Sakura is the Japanese word for cherry blossoms.

Every year, for what seems a fleeting moment, cherry blossom season arrives in Japan. For a precious few days, as the warm spring sun breathes life back into the dormant cherry trees, the sakura burst into view, creating a beautiful pink-colored background to the mountains, rivers, shrines and temples across the Japanese archipelago. During this time, in a centuries-old tradition, the Japanese people embrace this new lease of life by congregating in parks and beauty spots across the nation to celebrate the coming of spring with flower viewing (or hanami) parties with their friends and colleagues. The beauty of this natural wonder, the mild weather, and the festival atmosphere that sakura season brings with it is what makes spring the most popular time to visit Japan.

In order to help you make the most of your spring in Japan, JAPANiCAN has created this handy guide to the 15 best sakura spots across the nation, complete with the yearly blossoming dates as well as travel and accommodation advice.