8 Types of Sakura in Japan & Where to See Them

Cherry blossoms, or sakura, are one of Japan’s most iconic natural wonders. Every spring, these delicate flowers paint the country in shades of pink and white, drawing millions of visitors who want to experience hanami (flower viewing). While many travellers are familiar with the famous Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms, Japan actually has over 200 varieties of sakura. Each type has its own charm, blooming at different times and showcasing unique colours and petal shapes.

For those planning a trip to Japan during cherry blossom season, here is a guide to discover some of the most beautiful sakura varieties.

Also read: Things to Do in Japan Throughout The Year (Complete 12-Month Travel Guide)

1. Somei Yoshino (染井吉野) – The classic cherry blossom

Image credit: Live Japan | Official Website

Among the most widely recognised Sakura varieties, Somei Yoshino dominates parks and streets across Japan. Its soft, pale pink petals that appear almost white create a dreamlike, snow-like effect when in full bloom.

🗓 Blooming season: Late March to early April

📍 Where to see it: Ueno Park (Tokyo), Osaka Castle Park (Osaka), and Maruyama Park (Kyoto)

2. Shidarezakura (枝垂桜) – The elegant weeping cherry

Image credit: Christine Cropper | Pinterest

For a more dramatic sakura experience, Shidarezakura, or weeping cherry, stands out with its gracefully drooping branches, resembling natural pink waterfalls. Often planted in temple grounds and traditional gardens, it adds a mystical charm to any setting.

🗓 Blooming season: Late March to early April

📍 Where to see it: Maruyama Park (Kyoto), Miharu Takizakura (Fukushima) – a 1,000-year-old weeping cherry tree

3. Yamazakura (山桜) – The wild beauty of the mountains

Image credit: GreenSnap | Official Website

Unlike the cultivated Somei Yoshino, Yamazakura thrives naturally in mountainous regions. This variety produces light pink flowers with copper-coloured leaves, offering a striking contrast. Unlike other cherry blossoms, its leaves emerge at the same time as the flowers, making it a unique sight in Japan’s lush countryside.

🗓 Blooming season: Early to mid April

📍 Where to see it: Mount Yoshino (Nara) – home to over 30,000 cherry trees

4. Kawazu Zakura (河津桜) – The early bloomer

Image credit: かぎけん花図鑑 | Official Website

For those eager to witness cherry blossoms ahead of spring, Kawazu Zakura is the perfect option. Recognised for its deep pink petals and long blooming period, it sometimes lasts over a month. As one of the earliest blooming sakura, it begins to flower as early as February.

🗓 Blooming season: February to early March

📍 Where to see it: Kawazu (Shizuoka Prefecture) – home to the famous Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival

5. Edohigan (江戸彼岸) – The ancient cherry trees

Image credit: hananokai.jp | Official Website

One of the most long-lived sakura varieties, Edohigan can survive for centuries. Their deep pink buds bloom into soft white or pale pink flowers, and some of Japan’s oldest cherry trees belong to this category. These trees offer an opportunity to witness a piece of history in bloom.

🗓 Blooming season: Mid to late March

📍 Where to see it: Jindai Zakura (Yamanashi) – one of Japan’s oldest cherry trees, estimated to be over 2,000 years old

6. Yaezakura (八重桜) – The luxurious double-petaled cherry blossom

Image credit: Kodawari Times | Official Website

Unlike most sakura, which have five petals, Yaezakura features 10 to 50 layers of petals, resembling fluffy, rose-like flowers. These blossoms appear in shades of bright pink, white, and even purple. Since they bloom later than most cherry blossoms, they provide an alternative for those who miss the peak season.

🗓 Blooming season: Mid to late April

📍 Where to see it: Chidorigafuchi (Tokyo), Hirosaki Park (Aomori)

7. Ukon (鬱金) – The mysterious yellow Sakura

Image credit: Spirit of Japan | Official Website

A rare sight among Japan’s cherry blossoms, Ukon Sakura is distinguished by its pale yellow-green petals. This subtle yet stunning variety stands out against the typical pink hues of Sakura season.

🗓 Blooming season: Mid April

📍 Where to see it: Shinjuku Gyoen (Tokyo)

8. Gyoiko (御衣黄) – The enchanting green Sakura

Image credit: zhudachang | Official Website

Even rarer than Ukon, Gyoiko displays light greenish-yellow petals streaked with hints of red. Its unusual colouring makes it one of Japan’s most fascinating cherry blossom varieties.

🗓 Blooming season: Mid to late April

📍 Where to see it: Kyoto Gyoen National Garden (Kyoto)

Also read: 10 Hidden Gems in Osaka Perfect For Muslim Travellers

Muslim Traveller Tips for Sakura Viewing

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For Muslim travellers visiting Japan during the Sakura season, proper planning can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. One of the main concerns is finding prayer spaces, as cherry blossom viewing often involves spending long hours in parks or gardens. Fortunately, major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka have mosques and designated prayer rooms. Some popular Sakura viewing spots, such as Ueno Park and Yoyogi Park, also have nearby facilities where travellers can perform their prayers.

Another key aspect to consider is halal food options. While traditional Hanami gatherings often feature a variety of foods, many of these may not be halal. To enjoy a worry-free picnic, Muslim travellers can look for halal-certified restaurants, seafood-based bento boxes, or vegetarian-friendly meals available at convenience stores. Apps like Halal Navi and Google Maps can help locate halal eateries near Sakura viewing sites.

When joining Hanami gatherings, it is important to be mindful of etiquette. Alcohol consumption is a common part of Hanami culture, but Muslim travellers can still enjoy the festive atmosphere by bringing their non-alcoholic drinks and food. Some parks have designated family-friendly areas where alcohol is less prevalent, making them a great option for a more comfortable experience.

For those needing to perform wudu (ablution), it’s worth noting that public restrooms in parks may not always have suitable facilities. Carrying a small water bottle can be useful for Wudu' on the go. In addition, some mosques and prayer spaces provide proper washing areas, so planning prayer times around these locations can be beneficial.

By keeping these tips in mind, Muslim travellers can fully embrace Japan’s breathtaking cherry blossom season while ensuring their spiritual and dietary needs are met.

Which One is the Prettiest?

Image credit: Japan Culture Spotlight | Official Facebook

Also read: 12 Popular Ski Resorts in Japan For Muslim Travellers

Determining the most beautiful sakura is subjective, but many consider Shidarezakura (Weeping Cherry) the most elegant due to its graceful, cascading branches. Others admire the deep pink hues of Kawazu Zakura or the luxurious petals of Yaezakura. However, Somei Yoshino remains the most famous, blanketing Japan in delicate pink each spring.

Regardless of which sakura variety is chosen for admiration, experiencing cherry blossoms in Japan is an unforgettable event. From ancient trees to rare colours, each type tells its own story. Visitors can capture stunning photographs, enjoy traditional picnics, and immerse themselves in the fleeting beauty of Japan’s beloved Sakura season.