Sakura Season in Karuizawa Area: 8 Stunning Spring Spots for Your Cherry Blossom Journey

Cherry blossoms are now in full bloom across Japan. If you feel you may have missed the peak season elsewhere, there’s good news—spring is just beginning in the higher-elevation areas of Karuizawa and Kusatsu. In this region, cherry blossoms typically reach their peak from late April through early May, making it the perfect addition to your Golden Week travel plans. Why not enjoy the fresh spring air and admire the beauty of cherry blossoms?

Please note: For the latest information on opening hours, admission fees, and temporary closures, we kindly ask that you contact each location directly.

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The Cherry Blossom Season in the Karuizawa Area

In Nagano Prefecture and Gunma Prefecture, cherry blossom season varies depending on location and elevation, allowing visitors to enjoy the blooms from March through May. In particular, Karuizawa typically reaches peak bloom from late April to early May, making it a unique area where visitors can enjoy cherry blossoms during Golden Week (Japanese Long Public Holidays – Usually 1^st week of May). The mountain climate adds to the charm, with deep pink Yama-zakura (Wild Cherry Blossoms) trees painting the landscape in breathtaking hues.

Please note that blooming times can shift depending on the year’s temperatures, so we recommend checking the latest forecasts in advance. Golden Week is also a popular travel period, so early planning for accommodations and sightseeing is advised.

The Top 4 Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Karuizawa

This recreational complex surrounds Lake Shiozawa and is a popular destination for enjoying the beauty of nature through all four seasons. Spanning a spacious landscape, the park features a rose garden, historic buildings, shops, and restaurants. In spring, Yama-zakura (wild cherry blossoms) that colours the lakeshore reach their peak. The vivid pink blossoms set against the snow-capped backdrop of Mount Asama create a majestic spring scene unique to Karuizawa. In addition to cherry blossoms, forsythia and kobushi magnolia can also be seen, softly colouring the park with spring flowers. It’s a peaceful place where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll and a relaxing Hanami (Sakura viewing) experience.

Karuizawa Taliesin
Best Viewing Time: Late April to Early May
Address: Karuizawa, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture
Access: 9 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station | 37 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Google Maps　　Official Website

Cherry Blossoms at Jingu Temple on Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street

Located along Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street, Jingūji Temple is a relatively unknown but surprisingly good spot for cherry blossom viewing, where a Shidare-zakura (weeping cherry blossoms) tree estimated to be 400 years old blooms in stunning splendour each spring. Beloved by literary greats, this cherry tree, together with the historic stone-paved walkway, creates a tranquil scene. The 15-meter-tall weeping cherry tree gracefully spreads its branches, swaying in the spring breeze with a touch of mystique. It is a recommended spot for those who wish to quietly admire the cherry blossoms away from the hustle and bustle of tourist areas which is a short distance away.

Jingu Temple, Old Karuizawa Ginza Street
Best Viewing Time: Late April to Early May
Address: 646 Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture
Access: 4 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station | 40 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Google Maps　　Official Website

Cherry Blossoms at Yagasaki Park

Just a five-minute walk from Karuizawa Station, Yagasaki Park is a lush green space offering open views of Mount Asama and Mount Hanareyama. In spring, the park comes alive with cherry blossoms, making it a relaxing and convenient location for Hanami (Sakura viewing). Visitors can enjoy the seasonal beauty from the lawn or park benches scattered throughout the park.
With playground equipment such as swings and slides, the park is also well-suited for families with children. Whether you’re looking for a quiet moment in nature or a fun break with loved ones, Yagasaki Park is a local favourite for unwinding during a day of sightseeing.

Yagasaki Park
Best Viewing Time: Late April to Early May
Address: 646 Old Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture
Access: 5-minute walk from Karuizawa Station | 40 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Google Maps　　Official Website

Cherry Blossoms at Yukawa Furusato Park

Stretching approximately two kilometers along the Yukawa River in Karuizawa, Yukawa Furusato Park is a serene, nature-rich retreat. With open lawns, walking paths, and scattered benches, the park offers a quiet escape where visitors can enjoy the changing scenery throughout the seasons.
In spring, cherry blossoms bloom throughout the grounds, painting a gentle landscape alongside the clear-flowing Yukawa River. Beloved by both visitors and locals, this peaceful spot invites you to slow down and connect with Karuizawa’s natural beauty.

Yukawa Furusato Park
Best Viewing Time: Late April to Early May
Address: 2658-10 Naka-Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture
Access: 10 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station | 30 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Google Maps　　Official Website　　

The 4 Recommended Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots Near Karuizawa

Even if the cherry blossoms in Karuizawa are just beginning to bloom, nearby areas may already be at their peak.
For example, spots at lower elevations—such as Kaikoen Park at the Komoro Castle Ruins or Sessou Park in Miyota Town—often see earlier blooms. Meanwhile, in the higher elevation areas of North Karuizawa and Kusatsu, you might be able to enjoy later-blooming cherry blossoms.

• Cherry Blossoms at Komoro Castle Ruins – Kaikoen
• Cherry Blossoms at Sessou Park
• Cherry Blossoms at Shirane Shrine – Kusatsu Onsen
• Cherry Blossoms Trees at Mihara Section along the Azuma Riverbank – Tsumagoi Village

Cherry Blossoms at Komoro Castle Ruins – Kaikoen

Kaikoen, located in Komoro City, is a historic site that includes the ruins of a former castle, Kaiko Shrine, and the Komoro City Zoo and Amusement Park. In spring, around 500 cherry blossoms trees—including Somei Yoshino, Shidare-zakura (weeping cherry blossoms), and Yae-zakura (double-flowered cherry blossoms) varieties—burst into beautiful bloom. As each type flowers at a different time, one of the park’s charms is the extended period during which visitors can enjoy Hanami (Sakura viewing). While the cherry trees in Karuizawa are still only beginning to bloom, Kaikoen is already a popular spot for those wishing to enjoy the full splendour of the season a little earlier. A highlight is the Komoro Yae Beni Shidare, a variety unique to the area, and the park has also been selected as one of the “100 Famous Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan,” offering a setting rich in seasonal charm.

Komoro Castle Ruins – Kaikoen
Best Viewing Time: Mid to Late April
Address: 311 Ote, Komoro City, Nagano Prefecture
Access: 35 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station | 60 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Google Maps　　Official Website　　Peak Season Info

Cherry Blossoms at Sessou Park

Located in neighbouring Miyota Town, Sessou Park is one of the largest parks in the area, with spacious lawns, a baseball field, and a playground equipped with a variety of large-scale structures.  In spring, cherry blossoms and kobushi magnolias adorn the park, presenting visitors with a beautiful seasonal landscape. From the row of cherry trees lining the edge of the sports field, one can enjoy the breathtaking sight of blossoms set against the backdrop of Mount Asama—a view unique to this time of year. Ideal for picnics, strolls, or light exercise, this peaceful and nature-rich spot is ideal for a relaxed Hanami (Sakura viewing) break during your travels.

Sessou Park
Best Viewing Time: Mid to Late April
Address: 4107-42 Miyota, Miyota Town, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture
Access: 20 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station | 40 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Google Maps　　Official Website

Cherry Blossoms at Shirane Shrine – Kusatsu Onsen

Shirane Shrine in Kusatsu Onsen is known for a single Shidare-zakura (weeping cherry blossoms) tree that stands quietly within its grounds. Estimated to be 1,000 years old, this ancient variety, called Edohigan, spreads its branches wide, reaching down to the ground, and blooms beautifully from late April to early May. Its majestic appearance is breathtaking, as if stepping into another world. When the cherry blossoms reach full bloom, locals feel the arrival of spring after a long, harsh winter. This is a memorable Hanami (Sakura viewing) spot where nature and faith quietly coexist.

Shirane Shrine, Kusatsu Onsen
Best Viewing Time: Late April to Early May
Address: 538 Kusatsu, Kusatsu Town, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture
Access: 65 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station | 45 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Google Maps　　Official Website

Cherry Blossoms Trees at Mihara Section along the Agatsuma Riverbank – Tsumagoi Village

This cherry tree-lined path stretches along the Agatsuma River in Tsumagoi Village, Gunma Prefecture. Due to the cool climate, the blossoms typically reach their peak in late April, slightly later than other areas. It is known as a place where you can take your time enjoying the arrival of spring. The soft green of the riverbank and the pale pink of the cherry blossoms create a beautiful contrast, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll. At night, the trees are illuminated, casting an enchanting glow over the riverside landscape. This is a Hanami (Sakura viewing) spot worth visiting both during the day and at night for its distinct atmospheres.

Cherry Blossom Tress at Mihara Section along Agatsuma Riverbank, Tsumagoi Village​
Best Viewing Time: Late April to Early May
Address: 599 Ashioda, Tsumagoi Village, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture
Access: 45 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station | 25 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Google Maps　　Official Website

Recommended Spring Hanami (Sakura viewing) Itineraries in Karuizawa

A One-Day Cherry Blossom Viewing Tour Packed with Highlights

Day Trip: Karuizawa Station → Yagasaki Park → Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Area “Jingu Temple” → Komoro Castle Ruins Kaikoen → Komoro Whisky Distillery → Komoro IC

Starting from Karuizawa Station, this one-day model course takes you to Yagasaki Park and Jingu Temple in the Kyu-Karuizawa area for cherry blossom viewing. From there, continue on to Komoro Castle Ruins Kaikoen to immerse yourself in the beauty of spring and history. On the way back, stop by the Komoro Whisky Distillery for a relaxing break. It’s the perfect day trip to enjoy both sightseeing and cherry blossoms in one go.

Enjoy Spring in Karuizawa with a Romantic Getaway or Family Trip
1-Night, 2-Day Scenic Drive Course

Day 1: Karuizawa Taliesin → Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza “Jingu Temple” → Lunch at Tenku Dining → Check-in → Tenku Spa → Overnight at Asama Kuzanbo

Day 2: Asama Kuzanbo → Shirane Shrine in Kusatsu Onsen → Usui-Karuizawa IC

This two-day scenic drive is an ideal way to experience spring in Karuizawa. On the first day, visit Karuizawa Taliesin and Jingu Temple, where the cherry blossoms bloom in full splendour, followed by a delightful lunch at Tenku Dining. Check in at Asama Kuzanbo and unwind at the Tenku Spa for a tranquil evening. On day two, explore the riverside cherry blossoms in Tsumagoi Village and visit Shirane Shrine in Kusatsu for a journey through nature and history in the surrounding area.

It’s Not Too Late—Experience the Spring Blossoms of Karuizawa and Kusatsu in the Highlands

In the Karuizawa–Kusatsu area, cherry blossoms come into full bloom from late April to early May—a “late-blooming spring” brought about by the highland climate. Scattered throughout the region are cherry blossom spots where visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery and a leisurely atmosphere, all while avoiding the crowds.

If you wish to savour the lingering essence of spring even more deeply, a stay at Asama Kuzanbo, a villa resort embraced by nature, is highly recommended. Why not set out on a special journey, embraced by cherry blossoms and gentle warmth, in the comfort of the spring breeze?

Please note: For the most up-to-date information regarding opening hours, admission fees, or temporary closures, we kindly request that you contact each location directly.