Sakura Season in Japan: A Week-Long Itinerary from Sapporo to Osaka

Day 1: Arrival in Sapporo

Sapporo, Japan on April 9, 2025

10:00AM

Odori Park

Begin your journey at Odori Park, the heart of Sapporo, renowned for its beautiful cherry blossoms that attract visitors from around the world. During sakura season, the park is filled with vibrant colors and offers a picturesque view.
JPY0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sapporo Beer Garden

Savor delicious Sapporo-style Genghis Khan (grilled mutton) at the Sapporo Beer Garden, a perfect spot to indulge in local cuisine while enjoying the atmosphere.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Maruyama Park

After lunch, head to Maruyama Park, one of the popular sakura spots in Sapporo. A stroll under the blooming cherry trees is a must for breathtaking views.
JPY0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Soup Curry GARAKU

End your day with a warm bowl of soup curry at Soup Curry GARAKU, famous for its rich and flavorful dishes.
JPY1800, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Explore Sapporo

Sapporo, Japan on April 10, 2025

9:00AM

Hokkaido Jingu Shrine

Visit Hokkaido Jingu Shrine, surrounded by stunning cherry blossom trees; this shrine emerges as a tranquil oasis that showcases traditional Japanese architecture.
JPY0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Breakfast at Ramen Sapporo Akabou

Start your day with a hearty bowl of Sapporo miso ramen at Ramen Sapporo Akabou, a local favorite known for its rich soup base.
JPY1200, 1 hour

1:00PM

Sapporo TV Tower

Climb up to Sapporo TV Tower for panoramic views of Sapporo and its cherry blossoms. A great spot for photo opportunities!
JPY900, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Moerenuma Park

Take a trip to Moerenuma Park, an artistic landscape park featuring cherry blossoms and remarkable art installations.
JPY0, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tsubohachi

Experience delicious izakaya dining at Tsubohachi, where you can enjoy local dishes in a casual atmosphere.
JPY2400, 2 hours
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Day 3: Travel to Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on April 11, 2025

8:00AM

Train to Kyoto

Depart from Sapporo to Kyoto via Shinkansen (bullet train) to savor the stunning landscapes along the way.
JPY22000, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Explore Nishiki Market and indulge in local delicacies, such as yudofu (tofu hot pot) while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Philosopher's Path

Stroll along the Philosopher's Path, a scenic walkway lined with cherry trees around the beautiful canal; it offers a serene ambiance perfect for sakura viewing.
JPY0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Gion Kappa

Enjoy a kaiseki dinner at Gion Kappa, where you can experience traditional multi-course Japanese cuisine in a charming setting.
JPY5000, 2 hours
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Day 4: Explore Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on April 12, 2025

9:00AM

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Begin your day at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can enjoy extraordinary views of cherry blossoms in spring.
JPY400, 2 hours

11:30AM

Breakfast at % Arabica

Grab a coffee and a delightful pastry at % Arabica, a popular cafe known for its artisanal coffee and beautiful location.
JPY800, 1 hour

1:00PM

Heian Shrine Gardens

After breakfast, visit the Heian Shrine Gardens, where you can stroll through the extensive gardens adorned with numerous cherry trees.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Nanzen-ji Temple

Explore Nanzen-ji Temple, a significant Zen temple site with gorgeous cherry blossoms that offers a peaceful ambiance for reflection.
JPY0, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Omen

Sample authentic udon noodles at Omen, famous for its fresh ingredients and homemade style.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Day Trip to Nara

Nara, Japan on April 13, 2025

8:30AM

Travel to Nara

Take the train to Nara, just a short ride from Kyoto, renowned for its parks filled with beautiful cherry trees.
JPY1500, 1 hour

10:00AM

Nara Park

Visit Nara Park, where you'll find deer roaming freely and stunning sakura trees in full bloom, creating a magical experience.
JPY0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Maguro Koya

Enjoy a fresh seafood bowl at Maguro Koya, known for its sashimi bowls made with local fish.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Todai-ji Temple

Explore Todai-ji Temple, home to a giant Buddha statue surrounded by cherry blossoms that enhance the temple's grandeur.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Naramachi

Savor a samurai-style meal at Naramachi, a restaurant that offers historical cuisine in a traditional setting.
JPY3000, 2 hours
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Day 6: Travel to Osaka

Osaka, Japan on April 14, 2025

9:00AM

Train to Osaka

Take the train to Osaka, your next destination known for its vibrant street food and shopping.
JPY600, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Osaka Castle Park

Visit Osaka Castle Park, where you can find stunning cherry blossoms surrounding the historic castle, offering fantastic photo ops.
JPY0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Head to Dotonbori to taste local delicacies like takoyaki and okonomiyaki amidst a lively atmosphere.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Shitennoji Temple

Explore Shitennoji Temple, one of Japan's oldest temples, surrounded by beautiful cherry trees enhancing its historical charm.
JPY300, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma

Experience Osaka-style kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) at Kushikatsu Daruma, a must-try dining experience in the city.
JPY2000, 2 hours
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Day 7: Osaka Exploration

Osaka, Japan on April 15, 2025

9:00AM

Sumiyoshi Taisha

Visit Sumiyoshi Taisha, a historic shrine surrounded by peaceful cherry blossoms and distinctively Japanese architecture.
JPY0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien

Start your day with a fantastic organic breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien, known for its warm atmosphere and fresh ingredients.
JPY1500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Namba Yasaka Shrine

Explore Namba Yasaka Shrine, known for its unique lion-shaped stage and surrounded by lovely cherry blossoms, adding to its charm.
JPY0, 1 hour

2:30PM

Umeda Sky Building

Conclude your trip with a visit to Umeda Sky Building, where you can take in panoramic views of Osaka and enjoy the city’s sakura sights.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M

End your journey with a memorable dinner at Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M, celebrated for its premium quality Japanese beef.
JPY5000, 2 hours
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