As the cherry blossoms bloom across Japan, painting the country in soft pinks and whites, the allure of sakura season captures the hearts of travelers from around the world. For those seeking a luxurious escape during this magical time, Japan’s finest hotels offer more than just world-class service—they provide an immersive experience into the delicate beauty of the season. From serene gardens to spectacular city views, here are the top three luxury hotels where you can experience the best of Japan’s cherry blossom season.
1. The Peninsula Tokyo – Tokyo
Location: Marunouchi, Tokyo
Why Stay: For a quintessential cherry blossom experience with the convenience of being in the heart of Tokyo, The Peninsula Tokyo is unmatched. Situated just steps from the tranquil Imperial Palace Gardens, guests can step outside to be greeted by rows of sakura trees in full bloom, offering one of the best urban flower-viewing experiences in Japan.
With panoramic views of the cherry blossoms from many of the hotel’s rooms, The Peninsula offers an exquisite combination of luxury and proximity to nature. Its refined blend of contemporary design and traditional Japanese influences ensures that your stay feels both luxurious and authentically Japanese.
What Sets It Apart: The Peninsula Tokyo offers exclusive access to private hanami (flower viewing) experiences, including personalized picnics under the sakura trees, complete with bespoke gourmet bento boxes and premium sakura-themed treats. The hotel’s rooftop restaurant, Peter, serves sakura-inspired dishes that capture the essence of the season, while the Lobby Lounge offers a serene space for sipping on sakura-infused teas during afternoon tea time. For a truly indulgent experience, don’t miss the seasonal Sakura Afternoon Tea, which incorporates delicate floral flavors into each tier.
Signature Experience: Whether it’s sipping champagne beneath the cherry blossoms or enjoying a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, The Peninsula ensures that your sakura experience is as refined and unforgettable as the hotel itself.
2. The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto – Kyoto
Location: Kamogawa River, Kyoto
Why Stay: Kyoto, Japan’s cultural capital, is undoubtedly one of the most scenic spots to witness the magic of cherry blossoms. The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto offers an elegant, riverside location that perfectly captures the tranquil essence of this historic city. Overlooking the Kamogawa River and its cherry blossoms, the hotel is a serene escape that combines Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage with the modern luxury of the Ritz-Carlton brand.
The hotel’s design draws inspiration from the surrounding nature, with floor-to-ceiling windows framing beautiful views of both the river and the nearby Higashiyama mountains. The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto allows guests to feel immersed in the natural beauty of the cherry blossom season without leaving the comfort of their luxurious room.
What Sets It Apart: The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto brings hanami to life in grand style with exclusive cherry blossom experiences. The hotel’s on-site Japanese Tea Garden becomes a center for seasonal activities, where guests can enjoy tea ceremonies, flower arrangements, and more. Dining is another highlight, with traditional Kyoto kaiseki (multi-course meals) served in a private setting, and sakura-infused desserts that celebrate the beauty of spring.
Signature Experience: A private cherry blossom tour led by an expert guide ensures that guests experience Kyoto’s most iconic spots in full bloom, including the picturesque Kiyomizu-dera and the Philosopher’s Path. The hotel also offers a customized sakura cocktail experience at its Lobby Lounge, where expert mixologists blend seasonal flavors with fine spirits.
3. Aman Tokyo – Tokyo
Location: Otemachi, Tokyo
Why Stay: For those seeking tranquility amidst Tokyo’s energy, Aman Tokyo is the epitome of calm and refinement. Situated in the heart of the city, Aman Tokyo offers a rare combination of modern luxury and Japanese tradition. The hotel’s minimalist design, expansive rooms, and sweeping views of the city’s skyline and Imperial Palace Gardens make it the perfect place to immerse in the serenity of cherry blossom season.
Aman Tokyo’s unique position within the Otemachi Tower means that guests enjoy sweeping views of sakura in full bloom, from their private terraces or the hotel’s stunning Sky Lounge. Despite its central location, the hotel feels like a peaceful retreat—an oasis in the midst of Tokyo’s bustling energy.
What Sets It Apart: Aman Tokyo’s cherry blossom offerings are as refined as its design. Guests can enjoy a private sakura-viewing experience in the hotel’s tranquil garden, which features seasonal flowers and a rare chance to enjoy sakura away from the crowds. The hotel’s renowned Aman Spa also offers bespoke treatments incorporating seasonal cherry blossoms and other native Japanese botanicals, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Signature Experience: A private, guided cherry blossom tour through Shinjuku Gyoen or Chidorigafuchi, two of Tokyo’s premier sakura spots, is a must for guests who want to experience the beauty of the blooms in a more intimate setting. The tour is followed by a personalized sakura-themed dinner at The Lounge by Aman, where guests can savor exquisite seasonal dishes that capture the essence of Japan’s springtime.
The Art of Cherry Blossom Luxury
For those who appreciate the finer things in life, Japan’s cherry blossom season is an opportunity to indulge in beauty, culture, and serenity. Whether you’re enjoying sakura in the heart of Tokyo at The Peninsula, soaking in the historic charm of Kyoto at The Ritz-Carlton, or finding tranquility in the minimalist luxury of Aman Tokyo, these hotels offer more than just a place to stay—they offer an experience of Japan’s most enchanting season.
If you’re planning a spring escape to Japan, these luxury hotels provide the ultimate way to indulge in nature’s fleeting beauty while experiencing the art of fine living.
Written by: Aleksandra Rutkowska
Published: Friday, 10th of January 2025