Cherry Blossom Season (Hanami)

Japan's most celebrated seasonal event — late March to early May — when cherry trees erupt in pale pink blossoms. Hanami (flower-viewing) picnics under the sakura are a beloved national tradition. Top spots: Ueno Park (Tokyo), Maruyama Park (Kyoto), Hirosaki Castle (Aomori), and Yoshino Mountain (Nara). The bloom front moves north from Tokyo to Hokkaido.