Guide to Types of Sakura in Japan

Cherry blossoms, or sakura, are a symbol of spring in Japan, representing renewal and the fleeting nature of life. With over 200 cultivars, sakura vary in color, petal count, and bloom time. Below is a guide to the most notable types found across Japan.

1. Somei Yoshino (Yoshino Cherry)

Characteristics: The most common sakura, with five pale pink petals that turn almost white when fully bloomed. Blooms early spring (late March to early April).
Blooming Period: Mid-to-late March in southern Japan (e.g., Kyushu), early April in Tokyo and Kyoto.
Where to See: Ueno Park (Tokyo), Maruyama Park (Kyoto), Himeji Castle (Hyogo).
Fun Fact: Accounts for about 80% of cherry trees in Japan, often used as a benchmark for bloom forecasts.

2. Yamazakura (Mountain Cherry)

Characteristics: A wild variety with five light pink petals, often blooming alongside young reddish leaves. Slightly darker than Somei Yoshino.
Blooming Period: Early to mid-April, often a bit later than Somei Yoshino.
Where to See: Yoshino Mountain (Nara), mountainous areas like Nikko (Tochigi).
Fun Fact: One of Japan’s native species, often found in natural settings rather than urban parks.

3. Shidarezakura (Weeping Cherry)

Characteristics: Features cascading branches with five pink or white petals, resembling a waterfall. Can be single or double-petaled.
Blooming Period: Early to mid-April, depending on the region.
Where to See: Miharu Takizakura (Fukushima), Rikugien Garden (Tokyo), Hirosaki Castle (Aomori).
Fun Fact: The Miharu Takizakura, over 1,000 years old, is one of Japan’s most famous weeping cherries.

4. Kanzan (Kanzan Cherry)

Characteristics: Vibrant, double-petaled (20–30 petals) deep pink flowers. Blooms later than Somei Yoshino, creating a bold contrast.
Blooming Period: Mid-to-late April.
Where to See: Shinjuku Gyoen (Tokyo), Arashiyama (Kyoto), Mount Yoshino (Nara).
Fun Fact: Often planted alongside Somei Yoshino to extend the hanami (cherry blossom viewing) season.

5. Kawazuzakura

Characteristics: Bright pink, five-petaled flowers that bloom earlier than most varieties. A hybrid named after Kawazu in Shizuoka.
Blooming Period: Late February to early March.
Where to See: Kawazu River (Shizuoka), Minami-Izu (Shizuoka).
Fun Fact: Popular for early hanami, attracting visitors before the main sakura season.

6. Yaezakura (Double-Layered Cherry)

Characteristics: Multi-layered flowers with 10 or more petals, ranging from pale pink to deep pink. Includes varieties like Kanzan.
Blooming Period: Mid-to-late April.
Where to See: Ueno Park (Tokyo), Inokashira Park (Tokyo), Himeji Castle (Hyogo).
Fun Fact: The name “yaezakura” refers to the “double” (yae) layers, giving a fuller, fluffier appearance.

7. Kanhizakura

Characteristics: Bell-shaped, deep pink to red flowers with five petals. Blooms in warmer climates, often mistaken for plum blossoms.
Blooming Period: January to March.
Where to See: Okinawa, Yaeyama Islands, southern Kyushu.
Fun Fact: Okinawa’s earliest-blooming sakura, kicking off Japan’s cherry blossom season.

8. Ukon

Characteristics: Rare, with double-petaled (10–20 petals) pale yellow or greenish flowers. Named after turmeric (ukon in Japanese).
Blooming Period: Mid-April.
Where to See: Ginkakuji (Kyoto), Osaka Castle Park (Osaka).
Fun Fact: Stands out among pink-dominated sakura, offering a unique hue.

Tips for Sakura Viewing

Check Bloom Forecasts: The Japan Meteorological Agency provides annual sakura bloom predictions.
Plan for Hanami: Bring a picnic mat, snacks, and respect local rules (e.g., no alcohol in some parks).
Visit Early or Late: Avoid crowds by viewing sakura at dawn or during evening yozakura (nighttime illuminations).
Combine Varieties: Parks like Shinjuku Gyoen or Ueno feature multiple types for a diverse experience.

Cultural Significance

Sakura embody mono no aware, the Japanese concept of the transient beauty of life. Hanami gatherings under blooming trees date back to the Nara period (710–794), evolving from admiring plum blossoms to cherishing sakura. Today, sakura season draws millions to parks, temples, and riversides.

Enjoy Japan’s sakura season by exploring these diverse varieties, each offering a unique glimpse into the country’s natural and cultural heritage.