1. GERMANY: BONN

Bonn, Germany, hosts an annual cherry blossom festival that draws visitors from around the world. The city’s cherry blossoms typically bloom in April, and the most famous spot to view them is the Heerstraße, a picturesque street lined with cherry trees. The cherry trees form a breathtaking canopy of pink blossoms, creating a magical atmosphere for visitors walking down the street. Bonn’s cherry blossom festival, known as the "Cherry Blossom Days," also includes concerts, street performances, and cultural events. The combination of the charming cityscape and the delicate cherry blossoms makes this one of the most delightful places to see sakura in Europe.

2. SOUTH KOREA: SEOUL

South Korea has a long tradition of celebrating cherry blossoms, and the country’s capital, Seoul, offers some of the most stunning cherry blossom displays. The cherry blossoms in Seoul typically bloom in early April, with popular viewing spots including Yeouido Park, Namsan Seoul Tower, and Seoul Forest. Yeouido Park, in particular, is home to an annual cherry blossom festival, attracting both locals and tourists. The combination of modern cityscapes and traditional Korean architecture, such as the Gyeongbokgung Palace, set against the delicate blooms creates a stunning contrast. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, the small and serene Seoul Grand Park is also a beautiful spot for cherry blossom viewing.

3. TAIWAN: TAIPEI

Taiwan’s cherry blossom season is one of the earliest in the world, typically beginning in January and lasting through March, depending on the region. The vibrant pink flowers bloom in several regions of the island, but the best cherry blossoms can be found in Taipei. One of the most famous spots is Yangmingshan National Park, which offers an abundance of cherry trees against a backdrop of volcanic mountains and hot springs. The park’s cherry blossom season is celebrated with the Yangmingshan Cherry Blossom Festival, where visitors can enjoy both the flowers and the scenic beauty of the area. Taipei also offers other cherry blossom hotspots, such as the Maokong area, where cherry trees line the mountain trails.

4. CHINA: BEIJING AND WUHAN

Cherry blossoms are also a beloved sight in China, and two cities, in particular, stand out for their beautiful cherry blossoms. In Beijing, the Yuyuantan Park is a popular destination, with over 2,000 cherry trees blooming in the spring. The park’s cherry blossom festival typically takes place in late March to early April, and visitors can stroll through the park’s picturesque landscapes while enjoying cultural performances and food stalls. Further south, Wuhan is another prime location for cherry blossoms, particularly at East Lake. The East Lake Cherry Blossom Festival, which takes place in March and April, draws visitors from across the country, with over 10,000 cherry trees in full bloom.

5. CANADA: VANCOUVER

Vancouver, Canada, offers a more northern cherry blossom experience, with its own Cherry Blossom Festival celebrated in the spring. The city boasts over 40,000 cherry trees, and the blossoms typically begin to bloom in late March or early April. The Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival includes a range of events, such as guided cherry blossom walks, music performances, and cultural activities. The city’s stunning parks, including Stanley Park and Queen Elizabeth Park, provide ample opportunities to enjoy the cherry blossoms. Vancouver is also home to a diverse range of cherry species, meaning the blossoms last for several weeks, extending the visual feast for visitors.

6. FRANCE: PARIS

While not traditionally associated with cherry blossoms, Paris has several locations where these delicate flowers can be admired during the spring months. The Parc de Sceaux, located just outside the city center, features a stunning array of cherry trees that bloom in April. The trees are set against the backdrop of the beautiful Château de Sceaux, making the experience feel like something out of a fairy tale. Additionally, the Jardin des Plantes, located in the heart of Paris, has a lovely cherry blossom display. While the cherry blossoms in Paris may not be as abundant as in Japan, their charm is undeniable, and the experience of seeing them in one of the world’s most romantic cities adds an extra layer of magic.