Stunning streetlight sakura and quiet magical walks are just a few reasons you need to experience Japan’s cherry blossoms at night!
Having lived in Japan for over a year, when I look back at my journey so far, I can’t help but realize that my most magical walks outside took place during the dark of the night.
This was particularly true during spring as I was blown away by the beauty of the sakura trees long after the sun had set for the day. Here are three major reasons to experience Japan’s cherry blossoms at night!
Bright Like The Stars!
One of the most attractive components of the cherry blossom is its bright colors and bountiful abundance with thousands of petals on just a single tree.
As I walked through the street-lit areas of Kyoto, I was taken aback at the potency of these plump cherry blossom trees even in the dead of night!
All it takes is a little light from the streetlamps or even a full moon to unveil the bright pink cherry blossom petals as they contrast brilliantly against the night sky.
No Crowds At Popular Landmarks
Visiting a castle or shrine at night has amazing benefits, from the glorious bright spotlights to the serenity of a peaceful, crowdless environment.
I visited Kyoto’s iconic Fushimi Momoyama Castle during the cherry blossom season and was gobsmacked at the castle’s beauty when the evening struck.
The surrounding cherry blossoms shone brilliantly with the bright white lights, allowing you to see the intricate details of each individual petal from afar while igniting a stark contrast with the twilight skies.
Magical Fluorescence
There is definitely a “sweet spot” as far as viewing cherry blossoms at night goes.
Indeed, there is a point between day and night (the twilight zone perhaps?) where what is left of the daylight is reflected off the bright pink cherry blossoms to create a magical fluorescent atmosphere.
This photo was taken on the grounds of Fushimi Momoyama Castle as the sun descended.
Perhaps the bright white lights of the vending machine contributed to this magical shot.
Who knows? Life is a mystery.
Of course, if you are planning to visit Japan, you’ll need a way to get around the country as efficiently and affordably as possible. Japan Rail provides an abundance of travel passes to suit your travel needs. So whether you are traveling individually or as a group, the JR Pass is every traveler’s go-to for getting around and making the most of your time in Japan!