry blossom season so exciting.
On the flip side, just as quickly as the flowers bloom, they also disappear – within four days to two weeks. Due to this fleeting nature, cherry blossoms have come to symbolize the transient ephemerality of life.
The most popular activity to do during cherry blossom season is hanami or cherry blossom viewing! This is a festive time where friends and families picnic together under the trees and consume bentos (packaged lunch sets) and (usually) alcohol. Many times there is more eating and drinking than actual flower viewing ?.
Because of the ongoing pandemic, this year’s hanami is discouraged. Even without large picnics, luckily we can still enjoy the trees around!
The trees aren’t the only things transforming, shops and stores are too! The cherry blossom excitement is big- seasonal sakura flavored foods and drinks have taken over restaurant menus and products, and cherry blossom decorations can be spotted everywhere you look. I enjoyed a sakura crunch latte in a local cafe – it was pretty and delicious!
I also sampled a whipped sakura and matcha cream mochi donut from the popular donut chain, Mister Donut. (A little too sweet for me, but very unique!)
I am grateful to be able to experience Japan’s cherry blossom season this year and am eager to see how the city transforms in full bloom. Fingers crossed for good weather and a long viewing period!
Looking for more flower love? Be sure to check out these other blog posts about Japan’s breathtaking nature!
- Spring and Summer Flower Guide: Fukuoka, Japan | Fukuoka – The best times and places to see flora in Fukuoka!
- Kawachi Wisteria Garden | Fukuoka – Breathtaking purple, magenta, and white archways of hanging wisteria flowers.
- Weekend in Yanagawa: Hina-matsuri, Canal Punting, and Cherry Blossoms | Yanagawa – Breathtaking cherry blossoms and canals.
- Nanohana Fields in Fukuoka, 菜の花 | Fukuoka – Fields of bright yellow mustard greens
Want to learn about more things to do in Fukuoka? Check out this post: What to Do in Fukuoka – 20 Local Recs to Add To Your Itinerary
Where to Stay in Fukuoka
If you are looking for a place to stay in the heart of Fukuoka, here are the areas I recommend.
Near Hakata Station
Hakata Station is the main transportation hub for Fukuoka and the rest of Kyushu. Shinkansens, trains, subway lines, and buses – all connect with Hakata Station. Fukuoka Airport is also conveniently located just a 5-minute subway ride away. If convenient travel is a top priority, then booking a hotel near Hakata Station is recommended!
High-end: Miyako Hotel Hakata is located on the eastern side (Chikushi-guchi) of Hakata Station, mere minutes walk from the exit. Breakfast is served on the upper floors with a grand view of the city below. I have also had visitors stay at Nikko Hotel Fukuoka who enjoyed their stay.
Budget: APA Hotel is a large chain with many locations around Japan. The rooms are economical (aka a bit small) but have everything you need for a simple stay.
Tenjin and Daimyo
Tenjin is a bustling business district full of shops, bars, restaurants, and more. The area is super walkable and connects to Hakata Station easily via bus or train. Expect a louder and more dynamic atmosphere.
High-end: For a top-tier stay, you can’t go wrong with the recently built Ritz-Carlton that overlooks the brand-new Daimyo Garden City area.
Many hotels also line Watanabe-dori which is a large streets between Hakata Station / Canal City area and Tenjin.
Staying Outside of the City
For a truly unique stay outside of the city, I recommend Craft Inn Te in Yame. Read about what it’s like to stay at this art-themed accommodation here!
For a luxurious getaway by the sea, Itoshima is my top recommendation. This area is great for cycling, winter oyster huts, seaside cafes, hiking, and more. A great place to stay in Itoshima is the newly built seven x seven Hotel that sits right out over the water. Learn more about Itoshima in my full guide!