Spring transforms Rome into a little corner of the Land of the Rising Sun: the city is preparing to celebrate Hanami, the ancient Japanese tradition of admiring the cherry blossoms (sakura). This spectacle, a symbol of the fleeting beauty of life, is not exclusive to Japan, but can also be experienced intensely in the capital.
Hanami means “flower viewing” and invites reflection on transience and connection with nature.
Here are the must-see places to immerse yourself in this pink cloud in the capital
Where can you see cherry blossoms in Rome? We can’t help but start with the EUR Lake: the Passeggiata del Giappone. It is the symbolic location of Roman Hanami. The path that runs alongside the reservoir is home to numerous specimens donated by the city of Tokyo in 1959 as a seal of friendship between the two countries. The peak of flowering for 2026 is expected between March 30 and April 10.
The second place we recommend isthe Japanese Cultural Institute, located in the heart of the Parioli district. This institute is a true oasis of peace. Inside, there is a traditional garden where time seems to stand still. Access to the garden is free, allowing you to enjoy the blossoms in an authentically Japanese architectural and landscape setting.
Finally, as every year,the Botanical Garden of Rome (Trastevere), nestled within the walls of La Sapienza University, hosts a specific area dedicated to Japan. In collaboration with the Festival del Verde e del Paesaggio (Green and Landscape Festival), a special event called “Hanami all’Orto Botanico” has been organized. The dates for April have not yet been announced, but this event usually includes various activities: book presentations, manga, tours, forest bathing, drumming, and much more. In this case, admission is not free. The ticket may include various workshops.