Japan – a country blossoming back to life

Posted by Concierge Traveller on Tuesday, April 17, 2024 · Leave a Comment

Japan – a country blossoming back to life

See Japanese cherry blossums in Hirosaki with Concierge Traveller Japan is blooming marvelous in the springtime. Literally. There is a lot to be said for this country that is blossoming back to life, and a holiday in Japan is a picture-perfect adventure.

Cherry blossom sightings

The annual flowering of sakura always draws a crowd, and cherry blossom season is a much-anticipated occurrence amongst tourists and locals alike.

The sudden and beautiful explosion of pink in the trees is the long-awaited signal for a nationwide host of parties and outdoor picnics named hanami. Friends and co-workers get together at this time to spread blankets beneath the flowering cherry trees and enjoy a drink (or two) in tribute to glorious nature. Why not join them?

Where to see the cherry blossoms

Mid-April is the best time to see the cherry blossoms in Matsumo and Sendai. Late April to mid-May is the best time for them in Kakunodate, Hirosaki, Hakodate and Sapporo. Ask our specialists for accommodation and transport options.

Nara: Visiting the ancient capital of Japan

Japan’s capital from 710 to 784, you won’t find a much older city in Japan. Nara is probably the most important centre of Japanese culture and religion, and it is also a wildlife sanctuary, bursting with free-roaming deer and birds of differing species.

Nara is seen as a sort of natural balance between religion and nature in Japan so it’s well worth scheduling in some time for a visit, especially if you’ve been keen to get out of big cities like Tokyo. Get your photo taken by the Great South Gate, the largest wooden gate in the world and a valued national treasure of Nara.

Hokkaido: A wildlife lover’s dream

Akan National Park in the Hokkaido Region is the place to take your long lenses and bird appreciation. You’ll find whistling swan, osprey, whooper swan, Siberian ruby throat, white-tailed eagle and when it comes to fish, rainbow trout and lake salmon to name but a few.

If you’re out for an adventure, you can also try skating, canoeing and boating.

Alternatively at the Daisetsuzan National Park, also in the Hokkaido Region, you’ll find wildlife such as the brown bear, Ezo chipmunk, Japanese macaque, mountain finch, hazel grouse and red-crowned crane.

A break from the craziness in Kyoto

As Japan’s capital for over 1000 years, Zen-like Kyoto is a glorious place for a visit in the springtime, not least because of its breathtaking collection of UNESCO World Heritage sites. Don’t miss the stunning Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion) or Ginkaku-jj (The Silver Pavilion), both of which are as incredible as the photos would have you believe.

As a working geisha district, Gion is a top attraction where you can see traditional old wooden buildings, fancy teahouses and exclusive Japanese restaurants all heaped together with a charming vibe.

If you are a lover of wildlife, architecture or simply interested in a new adventure, experience the sights and sounds of Japan by contacting Concierge Traveller for accommodation and tour options on 1800 047 047.