If you’ve missed the typical season of cherry blossom blooming, which can begin as early mid-Feb, fear not there is still hope.

There are some places in the Kanto region and Tokyo where the cherry blossoms only bloom in Mid-May. In fact, there is even a Japanese proverb saying, "Good flowers are blooming later", which is indicative that these late-blooming cherry blossom could be even more impressive.

So check out these 5 great cherry blossoms, or sakura, viewing spots.   

1. Koganei Park

Koganei Park is a wide park which extends across to the 4 cities of Koganei City, Musashino City, Kodaira City, and Nishitokyo City.

There are about 50 types and a total of 1,700 cherry blossom trees are planted in this park. In particular, about 430 cherry blossom trees are gathered in the Sakura Garden, and the gorgeous view could be enjoyed here from end March to end April.

Best viewing period of cherry blossom: end March to end April

Address: 1-13-1 Sekino-cho, Koganei-shi, Tokyo

2. Shinjuku Gyoen

There are about 65 types of total 1,000 cherry blossoms trees are blooming in full characteristics in this paradise garden, where you are available to enjoy cherry blossom viewing for a long period. In addition, you can view the about 300 Yae-Zakura trees which blooming gorgeously from early April until end April.

The access to the garden is convenient as it is just nearby the train station. Besides, it is an important cultural asset, at the same time a rare place in the city which allows for the viewing of various flowers and culture.

Best viewing period of cherry blossom: mid-February to late April

Opening Hours: 9:00 ~ 16:30 (Garden Closed at 16:00)

Fixed Holiday: Monday (If Monday falls on Public Holiday the next day will be replaced as substitute Public Holiday, no off-day from 25th March to 24th April 2018)

Address: 11, Naito-machi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

Entrance fee: Adult 200 yen, primary and secondary school student 50 yen, kids are free of charge

3. Chichibu

There are actually several viewing places for the cherry blossoms in the Chichibu area. Such as Nagatoro and Minoyama Park which can be viewed until early May.

There are also many recommended sceneries which you shouldn’t miss it such as the cherry blossom tunnel connecting from Nagatoro station to Arakawa, and Yae cherry blossoms which are growing along the road to double cherry blossoms along the road to Hodosan Shrine.

There are direct trains departing from city area which only takes you less than 2 hours to arrive, so it is known as easy access and famous sightseeing attraction spot.

Best viewing period of cherry blossom: mid of April to early May

Address: Chichibu city in Saitama Prefecture, Nagatoro city in Chichibu-gun, etc.

4. Hakone Park

Near the magnificent scenery of Ashinoko Lake and Mt. Fuji, is a good place for cherry blossoms viewing. Hakone offers a viewing spot for various types of cherry blossoms, and the latest blooming cherry blossom.  

Best viewing period of cherry blossom: mid- of April to early May

Address: 171, Motomachi, Hakone-cho, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture

5. Sakura No Sato

Sakura no Sato has up to 45 types and 5,000 cherry blossom trees growing around in this wide garden which is located at Myogi Mountain famous with unique rocks. The contrast between the cherry blossoms and the strange rock has created the wonderful landscape. It is recommended for you to wear in casual and easy walking since there are several small mountains and valleys in the park.

Best viewing period of cherry blossom: mid-April to early May

Opening hours: 9:00 ~ 16:30 (flower blooming time 8:30 ~ 17:00)

Address: 1252, Kamiosaka, Shimonita-cho, Kanra-gun, Gumma Prefecture