🌸 2026 Ultimate Guide: 13 Best Cherry Blossom Festivals in Central Japan (Nagoya, Gifu, Mie, Shizuoka)

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As the winter chill fades and plum blossoms begin to bud, Japan prepares for its most spectacular season: “Sakura” (Cherry Blossoms). From ancient castles framed by pink petals to ethereal night illuminations and rare fragrant varieties, the Tokai region (Nagoya and its surrounding prefectures) offers a sophisticated spring experience. We have curated 13 premier locations for 2026 that blend traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern luxury—perfect for discerning travelers seeking the soul of Japan.

1. Hamamatsu Castle Park Cherry Blossom Festival (Shizuoka): The “Castle of Success” Surrounded by Rare Varieties

Built by Tokugawa Ieyasu—the Great Unifier of Japan—Hamamatsu Castle is known as the “Castle of Success” because its lords often rose to the highest positions in the shogunate. In spring, the castle is enveloped by a breathtaking tapestry of Somei Yoshino, weeping cherries (Shidare-zakura), mountain cherries (Yama-zakura), and Oshima-zakura.

The contrast between the “Nozura-zumi” (rugged, natural stone) walls and the delicate pink petals is a masterpiece of Japanese landscape. Within the park, the “Shointei” tea house offers a serene, luxury experience where you can enjoy premium matcha and seasonal wagashi while gazing at a traditional garden (Closed Mondays). At night, the castle is illuminated until 10:00 PM, creating a majestic silhouette against the spring sky.

・Event Dates March 20 (Fri, National Holiday) – April 5 (Sun), 2026
・Sakura Data [Peak Season] Late March – Early April [Illumination] Park trees until 9:00 PM / Castle Keep until 10:00 PM [Food Stalls] Available
・Address 100-2 Motoshiro-cho, Chuo-ku, Hamamatsu-shi, Shizuoka
・Access 6-minute walk from “Shiyakusho Minami” bus stop (via bus from JR Hamamatsu Station). 20-minute walk from JR Hamamatsu Station.
・Access by Car 30 minutes from Tomei Hamamatsu IC or Hamamatsu Nishi IC.
・Hours Park is open 24 hours. *Castle Keep entry until 4:30 PM (Hours may be extended).
・Parking Approx. 220 spaces (Paid).
*Private parking near the park is available (8:00 AM – 9:30 PM) if the main lot is full.
*Note: During the festival, parking near the park may require advance reservation. Using a private hire (limousine) or public transport is the smoothest option.

2. Okazaki Park “Okazaki Cherry Blossom Festival” (Aichi): A Top 100 Scenic Spot with Riverside Grandeur

Okazaki Castle is the birthplace of the legendary Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. Listed as one of the “Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan,” this park and the surrounding Otogawa and Igagawa rivers boast approximately 800 Somei Yoshino trees. The view of the endless pink tunnel stretching along the riverbanks is an essential Japanese spring experience.

The night illumination is particularly spectacular, with the castle glowing amidst the soft pink glow of the blossoms. Recently, high-end food trucks and designer tents have added a modern culinary dimension to the festival. Enjoy local delicacies like “Hatcho Miso” dishes while soaking in a landscape that defines the perfection of traditional Japan.

・Event Dates Late March – Early April 2026 (Tentative)
*Dates may change depending on the blooming status.
・Sakura Data [Peak Season] Late March – Early April [Illumination] Available [Food Stalls] Available (Food trucks and tent stalls planned)
・Okazaki Park Address 561-1 Kosei-cho, Okazaki-shi, Aichi
・Access 15-minute walk from Aichi Loop Railway Naka-Okazaki Station or Meitetsu Higashi-Okazaki Station.
・Access by Car Approx. 10 minutes from Tomei Expressway Okazaki IC.
・Parking *Note: During the festival, parking near the park may require advance reservation. Using a private hire (limousine) or public transport is the smoothest option.

3. Nagoya Castle Spring Festival (Aichi): Golden Shachihoko and the Rare Green “Gyoi-ko” Sakura

As the symbol of Nagoya, the castle grounds were extensively planted with Somei Yoshino after WWII to develop it as a world-class tourism landmark. Today, about 10 different varieties bloom here.

For the beauty-conscious traveler, the “Gyoi-ko” variety (blooming in mid-April) is a must-see. Its petals are a mysterious light green, reminiscent of the noble robes of the ancient imperial court. The combination of the newly restored, gold-leafed Honmaru Palace and the surrounding blossoms provides a profound encounter with Japanese “Takumi” (craftsmanship). The illuminated castle tower at night is the ultimate highlight of any Nagoya luxury itinerary.

・Event Dates Late March – Early May 2026 (Tentative)
・Sakura Data [Peak Season] Late March – Early April [Illumination] Available (Tentative) [Food Stalls] Available (Tentative)
・Nagoya Castle Address 1-1 Honmaru, Naka-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi
・Hours 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM *Entry to Honmaru Palace and Nishinomaru Okura Museum until 4:00 PM.
・Closed Dec 29 – 31, Jan 1 (Subject to change during events)
・Admission Adults 500 yen / Junior High Students and under: Free / Nagoya Seniors (65+): 100 yen (ID required).
・Access 5-minute walk from Nagoya Castle Station (Exit 7).
・Access by Car Approx. 5 minutes from Nagoya Expressway Marunouchi IC.
・Parking *Note: During the festival, parking near the park may require advance reservation. Using a private hire (limousine) or public transport is the smoothest option.

4. Tsuruma Park Cherry Blossom Festival (Aichi): A Fusion of Western and Japanese Garden Aesthetics

Established in 1909 as Nagoya’s first city park, this vast space harmoniously blends a formal Western-style garden with a traditional Japanese stroll garden. Registered as a national cultural monument, its historical value is matched by the beauty of its 750 Somei Yoshino trees.

During the Sakura Festival, the park is transformed by ethereal night lighting. The “Gazebo” (Bandstand) area is particularly photogenic, offering a classic architectural backdrop for the blossoms. With upscale food trucks serving artisanal street food, Tsuruma Park offers a refined way to experience Japan’s authentic “Hanami” (flower viewing) culture.

・Event Dates Late March – Early April 2026
・Sakura Data [Peak Season] Late March – Early April [Illumination] Available [Food Stalls] Available
・Tsuruma Park Address 1 Tsurumai, Showa-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi
・Hours Open 24 hours. *Nagoya City Greenery Center: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed Mondays, 3rd Wednesdays, and New Year holidays).
・Admission Free
・Access 1-minute walk from Tsurumai Station (JR/Subway).
・Access by Car Approx. 5 minutes from Nagoya Expressway Fukiage Higashi IC.
・Parking Available (Paid: 200 yen per 30 mins).
*Weekday max: 1400 yen (Not applicable on weekends/holidays).
*Note: During the festival, parking near the park may require advance reservation. Using a private hire (limousine) or public transport is the smoothest option.

5. Higashiyama Sky Tower & Botanical Gardens Spring Festival (Aichi): The “Cherry Blossom Corridor” with 1,000 Trees

This world-class facility features 450 animal species and over 7,000 plant species, including a greenhouse designated as a National Important Cultural Property. The “Sakura Corridor” is the crown jewel, featuring 1,000 trees across 100 varieties. Because different species bloom at different times, you can enjoy a long viewing season from early March to late April.

The special “Evening Yaezakura Stroll” extends opening hours, illuminating the many-petaled Yaezakura varieties. This late-blooming species is known for its lush, rose-like appearance. Walking through the illuminated botanical garden at night is a peaceful, intellectual escape that showcases the diversity and deeper charm of the sakura world.

・Event Dates March 14 (Sat) – May 6 (Wed, Holiday), 2026
・Sakura Data [Peak Season] Early March – Late April [Illumination] Available
・”Evening Yaezakura Stroll” runs from April 4 (Sat) – April 12 (Sun), 2026 (Except April 6). Botanical garden hours are extended for this period.
・Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens Address 3-70 Higashiyama Motomachi, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi
・Hours 9:00 AM – 4:50 PM (Final entry 4:30 PM).
・Closed Mondays (if Monday is a holiday, the next day), Dec 29 – Jan 1.
・Admission Adults 500 yen / Junior High Students and under: Free.
・Access 3-minute walk from Higashiyama Koen Station or 7-minute walk from Hoshigaoka Station.
・Access by Car 15 minutes from Tomei Expressway Nagoya IC.
・Parking Available (800 yen per visit).
*Note: During the festival, parking near the park may require advance reservation. Using a private hire (limousine) or public transport is the smoothest option.

6. Togokusan Fruit Park Weeping Cherry Festival (Aichi): Elegant Shidare-zakura in a Fruitful Paradise

Located at the foot of Nagoya’s highest peak, Mount Togoku, this unique botanical park features 17 types of orchards. The star of spring here is the “Shidare-zakura” (Weeping Cherry). Approximately 1,000 trees drape their pink branches like curtains of flowers—a more graceful and traditional aesthetic compared to the standard Somei Yoshino.

You can also explore the “World Tropical Fruit Greenhouse,” showcasing exotic plants like avocado and mango. For the health-conscious traveler, the onsite cafe serves desserts made with fresh, vitamin-rich fruits. It is a true urban oasis where beauty and wellness meet the splendor of spring.

・Event Dates Late March – Mid-April 2026 (Tentative)
・Sakura Data [Peak Season] Late March – Early April [Illumination] None [Food Stalls] Available
・Togokusan Fruit Park Address 2110 Azatogoku, Oaza Kamishidami, Moriyama-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi
・Hours 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
・Closed Mondays (if Monday is a holiday, the next day), Dec 29 – Jan 3.
・Admission Free (Greenhouse: Adults 300 yen / Junior High Students and under: Free).
・Access 25-minute walk from Kozoji Station (JR/Aichi Loop Railway).
・Access by Car Approx. 10 minutes from Tomei Expressway Moriyama Smart IC.
・Parking 840 spaces (Free, but a fee is charged during events).
*Note: During the festival, parking near the park may require advance reservation. Using a private hire (limousine) or public transport is the smoothest option.

7. Atago Park Night Illumination (Gifu): Viewing the Castle Town of Gujo Hachiman

Gujo Hachiman is a historic town famous for its pristine water and castle. Atago Park, overlooking this charming townscape and Gujo Hachiman Castle, is officially recognized as one of the “33 Top Sakura Spots in Hida-Mino.”

The park serves as a serene sanctuary for locals. In spring, when the roughly 80 trees are in full bloom, the night illumination reveals the majestic castle glowing on the mountain peak behind the blossoms. For travelers seeking the spiritual “Zen” of a small Japanese town away from the city crowds, this is an unforgettable destination.

・Event Dates Early – Mid-April 2026 (Tentative)
・Sakura Data [Peak Season] Early – Mid-April [Illumination] Available (Tentative) [Food Stalls] None
・Atago Park Address 85 Shimatani, Hachiman-cho, Gujo-shi, Gifu
・Hours Open 24 hours.
・Admission Free
・Access 5 minutes from Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway Gujo Hachiman IC.
・Parking 150 spaces (Paid on holidays: Atago Municipal Parking).
*Note: During the festival, parking near the park may require advance reservation. Using a private hire (limousine) or public transport is the smoothest option.

8. Shinkai Riverbank Hyakujuro Sakura (Gifu): A 4km Tunnel of 1,000 Trees with a Kabuki Legacy

A stunning 4km stretch of approximately 1,000 Somei Yoshino trees lines both banks of the Shinkai River. These trees are named “Hyakujuro Sakura” after the legendary local Kabuki actor, Ichikawa Hyakujuro, who donated the saplings as a symbol of community bonds.

Walking along the river, you are enveloped by an endless pink tunnel—a dream for photographers. While the main festival at Kakamigahara Civic Park is lively, walking further down the banks allows for a more contemplative, private appreciation of spring’s vitality and the town’s artistic history.

・Event Dates March 28 (Sat) – April 5 (Sun), 2026
・Location: Kakamigahara Civic Park, Manabi-no-Mori, etc.
・Sakura Data [Peak Season] Late March – Early April [Illumination] None [Food Stalls] Available
・Shinkai Riverbank Hyakujuro Sakura Address Near Naka Monzen-cho, Kakamigahara-shi, Gifu
・Hours Open 24 hours.
・Access Right next to Meitetsu Kakamigahara Line Shiminkoen-mae Station. 10-minute walk from JR Takayama Line Naka Station.
・Access by Car 10 minutes from Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway Gifu Kakamigahara IC.
・Parking 500 spaces (Paid).
*Note: During the festival, parking near the park may require advance reservation. Using a private hire (limousine) or public transport is the smoothest option.

9. Kamagatani “76th Ikeda Sakura Festival” (Gifu): A Mist of 1,500 Blossoms in a Scenic Valley

The name “Kamagatani” (Mist Valley) comes from the way the 1,500 trees—including Somei Yoshino, Yama-zakura, and Edo-higan—look like a delicate pink mist when viewed from a distance. This valley is a designated National Place of Scenic Beauty.

During the festival, the weeping cherries at the Sakura Kaikan and the trees along the Fureai Road are illuminated, creating a dreamlike landscape against the dark valley. This region is also famous for tea; the contrast between the green tea fields and pink blossoms is a feast for the eyes and a perfect setting for beauty-conscious travelers interested in Japan’s tea culture.

・Event Dates April 4 (Sat), 2026 (Tentative)
・Sakura Data [Peak Season] Late March – Early April [Illumination] Available [Food Stalls] Available
・Kamagatani Address Fujishiro, Ikeda-cho, Ibi-gun, Gifu
・Hours Free to explore.
・Access 15 minutes by car from Tokai Kanjo Expressway Ono-Godo IC.
・Parking Available (Free).
*Note: During the festival, parking near the park may require advance reservation. Using a private hire (limousine) or public transport is the smoothest option.

10. Water Capital Ogaki Boat Ride (Gifu): Drift Through a Sakura Tunnel in the “City of Water”

Ogaki is a historic water hub where the famous poet Matsuo Basho concluded his “Narrow Road to the Deep North” journey. Along the Suimon River, traditional “Tarai-bune” (tub-style) boat rides are operated during the cherry blossom season.

Drifting 1.1km over 30 minutes, you can look up at the overhanging Somei Yoshino branches from the water’s surface—a perspective of luxury and calm. The “Basho Festival” is also held on April 4-5. For those who appreciate the “Wabi-sabi” philosophy of finding beauty in the fleeting, this boat ride through the heart of the “City of Water” is the ultimate spring experience.

・Event Dates March 25 (Wed) – April 5 (Sun), 2026
・Sakura Data [Peak Season] Late March – Early April [Illumination] March 21 (Sat) – April 5 (Sun), 2026 [Food Stalls] Available
・Water Capital Ogaki Boat Ride Address 2-26-1 Funamachi, Ogaki-shi, Gifu
・Hours 9:20 AM – 4:20 PM (Boat operating hours)
・Fare Adults 1,500 yen / Children 800 yen.
・Access 7-minute walk from JR Ogaki Station.
・Access by Car 15 minutes from Meishin Expressway Ogaki IC.
・Parking 200 spaces (Paid: Ogaki City Higashi Sotogawa Parking).
*Note: During the festival, parking near the park may require advance reservation. Using a private hire (limousine) or public transport is the smoothest option.

11. Nabana no Sato Sakura Illumination (Mie): A World-Class Floral Resort and Pink Tunnels

Nabana no Sato is Japan’s premier floral theme park, offering a luxury experience for international visitors. From early March, about 300 Kawazu-zakura (early bloomers) create a stunning pink tunnel around the central pond. Somei Yoshino and elegant weeping cherries follow later in the month.

The world-renowned winter illumination remains active until May 31, merging with the cherry blossoms to create a surreal, glowing landscape. With upscale Japanese and French restaurants onsite, this is the perfect destination for an “adult retreat” where you can enjoy fine dining and the peak of Japan’s seasonal beauty in a refined environment.

・Event Dates Early March – Early April (Subject to blooming status)
・Sakura Data [Peak Season] Early March – Early April *Species bloom at different times; please check the official website for the latest status.
・[Illumination] Available [Food Stalls] None (Take-out available at onsite shops)
・Nabana no Sato Address 270 Komae Urushihata, Nagashima-cho, Kuwana-shi, Mie
・Hours Varies by season/day (Please check official website).
・Closed Jan 7 – 8, July 6 – 17, 2026.
・Access 10-minute direct bus from Kintetsu Nagashima Station.
・Access by Car Approx. 10 minutes from Higashi-Meihan Expressway Nagashima IC.
・Parking Approx. 5,700 spaces (Free).

12. Kyuka Park Cherry Blossom Festival (Mie): Waterways, Castle Ruins, and 450 Trees

Kyuka Park occupies the former grounds of the Main and Second Citadels of Kuwana Castle. This “Water Capital” park features about 450 trees reflected in its expansive moats.

During the festival, you can enjoy the “Kuwana Suigo Boat Cruise,” viewing the blossoms from the castle’s ancient waterways. The night illumination (sunset until 9:30 PM) creates a perfect symmetry of pink flowers reflected in the still water—a sophisticated and tranquil setting for history lovers and those seeking a quiet, high-end evening stroll.

・Event Dates Late March – Early April 2026 (Subject to blooming)
・Sakura Data [Peak Season] Late March – Early April [Illumination] Available (Sunset – 9:30 PM) [Food Stalls] Available
・Kyuka Park Address 5-1 Yoshinomaru, Kuwana-shi, Mie
・Hours Open 24 hours.
・Access 15 minutes from Higashi-Meihan Expressway Kuwana IC.
・Parking 65 spaces (250 yen per day).
*Note: During the festival, parking near the park may require advance reservation. Using a private hire (limousine) or public transport is the smoothest option.

13. Yokowa Sakura Festival (Mie): The Legend of the Fragrant Pink Blossoms

In the town of Yokowa, near the sacred Ise Grand Shrine, grows a rare and precious variety: the “Yokowa Sakura.” Unlike Somei Yoshino, these blossoms have larger petals with a deep pink gradient and, most uniquely, a rich fragrance.

For beauty and aromatherapy enthusiasts, the scent of Yokowa Sakura offers a profound sense of inner peace—a mindful experience that can enhance your skincare and wellness journey. Visit the local market “Sato-no-Megumi Furin” for regional delicacies and experience a variety of sakura that exists nowhere else on Earth. It is a spiritual and olfactory journey into the heart of Ise.

・Event Dates March 28 (Sat) – April 12 (Sun), 2026
・Sakura Data [Peak Season] Late March – Early April [Illumination] None [Food Stalls] Available
・Yokowa Sakura Address 594 Yokowa-cho, Ise-shi, Mie
・Access Approx. 20 minutes by car from Ise Expressway Tamaki IC.
・Parking Available. A traffic cooperation fee of 600 yen (planned) is required during the festival.

Professional Travel Advice & Risk Management

To ensure your 2026 spring journey is flawless, please note the following:

  • Bloom Forecasts: Sakura blooming dates shift annually based on winter temperatures. Check the “Sakura Forecast” starting in February and include “buffer days” in your itinerary.
  • Optimized Transport: While Nagoya city is accessible by subway, the hidden gems in Gifu, Mie, and Shizuoka are best visited via a private rental car or a luxury limousine hire.
  • Avoid Crowds: Weekends are extremely busy. Aim for early morning visits (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM) for the best photography lighting and a tranquil experience.
  • Etiquette: Cherry blossoms are a delicate art of nature. Please respect the trees by not touching branches or trampling roots to preserve this beauty for future generations.

Final Word: Your 2026 Spring Narrative

The Tokai region’s spring is a poetic expression of Japan’s aesthetics: transience and renewal. Whether it is the ancient walls of a castle or the rare fragrance of a hidden mountain village, these 13 locations promise a travel experience that will stay with you forever. We wish you a magnificent journey in 2026.

Information based on 2025/2026 forecasts. Please check official sites before visiting as hours and dates may change.

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