Fly From Bali To Japan For Cherry Blossom Season!

If you are in Bali or planning a spring holiday in Asia, why not look into Japan’s iconic cherry blossom season? Sakura season, a symbol of beauty and transience, draws visitors from all over the world to witness the stunning blooms that herald the arrival of spring. In this blog post, I will tell you step by step how to travel from Bali to Japan for cherry blossom season, starting with a short overview of Cherry Blossom Season.

Are you ready? Let’s go!

Why Visit Japan During Cherry Blossom Season?

First things first. This is why you should visit Japan during Sakura (blossom season). Cherry blossom season in Japan is more than just beautiful flowers; it’s a cultural phenomenon! The hanami tradition, where people gather under cherry trees to celebrate the blossoms, creates an amazing atmosphere. Plus the entire country will have blossom-themed activities and even food! If you are based in Bali and looking for a new visa-run destination or just curious about visiting Japan – you should go for it! It will be a good change of scenery compared to Indonesia and you get to dress warm too! 

Step-By-Step Guide On How To Book Your Trip To Japan

Step 1: Secure your flight ASAP

Sakura season in Japan can be very pricey. So the earliest you can book your flight, the better. Look into different options as well. If a direct flight seems too expensive, look into maybe flying to Beijing first and then Tokyo or Seoul then Tokyo. Play around with dates and nearby locations to find the best combination. Look into Skyscanner for this and make a few notes on a spreadsheet regarding prices, flight options and duration.

Flight Prices

Travelling from Bali to Japan is relatively straightforward, with direct flights available from Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) to major Japanese cities like Tokyo (Narita or Haneda Airports) and Osaka (Kansai International Airport). Flight prices can vary significantly based on the time of booking and travel dates. On average, you can expect round-trip fares to range from $400 to $800, depending on the season and availability.

Step 2: Draft an itinerary

Do your research to find the best itinerary to Japan and secure some accommodations via Booking.com or other platforms. But don’t book your stay for the entire trip, allow some flexibility in case you want to change your plans. 

Tips on Where to Go

Japan offers numerous breathtaking spots to enjoy cherry blossoms, here are the main ones:

• Tokyo: The capital city boasts several iconic viewing spots like Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, and the Chidorigafuchi moat. The urban landscape paired with cherry blossoms creates a unique experience.
• Kyoto: Famous for its historical and cultural sites, Kyoto’s cherry blossoms can be enjoyed at the Philosopher’s Path, Maruyama Park, and along the Kamo River. The traditional architecture and sakura make for picturesque scenes. Allow at least 2 full days in Kyoto or more if you want to do a few day trips.
• Osaka: Osaka Castle Park and Kema Sakuranomiya Park are popular locations for viewing cherry blossoms. The combination of historic sites and modern amenities makes Osaka a vibrant destination.
• Hokkaido: For those seeking a later bloom, Hokkaido offers a cooler climate with beautiful spots in Sapporo and Hakodate. The region’s unique offerings include both natural and urban cherry blossom views.

Check out the top neighbourhoods and best places to stay in Tokyo for female solo travellers here and best accommodations in Kyoto here!

Step 3: Check Visa requirements

Make sure to check if there is any Visa requirement related to your country. As a European, I was able to get a visa on arrival that expired in 90 days. This is the most reliable website to visit to understand the regulation country by country.

Step 4: Collect cash in advance if you can

Cards are generally accepted anywhere in Japan. However, if you are heading to Kyoto or some remote locations you might need some cash. In Kyoto for example you need lots of coins for the bus and cash for public transport in general. So if you can collect some cash before going it would save you time and it might be cheaper than going to the ATMs in Japan. If that’s not possible don’t worry because you can get cash easily. 

How to Pay in Japan

While Japan is increasingly cashless, it’s still a good idea to carry some yen (as mentioned before), especially in smaller towns or traditional markets. Here’s how to handle payments:

• Cash: ATMs that accept international cards are widespread, especially in 7-Eleven stores and post offices. It’s recommended to carry enough cash for smaller purchases, as some shops and eateries might not accept cards.
• Credit/Debit Cards: Most hotels, department stores, and larger restaurants accept credit and debit cards. Use Wise when travelling to Japan, it’s the best card you can possibly use when travelling!
• IC Cards: Prepaid transportation cards like Suica or Pasmo can be used not only for trains and buses but also for small purchases at convenience stores and vending machines. You can recharge these cards at stations, making them very convenient.

Step 5: Pack wisely!

Cherry blossom season in Japan is between March and April. Let me tell you that you can easily expect 4 seasons in 1 day! It could be freezing cold and all of a sudden 26 degrees and incredibly hot. This means you need to be prepared for every occasion. 

Packing Tips

With unpredictable weather, packing smart is key to staying comfortable! These are my tips:

• Layering: Bring lightweight layers such as long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, and a medium-weight jacket. This allows you to adjust to varying temperatures throughout the day.
• Comfortable Footwear: Expect to do a lot of walking, so pack comfortable, well-cushioned shoes. Waterproof shoes or an umbrella are also advisable due to potential spring showers.
• Cultural Respect: If you plan to visit temples or traditional areas, consider packing modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Bringing reusable chopsticks and a small gift from Bali can also be a thoughtful gesture.

Step 6: Get your allergy labels ready

If you have any allergies or intolerance I would recommend printing a small note with a list of allergens you need to avoid to then hand it over to the waiter or shop in Japanese. ChatGPT can do that for you easily. This can really avoid any misunderstanding when it comes to serious matters such as allergies. Also, make sure to specify how serious the allergy is. 

Step 7: Find some activities to join!

Head on Get Your Guide to find some cool activities to join and potentially meet other travellers! This platform is super easy to navigate and a no-brainer when it comes to reserving experiences in advance or last minute. I also love the customer service on live chat because they reply straight away!

Pro-tip for travelling alone in Japan: Don’t forget to get your health and travel insurance! Safety Wing is the best one around that I’ve used for years until this day 😉

How to Get Around in Japan

One of the most efficient ways to travel between cities in Japan is by the Shinkansen, or bullet train. The Japan Rail Pass, available exclusively to foreign tourists, offers great value for unlimited travel on JR trains, including the Shinkansen. The bullet trains are renowned for their punctuality, speed, and comfort, making it easy to hop from Tokyo to Kyoto, Osaka, or beyond. For local travel, Japan’s public transportation system, including trains and buses, is highly efficient and user-friendly.

Best Time to Visit Japan

The timing of cherry blossoms varies each year, influenced by weather conditions. Generally, the peak season runs from late March to early April, but this can differ depending on the region. To catch the blossoms at their peak, it’s essential to check the latest Sakura forecasts, which can be found on websites like the Japan Weather Association’s Sakura website. These forecasts provide updates on bloom progression and estimated full bloom dates, helping you plan your visit to maximize your experience.

Conclusion

I hope you found this blog post useful. If you are in Bali or travelling across Asia, Japan should be on your list for sure. The culture is very unique and rich, you have to experience it! Have fun!

Ciao for now,

Silvia x

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