Matsuyama Shiroyama Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025

If spring is your favorite season, you’ll love it even more in Japan, where cherry blossoms turn the country into a sea of pink. And if you’re looking for a stunning hanami experience in a historic setting, the Matsuyama Shiroyama Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 is a must-visit. In the first week of April 2025, the area surrounding Matsuyama Castle transforms into a sea of pink and white blossoms, drawing visitors from all over Japan.

While Matsuyama Shiroyama Park Cherry Blossom Festival welcomes spring with pink and white blooms in early April, those who miss peak season can still catch Japan’s breathtaking sakura displays later in the month at the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival in Aomori, where the blossoms frame the beautiful Hirosaki Castle.

The festival isn’t just about stunning cherry blossom viewing – expect performances, delicious food stalls, and the breathtaking evening illuminations that give the castle grounds a magical atmosphere. One of the festival’s highlights is the Daimyo Musha Gyoretsu Parade, a spectacular samurai procession that takes you back to the Edo period.

History of Matsuyama Shiroyama Park Cherry Blossom Festival

The Matsuyama Shiroyama Park Cherry Blossom Festival has been a beloved tradition since 1967, originally started to commemorate the decision to rebuild Matsuyama Castle’s shōtenshu (small keep tower). Over the decades, the festival has grown into one of the most cherished spring events in Ehime Prefecture, celebrating both the arrival of sakura season and the rich cultural heritage of the region.

What to Expect at Matsuyama Shiroyama Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025

Set against the backdrop of Matsuyama Castle, one of Japan’s best-preserved feudal castles, this festival is one of Shikoku’s top cherry blossom spots. Adding to its cultural significance, the festival’s official song, "Sakura Sakura," a traditional Japanese folk tune, captures the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms and has been cherished for generations. Here’s what makes it special:

• Over 200 cherry trees in full bloom – The park features Somei Yoshino cherry trees, known for their delicate pink and white blossoms that create an enchanting atmosphere.
• Hanami under the trees – Bring a picnic blanket and join locals and tourists for traditional flower viewing.
• Daimyo Musha Gyoretsu Parade – Watch participants in full samurai armor march through the park, reenacting a historic feudal lord’s procession.
• Food stalls – Try sakura-themed treats, local specialties, and street food at the many local food stalls.
• Evening illuminations – As night falls, paper lanterns light up the castle tower and illuminated trees, turning the park into a dreamlike setting.

If you want a break from the crowds, nearby attractions like Dogo Onsen (one of Japan’s oldest hot springs) and Aozora Antique Market make for a relaxing side trip.

How to Get to Matsuyama Shiroyama Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025

Matsuyama, the largest city in Ehime Prefecture, is well-connected by air, train, and ferry, which makes it easily accessible for visitors from across Japan and beyond. Since cherry blossom season is one of the busiest times of the year, planning ahead will help you avoid crowds and secure the best hanami spots.

• By train and tram: Take the JR Yosan Line to JR Matsuyama Station. From there, hop on the Iyotetsu tram (Line 5) and ride to Okaido Station: just a short walk from the park.
• By car: If you're driving, use Google Maps to navigate to Shiroyama Park. Limited parking is available, but it fills up quickly during peak cherry blossom season. Arriving early is key!
• From Tokyo or Osaka
• By air: Fly into Matsuyama Airport (MYJ), which offers direct flights from Tokyo, Osaka, and other major cities.
• From the airport: Take a bus (about 30 minutes) or a taxi (about 20 minutes) directly to the park.
• By ferry: If you're coming from Hiroshima, consider taking the Super Jet ferry from Hiroshima Port to Matsuyama, which takes about 75 minutes. From the port, local buses and trams can take you to Shiroyama Park in around 30 minutes.

Whether you're arriving by train, plane, or ferry, Matsuyama Shiroyama Park is well worth the trip – especially when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom!

Ticket Information

The festival grounds are free to enter, but if you want to visit Matsuyama Castle, there’s a small admission fee:

• Adults: 520 yen ($3.50 USD)
• Children: 260 yen ($1.75 USD)

Castle entry includes access to the observation deck and offers panoramic views of Seto Inland Sea, the city, and endless cherry blossoms.

Matsuyama Shiroyama Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 Bag Policy

Planning to bring extra gear for a hanami picnic or cherry blossom photography? Be mindful of the park’s usual policies:

• Small backpacks and handbags are allowed.
• Large luggage, coolers, and oversized bags are typically not permitted in the festival area.
• A limited number of coin lockers are available near JR Matsuyama Station, but these fill up quickly.

Keep an eye on the official website for updates on any specific restrictions.

Matsuyama Shiroyama Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 Bag Storage

Enjoy the Festival Hands-Free with Bounce

Don't want to carry your bags while exploring the castle grounds? Bounce offers convenient luggage storage options in Hiroshima, Tokyo, Osaka, and other key locations across Japan:

• Affordable – Store your bags for as low as ¥400 per day.
• Safe & Secure – Your belongings are protected with ¥1,000,000 coverage.
• 24/7 Support – Got questions? Bounce’s support team is available anytime.
• Free Cancellation – Plans changed? Cancel for free before check-in.

How to Store Your Bags with Bounce

Using Bounce is easy:

1. Find a spot – Use the Bounce app or website to locate and book storage near your location.
2. Drop off your bags – Check in at your chosen location and store your items securely.
3. Enjoy the festival – Wander through pink blossoms, watch the samurai parade, and explore Matsuyama Castle worry-free.

Tips to Make the Most of Matsuyama Shiroyama Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025

• Arrive early – The best hanami spots go quickly, so claim your picnic space before the crowds.
• Check the bloom forecast – Cherry blossom season varies each year; peak bloom is usually late March to early April.
• Dress for the weather – Expect temperatures between 10-18 C (50-64 F), so bring a light jacket.
• Explore Dogo Onsen – After a long day at the festival, enjoy a relaxing soak at Japan’s oldest hot spring.
• Stay for the illuminations – The soft lighting of paper lanterns makes for a stunning nighttime view.
• Skip the baggage hassle – Use Bounce for easy bag storage and enjoy the festival stress-free.

Experience the magic of Matsuyama Shiroyama Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025! No matter if you’re here for the breathtaking blossoms, the samurai parade, or just a taste of local festival food, the Matsuyama Spring Festival is an event you don’t want to miss. Plan your trip, pack your picnic, and get ready to celebrate cherry blossom season in one of Japan’s most beautiful castle parks.