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As the temperatures slowly rise and the sun shines a little brighter, the buds of sakura have been blossoming in the south of Japan. As Niseko is located on the northernmost island of Hokkaido, the peak viewing season of cherry blossoms is later than the southern islands.
The bare branches are expected to transform into magnificent displays of pink and white flowers in late April and early May, at the same time as Golden Week.
If you’re planning to visit Hirafu in the spring, you’re in luck – there are plenty of great spots to view sakura. Our team of staff have compiled the best viewing spots near Niseko to view this stunning floral display.
Sakura in the Local Area
There are lots of wonderful viewing spots to enjoy the beauty of Sakura near Hirafu, Niseko.
Makkari Shrine
Location: Here
The Shinto shrine in Makkari is a lovely location to view sakura, only a short drive from Hirafu. The path to the shrine is covered in a canopy of sakura, where you can also enjoy stunning views of Mount Yotei on the horizon.
Lan Lan Park (Rankoshi)
Location: Here
Just a 30-minute drive away from Setsu, Lan Lan Park in the nearby town of Rankoshi is a spacious riverside park perfect for picnics and bike rides. Cherry blossom trees are scattered around the area but the highlight would be its riverbank lined with numerous cherry trees, allowing visitors to enjoy a stroll beneath the flowers.
Soga Forest Park
Location: Here
If you’re looking for cherry blossoms and Mt. Yotei in one spot, Soga Forest Park in Niseko Town is the place to go. The park has an area where the cherry blossom trees perfectly frame Mt. Yotei, creating a stunning spring picture. Take a stroll with the numerous walkways that weave through the trees, or enjoy a picnic with food and drinks you got from the nearby 7-Eleven.
Fukidashi Park
Location: Here
Fukidashi Park in Kyogoku, a short drive away from Setsu Niseko, is known for its serene atmosphere and fresh spring water that comes directly from Mt. Yotei. In spring, the park blooms to a beautiful pink color brought by the numerous cherry blossom trees planted in the area.
Shibazakura Garden
Location: Here
The sakura display at Shibazakura Garden is a different experience due to the species of sakura being a ground dwelling one. These bright pink and white flowers are a sight to behold. The area is a privately owned property, however the generous owners allow entry to the public to enjoy the spectacular views. Due to the flowers being a different species, these sakura bloom later in May.
Photo Credit: Niseko Tourism Board
Sakura Day Trips From Niseko
There are many day trips to enjoy from Niseko for those wishing to spend a day witnessing the beauty of Sakura in Hokkaido.
Goryokaku Park
Location: Here
Goryokaku Park is located in Hakodate, about three hours drive from Hirafu. It’s known for its star-shaped fort, which was built in the 19th century, but it’s also a great spot to view sakura. The park is home to over 1,600 cherry trees, which bloom in late April. Visitors can walk around the fort’s moat and enjoy the blossoms, or take a boat ride through the park’s canals.
Maruyama Park
Location: Here
Maruyama Park is located in Sapporo, less than two hour’s drive from Hirafu. It’s one of the most famous spots for viewing sakura in Hokkaido, and it’s easy to see why. The park is home to over 1,700 cherry trees, which bloom in early May. There are plenty of walking paths and open spaces to enjoy the blossoms, and the park is also home to a small zoo, a shrine, and several museums.
Asahiyama Park
Location: Here
Asahiyama Park, located in Asahiyama, is a cherry blossom viewing spot with over 3,000 Ezo Yamazakura trees and a great view of many natural trees. It is a slightly longer drive from Niseko Hirafu, taking less than 4 hours. Asahiyama Zoo is located next to the park, and since visitors can enjoy both cherry blossom viewing and the zoo, this spot is crowded every year with families and other visitors. Cherry blossoms are at their best from late April to early May. It is recommended to walk up the hillside to the Asahiyama observatory for a panoramic view of the city and the cherry blossoms.
Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park
Location: Here
Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park is located in Sapporo, about two hours’ drive from Hirafu. It’s a large park that’s home to several gardens, including a cherry blossom garden. The park is home to over 1,500 cherry trees, which bloom in late April to early May. Visitors can take a walking tour of the park’s gardens, or relax in one of its many open spaces.
Personalised Concierge Services
Curate your holiday of a lifetime with our personalised concierge service. Our Setsu team are on hand to assist you with anything you may wish to book during your trip, leaving you free to relax and enjoy yourself. For assistance with arranging transportation to view Sakura, Setsu guests should reach out to the concierge team.
