Cherry blossom season is in full flight in Japan’s ancient capital Kyoto, and what better way to see the sakura than Maruyama Park in Gion?
Pure white with a shade of pink makes for the perfect sakura petals, brightening up the atmosphere everywhere you see them. In the heart of Kyoto, Maruyama Park is one of the oldest and most iconic nature spots, its beauty which gives a highlight of every season that passes.
The iconic “umbrella tree”
You haven’t seen a sakura tree until you’ve seen this iconic umbrella tree, the pride and joy of Maruyama Park.
As the oldest tree in the oldest park of Kyoto, its branches dangle to create a mesmerizing effect (like the whomping willow from Harry Potter).
In spring, its beauty is magnified with dangling pink petals that wave gently with the windy breeze.
Sakura for every man and his dog!
Sakura season truly is a time for all, because no matter how hard-headed you are, their enchanting beauty simply cannot be denied.
Japan’s cherry blossoms are a one-hit wonder, aweing the world with their beauty but perishing in the blink of an eye, hence, they have become a metaphor for the passing of time in Japanese culture.
Such a rare occasion calls for every man and his dog to stop what they’re doing and take a moment to appreciate the magic of nature.
Cherry blossom picnic paradise!
The best way to appreciate the cherry blossoms is to whip out a rug and set up a picnic on the grass patches of Maruyama Park.
You can even enjoy access to a variety of food stalls in celebration of hanami or “cherry blossom viewing,” enjoying delights such as takoyaki, fried potatoes, wagyu beef, and more!
So if you’re in Kyoto during cherry blossom season, be sure to hit up Maruyama Park just by the Yasaka Shrine in the geisha district of Gion!
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!