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The world may be full of epic travel destinations, but one Asian country in particular seems to be stealing the show this year.
Several recent reports examining travel trends reveal that Japan is one of the most sought-after destinations of 2024.
It's easy to understand why Japan has piqued the interest of so many travelers; this trendy country is full of rich cultural sites and traditions, breathtaking natural beauty and delicious food.
And while each time of year brings its own unique offerings, spring brings Japan to life with infectious energy and pastel colors you won't find in other seasons.
It's Sakura (cherry blossom) season
Sakura season transforms this trendy country into a landscape of pastel pinks that will make you feel like you've stepped into a fairy tale.
The ideal dates to see the cherry blossoms at their best vary depending on what part of the country you are in.
Typically, flowers peak first in the south, then color shifts north; Early to mid-April is the perfect time to see sakura at their best.
The Japan Meteorological Society recently foreseen the following iconic destinations will be in full bloom on the following dates: Osaka: 4/2, Tokyo: 3/30, Kyoto 4/1.
If you want to be better prepared, you can download the Sakura Navi app here for up-to-date forecasts and the most relevant information on flowering times and the best viewing points near you.
Some of the best places for flower viewing are Mount Yoshino in Nara, Philosopher's Path in Kyoto, Shinjuku Gyoen in Tokyo, Himeji Castle in Hyogo, and Hirosaki Castle Park in Aomori.
Ideal weather
Japan experiences the traditional four seasons, with the rainy season falling in June and July.
If you want pleasant weather and visit when the landscapes are colorful and lush, spring is the ideal time.
Whether you're climbing this country's mountains, strolling the streets of Tokyo, or exploring the temples of Kyoto, you'll be much more comfortable in spring when the days are still mild.
Japanese summers are notoriously hot and humid, bringing unpredictable rain and temperatures reaching the 90s in Tokyo.
In contrast, daily temperatures in spring are in a comfortable 50 to 70 degree range and skies are clear with plenty of sunshine.
Festival season
Visiting a country during a national or local holiday is an experience like no other.
Partying among locals on crowded streets, feeling the thrilling energy and excitement, and witnessing colorful and culturally rich traditions can be one of the most enriching travel experiences.
As winter thaws and the sun returns, the country comes alive with a variety of matsuri or festivals.
You'll find cherry blossom festivals all over the country celebrating the sacred flower throughout its blooming season in April.
One of the most beautiful matsuri is the Takayama Festival, which takes place in Gifu Prefecture from April 14 to 15.
Elaborately designed wooden floats and mechanical doll performances are among the highlights of this colorful celebration.
Flights
Even though the cheapest time to travel to Japan is the low season, summer or winter, you can still find good deals for spring if you book as early as possible.
We found nonstop flights from Los Angeles to Tokyo just in time for the cherry blossoms that cost around $1,600 for a 2-week trip in early April.
For our Midwest-based readers, a nonstop round-trip ticket from Chicago to Tokyo for a 10-day trip departing March 30 would cost around $1,800.
If you're up for a 2-hour layover on both flights, we found a 10-day round trip from New York to Tokyo for just $1,495, also departing March 30.
Seasonal cuisine
While there is no bad time of year to sample Japanese cuisine, different times of year result in different availability of ingredients.
Japanese cuisine and the availability of certain dishes change to adapt to the seasons, as the country's Buddhist roots bring an appreciation of seasonality and alignment with nature.
Sakura flowers and leaves are not only beautiful, but they are also edible!
The arrival of spring will bring a plethora of unique sakura-themed treats and drinks, like sakura mochi.
The spring months are the perfect time to visit if you want to enjoy spring dishes featuring fresh seasonal seafood and Takenoko, or bamboo shoots.
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This article was originally published on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the publication.
