【Okinawa Cherry Blossom 2025】Top 6 Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots + Cherry Blossom Festival｜Japan's Earliest Blooming Cherry Blossoms

Dreaming of experiencing the magic of cherry blossoms in the heart of winter? Okinawa is your go-to destination, with its cherry blossom season kicking off as early as January, well ahead of the rest of Japan. The island's unique cherry blossom varieties, like the Hikan and Kanhi cherries, bring a delightful splash of pink to the subtropical landscape. We've put together a list of the top cherry blossom viewing spots in Okinawa that you simply can't miss.

If you're looking for the ultimate cherry blossom experience in Okinawa, Yaedake Sakura no Mori Park should be at the top of your list. With around 7,000 cherry trees, it's the largest spot for cherry blossoms in the area. The park is famous for its Kanhi cherry trees, which bloom in vibrant hues starting from mid-January. From the observation deck, you can take in breathtaking views of the pink blossoms stretching out towards the blue waters of the East China Sea. Don't miss the "Yaedake Cherry Blossom Festival" held from late January to early February, where you can enjoy local performances and delicious food stalls, making your visit even more memorable.

If you're looking for a magical cherry blossom experience, the Nakijin Castle Ruins in Okinawa should be at the top of your list. This world cultural heritage site becomes particularly enchanting when approximately 400 Prunus serrulata 'Kanzan' cherry trees burst into bloom. The vibrant pink flowers create a stunning contrast with the ancient stone walls, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical charm. The blossoms typically start to appear in late January, making this an ideal time for photography enthusiasts. Perched on a small hill, the ruins not only provide a splendid view of the cherry blossoms but also offer a breathtaking panorama of Nakijin Village. Each year, the "Nakijin Castle Ruins Cherry Blossom Festival" brings the area to life with traditional performances and delicious local treats. It's an event you won't want to miss!

Welcome to Nago Castle Park, a gem in Okinawa known for its terraced landscape that comes alive with cherry blossoms every spring. Imagine strolling through a park adorned with around 200 Kanzan cherry trees, offering breathtaking views from every angle. Whether you're at the base or climbing up to the peak, the sight of these blossoms is simply mesmerizing. Don't miss the observation platform at the top—it not only gives you a fantastic view of the cherry blossoms but also a sweeping panorama of the beautiful Nago Bay. The cherry blossoms usually start to bloom in late January, providing a stunning contrast to the park's lush subtropical plants.

Welcome to Yaedake, a gem in Okinawa that’s a must-visit for cherry blossom enthusiasts. This mountainous area, home to the Yaedake Sakura Forest Park, offers an unparalleled cherry blossom viewing experience. Imagine driving up a scenic mountain path lined with around 4,000 cherry trees—it’s like entering a pink paradise! The star of the show here is the Kanzan cherry, which boasts a richer and more vibrant hue than your average cherry blossoms. Once you reach the summit, you’ll find an observation deck where you can soak in panoramic views of the cherry blossoms sprawling across the region. And if you’re lucky enough to visit on a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of the East China Sea. For the best experience, head up in the morning to see the cherry blossoms bathed in the golden light of the sunrise.

If you're looking for a cherry blossom experience that's a bit different, Motobu Yaeyama Park should be on your list. This park offers a truly unique view, where the pink cherry blossoms stand out beautifully against the deep blue of the sea. There are around 200 Kanhi cherry trees here. While that might not be as many as in some other spots, what makes this park special is its terrain. It gives you a stunning panoramic view that combines the cherry blossoms, the ocean, and the sky all in one frame. Plus, there are cozy resting areas where you can have a picnic under the cherry trees and soak up the warm winter sun. For an extra magical experience, try to visit at dusk when the setting sun lights up the cherry blossoms in a breathtaking display.

If you find yourself in Naha City, make sure to visit Sueyoshi Park for a unique cherry blossom experience right in the heart of the urban area. This charming spot may be smaller, with around 100 cherry blossom trees, but it’s incredibly accessible, perfect for those of you on a tight schedule. The blossoms here usually start to show off their beauty at the end of January, providing a stunning contrast to the park’s lush subtropical plants. As you wander through, you’ll also come across remnants from World War II, and during cherry blossom season, the flowers add a poignant touch of peace to the scenery.

Thinking about catching the cherry blossoms in Okinawa? Here are some top spots to check out! Unlike the rest of Japan, the cherry blossoms here start blooming as early as January. So, it's a good idea to keep an eye on the blooming forecasts before you go. The winter weather in Okinawa is quite mild, but if you're heading to the mountains to see the blooms, don't forget to pack a jacket. Transportation can be a bit tricky, as many viewing spots are somewhat remote. To make your trip smoother, consider renting a car or joining a local day tour. This way, you'll have a more relaxed and enjoyable cherry blossom experience.