Sakura Viewing Spots (ๆกใฎๅๆ - Sakura no meisho)
The world-famous cherry blossom viewing spots ('Sakura no meisho') scattered across Japan, including iconic parks, riverside paths, and castle yards. Top sites include Meguro River and Ueno Park in Tokyo, and Maruyama Park in Kyoto.
Started during the Heian period when aristocrats wrote poetry under blossoms. In the Edo period, Shogun Tokugawa Yoshimune deliberately planted cherry trees along Tokyo rivers so common citizens could enjoy nature retreats.
Check the daily 'Cherry Blossom Forecast' (Sakura Zensen) online before visiting. Famous spots get incredibly crowded during full bloom (mankai), so arriving early in the morning is highly recommended.
What is the smartest hack to avoid crowds at famous cherry blossom viewing spots?