Why do we love these cruise holidays? Cherry blossom season in Japan is a sight people go out of their way to catch, and these cruises happen to do it rather well. It’s not just about the pink petals (though they’re a big part of the charm); it’s also the clever way the sailings are put together. With routes calling at places like Kobe for Osaka, Nagasaki, Hiroshima and picture-perfect Shimizu, the gateway to the majestic Mount Fuji, it feels like someone’s done the hard work of planning the ideal itinerary for you. Add to that a range of ships and durations to suit different tastes and timetables, and it all starts to feel like a rather savvy way to see the season unfold. It’s sightseeing with a sprinkle of sakura – and a great deal too.
Cherry blossom season in Japan, known as sakura, is a time of deep cultural significance and natural beauty. Each spring, cherry trees across the country burst into vibrant hues of pink and white, drawing both locals and visitors into parks, gardens, and streets to admire the fleeting beauty of the blossoms. The sakura symbolises renewal, hope, and the transient nature of life, which is reflected in the Japanese tradition of hanami, the practice of gathering with friends and family under the blooming trees to celebrate the season.