Photo © Trevor Dobson on Flickr
#1: The Classic Sakura Experience
From the Philosopher’s Path to world-famous Arashiyama, Kyoto is home to a range of sights that are nothing short of magical all year long and that become even more spectacular during cherry blossom season. Find a round-up of hanami favourites in this useful guide, compiled by Japan Rail Pass…
Photo © Tetsuhiro Terada on Flickr
#2: The Off-the-Beaten Track Experience: Sakura Spots on the Edges of Kyoto
It’s no longer a secret that Kyoto is one of the most stunning cities to see the iconic cherry blossoms so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that you won’t be the only one wanting to get your slice of cherry blossom paradise. But do not fear, there are some quiet spots to enjoy Kyoto blossoms the offbeat way. All you have to do is venture out into Kyoto’s surrounding hills and suburbs. And the best bit? Most of are quite conveniently accessed by public transport, so you can easily enjoy them at your own leisurely pace…Sounds too good to be true? See for yourself…
Photo © Kyoto City Tourism Association
#3: The Nighttime Experience: Cherry Blossom Illuminations
Kyoto’s cherry blossoms are no doubt a spectacular sight during the day but did you know that, thanks to a variety of light-up events, you can have a night time cherry blossom experience that is just as magical? And in true Kyoto style, the illuminations happen in the most magical of settings such as historic castles, botanical gardens, beautiful temples, and, if you’re lucky, as part of a festival. Here is a selection of our favourite light-up events…
#4: The Waterway Experience: Cherry Blossom from the water
See the cherry blossoms the cruisey way by enjoying this great experience that allows you to witness the magical blossom views while drifting down the Okazaki canal. How about this for an unforgettable cherry blossom experience?
OTHER EVENTS
Photo © Kyoto City Tourism Association
The Sagano Romantic Train in the Hozu River Valley
Do train rides get any more romantic than this? Enjoy the beautiful seasonal scenery of the Hozu River Valley from Truck Saga Station to Kameoka Station. The Sagano Romantic Train runs from Saga Station to Kameoka Station, on a track of 7.3 kilometers and through 8 tunnels for a popular 25 minute scenic rail journey that allows riders to enjoy the beautiful seasonal scenery of the Hozu River Valley.
When: 1 Mar-29 Dec 2020
Where: Hozu River Valley
Photo © Kyoto City Tourism Association
Boat Ride Through Fushimi, Sake Brewery District
Enjoy the unique scenery of the Fushimi district at your leisure from atop the canal waters. The “jikkoku-bune” is a boat that carried rice, sake, and travellers along the Yodo River during the Edo Period (1603-1868). Back in commission as a sightseeing boat, the boat carries twenty passengers for a 50 minute round-trip journey along the Uji River, with its scenery of sake breweries and willow trees.
When: 20 Mar-early Dec 2020
Where: Boarding from behind the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum
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