On the western coast of the Hokuriku region in northern Japan lies Toyama, otherwise known as a nature lover’s playground. Home to picturesque destinations such as Mt. Tateyama and Chubu-Sangaku National Park, Toyama’s scenery can be enjoyed year-round, and sakura season is no exception.
Today, we’ve compiled a list of the best spots for viewing sakura in Toyama. So, if that sounds like something you’re interested in, continue reading!
Where is Toyama?
But first, where is Toyama? As mentioned above, Toyama is in the Hokuriku region, sandwiched between Ishikawa Prefecture down south and Niigata up north.
If you’re traveling to Toyama from Tokyo, there are a few different ways to get there:
Train: To get to Toyama by train, you’ll need to take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Toyama Station, a journey lasting just over two hours and costing around ¥12,760 one-way.
Bus: If you don’t mind a longer ride to save some money, taking the night bus can be a great option. There are plenty of night buses running between Kanazawa and Tokyo with stops in Toyama. Tickets range between ¥5,900-¥9,200.
Plane: Those with a need for speed can opt to fly from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport to Toyama’s Kitokito Airport via All Nippon Airways. Round-trip tickets start at ¥21,460 for the cherry blossom season, with flights taking just over one hour.
When is cherry blossom season in Toyama?
Cherry blossom season is projected to hit Toyama in early April. According to the 2025 Cherry Blossom Forecast, the buds will begin to flower on April 2 and be in full bloom by April 8, though you should check the forecast as close to your Toyama trip as possible to confirm the timing.
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Best places to see sakura in Toyama
1. Fugan Canal Kansui Park
You don’t have to stray too far from the city center for a hanami cherry blossom-viewing experience. Fugan Canal Kansui Park is located just an 11-minute walk from Toyama Station, offering a well-maintained landscape along the canal.
Though the park hosts plenty of families during the day, the illuminated, dramatic arches of the Tenmon Bridge and the cherry trees beneath it at night are even more enticing.
Cap off the night with a bottle of sake to celebrate the sakura season as the Japanese do!
2. Matsukawa River
One of the most popular spots for cherry blossom viewing in Toyama City is Matsukawa River, a 3.9-kilometer path lined with some 530 sakura trees.
Experience the pink canopy from above via a stroll, bike ride, picnic or snap photos from below on a gentle river cruise.
3. Toyama Castle Ruins Park
Located just a one-minute walk from Kokusaikaigijo-Mae Station and Marunouchi Station, Toyama Castle Ruins Park is not only super convenient for travelers but emblematic of Toyama City’s unique vibes.
Sitting on the site of the original Toyama Castle, the reconstructed castle tower ensures the history of the place is not forgotten. Add in the reflection of the cherry blossom trees on the moat and you’ve got the ideal location for a spring picnic.
4. Kurikara Prefectural Natural Park
At Kurikara Prefectural National Park, the staggering number of sakura trees alone is enough reason to visit. 6,000 double-flowered trees, decorated with delicate pink and red lanterns, create a fluffy, dreamlike atmosphere.
The main attraction is the Kurikara Fudoji Temple and the road leading up to it, but as the park saw battle during the Genpei War, you’ll find monuments across the area as well.
5. Observatory of Kurehayama Park
No view is more quintessentially Toyama than the views from Kurehayama Park’s observatory. Overlooking Toyama City, the background of Tateyama Mountain Range and the foreground of pink cherry trees add a splash of color to the urban setting.
Although you can enjoy a leisurely stroll at any point during the day, the recommended time to come is right around sunset to observe the golden hues transforming the majestic landscape.
6. Funakawa River, Asahi Town
Straight out of Vivaldi’s “Spring” is the aptly named “Spring Quartet,” a stunning field of pink cherry blossoms, yellow canola flowers, and red tulips, all framed by the snow-capped Northern Japan Alps.
Be sure to bring your camera — getting a photo of the 1.2-kilometer lane of 280 cherry blossom trees will make you the envy of everyone on your feed.
You can access this spot from Tomari Station — a seven-minute drive or a 10-minute bus ride. Although the shuttle bus is free, keep in mind that it only comes every 30 minutes on weekdays, so plan accordingly.
7. Mukaino no Sakura, Nanto City
Perhaps the prettiest tree in all of Toyama, the Mukaino no Sakura takes the breath away of every visitor in its presence. Stretching out over the banks of the Yamada River in Nanto City, the Mukaino no Sakura (“The Front Sakura”) is of the ancient Edozakura variety, explaining its impressive size.
Come during the day to get close-up shots of the fairytale-like scene or come at night when the tree acts as a pink light in the dark Toyama sky.
Find out more: History, Culture & Types of Cherry Blossoms
8. Iwasakinohana Lighthouse, Takaoka City
If you’re planning on visiting the Amaharashi Coast, stopping by the Iwasakinohana Lighthouse along the way is worth it. As a lesser-known cherry blossom viewing spot, the fluffy pink blooms of the cherry trees balance out the white of the lighthouse, making for a gorgeous sight that most visitors miss.
You can access the lighthouse by walking for around 11 minutes from Etchu-Kokubu Station or by car, although the access road is too narrow for vehicles, so you can just park in a parking lot nearby and walk from there.
9. Shogawa Water Memorial Park
The beauty of the emerald waters contrasting with the pink blooms and the bright red torii gate is second to none at Shogawa Water Memorial Park.
Considering the quaint size, this park is perfect for those who want to have a picnic and photoshoot in peace. The surrounding grounds boast plenty of quiet pathways for long walks and moments of reflection.
Those wanting a sweetheart for their next hanami can pray for a suitor at the Carp Love Shrine, named Koi Koi Koi no Miya.
10. Takaoka Kojo Park
History buffs and cherry blossom enthusiasts alike will love the coziness of Takaoka Kojo Park, sitting on the former site of Takaoka Castle. From the moat teeming with koi fish and turtles to the 1.800 cherry blossom trees blooming around the park, you can easily spend a full day relaxing here without getting bored.
Don’t forget to visit the Great Buddha of Takaoka (otherwise known as Takaoka Daibutsu) just outside of the park!
Searching for more sakura this cherry blossom season? Discover the best places to see sakura in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, as well as a full guide to cherry blossom season in Japan.
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