Cherry blossom etiquette in Japan: dos and don'ts

A few simple rules keep the trees healthy and the parks pleasant for everyone.

Culture · 4 min read

Do not touch the trees

Never pull, shake or climb branches, and do not pick flowers. Cherry trees are fragile and damaged bark lets in disease.

Do not step over ropes or onto roots for a better angle. Avoid blocking narrow paths with tripods, and respect no tripod signs.

Only lay tarps where it is allowed, and take every piece of rubbish with you. Follow local rules on alcohol and noise.

Typical sakura bloom dates for Okinawa, Kyushu, Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Tohoku and Hokkaido, and how to time your trip for full bloom.

Everything you need for hanami in Japan: what to bring, how to save a spot, picnic food, park rules and etiquette under the cherry trees.

Where to see sakura in Tokyo: Ueno park, Shinjuku Gyoen, Meguro river, Chidorigafuchi, Sumida park and quieter local favorites.