8 places to see cherry trees in Hakone and around Mount Fuji

1. Lake Ashi

Around Lake Ashi, sakura trees line certain stretches of shoreline, framing the famous torii of the Hakone-jinja shrine. The reflection of the flowers in the water creates a peaceful, photogenic atmosphere, particularly appreciated during a walk or cruise on the lake.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Address: Motohakone, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa 250-0522, Japan (Lake Ashi / Hakone-jinja area)
Cherry blossom season: early to mid-April

2. Arakurayama Sengen Park

This is one of Japan's most famous panoramas: the Chureito pagoda, cherry blossom trees and Mount Fuji in the background. In spring, hundreds of sakura trees surround the staircase leading up to the viewpoint. A mythical scene, impressive at sunrise.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Address: 2 Chome-4-1 Asama, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0011, Japan

Cherry blossom season: mid to late April

3. Lake Kawaguchi

Lake Kawaguchi is one of the best places to admire cherry trees against the backdrop of Mount Fuji. The trees line the north shore of the lake, creating a tunnel of flowers that's perfect for strolling through. In April, a festival is held here, with evening illuminations.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Address: Kawaguchi, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi 401-0304, Japan

Cherry blossom season: mid to late April
 

4. Oshino Hakkai village

This traditional village is famous for its ponds, fed by snowmelt from Mount Fuji. In spring, cherry trees frame the thatched houses and are reflected in the clear water. We love its tranquil, rural atmosphere, ideal for a springtime stroll away from the tourist hotspots.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Address: Oshino, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi 401-0511, Japan
Cherry blossom season: mid to late April

5. Onshi Hakone Park

A former imperial residence transformed into a public park, Onshi Hakone offers superb views of Lake Ashi. It's an excellent place to combine strolling, panoramic views and hanami away from the crowds.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Address: 171 Motohakone, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa 250-0522, Japan
Flowering period: early to mid-April
 

6. Miyagino Hayakawa Riverbank

In Miyagino, over 120 cherry trees line the Hayakawa River for several hundred meters. When the trees are in bloom, a veritable pink tunnel over the water invites you to take a stroll! Illuminations also line the banks as the sun sets.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Address: Miyagino, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa 250-0401, Japan
Flowering period: early to mid-April
 

7. Gora Park

Located in the Gora district, this French-style landscaped park boasts a variety of cherry trees. Their blossoms blend harmoniously into the park's flowerbeds, whose altitude means that flowering lasts a little longer than in the rest of the region.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Address: 1300 Gora, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa 250-0408, Japan

Flowering period: mid to late April

What better way to admire the cherry trees in Hakone than on the Hakone Tozan Railway? On a 40-minute journey from Hakone-Yumoto to Gora, enjoy a panoramic ride through the forest. On the window side, cherry branches seem to brush against the carriages.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Main address: Hakone-Yumoto Station, 707 Yumoto, Hakone-machi, Kanagawa 250-0311, Japan
Flowering period: early to mid-April